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Canada/Things to Do in Ottawa, with baby

Jacques-Cartier Park (with baby)

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How Baby-Friendly is Jacques-Cartier Park?

63%Baby-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 63% Baby-Friendly: Smooth paved paths suit strollers and infants ride free on boat tours, yet the park lists no diaper change tables or nursing rooms, so caregivers need a portable mat or must visit nearby museum.

Google
Reviews4.4/ 5
(from 5,133 reviews)

Positives:

  • Stroller-friendly: The flat, paved path runs along the river with several benches and rest spots.
  • Infant rides free: Ottawa Boat Cruise lets babies ride free on a parent’s lap.

Challenges:

  • Limited baby facilities: No dedicated changing tables or nursing rooms on site; bring a portable mat.
  • Event crowds: Winterlude and Canada Day draw large crowds; plan around peak hours.
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🏖️ Explore Jacques-Cartier Park with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Jacques-Cartier Park. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Jacques-Cartier Park?

  • A 23-hectare National Capital Commission–managed riverside park on the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, directly opposite Ottawa, Ontario
  • A heritage landscape showcasing 19th-century industrial and domestic architecture such as Maison Charron and the Gilmour & Hughson office building
  • A network of open lawns, wooded areas and paved multi-use pathways adjoining a marina and riverfront promenade

What is so special about Jacques-Cartier Park for with baby?

  1. Flat riverside strolls perfect for strollers
  2. Picnic spots with grass or tables near water
  3. Free infant lap seats on Ottawa River cruises
  4. Historic patio dining that welcomes babies
  5. Seasonal events from Winterlude to Canada Day

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Gives time to stroll the riverside path, enjoy a picnic, and take a short river cruise without tiring your baby.

(View Jacques-Cartier Park on Map)

Baby-Friendly Activities in Jacques-Cartier Park

Stroll the Capital Pathway:

Walk along the paved river path with your stroller.

Tip: Use benches for breaks and bring a blanket for nap stops on the grass.

Picnic on the Lawn:

Choose a grassy spot or picnic table near the water.

Tip: Pack soft snacks and a portable changing mat for quick diaper changes.

Ottawa River Cruise:

Board a one-hour cruise from Hull Marina.

Tip: Infants ride free on a lap seat; bring layers against river breezes.

Maison Charron Patio Break:

Relax on the historic patio with drinks or small plates.

Tip: Call ahead to reserve a high chair or confirm space for a stroller.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Jacques-Cartier Park

  1. Arrive early: Get free parking and quieter paths before crowds build.
  2. Pack essentials: Bring snacks, layers, and a changing mat to avoid mid-day trips off site.
🏖️ Tour Jacques-Cartier Park like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Jacques-Cartier Park. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Jacques-Cartier Park

Powered by Google
Giovina L

Giovina L

Feb 2025

Winterlude was amazing. I found it even more organized than it was last year and even though there was so much snow on the streets, we still managed to find parking. I found all the volunteers super friendly and it’s such a great venue for this event.

Matheus Teixeira Fernandes

Matheus Teixeira Fernandes

Feb 2025

Winterlude is a very well organized event. Although the lines to the tube were very long (30 min at 9:30, 45 min at 10:00 and it was getting longer); we had a lot of fun. Other than the tube (go downhill on a doughnut), we also went to a labyrinth and an obstacle course. All very fun and organized.

Bernie

Bernie

Nov 2024

This park is absolutely wonderful! You'll love the stunning views it offers. It’s a perfect spot for a stroll, a hike, a jog, or even a bike ride. There’s so much to explore here, from interesting monuments to informative signs and beautiful sights. Plus, the location gives you breathtaking scenes of the river and Parliament Hill. It's truly a delightful place to spend some time!

Leonard

Leonard

Oct 2024

Beautiful during the fall as all the trees change colors. It's an open field park too so plenty of space for all activities outdoors... just beware of the large amounts of duck poop

Alexandra Emanuela

Alexandra Emanuela

Sep 2024

Beautiful and big park. But nothing for toddlers? Exist a bike trail, a long one. Also I found tables for picnic . The beach access is not marked and was a bit dirty with junk. The park doesn’t have anymore the big sculptures.

When is the best time to visit Jacques-Cartier Park (Ottawa, Canada)?

In February, wander among Winterlude ice sculptures but skip slides for safety and dress baby warmly. On July 1, enjoy free Canada Day shows and live music—arrive early to find stroller-friendly spots.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Ottawa on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Ottawa River cruise (2 adults)CAD 90
Picnic suppliesCAD 15
Parking (3 hours)CAD 4
Total EstimatedCAD 109

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 Jacques-Cartier Park

Address: Rue Laurier, Gatineau, QC J8X 3W9, Canada

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Jacques-Cartier Park (Ottawa)?

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About Jacques-Cartier Park

Opening Hours

Monday:7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday:7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday:7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday:7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday:7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday:7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday:7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 613-239-5000

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