Start your day of Open NCC activities at our hub site, where you can learn about the unique architectural history of Canada’s capital and get an in-depth look at the NCC’s plans, public consultations, and events.

This site also welcomes the return of last year’s BikeNight event!

Landscape of a park at twilight. Clouds in the sky, skyscrapers in the horizon, a line of trees, and people gathered under twinkling lights.

About the activities

Rideau Canal Heritage & History Bike Tour

Cycle through history along the Rideau Canal. Join the NCC Heritage Team for a guided bike tour of the Ottawa Reach and discover the stories behind this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about its rich heritage and recent NCC projects that help protect and bring this treasured landscape to life.

Participants must have their own bicycles (pedal-assisted) or mobility aids. Helmets are required. Please consider the distance and duration of the tour to determine if it is suitable for you.

  • Meeting Point: Confederation Park, entrance closest to the Rideau Canal
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Distance: 5.3 km
  • Hours and language:
    • 10 am to 11 am: English  
    • Noon to 1 pm: French  
    • 2 pm to 3 pm: English

Good news! There is still space available for the bike tour in French. Feel free to come directly onsite for more details.

Openncc 2026 confederation park heritage bike tour 1

Medicine Shield Workshop with Makatew

In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to create a medicine shield while exploring its cultural significance. Through guided discussion and craft making, this experience offers an opportunity for reflection, learning, and cultural appreciation.  

  • Meeting Point: Confederation Park, entrance closest to the Rideau Canal
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Hours and language:
    • 10:15 am to 11:15 am: Bilingual
    • 11:30 am to 12:30 pm: Bilingual
    • 1 pm to 2 pm: Bilingual

Good news! There is still space available for the workshop. Feel free to come directly onsite for more details.

BikeNight

Inspired by Montréal’s popular Tour La Nuit event, this special night ride welcomes cyclists of all ages and experience levels. Participants will ride along Queen Elizabeth Driveway and Colonel By Drive. 

Find out more at: BikeNight at Confederation Park.

Multiple bicycles at night with lights.

Kiosks and other activities

Drop in at any time between 10 am and 3 pm

  • Archaeology kiosk with Colonel By artifacts on display
  • Sustainable Development kiosk
  • Public Engagement & Events kiosk
  • Greenbelt Plan Renewal kiosk
  • Lawn games and other fun activities!  

Accessibility

Most activities are wheelchair accessible. The activity area is located on a grassy surface adjacent to a paved pathway.

Getting there

Confederation Park is located at the corner of Elgin Street and Laurier Avenue in Ottawa.  

  • Cycling and pedestrian access: The site is accessible by active mobility. Bicycle racks are available onsite.
  • Public transit: Major transit providers in the National Capital Region offer routes that stop near the site. Use their travel planners to find the best bus route (OC Transpo or STO).
  • Vehicle access: Paid parking is available at Ottawa City Hall and the National Arts Centre. Additional parking is offered on nearby streets. 

About the site

Portable washrooms are available at Confederation Park. Washrooms are also available at Ottawa City Hall, across from Confederation Park.

Visit Confederation Park for more details.