Confederation Square - Image 1
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Confederation Square Ottawa

4.8
·55 reviews·Ottawa, Canada

A pivotal ceremonial hub in Ottawa, featuring the National War Memorial and hosting significant national events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Witness the Changing of the Guard

CrowdMedium
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Confederation Square - Image 1

Confederation Square Ottawa

Best Time

Summer mornings

Witness the Changing of the Guard

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A pivotal ceremonial hub in Ottawa, featuring the National War Memorial and hosting significant national events.

4.8
(55 reviews)

"A great park to visit and learn even more about Ottawa's history with clearly marked plaques. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Ceremonial Route

Combine your visit with Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal for a full experience.

💧 Stay Hydrated on Hot Days

On warm days, the square can get quite hot. Bring water to stay comfortable.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

National War Memorial

National War Memorial

Confederation Square

A poignant tribute to fallen soldiers, featuring the iconic Response statue and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Instagram
Changing of the Guard

Changing of the Guard

Confederation Square

Witness a vibrant military ceremony with bagpipes and precision drills during summer months.

Reddit
Christmas Lights Across Canada

Christmas Lights Across Canada

Confederation Square and surrounding areas

Experience a dazzling display of festive lights illuminating downtown Ottawa during the holiday season.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

To catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, plan your visit for specific times of day during the summer months. Check the official schedule beforehand, as it can vary. Arriving early ensures a good viewing spot and avoids disappointment. Reddit

Navigating the Area

Confederation Square is a central hub, making it easy to combine with visits to Parliament Hill and the ByWard Market. Consider parking options, especially on weekends, as paid street parking or nearby lots might be necessary. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Witness the Changing of the Guard
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday evenings
Why
Magical Christmas lights
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter monument viewing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is life giving! One of our biggest successes to date 🥹 come check us out in Ottawa at 60 Byward Market Square!
@thethriftedmini
2.9K likes • 55.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Ceremonial Route

Combine your visit with Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal for a full experience. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated on Hot Days

On warm days, the square can get quite hot. Bring water to stay comfortable. Reddit

CORN ROASTERS 🌽 📍ByWard Market
@bywardmarket
2.3K likes • 77.1K views
☀️ 📍Confederation Square to Parliament, Wellington St, Ottawa, ON #morning #morningview #clocktower #clockphotography #ottawa #citylife #laurierstreet #ottawalife #ottawaphotographer #ottawaphoto #canadaswonderland #canadatravel #canadatravel #myottawa #travelphotography #ottawacanada #explorecanada #canadaviews #cityottawa #ottawacity #cityphotography #canadainonecity #canadaadventures #bestsun...
ottawa_nomad
250 likes • 2.9K views

⏰ Check Ceremony Times

Confirm the Changing of the Guard schedule in advance, as it varies. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

Great spot for photography, especially during events like flyovers. Instagram

⁣Ottawa’s Christmas Lights Across Canada is on now until January 7th throughout downtown spots like Confederation Park, Confederation Square, and Parliament Hill! Have you been yet? 🇨🇦 ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #ottawa #downtownottawa #christmaslightsacrosscanada #ottawatourism #ottawaevents #parliamenthill #myottawa #sparksstreet #bywardmarket #myottawa #ottawalifestyle #ottawalife #ottawavall...
jessicaexploring
372 likes • 7.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Ceremonial Route

Combine your visit with Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal for a full experience. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated on Hot Days

On warm days, the square can get quite hot. Bring water to stay comfortable. Reddit

⏰ Check Ceremony Times

Confirm the Changing of the Guard schedule in advance, as it varies. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

Great spot for photography, especially during events like flyovers. Instagram

🛡️ Safety After Dark

Felt safer traveling in a group after dark. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(55 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Confederation Square a historically significant and pleasant public space, ideal for learning about Ottawa's past and witnessing ceremonies like the Changing of the Guard. While it can get hot on sunny days, its central location and monuments make it a convenient and worthwhile stop for tourists exploring downtown Ottawa. Reddit

"It is a great park to visit and learn even more about Ottawa's history. There are clearly marked plaques describing each monument and why it was erected. If you are lucky (which we were), you will also get to witness the changing of the guard - complete with bag pipes! Overall, the park was nice, quiet, and tree-lined with a few places to sit. However, on a hot day, it can get pretty hot, so bring water."

Aida

"This is a important public space next to the Rideau Canal in the city centre of Ottawa. It is the location of several memorials and monuments. Within the triangular shaped urban square you will find the National War Memorial, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Valiants.

Confederation Square is convenient to visit while sightseeing in the area and a place that you can easily spend 15-20 minutes monument viewing as part of your visit to Ottawa."

Brad

"Though there are some people who find Ottawa a boring capital city but I’m one to disagree. I think it’s beautiful and pleasant especially in the summer months. Fall is superb as well. There’s lots of history here so there’s lots to see and do. This spot is quite pleasant and if your timing is right you can see the changing of the guard. It is however policed due to past vandalism. Otherwise don’t miss this nice spot in downtown Ottawa. 😎👍"

Yodaman Solo

What People Like

Historical significance
National War Memorial
Changing of the Guard

What People Dislike

Can get hot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Confederation Square is centrally located in downtown Ottawa, easily accessible by public transit, walking, or driving. Several OC Transpo bus routes stop nearby. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. Reddit

Parking near Confederation Square can be limited. Paid street parking is available, and there are several parking garages in the vicinity. On weekends, some spots near the ByWard Market might be busy or have changed. Reddit

Yes, Confederation Square is well-served by public transport. Many OC Transpo bus routes stop within walking distance, making it a convenient destination for those using public transit. Instagram

Absolutely! Confederation Square is located just a short walk from Parliament Hill, making it easy to combine visits to both iconic Ottawa landmarks. Instagram

From the Ottawa International Airport (YOW), you can take a taxi or rideshare service directly to Confederation Square. Alternatively, you can take the OC Transpo 97 Airport bus to downtown and transfer to a local bus or walk. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Confederation Square is a public space and does not require tickets for general access. You can freely explore the monuments and grounds. Reddit

Confederation Square is open to the public 24/7. However, specific events or ceremonies, like the Changing of the Guard, have scheduled times. Reddit

No, there is no admission fee to visit the National War Memorial or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located within Confederation Square. Instagram

The Changing of the Guard ceremony typically takes place during the summer months. It's best to check the official Parks Canada schedule for exact dates and times, as they can vary. Reddit

Yes, Confederation Square hosts various events throughout the year, including Remembrance Day ceremonies, Canada Day celebrations, and the popular Christmas Lights Across Canada. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Confederation Square is home to the National War Memorial, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and other monuments. It's a great place to learn about Canadian history and witness ceremonies. InstagramReddit

A visit to Confederation Square typically takes about 15-20 minutes for monument viewing. If you plan to watch the Changing of the Guard or attend an event, allocate more time. Reddit

Yes, there are benches available in Confederation Square where you can sit, rest, and take in the surroundings. Reddit

Confederation Square offers excellent photographic opportunities, especially with the National War Memorial and Parliament Hill in the background. It's also a prime location for event photography, like flyovers. Instagram+1

Confederation Square was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1984 and is considered a crucial ceremonial center in the National Capital, second only to Parliament Hill. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds for capturing the monuments. Evenings during the Christmas Lights Across Canada event provide a magical backdrop. Instagram+1

The National War Memorial, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the views towards Parliament Hill are highly photogenic. The 'haunted fountain' is also a unique subject. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can photograph military ceremonies like the Changing of the Guard, but be mindful of designated viewing areas and avoid obstructing the view for others. Reddit

Generally, photography is permitted in Confederation Square. However, always be respectful of ongoing ceremonies and any posted signage. Instagram

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is useful for capturing both wide shots of the square and details of the monuments. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light photography during evening events. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Confederation Square offers a chance for families to engage with Canadian history in a visually stimulating way. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is particularly captivating for children, with its music and marching. Reddit The National War Memorial provides an opportunity to discuss themes of remembrance and sacrifice in an age-appropriate manner. Instagram

Consider visiting during the Christmas Lights Across Canada event for a truly magical experience that kids will love. Instagram While there aren't dedicated play areas, the open space allows children to move around. Remember to bring water, especially on warmer days, as it can get hot. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, Confederation Square is a treasure trove. It's a National Historic Site and the location of the National War Memorial and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, offering deep insights into Canada's military past. Reddit Take time to read the plaques that clearly mark the significance of each monument. Reddit

Explore the square's role as a key ceremonial center and its connection to national events. The historical context provided by the monuments and the surrounding architecture makes it a compelling destination for understanding Canada's heritage. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Confederation Square is a dream for photographers. The National War Memorial provides a striking subject, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. Instagram The Changing of the Guard offers dynamic action shots, while the Christmas Lights Across Canada event presents incredible opportunities for capturing festive night photography. Instagram+1

Don't miss the chance to frame shots with Parliament Hill in the background. Consider bringing a versatile lens and a tripod for low-light conditions. The 'haunted fountain' also adds a unique element to your portfolio. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The National War Memorial: A Symbol of Sacrifice

The National War Memorial, located prominently in Confederation Square, is a powerful symbol of Canada's military history. It was erected to commemorate the sacrifices of Canadians in the First World War and has since come to honor all who have served in conflicts. The iconic bronze statue, known as 'The Response,' depicts a figure of Canada emerging from a shell, symbolizing resilience and remembrance. Instagram

Adjacent to the memorial is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a solemn resting place for an unidentified Canadian soldier who died in battle. A daily ceremony of remembrance takes place here, reinforcing the memorial's significance as a place of reflection and honor. Visitors often leave poppies or other tokens of remembrance. Reddit

Confederation Square itself was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1984, recognizing its importance as a ceremonial center and a focal point for national commemoration. Its triangular shape and central placement make it a key landmark in the heart of Ottawa. Reddit

Experiencing Ceremonies and Events

Confederation Square is a prime location for experiencing significant Canadian ceremonies. The most well-known is the Changing of the Guard, a daily summer spectacle featuring the Governor General's Foot Guards and the Canadian Guards. This event includes precision drills, music from a pipe band, and a ceremonial handover of duties, drawing crowds eager to witness the tradition. Reddit

During the holiday season, the square transforms into a winter wonderland as part of the Christmas Lights Across Canada initiative. Millions of lights illuminate Parliament Hill, Confederation Square, and surrounding downtown areas, creating a festive and magical atmosphere. This event is a major draw for both locals and tourists. Instagram+1

Other notable events include Remembrance Day ceremonies, Canada Day celebrations, and occasional military flyovers, such as CF18 demonstrations, which offer unique aerial perspectives from the square. Instagram It's always advisable to check official schedules for event timings and any potential access restrictions. Reddit

Confederation Square's Role in Ottawa's Urban Fabric

Confederation Square is more than just a collection of monuments; it's a vital urban square and a key ceremonial hub in Canada's capital. Its design and location make it a natural extension of Parliament Hill, facilitating the flow of people and events between these significant national sites. The square's triangular shape and its integration with surrounding streets and parks create a dynamic public space. Reddit

Historically, the area has been a focal point for national gatherings and commemorations. Its designation as a National Historic Site underscores its enduring importance in the National Capital Region. The presence of benches and open spaces allows for quiet contemplation amidst the city's bustle, offering a respite for visitors. Reddit

While generally a pleasant and historic area, it's worth noting that like many urban centers, it can feel more secure when visited in groups, especially after dark. Reddit The square's accessibility and central location make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Ottawa's historical and ceremonial heart. Instagram

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