Confederation Park
One of the capital city’s main event parks, Confederation Park is home to Winterlude activities and Canada Day celebrations. It also has a variety of sculptures and monuments, including the Colonel By Fountain and the South African War Memorial statue.
The park is surrounded on all sides by large buildings: to the east, the Brutalist offices of National Defence Headquarters; to the south, Ottawa City Hall and the courts; and to the west, Elgin Street and the Lord Elgin Hotel. You’ll be glad you read this!
History
As its name suggests, Confederation Park is a place of both natural allure and significant historical significance. This central city park is dotted with plaques and monuments that recount Canada’s early history. The park also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year that foster a sense of community.
The park is smack dab in the middle of downtown Ottawa. It is bordered on the south by Laurier Avenue and Ottawa City Hall; on the east by the Rideau Canal and National Defence Headquarters; on the north by Mackenzie King Bridge, the Rideau Centre and the National Arts Centre; and on the west by Elgin Street.
This iconic town square is the heart of Canada’s capital. It is a place of culture and history, where citizens come to enjoy the city’s renowned theatre scene and fascinating museums. It is a gathering space for the local community and a place where visitors can celebrate Canada’s unique heritage.
Amenities
The park is smack in the middle of downtown and offers a great respite from the crowded buildings surrounding it. It is also a venue for some of the city’s biggest festivals and events, like Winterlude and the Ottawa International Jazz Festival.
The Vigilant Guards Gateway reflects the regiment’s military, humanitarian, and ceremonial presence while integrating respectfully into the existing setting. A modular design pattern alluding to natural plant forms is accentuated with a slender inner arch of wrought iron tracery, featuring the Guard’s Star heraldic emblem.
The design focuses on a central bay of the gateway, incorporating stoicism, modularity and symmetry to create a grand homage while allowing for movement within the structure. Outstretched marble arms draw visitors in, while bronze reliefs highlight the regiment’s military and humanitarian efforts. The gateway is situated along the Veteran’s Affairs “memorial route” and the path the Ceremonial Guard takes to Parliament Hill. The monument is a focal point for the annual Remembrance Day parade. Learn more about Ottawa here.
Events
Confederation Park is one of the main parks in the capital and hosts many events throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include Winterlude activities and Canada Day celebrations. It also hosts the Ottawa International Jazz Festival.
The park is dotted with various art installations and sculptures that are worth checking out. Some of these are temporary, so they may be different the next time you visit.
You can also dine in the park’s restaurants. The area has plenty of options for all budgets, from cheap eats to upscale dining.
Confederation Park is just a short walk from Parliament Hill, where you can see the famous Canadian Parliament buildings. It is also home to the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River. It is a beautiful place to visit, no matter the season. If you are looking for a great experience, be sure to book your tickets ahead of time. They sell out quickly.
Parking
Confederation Park is an urban park with paved pathways, monuments and grassy flat areas. It is centred by a fountain honouring Colonel John By and is an Ottawa landmark. It is a popular place to stop for lunch and reading and people often gather here at night. In winter the area is a favourite spot for skating on the Rideau Canal.
If you are attending an event at the Centre, it is recommended that you purchase your tickets in advance. The most economical way to do so is online, as advance ticket prices are lower. You can also purchase advance tickets at the Box Office at Marion Dewar Plaza, at a ticket counter in the lobby of the Lord Elgin Hotel or by phone. The venue offers barrier-free seating. Guests with mobility issues are encouraged to use accessible washrooms located at both Confederation Park and Marion Dewar Plaza. Guide and service animals are welcome at the venue. Continue reading the next article.
Driving directions from Ottawa House Painter to Confederation Park
Driving directions from Confederation Park to Strathcona Park