What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: The park offers paved riverside paths, free entry, benches, and seasonal festivals, giving a solo visitor safe scenic space for jogging, photography, or quiet reading without logistical hassle.
Why 3-5 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to walk the river path, photograph heritage buildings, grab a coffee, and join a boat cruise without rushing.
Walk the Capital Pathway:
Follow the flat, paved 1 km path along the Ottawa River from Alexandra Bridge to the marina.
Tip: Start at sunrise for cooler temperatures and empty benches.
Photograph heritage buildings:
Capture Charron House (1826–41) and the Gilmour & Hughson office (1892) by the water.
Tip: Visit during golden hour for warm light and fewer crowds.
Coffee break at Maison Charron:
Work or relax on the terrace with specialty coffee, pastries, or small plates.
Tip: Check with staff about Wi-Fi and plug access if you need to work.
Ottawa River cruise:
Board at Hull Marina for a 60-minute sightseeing tour with bilingual commentary.
Tip: Book online in advance; solo tickets start at CAD 45 and infants ride free.

Giovina L
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
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
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
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
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.
February: Explore Winterlude’s Snowflake Kingdom with free ice slides and sculptures. Summer: Enjoy long daylight for evening strolls and outdoor seating.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Capital Pathway walk | CAD 0 |
| Coffee at Maison Charron | CAD 6 |
| Ottawa River cruise | CAD 45 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 51 |
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
Address: Rue Laurier, Gatineau, QC J8X 3W9, Canada
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Jacques-Cartier Park (Ottawa)?
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
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