Centennial Flame (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Centennial Flame?
What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Couples get pleasant shared moments by the flame, picnic space on the lawn and seasonal Guard parades; it is scenic but offers limited seating and no evening dining nearby.
Positives:
- Free and open access: No admission fee and no set hours; visit at any time, day or night.
- Limited seating: There are no benches near the flame; bring a blanket or stand during busy periods.
Challenges:
- Limited seating: There are no benches near the flame; bring a blanket or stand during busy periods.
- Free and open access: No admission fee and no set hours; visit at any time, day or night.
What is Centennial Flame?
- A fountain-and-flame monument at the centre of Parliament Hill ignited on July 1, 1967 to commemorate Canada’s 100th anniversary of confederation
- A circular granite basin where a natural gas flame burns atop a warm water pool, symbolically uniting fire and water
- Bronze shields arrayed around the platform bear the coats of arms and confederation entry dates of Canada’s provinces and territories
What is so special about Centennial Flame for couple trip?
- Relax with a lakeside-style picnic beside the flame and Peace Tower.
- Witness Canada’s eternal flame burning on water since 1967.
- Attend the summer Changing of the Guard ceremony nearby.
- Take free panoramic views from the nearby Peace Tower deck.
- Photograph a unique fire-on-water landmark day or night.
Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 hour
Why 0.5-1 hour visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Time to view the flame, relax on the lawn, and catch the Changing of the Guard in summer.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Centennial Flame
Picnic by the flame:
Bring sandwiches or take-out and relax on the grass behind the Centennial Flame with views of the Peace Tower.
Tip: Arrive early to claim a spot and avoid crowds; check the weather forecast before you go.
Watch the Changing of the Guard:
Attend the summer ceremony at 10 am June through August to see guards in tunics and bearskin hats march on the lawn.
Tip: Stand near the flame for framed photos and arrive 15 minutes early for best views.
Visit the Peace Tower Observation Deck:
Reserve a free ticket to ride the elevator 92 m up for 360° views of Ottawa, including the Rideau Canal and Gatineau Hills.
Tip: Book your ticket online at least a week ahead and combine this visit with your flame stop.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Centennial Flame
- Evening photography: Visit after dusk to capture the lit flame against the illuminated Centre Block.
- Combine your route: Walk the Confederation Boulevard circuit to see nearby monuments in one trip.
Reviews of Centennial Flame
Andreea Daniela Dinulescu
Very beautiful to be seen at night. I understood was built to celebrate anniversary of 100 years for the state of Canada.
Brad
This is one of the interesting monuments around Parliament Hill. It was designed as a basin with 13 sides representing the provinces and territories of Canada. The flame was lit by Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson on 31 December 1966, marking the 100 anniversary of the founding of the Canadian Federation in 1867. It is a unique monument worth a few moments while sightseeing at Parliament Hill.
Karla Fernandez
I went for Canada day, it was so busy but I like it. Right now the building are in renovation, I didn't like that because you're not able to appreciate the parliament well. But I might thing in another occasion would be nice to go there and walk around.
Samy
The Parliament Hill Centennial Flame in Ottawa is a symbolic monument that was first lit in 1967 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Canadian Confederation. Located in front of the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill, it features a flame burning at the center of a fountain, surrounded by the crests of Canada’s provinces and territories. The flame represents national unity and continuity, and it has ...
Hamid Boleydei
A powerful symbol of Canadian unity and history 🇨🇦 Located right in front of Parliament Hill, the Centennial Flame is a must-see when visiting Ottawa. Originally lit in 1967 to celebrate Canada’s 100th anniversary, it continues to burn year-round, surrounded by the coats of arms of each province and territory. It’s a meaningful and peaceful spot—especially beautiful at night. A great place to pa...
When is the best time to visit Centennial Flame (Ottawa, Canada)?
In summer, pair your visit with the daily 10 am Changing of the Guard (June–August). In winter, bundle up to photograph the warm flame and flowing water against a snowy backdrop.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic lunch for two | CAD 20 |
| Return public transit fare for two | CAD 8 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 28 |
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 Centennial Flame
Address: 111 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A4, Canada
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Centennial Flame (Ottawa)?
About Centennial Flame
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
+1 866-599-499910 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities