Andrew Haydon Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Andrew Haydon Park?
What makes it 91% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can burn energy on the playground, splash pad, and wide fields, while parents use nearby washrooms, change tables, and free picnic shelters for breaks all day.
Positives:
- Free Admission: No entrance fee for park access, playground or splash pad.
- Riverside Setting: Broad lawns by the Ottawa River offer open space and scenic views.
Challenges:
- Seasonal Availability: Splash pad and Summer Sounds concerts only run in summer months.
- Sand and Water Mess: Sand base at splash pad can stick to clothes and shoes.
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 with kids?
- Playground with slides and swings for ages 3–12
- Free splash pad featuring a pirate-ship slide and water wheel
- Picnic tables and rentable pavilion by the riverbank
- Free family concerts at the bandshell every second Wednesday in summer
- Flat, paved paths ideal for strollers and beginner bike rides
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for playground play, splash pad fun, a riverside picnic, and a nature stroll without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Andrew Haydon Park
Playground Fun:
Kids climb slides, swings and climbers built for ages 3–12.
Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid heat and get quieter playtime.
Splash Pad Adventure:
Three water features including a pirate-ship slide and water wheel.
Tip: Bring towels and a change of clothes; sand base gets messy.
Riverfront Picnic:
Use picnic tables or rent the covered pavilion by the water.
Tip: Reserve pavilion in advance for CA$30/hr or bring a blanket.
Nature Scavenger Hunt:
Follow the free OCWC printable booklet to spot plants and birds.
Tip: Download the scavenger-hunt guide online before arrival.
Summer Sounds Concert:
Enjoy free live music at the bandshell every second Wednesday evening.
Tip: Bring folding chairs or blankets and light snacks for the lawn.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Andrew Haydon Park
- Arrive Early: Secure a picnic spot and quieter playground time before midday.
- Pack Essentials: Bring towels, extra clothes, hand sanitizer and water bottles.
- Book Pavilion Ahead: Email sports@ottawa.ca or call 613-580-2595 to reserve shelter.
- Use Western Parking Lot: Park near Carling Ave entrance for shortest walk to playground.
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)?
Summer: splash pad runs daily and concerts run July–Sept. Spring/Fall: playground and paths stay open but water features close. Dress in layers and check wind by the river.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Pavilion rental (per hour) | CAD 30 |
| Snacks and drinks | CAD 20 |
| Ice cream at nearby vendor | CAD 15 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 65 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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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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