Commissioners Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Commissioners Park?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Wide paved paths, picnic grass and paddle-boat rentals delight children, and washrooms sit at nearby Dow’s Lake Pavilion. No playground and unfenced water require close supervision, lowering the score.
Positives:
- Free entry & stroller paths: All garden areas are free and paved for easy stroller or wheelchair access.
- Seasonal washrooms: Public washrooms and portable change units available at the Pavilion in summer.
Challenges:
- No playground: Park lacks play structures; bring portable toys or visit a nearby playground.
- Limited shade in flower beds: Tulip rows are exposed; pack hats and sunscreen for kids.
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 with kids?
- Walk safe paved paths through 300,000 spring tulips.
- Let kids learn colors and names of flowers.
- Picnic and play lawn games by calm Dows Lake.
- Rent paddle boats with child life jackets.
- Stroller-friendly with washrooms and benches.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Kids can stroll paths, view tulips, picnic and enjoy a paddle boat ride without being rushed.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Commissioners Park
Tulip Garden Walk:
Follow paved paths through colorful spring tulip displays along Dows Lake.
Tip: Point out tulip colors and let kids spot their favorite.
Picnic & Lawn Games:
Set up on the grassy shore for snacks and light games.
Tip: Pack a frisbee or small ball to burn energy between flower stops.
Paddle Boat Ride:
Rent paddle boats or canoes at Dow’s Lake Pavilion.
Tip: Reserve early in busy spring; life jackets fit kids under 12.
Photo with Man with Two Hats:
Snap a family photo at the twin monuments linking Ottawa and the Netherlands.
Tip: Use this spot for a memorable festival memento.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Commissioners Park
- Early arrival: Beat festival crowds by arriving before 10 AM, especially in mid-May.
- Combine with bike ride: Bring or rent bikes for tow-behind trailers to explore adjacent NCC pathways.
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)?
Spring draws crowds for the Tulip Festival—arrive by 10 AM. Summer offers Summer Zone snacks by the pavilion. Off-season strolls still have lake views but fewer flowers.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 hrs parking | CAD 10 |
| Paddle boat rental | CAD 25 |
| Snacks & drinks | CAD 15 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 50 |
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 Commissioners Park
Address: Preston Street and, Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa, ON K1S 4N7, Canada
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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
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