Andrew Haydon Park (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Andrew Haydon Park?
What makes it 80% Couple-Friendly: Couples can picnic on the lawn, watch sunset over the Ottawa River, and attend free evening concerts, all in a clean open space that encourages relaxed conversation and photos.
Positives:
- Riverside Relaxation: Benches on the west lawn face scenic river views—ideal for quiet moments.
- Level Terrain: Flat, paved pathways suit all walking speeds and are easy underfoot.
- Free Entertainment: Enjoy complimentary live music under the stars in summer.
Challenges:
- Limited Parking: Spaces fill by late afternoon on weekends and concert nights.
- No Onsite Cafe: Bring food and drinks—there are no food vendors or cafes.
What is Andrew Haydon Park?
- A waterfront municipal park on Carling Avenue bordering the Ottawa River
- A landscaped urban oasis organized around open lawns, sculpted gardens and a manmade waterfall
- A municipal facility with a bandshell, covered picnic pavilion and a children's playground
What is so special about Andrew Haydon Park for couple trip?
- Scenic riverside picnic spots for two
- Flat, paved pathway for a relaxed stroll
- Unobstructed sunset views over Gatineau Hills
- Free live concerts in summer at the bandshell
- Option to reserve a covered pavilion for privacy
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time for a picnic, riverside stroll and catching the sunset or live concert.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Andrew Haydon Park
Picnic by the riverbank:
Spread a blanket on the west-side lawn facing the Ottawa River.
Tip: Bring snacks and a lightweight blanket for a cozy setup.
Sunset watching:
Use the benches on the west lawn for unobstructed views of the Gatineau Hills.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to pick the best spot.
Stroll the Ottawa River Pathway:
Walk along the smooth, paved river pathway through the park.
Tip: Count sailboats or watch local birdlife as you walk.
Summer Sounds concerts:
Attend free outdoor concerts at the bandshell every second Wednesday (July–September).
Tip: Bring folding chairs and arrive early to secure front-row seats.
Pavilion rental:
Reserve the covered picnic pavilion for a private gathering.
Tip: Email sports@ottawa.ca or call 613-580-2595; cost is CAD 30/hour.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Andrew Haydon Park
- Arrive Early: Secure a prime riverside picnic spot before crowds arrive.
- Pack Light Layers: Even summer evenings can feel chilly by the water.
- Check Concert Dates: Verify the Summer Sounds schedule online before your visit.
Reviews of Andrew Haydon Park
C Hart
A really lovely park. Lots of grassy areas to picnic in, many benches, and treed areas for shade. Beautiful pond. Always lively but never too busy (though parking can be tricky). Great place to enjoy nature.
Olena Slominska
Lovely, nice, relaxing, beautiful, peaceful, wonderful, charming place. for families, romantic couples, lonely walkers, yacht club members… busy on a weekend evening, yet a lot of parking places at several parking lots along Carling Av.
Claret M
A great place to walk, have fun with family and friends and beautiful scenery. Great Sunset view . It is an amazing place to walk with free parking so it is always crowded. Hard to find parking .The Water Lantern festival was a good time to visit the place.
Imran Shahid
A beautiful and scenic park near waterfront great for a walk, biking or having a picnic. The landscape and walking paths along the river are beautifully designed. A lot of geese and mallards inhibit the two ponds inside the park which are fun to watch for young kids. There are plenty of benches along the trails to relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset view over the Ottawa river. Parking is free as ...
Amy K
Such an amazing park with scenery views! The best place for biking, hiking, picnic, and barbecue! Comes with playgrounds for kids, and public restrooms. My first time there for a festival but definitely not my last visit. The sunset view in this park is stunning … 😍
When is the best time to visit Andrew Haydon Park (Ottawa, Canada)?
July–September: plan for free Wednesday evening concerts. Spring/fall: bring a windbreaker—riverside evenings get cool.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Pavilion rental (1 hr) | CAD 30 |
| Self-packed picnic | CAD 0 |
| Live concert | CAD 0 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Andrew Haydon Park
Address: 3127 Carling Ave, Nepean, ON K2H 5A6, Canada
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About Andrew Haydon Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 613-580-259510 BEST nearby Activities
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