Dow's Lake: Ottawa's Urban Oasis
Discover Ottawa's scenic Dow's Lake: a year-round destination for recreation, natural beauty, and vibrant festivals on the historic Rideau Canal.
Dow's Lake, a man-made lake on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa, offers year-round recreation and scenic beauty. From boating and cycling in the summer to skating during Winterlude, it's a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike.
A brief summary to Dow's Lake
- Ottawa, Ontario, CA
Local tips
- Visit during the Canadian Tulip Festival in May to witness the spectacular display of colorful tulips in Commissioners Park.
- In winter, experience the magic of skating on the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world's largest skating rink.
- Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboat from the Dow's Lake Pavilion to explore the lake during the summer months.
- Enjoy a meal with a view at one of the restaurants in the Dow's Lake Pavilion.
- Take a walk or bike ride along the scenic pathways surrounding the lake and Rideau Canal.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Dow's Lake is easily accessible by public transport. OC Transpo bus routes 2, 56, 85, and others serve the area. The O-Train Line 2 has a station at Dow's Lake. From the bus stop at Carling Avenue and Preston Street, it's a short 2-minute walk to the lake. A single fare on OC Transpo is approximately $3.70 CAD.
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Walking
From Little Italy, walk south on Preston Street towards Carling Avenue. Cross Carling Avenue and continue towards the Dow's Lake Pavilion. The lakefront is directly behind the pavilion. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. From Commissioners Park, follow the paved pathways along the lake. The park connects directly to Dow's Lake, offering scenic views along the way. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.
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Parking
Paid parking is available at the Champagne lot off Champagne Avenue (855 Carling Avenue), near the Dow's Lake Pavilion. Hourly rates vary, with daily rates around $12 CAD. Street parking is available on nearby side streets, with time limits of 1-1.5 hours. Be aware of parking restrictions and time limits. Limited free parking is available at the Dominion Arboretum and Experimental Farm, a 15-20 minute walk away.
Discover more about Dow's Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dow's Lake
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Heart Island
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Glebe Neighbourhood Activities Group
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Central Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Commissioners Park
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Rideau Canal
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Central Experimental Farm
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TD Place
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Lansdowne Park
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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