Major's Hill Park Ottawa
Ottawa's historic green heart, offering stunning river views, Parliament Hill vistas, and vibrant seasonal events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tulips in bloom, fewer crowds
Major's Hill Park Ottawa
Best Time
Tulips in bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ottawa's historic green heart, offering stunning river views, Parliament Hill vistas, and vibrant seasonal events.
"The scenery from here is very beautiful; this is a great place for a run, biking, or a walk."
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning shots of Parliament Hill and the river. Early morning or late afternoon light is best!
🌷 Tulip Season Magic
Visit in May for the Canadian Tulip Festival! The park is awash in color.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Parliament Hill Views
North side of the park
Iconic views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River, perfect for photos.
Canadian Tulip Festival
Throughout the park
Vibrant tulip displays in spring create a colorful and picturesque atmosphere.
Casino Lac Leamy Fireworks
Over the Ottawa River
Spectacular fireworks shows light up the night sky, with the park offering prime viewing spots.
Historical Significance
Various plaques and markers
Learn about the park's history as Ottawa's first park and its role in the city's development.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Events & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning shots of Parliament Hill and the river. Early morning or late afternoon light is best!
🌷 Tulip Season Magic
Visit in May for the Canadian Tulip Festival! The park is awash in color.
🎆 Fireworks Spectacle
The park is a prime spot for the Casino Lac Leamy fireworks. Arrive early! [^Rreview1]
🚶♀️ Peaceful Strolls
Enjoy a leisurely walk or run along the paved paths with beautiful scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning shots of Parliament Hill and the river. Early morning or late afternoon light is best!
🌷 Tulip Season Magic
Visit in May for the Canadian Tulip Festival! The park is awash in color.
🎆 Fireworks Spectacle
The park is a prime spot for the Casino Lac Leamy fireworks. Arrive early! [^Rreview1]
🚶♀️ Peaceful Strolls
Enjoy a leisurely walk or run along the paved paths with beautiful scenery.
🌳 Relax & Recharge
Find a bench to relax, read, or enjoy a picnic with a view. [^Rreview4]
🗺️ Explore History
Discover historical plaques scattered throughout the park for a dose of local history. [^Rreview1]
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Major's Hill Park for its breathtaking views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River, making it a prime spot for photography and relaxation. The park's beauty is enhanced by seasonal events like the Tulip Festival and fireworks, though some note it can become quite crowded during peak times.
"Our hotel was only a couple of blocks away so this park made for a very nice early morning walk. Just past the iconic Ottawa sign is a flight of stairs that leads up to the park. It's not all that large but the paved walkways provide a pleasant ramble with lovely views of the river and Parliament Hill (and its construction cranes!). We were about 2 weeks early for the tulips but the grounds are well-maintained, and there are a comfortable number of educational plaques and stones that provide some historical info. If you're looking for a longer walk, you can go south, cross the river and visit Parliament Hill or you can just walk along boulevard next to the river."
Jean Rybinski
"This is the best place to Roam in Ottowa If you are a tourist . Walking around this parks
takes you to many major milestones ; good food options are also available near the park .
The scenery from here is very beautiful ; this is great place for a run , biking , or a walk ."
Sanmeet Gurudatta
"Even on a hot, sunny day, Major's Hill Park captivated us with its beauty. We were fortunate to catch the tail end of the tulip season, with vibrant blooms lining the pathways. The park offers breathtaking views of the Ottawa River and the iconic Parliament Hill. Walking through the park felt like a serene escape from the city's hustle. Highly recommend visiting for a peaceful and picturesque experience."
Nigil Sebastian joy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Major's Hill Park is centrally located downtown, making it easily accessible. You can walk from many downtown hotels, take public transit to stops near Parliament Hill or the National Gallery of Canada, or drive and park in nearby lots. It's also a popular spot for cyclists and those enjoying a stroll along the Ottawa River pathways.
While there isn't direct parking within the park itself, several paid parking garages are located nearby in the downtown core. Street parking may also be available but can be limited and time-restricted. Consider public transit or walking if possible. [^Rreview1]
Yes, you can easily walk from Parliament Hill to Major's Hill Park. There are pathways and stairs connecting the areas, offering a pleasant transition between these key Ottawa landmarks. [^Rreview1]
Absolutely! Major's Hill Park is well-served by OC Transpo buses. Numerous routes stop within walking distance of the park, particularly along Wellington Street and near the National Gallery.
If you're in the ByWard Market, Major's Hill Park is just a short and scenic walk away. Head west towards the Parliament buildings, and you'll find the park easily accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Major's Hill Park is a public park and is free to enter and explore. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities without any admission cost.
Major's Hill Park is generally open year-round from dawn until dusk. Specific event hours may vary, but the park itself is accessible during daylight hours.
Entry to the park is always free. However, for specific ticketed events like the Casino Lac Leamy Fireworks, you may need to purchase tickets for viewing areas or related activities.
As a public park, general rules apply regarding respecting the grounds, not littering, and adhering to any posted signage. During events, there might be specific access points or security measures in place.
Dogs are generally welcome in Major's Hill Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include stunning views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River, the vibrant Canadian Tulip Festival in spring, and prime spots for the Casino Lac Leamy fireworks. Enjoy walking paths, historical markers, and peaceful green spaces.
Yes, Major's Hill Park is a photographer's dream! The panoramic views of Parliament Hill, the Ottawa River, and the seasonal floral displays offer endless opportunities for beautiful shots.
Public restrooms and drinking fountains are available within Major's Hill Park, making it convenient for visitors to spend extended time exploring. [^Rreview4]
Absolutely! Major's Hill Park is a fantastic spot for a picnic. There are benches and open grassy areas perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors with a view. [^Rreview4]
The park hosts a variety of events, including the famous Canadian Tulip Festival, Canada Day celebrations, outdoor concerts, and the spectacular Casino Lac Leamy Fireworks. It's also a venue for protests and community gatherings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant located within Major's Hill Park, offering convenient dining options for visitors. Additionally, food vendors may be present during special events. [^Rreview4]
The park is surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes in the downtown Ottawa area and the ByWard Market, offering a wide range of cuisines and price points. [^Rreview2]
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is highly encouraged and a popular activity in Major's Hill Park. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery on a budget. [^Rreview4]
You'll find plenty of coffee shops in the surrounding downtown area and the ByWard Market, perfect for grabbing a coffee before or after your visit to Major's Hill Park.
Yes, the downtown core and ByWard Market offer many family-friendly dining options. You can find everything from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants suitable for all ages. [^Rreview2]
📸 📸 Photography
The northern edge of the park offers the most iconic views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River. The pathways lined with tulips in spring are also incredibly photogenic.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provides the most beautiful light for photography. Sunsets over the Ottawa River can be particularly stunning.
Drone usage in national parks and urban areas like Major's Hill Park is often restricted or prohibited due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to check with the National Capital Commission (NCC) for current regulations.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is perfect for the expansive views, and a telephoto can be useful for isolating Parliament buildings.
During the Tulip Festival, the vibrant colors are a major draw. For fireworks, a tripod is essential for capturing long-exposure shots of the light displays over the river.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the Canadian Tulip Festival, the vibrant colors are a huge hit with children. For evening entertainment, the fireworks displays are a memorable experience, though it's advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot and consider bringing blankets for comfort. Restrooms and drinking fountains are available, adding to the convenience for families.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Save money by packing your own picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. Instead of paying for expensive tours, you can explore the park's historical plaques at your own pace. It's also a great starting point for exploring other free attractions in the downtown core.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Consider visiting during events like the fireworks for dramatic night photography opportunities. Remember to bring a tripod for low-light situations. The park's historical elements and natural beauty provide diverse backdrops for portraits, landscapes, and cityscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Throughout its existence, the park has witnessed numerous historical events and has been a focal point for community gatherings and national celebrations. Its strategic location overlooking the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill has always made it a valuable piece of real estate, leading to various proposals for development that were ultimately resisted to maintain its parkland status.
Today, Major's Hill Park stands as a testament to the foresight of preserving natural beauty within a bustling capital city. It continues to serve as a vital green lung, offering residents and visitors a place for recreation, reflection, and connection with nature and history.
Seasonal Spectacles: Tulips to Fireworks
Summer evenings in the park are often marked by the thrilling Casino Lac Leamy Fireworks competition. The park's elevated position provides excellent vantage points to watch the dazzling pyrotechnics light up the night sky over the Ottawa River, creating a magical atmosphere for families and couples alike. [^Rreview1]
As autumn arrives, the park's deciduous trees put on a beautiful display of fall foliage, offering a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks and photography. Even in winter, the park remains a serene space, offering quiet beauty and a chance to enjoy the crisp air, though specific activities might be limited.
Experiencing the Park: From Relaxation to Recreation
For those looking to unwind, numerous benches are strategically placed throughout the park, providing perfect spots to sit, relax, read a book, or simply soak in the surroundings. Many visitors enjoy bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas, making it a popular destination for a casual lunch or a romantic evening meal. [^Rreview4]
Historically, the park was also a popular spot for more social activities like playing chess in the park, though some locals note it's become more crowded over time. [^Rreview1] Regardless, it remains a versatile urban oasis offering both tranquility and opportunities for light recreation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit