Commissioners Park (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Commissioners Park?
What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: Couples get romantic flower walks, sunset lake views, picnic lawns and nearby kayak rentals for two. Lack of evening events and festival crowds keep it shy of a perfect score.
Positives:
- Free entry: Strolling gardens and lakeshore costs nothing.
- Scenic views: Tulip beds and water create a romantic backdrop.
- Proximity: Cycling via NCC paths links you to downtown in 15 minutes.
Challenges:
- Peak crowds: Late May tulip craze can make paths busy.
- Limited shade: Few covered spots mean sun exposure on midday visits.
- Weather-dependent: No covered shelters; rain can end outdoor plans.
What is Commissioners Park?
- A landscaped urban park stretching along the western shore of Dow’s Lake in Ottawa, Ontario
- A primary site for the annual Canadian Tulip Festival with themed flower beds showcasing hundreds of thousands of tulip bulbs
- A National Capital Commission–managed green space featuring paved promenades, manicured lawns and seasonal floral displays
What is so special about Commissioners Park for couple trip?
- Walk winding paths among over 300,000 tulips
- Enjoy a lakeside picnic with Dow’s Lake views
- Rent a two-person kayak for a water-date
- Sample local brews at the Summer Zone patio
- Photograph the symbolic Man with Two Hats sculpture
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to stroll gardens, rent a kayak, and enjoy a lakeside picnic at a relaxed pace.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Commissioners Park
Stroll the tulip gardens:
Walk winding paths among over 300,000 tulips in spring.
Tip: Start at the north entrance to follow the full flower display loop.
Picnic by Dow's Lake:
Spread a blanket on the lakeside lawn for a quiet meal.
Tip: Bring a small picnic kit and choose a spot near the water’s edge.
Snap the Man with Two Hats:
Take a meaningful couple photo at this Canada-Netherlands symbol.
Tip: Frame the sculpture with tulips in the background for depth.
Paddle on Dow's Lake:
Rent a two-person kayak for a calm hour on the water.
Tip: Book online in advance to secure a late-afternoon slot.
Sip at Summer Zone:
Enjoy local craft beer and snacks on a lakeside patio.
Tip: Visit Thursday–Sunday from mid-June to early September.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Commissioners Park
- Arrive at dawn: Beat the crowds and catch morning light on tulips.
- Use bike: Cycle via NCC pathways to avoid parking fees.
- Bring snacks: Pack a picnic to save on Summer Zone costs.
Reviews of Commissioners Park
Jaya Jose
We had visited the Park on the last day of the season's tulip festival. Coincidentally we witnessed the celebration of 100 years of Royal Canadian Air Force with a spectacular 200 drone show. Wow! What a crowd had emerged to witness this free show! Somewhere around 30000 people had showed up in the Park. Getting back to our hotel proved to be such an ardent exercise at that hour of the night.
Ale A
Beautiful park! Everything is green now. The tulip season is there which makes it even better. I really enjoyed my visit there, amazing sunset over the water. The commute in public transport was easy. Lots of people enjoying the tulip season. Recommend 👍
Anita Windisman
This park is THE place to see tulips in Ottawa. 🌷🌷🌷 With 300,000 bulbs planted - all sorts of colors - it makes for an amazing display. My favourite was the not so common dark purple (black) tulips. You don't see them very often. If you are short on time, you can definitely see everything you need to - in the park. During the Tulp Festival, there are a locations where you can use portable to...
Richard H
One of the best places to visit Tulips. You can see around 50+ shades of tulip colours. It takes around 3 to 4 hours to view all the Tulips. The best season to visit this place will be May 2nd week where you can see all the Tulips. Beyond that tulips will start to wither. You can also buy Tulip bouquet for $15. The park is amazing , has seats to sit and relax. No entrance fee for this place. You...
Priya Malhotra
It's a must visit park if you are in Ottawa. Tulips were in full bloom and only grew were waiting to bloom. There were food and drink stalls and the River view on the other side was spectacular. Really enjoyed even it was raining.
When is the best time to visit Commissioners Park (Ottawa, Canada)?
Visit mid-May for peak tulips, mid-June to early September for Summer Zone events; weekdays are quieter.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tulip gardens entry | CAD 0 |
| Two-person kayak rental (1h) | CAD 33 |
| Drinks at Summer Zone (2) | CAD 24 |
| Parking at Champagne Lot (2h) | CAD 8 |
| 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.
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 Commissioners Park
Address: Preston Street and, Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa, ON K1S 4N7, Canada
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Commissioners Park (Ottawa)?
About Commissioners 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
+1 613-239-500010 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