Major's Hill Park (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Major's Hill Park?
What makes it 88% Couple-Friendly: Couples get romantic skyline vistas, tulip gardens, and a licensed patio for drinks; free entry lets you add sunset picnics or festival concerts for a low-stress date.
Positives:
- Free Admission: All park areas, gardens, and walking tours are free to enter.
- Central Location: A short walk from Confederation Metro station and downtown parking lots.
Challenges:
- Seasonal Facilities: Public washrooms and Header House kiosk operate only May–October.
- Event Crowds: Canada Day and summer festivals can draw large crowds, limiting seating spots.
What is Major's Hill Park?
- A historic urban park occupying a strategic hill at the confluence of the Ottawa River and Rideau Canal opposite Parliament Hill
- A landscaped greenspace defined by mature shade trees, open lawns and formal flower beds in the heart of Canada’s capital
- A designated National Historic Site marked by commemorative monuments and panoramic river vistas
What is so special about Major's Hill Park for couple trip?
- Picnic under shaded trees with river and Parliament views
- Hilltop summit offers a 360° panorama at sunset
- Seasonal kiosk serves local drinks, snacks, and ice cream
- Free guided urban art tours explore hidden murals
- Ideal spot for spring tulips, summer jazz, and fall leaves
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to picnic, climb to the hilltop view, and enjoy nearby events without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Major's Hill Park
Romantic Picnic on the Lawns:
Spread a blanket under mature trees overlooking Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River.
Tip: Bring local cheese, fresh fruit, and a small bottle of wine; avoid midday sun by arriving before noon.
Hilltop 360° Panorama:
Climb to the monument at the hill’s summit for sweeping river and city views.
Tip: Visit in the hour before sunset for warm light and cooler temperatures.
Header House Café Stop:
Visit the seasonal kiosk for local beer, wine, sandwiches, and ice cream.
Tip: Try a craft beer flight and grab ice cream before dusk to enjoy on a nearby bench.
Free Guided Urban Art Walk:
Join 45-minute drop-in tours from the NCC tent to see murals under the Pìdàban Bridge.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early; tours run in English and French with no registration needed.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Major's Hill Park
- Arrive Early: Visit before noon to secure a shaded picnic spot and avoid midday heat.
- Combine With Canal Stroll: Extend your outing by walking the connected Rideau Canal Pathway.
Reviews of Major's Hill Park
nic oshukany
Lovely flowers and scenery...lots of seating and lounging areas....trail, cycling, walking and a super sunset... Horticulturally in step, gardens pristine....all positive....take a couple hours and enjoy this attraction....
Sanmeet Gurudatta
This is the best place to Roam in Ottowa If you are a tourist . Walking around this parks takes you to many major milestones ; good food options are also available near the park . The scenery from here is very beautiful ; this is great place for a run , biking , or a walk .
Andreanne
Major’s Hill Park during fireworks is honestly the spot to be! The view of the city and the river makes the whole experience so magical. Even if you’re not right at the park’s barrier, you can still see the fireworks really well from nearby spots. Perfect place to hang out with friends or have a cute date night. Can’t wait to go back this Saturday!!
Nigil Sebastian joy
Even on a hot, sunny day, Major's Hill Park captivated us with its beauty. We were fortunate to catch the tail end of the tulip season, with vibrant blooms lining the pathways. The park offers breathtaking views of the Ottawa River and the iconic Parliament Hill. Walking through the park felt like a serene escape from the city's hustle. Highly recommend visiting for a peaceful and picturesque expe...
Jean Rybinski
Our hotel was only a couple of blocks away so this park made for a very nice early morning walk. Just past the iconic Ottawa sign is a flight of stairs that leads up to the park. It's not all that large but the paved walkways provide a pleasant ramble with lovely views of the river and Parliament Hill (and its construction cranes!). We were about 2 weeks early for the tulips but the grounds are we...
When is the best time to visit Major's Hill Park (Ottawa, Canada)?
Spring brings vibrant tulip beds along the canal; summer hosts free jazz concerts in June; fall peaks in red and gold foliage by late September.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic supplies | CAD 25 |
| Header House drinks and ice cream | CAD 20 |
| Parking (3 hours) | CAD 15 |
| Guided tour | CAD 0 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 60 |
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 Major's Hill Park
Address: Mackenzie Ave, Ottawa, ON K1N 1G8, Canada
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Major's Hill Park (Ottawa)?
About Major's Hill 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
+1 800-465-186710 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