Confederation Square: The Heart of Ottawa's Heritage
Explore Confederation Square, a historic landmark in Ottawa that embodies Canada's rich heritage and cultural celebrations, perfect for tourists and history enthusiasts.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ottawa, Confederation Square is a historic landmark that showcases Canada's rich culture and history. As a National Historic Site, it offers tourists a glimpse into the country's past, surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant activities. This centrally located square is ideal for leisurely strolls, cultural events, and photography, making it an essential stop for every visitor to the capital.
A brief summary to Confederation Square
- 53 Elgin St, Ottawa, Byward Market - Parliament Hill, Ontario, CA
- +1613-239-5000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and beautiful sunrise photography.
- Check the event calendar for festivals and commemorations that may enhance your visit.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the historical significance of the surrounding landmarks.
- Bring a picnic or snacks to enjoy in the square, especially during warm weather.
- Explore the nearby Byward Market for local foods and unique souvenirs after your visit.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving from anywhere in the Ottawa Valley, head towards the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 401). Use the signs to direct you towards Ottawa. Once you reach Ottawa, take the exit for Highway 416 North, which will lead you into the city. Continue on Highway 416 until it merges into Hunt Club Road, then follow Hunt Club Road until you reach Bronson Avenue. Turn left onto Bronson Avenue and continue straight until you reach the downtown area. Follow the signs for Elgin Street. Confederation Square is located at 53 Elgin St, right in front of the National War Memorial. Parking is available nearby, but be aware that there may be parking fees ranging from $2 to $5 depending on the duration.
-
Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take the OC Transpo bus system. Find your nearest bus stop and take bus route 94 or 95 towards the downtown core. If you're coming from the Ottawa Valley, you may need to transfer at a major hub like the Baseline Station or the St. Laurent Centre. Ensure your bus route allows you to get to the downtown area. Get off at the Elgin Street stop. From there, it's just a short walk to Confederation Square, which is located at 53 Elgin St. A single bus fare is approximately $3.75, but consider purchasing a day pass if you plan on using more than one bus, as it offers unlimited travel for the day at a cost of around $10.50.
-
Taxi/Ride-sharing
If you prefer a more direct route without the hassle of public transport or parking, you can use a taxi or a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride to Confederation Square at 53 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON. The cost will vary based on your starting location, but expect to pay around $20-$30 from central locations in Ottawa Valley. This option is convenient if you're traveling with luggage or in a group.
Discover more about Confederation Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada
0.0 km
Explore the Central Chambers National Historic Site in Ottawa, a vital piece of Canada's heritage showcasing stunning architecture and rich history.
The Flags of Canada
0.1 km
Explore The Flags of Canada, a historical landmark in Ottawa celebrating national pride and the rich cultural diversity of the provinces and territories.
Rideau Canal Historic Plaque
0.1 km
Explore the historic Rideau Canal in Ottawa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover its fascinating history through the iconic Historic Plaque.
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Statue
0.1 km
A dignified tribute to Canada's first French-Canadian Prime Minister, located on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, offering a glimpse into Canadian history.
Fairmont Château Laurier
0.2 km
Experience timeless elegance in the heart of Ottawa at the Fairmont Château Laurier, a historic landmark offering luxury accommodations and exceptional service.
South African War Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the South African War Memorial in Ottawa, a solemn tribute to heroism and sacrifice set amidst the beauty of Confederation Park.
Rideau Canal
0.3 km
Discover the historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering year-round recreation from boating and paddling to skating in the heart of Ottawa.
Lieutenant Colonel John By Fountain
0.3 km
Discover the beauty of the Lieutenant Colonel John By Fountain, a historic gem in Ottawa's Byward Market, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
National Aboriginal Veterans Monument
0.3 km
Explore the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument in Ottawa, a powerful tribute to Indigenous military heritage and a stunning example of cultural artistry.
1 Canal Ln
0.3 km
Discover Ottawa's past at the Bytown Museum, nestled on the historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Metal Map of Downtown Ottawa
0.3 km
Explore Ottawa's vibrant history through the artistic Metal Map of Downtown, a unique historical landmark showcasing the city's rich heritage.
Parliament Hill Square
0.3 km
Discover the stunning architecture and rich history of Parliament Hill Square, the heart of Canadian politics in Ottawa.
The Connaught Building
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of The Connaught Building, a historical landmark in the heart of Ottawa's vibrant Byward Market.
Colonel John By Statue
0.3 km
Visit the Colonel John By Statue in Major's Hill Park, a tribute to Ottawa's founder and the Rideau Canal's visionary engineer.
Peace Tower
0.4 km
Discover the iconic Peace Tower in Ottawa, a historical landmark symbolizing Canada's commitment to peace and democracy, offering breathtaking views of the capital.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
0.0 km
Explore the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa, a powerful tribute honoring Canada's fallen heroes and a symbol of national remembrance.
The National War Memorial
0.1 km
Explore the National War Memorial in Ottawa, a heartfelt homage to Canada's fallen heroes, blending history, beauty, and solemn remembrance.
Haunted Walk of Ottawa
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of ghost stories and haunted history with the Haunted Walk of Ottawa, a unique tour through Canada’s capital.
Lady Dive Tours
0.1 km
Experience Ottawa like never before with Lady Dive Tours, blending land and water exploration for unforgettable views of Canada's capital.
Valiants Memorial
0.1 km
Discover the Valiants Memorial in Ottawa: A stunning tribute to Canadian heroes showcasing bravery and sacrifice through art and history.
Plaza Bridge
0.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty of Plaza Bridge in Ottawa, a perfect blend of history and scenic views, ideal for tourists and photography enthusiasts.
RentABike
0.1 km
Discover the charm of Ottawa on two wheels with RentABike, your go-to bicycle rental service near the iconic Rideau Canal.
Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals - Ottawa
0.1 km
Discover Ottawa's charm and beauty on two wheels with Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals, offering bike and scooter rentals for every adventurer.
Famous Five Statue
0.1 km
Explore the Famous Five Statue in Ottawa, a historical landmark honoring five incredible women who changed Canadian history and fought for women's rights.
Rideau Canal, Locks 1 - 8 - Ottawa
0.1 km
Explore the Rideau Canal, Ottawa's iconic waterway, where history meets recreation in a stunning natural setting.
Oscar Peterson Statue
0.1 km
Discover the Oscar Peterson Statue in Ottawa, a stunning tribute to the jazz legend that celebrates Canada's musical heritage in the vibrant Byward Market.
National Arts Centre
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant world of arts and culture at the National Arts Centre, Ottawa's premier destination for performances and exhibitions.
Capital Information Kiosk
0.2 km
Explore Ottawa's rich history and vibrant culture at the Capital Information Kiosk, your essential resource for navigating Canada's capital city.
Terry Fox Statue
0.2 km
Explore the Terry Fox Statue in Ottawa, a poignant symbol of courage and determination, honoring a Canadian hero's legacy of hope and perseverance.
Confederation Park
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting Confederation Park in Ottawa, a perfect blend of nature, art, and culture in the heart of Canada's capital.
Essential places to dine
Riviera Ottawa
0.1 km
Discover Riviera Ottawa: Where Culinary Excellence Meets Elegant Ambiance in Canada’s Capital City.
WILFRID'S
0.2 km
Discover fine dining at Wilfrid's in Ottawa - where local flavors meet exquisite culinary artistry.
1 Elgin Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover authentic Canadian cuisine at 1 Elgin Restaurant in Ottawa – where fresh ingredients meet exceptional flavors.
La Terrasse
0.2 km
Experience exquisite dining at La Terrasse with stunning views overlooking Ottawa's vibrant skyline and iconic landmarks.
Milestones
0.2 km
Experience contemporary Canadian cuisine at Milestones in Byward Market, Ottawa - where delightful flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Metropolitain Brasserie Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover the taste of France at Metropolitain Brasserie, where classic dishes meet modern elegance in Ottawa's Byward Market.
The Shore Club
0.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at The Shore Club in Ottawa - where premium steaks meet fresh seafood in an elegant setting.
Social Restaurant + Lounge
0.3 km
Discover Ottawa's Social Restaurant + Lounge: where exquisite cuisine meets vibrant nightlife in the heart of Byward Market.
The Clarendon Tavern
0.4 km
Experience Ottawa's vibrant culinary scene at The Clarendon Tavern—where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere in Byward Market.
Cocotte Bistro
0.4 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Cocotte Bistro in Ottawa's Byward Market – where every meal feels like a special occasion.
Oz Kafe
0.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Oz Kafe in Ottawa's Byward Market – where flavor meets fun in every dish and drink.
Aiana Restaurant Collective
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood and gourmet cuisine at Aiana Restaurant Collective in Ottawa's vibrant Byward Market.
Beckta Dining & Wine
0.4 km
Discover culinary excellence at Beckta Dining & Wine, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative cuisine in Ottawa's finest dining experience.
Sidedoor
0.4 km
Discover Sidedoor: An exceptional dining experience in Ottawa's Byward Market featuring innovative cuisine and lively ambiance.
Restaurant e18hteen
0.4 km
Discover exceptional cuisine at Restaurant e18hteen in Ottawa's Byward Market—where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parliament Souvenier And News
0.2 km
Discover unique Canadian treasures at Parliament Souvenir and News, your go-to gift shop near Parliament Hill in Ottawa.
Galerie d'art Vincent
0.2 km
Experience the beauty of Inuit art at Galerie d'art Vincent, a vibrant Ottawa gallery that brings Indigenous culture to life through stunning artworks.
The Hotel Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore The Hotel Gift Shop in Ottawa for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and the perfect gifts to remember your trip by.
Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore the Gift Shop in Ottawa for unique souvenirs, local delicacies, and essentials, all in the heart of Canada's capital.
Around The Corner
0.3 km
Explore Around The Corner, Ottawa's charming gift shop for unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures that celebrate the city’s vibrant culture.
CF Rideau Centre
0.3 km
Discover a shopping paradise at CF Rideau Centre in Ottawa, offering a wide array of stores, dining options, and vibrant atmosphere for every visitor.
Hudson's Bay
0.4 km
Explore Hudson's Bay in Ottawa: Your ultimate destination for fashion, beauty, and Canadian culture in a vibrant shopping environment.
Made In Canada Gifts
0.4 km
Explore Made In Canada Gifts in Ottawa for unique souvenirs, handcrafted jewelry, and delightful gift baskets celebrating Canadian culture.
Cybertela
0.4 km
Explore Cybertela in Ottawa, a premier clothing store where style meets local culture, perfect for tourists seeking unique fashion pieces.
STUNNING Women's Fashion + Accessories, ByWard Market, Ottawa
0.4 km
Explore STUNNING Women's Fashion + Accessories in ByWard Market, Ottawa - a fashion paradise for unique clothing and jewelry.
Crazy Moose Clothing Co
0.5 km
Explore Crazy Moose Clothing Co in Ottawa's Byward Market for unique Canadian apparel and gifts that celebrate local culture.
OXXO SILK AND GIFT
0.5 km
Explore OXXO Silk and Gift in Byward Market, Ottawa for exquisite silk products and unique gifts that capture the essence of local craftsmanship.
Quichua World Market
0.5 km
Explore authentic indigenous crafts and gifts at Quichua World Market in Ottawa's vibrant Byward Market, celebrating Native American heritage.
Canada In A Basket
0.5 km
Explore authentic Canadian souvenirs at Canada In A Basket, located in Ottawa's historic Byward Market, a must-visit for every traveler.
Eclection, ByWard Market
0.5 km
Explore Eclection in ByWard Market for unique fashion accessories, clothing, and local artisan crafts that capture the essence of Ottawa's creative spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
D'Arcy McGee's
0.1 km
Discover D'Arcy McGee's in Ottawa, where Canadian flavors meet Irish hospitality in a vibrant pub atmosphere.
Stolen Goods Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting at Stolen Goods Cocktail Bar in Ottawa, where innovation meets tradition in a vibrant nightlife setting.
The Hyde
0.4 km
Experience Ottawa's cocktail scene at The Hyde, where innovative drinks and a chic atmosphere create the perfect night out in Byward Market.
The Brig Pub
0.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of The Brig Pub in Ottawa's Byward Market, where local flavors and community spirit come together.
The Laff
0.5 km
Experience the energetic nightlife at The Laff, a top bar and live music venue in Ottawa's Byward Market, perfect for fun and entertainment.
Dominion Tavern
0.5 km
Discover the lively Dominion Tavern in Ottawa's Byward Market, where great drinks, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere await your arrival.
Clocktower Brew Pub - Rideau
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious craft beers at Clocktower Brew Pub - Rideau, a top culinary destination in Ottawa's Byward Market.
The Lookout Bar
0.5 km
Discover Ottawa's nightlife at The Lookout Bar, where karaoke meets a lively atmosphere and breathtaking city views.
Apothecary Lounge
0.5 km
Experience Ottawa's vibrant nightlife at the Apothecary Lounge, where artisanal cocktails and fine wines create an unforgettable evening.
Speakeasy Tapas Lounge
0.6 km
Experience the best of tapas and cocktails at Speakeasy Tapas Lounge in Ottawa's Byward Market, where vibrant flavors meet live music.
Avant-Garde Bar & Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant art and nightlife at Avant-Garde Bar & Gift Shop in Ottawa, where cocktails and creativity come together.
TripAdvisor Canada
0.6 km
Explore TripAdvisor Canada in the heart of Ottawa's Byward Market for travel tips and local insights to enhance your visit.
Heart & Crown - ByWard Market
0.6 km
Discover Heart & Crown, Ottawa's premier Irish pub in the lively ByWard Market, offering delicious food, drinks, and entertainment.
Nan's Parlour
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Nan's Parlour, a must-visit cocktail bar in Ottawa's Byward Market.
The Snug Pub
0.6 km
Experience the heart of Ottawa at The Snug Pub, your cozy bar in Byward Market with local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.