Commissioners Park Dow's Lake
A vibrant park along Dow's Lake, famous for its spectacular spring tulip displays and scenic waterfront.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak tulip bloom season
Commissioners Park Dow's Lake
Best Time
Peak tulip bloom season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant park along Dow's Lake, famous for its spectacular spring tulip displays and scenic waterfront.
"One of the best places to visit Tulips. You can see around 50+ shades of tulip colours."
🎯 Arrive Early for Tulips
Beat the crowds and get the best photos by arriving right at opening time during the Tulip Festival.
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Avoid towing by not parking at the Naval Base. Consider Carleton University parkade and walk over.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Tulip Displays
Commissioners Park
Over 300,000 tulip bulbs bloom in over 50 vibrant colors, creating a breathtaking floral spectacle.
Dow's Lake Waterfront
Dow's Lake
Enjoy scenic views of the Rideau Canal and picturesque sunsets over the water, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Canadian Tulip Festival
Commissioners Park & surrounding areas
Experience this iconic spring event with free admission, featuring walking tours, tulip markets, and food vendors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Tulips
Navigating Crowds and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Tulips
Beat the crowds and get the best photos by arriving right at opening time during the Tulip Festival.
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Avoid towing by not parking at the Naval Base. Consider Carleton University parkade and walk over.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Canal Path
Extend your visit by walking along the Rideau Canal, enjoying views beyond Commissioners Park.
💰 Budget-Friendly Visit
Admission to the Tulip Festival is free! You can also buy tulip bouquets for around $15.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Tulips
Beat the crowds and get the best photos by arriving right at opening time during the Tulip Festival.
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Avoid towing by not parking at the Naval Base. Consider Carleton University parkade and walk over.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Canal Path
Extend your visit by walking along the Rideau Canal, enjoying views beyond Commissioners Park.
💰 Budget-Friendly Visit
Admission to the Tulip Festival is free! You can also buy tulip bouquets for around $15.
📸 Capture the Colors
Bring your camera! The variety of tulip colors and the waterfront scenery offer fantastic photo opportunities.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved pets are welcome to join you for a walk around Dow's Lake and Commissioners Park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Commissioners Park, especially during the Canadian Tulip Festival, praising the stunning variety and abundance of tulips and the beautiful Dow's Lake setting. Many highlight the free admission and family-friendly atmosphere, though parking during peak times can be a significant challenge.
"Beautiful park! Everything is green now. The tulip season is there which makes it even better.
I really enjoyed my visit there, amazing sunset over the water.
The commute in public transport was easy.
Lots of people enjoying the tulip season.
Recommend 👍"
Ale A
"One of the best places to visit Tulips. You can see around 50+ shades of tulip colours. It takes around 3 to 4 hours to view all the Tulips.
The best season to visit this place will be May 2nd week where you can see all the Tulips. Beyond that tulips will start to wither.
You can also buy Tulip bouquet for $15. The park is amazing , has seats to sit and relax. No entrance fee for this place. You can also get food in mobile truck during the Tulip festival.
If you are lucky you will get a free parking near by. Else you have to use pay parking. It costs around 20$ for 4 hours."
Richard H
"This park is THE place to see tulips in Ottawa. 🌷🌷🌷 With 300,000 bulbs planted - all sorts of colors - it makes for an amazing display.
My favourite was the not so common dark purple (black) tulips. You don't see them very often.
If you are short on time, you can definitely see everything you need to - in the park.
During the Tulp Festival, there are a locations where you can use portable toilets. And there are a number of food trucks on site where you can grab a quick bite.
Enjoy!
It's well worth a visit!"
Anita Windisman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Commissioners Park is located at 371 Beech St, Ottawa, ON. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. During the Tulip Festival, it's recommended to use OC Transpo to avoid parking hassles.
Parking is extremely limited and can be expensive ($20 for 4 hours). Many visitors recommend parking at Carleton University's parkade and walking over the bridge, or using public transit. Avoid parking at the Naval Base as you risk being towed.
Yes, Dow's Lake and Commissioners Park are well-served by Ottawa's public transit system (OC Transpo). Check their website for the most convenient routes from your location.
Absolutely! The park is situated along the scenic Rideau Canal pathway, making it a popular destination for cyclists. There are bike racks available.
The main area for the tulip displays is Commissioners Park, often associated with Dow's Lake. The address is approximately 371 Beech St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3J3.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Commissioners Park and the Canadian Tulip Festival is completely free! This makes it an accessible and popular event for everyone.
The festival typically runs from 10 am to 10 pm daily during its duration, though the tulips themselves are best viewed during daylight hours.
The peak bloom for the tulips is usually in the second week of May. However, this can vary slightly each year based on weather conditions. It's best to check local bloom reports closer to the date.
Yes, you can often purchase tulip bouquets from vendors at the festival, typically for around $15.
Yes, portable toilets are usually available at various locations within the park during the Tulip Festival for visitor convenience.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and crowds. The 'golden hour' around sunset provides a beautiful glow over Dow's Lake.
While there was a drone show for a special event, general drone usage for personal photography may be restricted. It's always best to check current regulations with the City of Ottawa or event organizers.
Any camera, from a professional DSLR to a smartphone, can capture the beauty of the tulips. Focus on composition and lighting. Many visitors share stunning photos taken with iPhones.
The entire park is a photo opportunity! Focus on the vibrant beds of tulips, the reflections in Dow's Lake, and the pathways winding through the flowers.
Be mindful of privacy when photographing other visitors. It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals or groups.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, during the Canadian Tulip Festival, you'll find numerous food trucks and vendors offering a variety of food, drinks, and desserts.
Food options typically include snacks, meals, and sweet treats. It's a great place to grab a quick bite while enjoying the flowers.
Yes, the Dow's Lake area and nearby Little Italy neighborhood offer a range of restaurants and cafes if you're looking for a sit-down meal.
Absolutely! Commissioners Park is a lovely spot for a picnic. There are benches and grassy areas perfect for relaxing with your own food.
Generally, public parks have regulations regarding alcohol consumption. It's advisable to check the City of Ottawa's bylaws or signage at the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The flat pathways are stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate with little ones. During the Tulip Festival, there are often food vendors, providing convenient snack options. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to capture the best colors and avoid harsh shadows. The reflections in Dow's Lake add another layer of visual interest to your shots. Don't forget to explore the surrounding areas along the Rideau Canal for different perspectives. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Canadian Tulip Festival
Today, the festival is one of the largest of its kind in the world, attracting visitors from far and wide. It honors the enduring bond between Canada and the Netherlands and showcases the vibrant beauty of spring. Beyond the stunning floral displays, the festival often includes educational programs, art installations, and cultural events, making it a multifaceted celebration of history, nature, and community.
Maximizing Your Tulip Viewing Experience
Beyond the main tulip beds, take time to wander along the pathways that meander through the park and connect to the Dow's Lake waterfront. The reflections of the tulips and the sky in the calm waters of Dow's Lake create stunning photographic opportunities.
+1 Consider visiting during the week if possible, as weekends can become quite congested, especially during peak bloom. Beyond the Blooms: Activities Around Dow's Lake
For those looking for dining options, the nearby Little Italy neighborhood is a short walk or drive away and boasts a vibrant culinary scene with numerous restaurants and cafes.
During the summer months, Dow's Lake is also a hub for recreational activities like paddle boating and kayaking, offering a different perspective of the area. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit