Dow's Lake Ottawa
A picturesque urban lake offering boat rentals, stunning spring tulips, and winter ice skating.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Millions of tulips bloom
Dow's Lake Ottawa
Best Time
Millions of tulips bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque urban lake offering boat rentals, stunning spring tulips, and winter ice skating.
"Dow’s Lake is a gem you shouldn’t miss, offering something for everyone year-round."
🎯 Book Boat Rentals Early
Rentals are popular May-Oct. Book ahead to secure your kayak or pedal boat!
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is tough during Tulip Fest. Carpool or arrive early to snag a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canadian Tulip Festival
Commissioners Park
Millions of tulips bloom along the lake's edge, creating a vibrant, unforgettable spectacle.
Boat Rentals
Dow's Lake Pavilion
Paddle a kayak or pedal a paddleboat on the calm waters, enjoying scenic views from the lake.
Winter Ice Skating
Dow's Lake
When frozen, the lake becomes a popular spot for ice skating, connecting to the Rideau Canal Skateway.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Tulips & Ice
Parking & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Boat Rentals Early
Rentals are popular May-Oct. Book ahead to secure your kayak or pedal boat!
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is tough during Tulip Fest. Carpool or arrive early to snag a spot.
⛸️ Winter Skating Fun
When frozen, Dow's Lake is an extension of the Rideau Canal Skateway. Perfect for winter fun!
📸 Tulip Festival Photo Ops
The tulips are stunning! Bring your camera for amazing shots, especially during golden hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Boat Rentals Early
Rentals are popular May-Oct. Book ahead to secure your kayak or pedal boat!
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is tough during Tulip Fest. Carpool or arrive early to snag a spot.
⛸️ Winter Skating Fun
When frozen, Dow's Lake is an extension of the Rideau Canal Skateway. Perfect for winter fun!
📸 Tulip Festival Photo Ops
The tulips are stunning! Bring your camera for amazing shots, especially during golden hour.
💧 Water Quality Check
Swimming is being explored. Check local reports for water quality before diving in.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dow's Lake is a beloved spot in Ottawa, praised for its scenic beauty and seasonal charm, from the vibrant Tulip Festival to winter ice skating. Visitors appreciate its peaceful atmosphere and the variety of activities available, though parking can be a significant challenge during peak times.
"Dow’s Lake is one of my favorite spots in Ottawa—peaceful, scenic, and full of life depending on the season. Whether you’re there to walk, paddle, picnic, or just unwind, it’s a place that offers something for everyone.
I visited during spring, and the timing couldn’t have been better. The trees were blooming, the air was fresh, and the views of the lake reflecting the sky were simply stunning. It’s also where Commissioners Park is located, so during the Tulip Festival, it transforms into a sea of color with hundreds of thousands of tulips lining the shore. It’s honestly magical.
What I love most is how the lake brings people together. You’ll see families out for a walk, friends kayaking, couples relaxing on benches, and even people reading or journaling by the water. There’s a calmness to the place, but at the same time, it feels alive.
There are boat and kayak rentals in the warmer months, and in the winter, when everything freezes, the canal nearby becomes part of the famous skating trail. The versatility of this area is amazing—it’s just as enjoyable in the snow as it is in the sunshine.
If you’re visiting Ottawa or even if you live here, Dow’s Lake is a gem you shouldn’t miss. Bring a camera, a coffee, and just enjoy the moment. It’s a place that helps you slow down and appreciate the simple joys of being outside."
Hamid Boleydei
"Ottawa tulip festival @Dow's lake 2nd time to visit this beautiful place and having lunch at Mexis Restaurant. Wanted to do cannoeng, but a long line stop us from doing it.Will we have a great time with my amazing partner ❤️ . Nice weather and nice people enjoying the weather 😎 with blooming tulips. Thanks God for the life on earth 🌎 🙏."
Anne Erta
"Very nice around Tulip festival. Can be busy and hard to park near by. Definitely a nicer area of Ottawa"
Nick I
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dow's Lake is easily accessible by car, public transit, and bike. OC Transpo buses frequently stop nearby. For cyclists, there are dedicated paths along the lake. Parking is available but can be limited, especially during events.
Yes, there is parking available near Dow's Lake, particularly around the Pavilion and Commissioners Park. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during the Tulip Festival or on weekends. Consider arriving early or using public transport.
Absolutely! Dow's Lake is part of Ottawa's extensive cycling network. There are scenic paths along the lake and the Rideau Canal, making it a great destination for a bike ride.
During the Canadian Tulip Festival, it's highly recommended to use public transit or cycle to Dow's Lake due to significant crowds and parking challenges. OC Transpo offers convenient routes to the area.
Yes, Dow's Lake is well-served by OC Transpo. Several bus routes stop within walking distance of the lake and pavilion, making it a convenient option for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Dow's Lake itself is a public space and is free to access. There are no entrance fees to walk around the lake or enjoy the scenery. Costs are associated with specific activities like boat rentals.
The Canadian Tulip Festival held at Dow's Lake and Commissioners Park is a free public event. You do not need tickets to enjoy the tulip displays.
Dow's Lake is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, specific facilities like the Pavilion and boat rentals have seasonal operating hours, typically from May to October.
Kayak rentals at Dow's Lake Pavilion typically cost around $25 for the first hour for a single kayak and $33 for a two-person kayak, with additional hours costing less.
While swimming has been explored with new docks, it's advisable to check current water quality reports from organizations like Ottawa Riverkeeper before swimming.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, picnicking, cycling, kayaking, pedal boating, and ice skating in winter. The area is also famous for the annual Tulip Festival.
Yes, Dow's Lake is very family-friendly. It offers open spaces for kids to run, scenic walks, and seasonal activities like boat rentals and ice skating, making it a great outing for all ages.
Besides the lake itself, you can see the Dow's Lake Pavilion, Commissioners Park (especially during the Tulip Festival), and enjoy views of the surrounding Little Italy neighborhood.
Absolutely! Dow's Lake is a perfect spot for a picnic. There are plenty of benches and grassy areas to relax and enjoy a meal with a view.
Yes, Dow's Lake is a photographer's paradise, especially during the Tulip Festival or at sunset. The reflections on the water and the vibrant colors offer stunning photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Dow's Lake is adjacent to Ottawa's Little Italy, which offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries. You can also find food trucks near the lake, especially during events.
During events like the Tulip Festival, food trucks often set up near Dow's Lake, offering snacks like poutine, ice cream, and more. The nearby Little Italy also provides diverse dining options.
The Dow's Lake Pavilion typically has concessions or small cafes that offer snacks and beverages, especially during the warmer months when boat rentals are available.
Dow's Lake is a romantic spot, especially in the evening. You can enjoy a walk, a boat ride, and then dine at one of the many restaurants in the adjacent Little Italy for a perfect date night.
Given its proximity to Little Italy, you can find excellent Italian cuisine. During festivals, poutine and ice cream from food trucks are popular choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. During the Tulip Festival in May, the vibrant colors are a major draw. Night hyperlapses also capture the city lights.
Commissioners Park during the Tulip Festival is incredibly photogenic. The reflections on the lake, the Dow's Lake Pavilion, and the surrounding parkland offer diverse photographic opportunities.
Drone usage may be subject to regulations. While some creators have captured aerial footage, it's best to check local bylaws and park rules regarding drone operation.
You can capture stunning landscape shots, vibrant floral photography during spring, romantic wedding photos, and dynamic cityscapes with the lake in the foreground.
While specific tours might not be advertised, the area is popular with local photographers. Joining local photography groups or following Ottawa-based photographers on social media can provide inspiration and tips.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 During the warmer months, a picnic by the lake is a simple yet enjoyable outing. In winter, if the lake freezes and connects to the Rideau Canal Skateway, it provides a unique opportunity for family ice skating adventures.During the Canadian Tulip Festival, the sheer visual spectacle of the tulips is captivating for children, offering a colorful and engaging experience. While parking can be a challenge during this time, the joy on kids' faces seeing the vast fields of flowers is well worth the effort. The proximity to Little Italy also means easy access to family-friendly dining options.
💑 Couples and Romantic Getaways
+1 Afterward, explore the adjacent Little Italy for a delightful dinner at one of its many restaurants, creating a perfect date night experience.+1During the spring, a stroll hand-in-hand through the vibrant tulip displays in Commissioners Park is a classic romantic activity. Even a simple picnic by the lake, enjoying the peaceful ambiance, can be a wonderfully intimate experience. The changing seasons offer different romantic backdrops, from blooming flowers to serene winter landscapes.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
+1 The reflections on the water, the iconic Dow's Lake Pavilion, and the city skyline offer diverse compositions. Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, casts a beautiful light over the lake, enhancing the photographic appeal.+1Creators can capture stunning drone footage (check regulations first!) of the lake and surrounding areas.
The seasonal transformations, from the spring blooms to the winter ice, offer a continuous stream of visually engaging content. Wedding photography is also popular here, with the scenic backdrop providing timeless shots.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Delights: From Tulips to Ice
+1 The vibrant colors against the backdrop of the lake create a magical atmosphere, making it a prime spot for photography and leisurely strolls. As the weather warms, the lake becomes a hub for water activities.During the summer months, the Dow's Lake Pavilion buzzes with activity, offering rentals for kayaks, pedal boats, and canoes.
+1 Paddling on the calm waters provides a unique perspective of the city and the surrounding parkland. It's an ideal way to spend a sunny afternoon, whether you're with family, friends, or on a romantic outing. The lake's accessibility and the variety of activities ensure there's something for everyone to enjoy throughout the warmer seasons.As winter descends, Dow's Lake undergoes another magical change. When the temperatures drop sufficiently, the lake freezes over and becomes an integral part of the Rideau Canal Skateway, one of the world's largest naturally frozen ice rinks.
This transforms the area into a winter wonderland, offering a classic Canadian experience of ice skating amidst picturesque scenery. The transition from blooming flowers to frozen water showcases the year-round appeal of Dow's Lake.Activities on the Water: Kayaking and More
+1 These rentals offer a fantastic way to explore the lake at your own pace, enjoying the tranquility and scenic views. Many visitors find kayaking to be a particularly peaceful experience, often sharing the water with local wildlife like geese.+1The rental process is straightforward, with pricing typically based on hourly rates.
It's recommended to check the operating hours of the Pavilion, as they can vary seasonally. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, pedal boats are a great option, especially for families or couples. The calm waters of Dow's Lake make it an ideal spot for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.While swimming has been a topic of discussion with the introduction of new docks, it's always wise to consult official water quality reports before deciding to swim.
Community and Events at Dow's Lake
+1 This festival is a testament to the enduring friendship between Canada and the Netherlands and is a highlight of Ottawa's spring calendar.Beyond the Tulip Festival, the lake is a popular spot for running clubs and community gatherings. For instance, groups like Sisters Run Club utilize the scenic paths around the lake for their runs, fostering a sense of connection and well-being.
The presence of these community events underscores Dow's Lake's role as a place for shared experiences and active living.Even without organized events, the atmosphere at Dow's Lake is often described as lively yet peaceful. You'll see families picnicking, couples strolling, and individuals enjoying quiet moments by the water. The lake's ability to host large-scale festivals while also providing a serene escape highlights its multifaceted appeal to both locals and tourists.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit