How to Make the Best Out of Your Adventure in the Fancy Neighborhood of Rockcliffe Park in Ottawa
I was feeling quite sophisticated and outdoorsy one summer morning, and I knew my usual route around the block wasn’t going to cut it. So I set off to find a place that emanated the same vibes.
From viewing other people’s Instagram reels to searching on Google Maps for the right route, I eventually landed in the neighborhood of Rockcliffe Park. Judging by the pictures, it looked like a good place to wander around.
“Good” was a huge understatement, because now I want to live there. The winding pathways and the large mansions are straight out of a fairy tale, and I’ve had a newfound appreciation for nicely trimmed hedges.
The Rockeries looked like cool ruins of some ancient European rampart, while the lookout point reminded me that this part of town is really spoiled with picturesque views.
My time there made me realize that the neighborhood is an absolute mood. It’s the same type of mood where you expect to bump into a high-ranking official walking their golden retriever.
And the best part? This experience is also yours for the taking, and you don’t even have to rock up with a top hat, my good sir!
Where is Rockcliffe Park?
Rockcliffe Park is a neighborhood located in the east end of Ottawa, next to the Ottawa River. It’s to the north of New Edinburgh, where the Rideau Hall is situated.
How to Get to Rockcliffe Park
By Car: If coming from downtown Ottawa, you can take one of the major roads leading to the neighborhood, such as Sussex Drive, then turn onto Princess Avenue or Promenade Sir-George-Etienne-Cartier.
By Bus: Several OC Transpo bus routes pass by or stop within the Rockcliffe Park neighborhood, including lines 6, 7, and 606.
Things to Do in Rockcliffe Park
Explore the Rockeries
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To get a good sense of what Rockcliffe Park is all about, you should check out the Rockeries and all of the scenery that it has to offer.
At a size of 2.65 hectares, it’s home to a rock garden filled with rich history dating back to the 1800s. Locals often consider the location one of the most aesthetic spots in the neighborhood.
It’s located along the Rockcliffe Parkway and near the popular Rockcliffe Pavilion landmark. There are a bunch of scattered stone walls and arches in the areas, reminiscent of the old architecture back in the day.
Some pathways wind through the site, taking you on a tour through a canopy of mature trees, such as pines, maples, and oaks.
It really evoked a sense of tranquility when we first came here, especially since the place is also right next to the Ottawa River. It has lots of photo opportunities and makes for a nice morning stroll.
Have a picnic at the park grounds
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With the amount of green space Rockcliffe Park has, it’s a no-brainer to go out for a nice picnic at its park grounds.
The area around Rockcliffe Pavilion has several tables and benches that you can use to set up your picnic. Even the open spaces at the park are a great choice for laying out a picnic blanket and enjoying some sunshine.
The good thing about having a picnic on the grass is that you’re not limited by the space, so feel free to bring as many friends as you want for a day of fun and relaxation.
Take a tour of Rideau Hall
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Address: 1 Sussex Dr
Contact Number: +1 613-991-4422
Operating Hours: Daily: 8:00am to 1 hour before sunset (Grounds)
If you’re a history buff visiting Rockcliffe Park, then it would be a great idea to stop by the Rideau Hall, the official home of the Governor General of Canada.
Built in the 1830s, this large residence has undergone significant changes throughout the centuries, from a simple villa by Thomas MacKay to its present-day 175-room format.
Rideau Hall often opens its doors for guided tours, where you can visit the very state rooms that the governor general uses for duty. There are sections where the walls are decorated with fine Canadian artworks.
We found the interior very elegant and well-maintained, with many furnishings and decorations displayed in each room. From stained glass windows to exquisite chandeliers, the hall has many surprises to offer.
The tour allows you to learn the history and heritage surrounding past governors-general. Some areas display various medals to recognize different achievements made by people of distinction.
The experience doesn’t just end at the hall, since you can also explore the hall grounds outside. You’ll have an entire 32 hectares of gardens, paths, and historical landscapes to discover.
The grounds also make for a nice picnic spot with its tables and shaded sections. Just keep in mind that pets are not allowed.
Visit the Canada Aviation and Space Museum
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Address: 11 Aviation Pkwy
Contact Number: +1 613-991-3044
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Just to the east of Rockcliffe Park is the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, the perfect place for aircraft enthusiasts and anyone interested in the power of flight.
As the largest aviation museum in Canada, it houses more than 130 aircraft models and other artifacts, spanning from the earliest days of flying to more modern tech.
We’ve learned quite a lot about the differences between aircraft of different time periods, like the WW2-era Spitfire fighter and the CF-18 Hornet of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The hangar space is quite impressive, and they’re able to include many prototypes and commercial aircraft that paved the way for modern Canadian aviation.
The Space Exhibits do an interesting job of presenting Canada’s role in the exploration of space, with dedicated sections to satellites, space tech, and astronaut equipment.
They even have a replica of the Canadarm, which is the famous robotic arm used on the Space Shuttle and ISS (International Space Station).
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, then you need to try out the museum’s flight simulators. There’s also a cockpit of a Cessna 150, where you can learn basic aircraft controls.
Cycle along the Ottawa River Pathway
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Instead of traversing Rockcliffe Park on foot, you can choose to cycle the beautiful scenic route via the Ottawa River Pathway.
The pathway is part of Ottawa-Gatineau’s Capital Pathway Network, highlighting panoramic views of the river, wooded areas, and heritage sites in the neighborhood.
The surface is made of smooth asphalt, which is wide enough for both cyclists and pedestrians. The Rockcliffe Park section winds through the core of east downtown and continues past the former airport grounds.
We recommend including the popular Rockcliffe lookout in your cycling route, which is just before the boathouse and marina. It’s a nice vista point for when you want to take a break and enjoy the views.
If you’re up for it, you can cycle the entire 30+ km stretch of the Ottawa River Pathway. It takes you from Britannia Bay in West Ottawa to the Aviation Parkway near the Canada Aviation and Space Museum.
Where to Eat and Drink in Rockcliffe Park
Rockcliffe Boathouse Restaurant & Marina
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Address: Promenade Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier
Contact Number: +1 613-744-5253
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 11:30am – 8:00pm
- Sat – Sun: 11:30am – 9:00pm
The Rockcliffe Boathouse Restaurant & Marina offers stunning waterside views as you munch away at their scrumptious menu items.
You can choose to sit at their shaded floating deck or one of the tables in the sun. Either way, the open fresh air provides a nice ambiance for any social gathering.
The menu is mainly a mix of familiar pub fare items, such as chicken wings, poutine, and fish and chips, which are all crispy and seasoned well.
This place is also known for its great pizzas and nachos. The Pepperoni and Cheese pizza has a lot of flavor, while the nachos are extra crunchy and come with delicious salsa.
Their cocktails are a nice and refreshing way to complement your meal. I liked their Strawberry Mojito, which had a minty and fruity taste.
We think the best time to go here would be right before sunset, so you can appreciate the warm backdrop against the water while you indulge in good food.
Le St. Laurent
– Media credit: lestlaurentottawa
Address: 460 St. Laurent Blvd
Contact Number: +1 613-421-1444
Operating Hours:
- Wed – Thu: 5:00pm – 9:30pm
- Fri – Sat: 5:00pm – 10:00pm
- Sun: 5:00pm – 9:00pm
- Mon – Tue: CLOSED
While you don’t need a pair of fancy pants to go here, just know that you’re in for an elevated culinary experience when you dine at Le St. Laurent.
This modern French restaurant is just right outside of Rockcliffe Park, making it a great way to reward yourself after exploring the neighborhood.
It boasts one of the most refined interior dining spaces we’ve seen, allowing you to savor mouthwatering dishes with an elegant penthouse-style view.
Their menu consists of small plates like Seared Scallops and Crab Croquette, which are two of our personal seafood favorites. They include choice ingredients like lobster and sunchoke foam.
One of their best-selling main courses is the Steak & Frites. At $55, you get a perfectly cooked 7-oz Alberta Angus Striploin, accompanied by mushrooms, green beans, garlic aioli, and demi glace.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can go for either the Gillette Farms Beef Tongue or the Mariposa Duck Breast.
Where to Stay in Rockcliffe Park
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East
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Address: 235 King Edward Ave
Contact Number: +1 613-680-8006
Holiday Inn Express & Suites puts you right in the heart of Ottawa while offering top-notch amenities for your stay.
The hotel is in a great location and is only a few kilometers away from Rockcliffe Park. It’s also within walking distance of hotspots like the Byward Market and the Rideau Canal.
Whether you opt for the standard rooms or suites, they’re packed with nice amenities like an HDTV, a high-quality desk setup, a comfy sofa, plush beds, a mini-fridge, and many more.
It’ll be worth exploring the hotel for its other great features, such as the indoor heated pool and the well-equipped 24-hour fitness center. There’s even an on-site guest laundromat for extra convenience.
You can also get a great view of the city via their rooftop deck. It provides a simple way of hanging out without leaving the hotel premises.
Each stay at this hotel comes with a complimentary breakfast, which is often pointed out as one of Holiday Inn’s strong points. Be sure to grab some of their tasty pancakes, since they tend to run out quickly.
Courtyard Ottawa Downtown
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Address: 350 Dalhousie St
Contact Number: +1 613-241-1000
Courtyard Ottawa gives you access to comfortable 3-star accommodation while in the bustling city center.
It’s situated in a vibrant part of town, featuring many dining options, access to a farmers’ market, and proximity to the Ottawa Art Gallery.
The guest rooms are a mix of both modern and traditional themes, with simple but comfortable beds, solid wooden furniture, and carpeted floors. They give off a very welcoming atmosphere that reminds you of home.
The King Room is already quite sizable at 27sqm, and it also comes with a mini fridge, Wi-Fi, and a coffee-making machine.
Even while in the hotel, you can stay active by either visiting their fitness center or going for a swim at their indoor pool.
Their Bistro has impressive facilities for grabbing some food and drinks. It has a similar feel to a diner, except more modern.