Get to Know Walter Baker Park, the Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Playground (Discover Must-Try Seasonal Activities and Insider Tips!)
Living in Ottawa is like having the best of both worlds. And no, I’m no Hannah Montana living a secret double life as a pop star and an average teenager, though blonde looks good on me!
Anyway, I’m talking about vast green spaces coexisting with the hustle and bustle of city life! One moment you’re enjoying the skyscrapers and the urban buzz, and the next, you’re bumping shoulders with squirrels in the local park!
It’s basically the essence of Walter Baker Park, where outdoor adventures await around every corner with the convenience of just being minutes away from Downtown. See, I told you Ottawa offers the best of both worlds!
In this article, I included the exciting attractions you can enjoy here, along with seasonal activities you should look forward to. As a little bonus for our beloved Best in Ottawa readers, I made sure to add insider tips to help you with your adventures.
About Walter Baker Park
Walter Baker Park is a spacious recreational area where people flock for its recreational activities and seasonal activities.
It offers a serene environment with a pond as the centerpiece and is popular among those seeking outdoor enjoyment and relaxation.
What to Do in Walter Baker Park
Try your hand at skateboarding
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You don’t need to be on the same level as Tony Hawk to enjoy the skateboard obstacles at Walter Baker Park! After all, I was able to glide along the ramps myself!
And if that doesn’t tell you anything, just know I can’t even balance on a bike. Okay, maybe I had a few wobbly moments, but let me tell you – skaters of all levels will find this park exciting.
Appreciate the gorgeous views
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Walter Baker Park boasts a wide open space and a verdant landscape, so I suggest disconnecting from the internet to just appreciate the views and soak in its natural beauty.
Trust me – there are plenty of opportunities to update yourself on the hottest gossip on social media later! But I guess a little peak every now and then wouldn’t hurt either.
Spend a fun day with your pups
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Walter Baker Park is extremely dog-friendly, provided that your fur babies stay on the leash at all times. There’s plenty of space for them to frolic on the grass, thanks to its expansive grounds.
Immerse yourself in the pond’s beauty
Walter Baker Park is also renowned for its quaint pond, which enhances the tranquil ambiance of a park. While it’s no zen garden, it definitely has its own serene charm.
There are also well-maintained paved paths around it, so visitors can explore the surroundings with ease.
Watch out for the seasonal events and activities
Throughout the year, Walter Baker Park offers something to look forward to, ensuring it never loses its charm regardless of the season.
Tobogganing
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Water Baker Park is a popular spot for tobogganing during the winter season. I bet you didn’t expect that, huh?
Thanks to its gentle slopes, even beginners can try their hand at sledding here! You might even spot kids trying to sled down the hills – see, very beginner-friendly!
Canada Day
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Walter Baker Park is Kanata’s hottest destination for Canada Day festivities. In fact, in 2024, there were about 35,000 attendees who were here to enjoy the fireworks, shop at the marketplace, enjoy the music, and more!
Definitely be on the lookout for the next Canada Day in Kanata by keeping tabs on any announcements on their official website.
Kanata Fun Fair
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During the summer season, Walter Baker Park hosts an exciting event called the Kanata Fun Fair. Folks of all ages are sure to enjoy the festivities because of the multitude of activities in store.
Expect classic amusement park rides such as a Ferris wheel, a pirate ship, and many more.
Where to Stay Near Walter Baker Park
Fairfield Inn & Suites
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Address: 578 Terry Fox Dr, Kanata
Phone: +1 613-599-7767
Pricing: $$
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Located just 4 minutes away from Walter Baker Park, Fairfield Inn & Suites is the nearest accommodation you can find, making its accessibility one of its strongest features.
This accommodation puts emphasis on its minimalist rooms, creating a serene environment without unnecessary clutter.
Your stay comes with access to the fitness center, a free hot breakfast, an indoor pool, and meeting facilities.
Holiday Inn & Suites
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Address: 101 Kanata Ave., Kanata
Phone: +1 613-271-3057
Pricing: $$
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Holiday Inn & Suites is what you choose if you want to stay near Walter Baker Park and plenty of other convenient amenities in Kanata. Located along Kanata Ave, an array of various shops is within easy reach.
In addition to that, you’re sure to come home to a cozy ambiance in your hotel room. The best part? There’s a bathtub where you can relax after a day of exploring!
GLō Best Western Kanata Ottawa West
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Address: 160 Hearst Way
Phone: +1 343-417-4561
Pricing: $$
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If you don’t mind traveling slightly further away from Walter Baker Park, you’ll find GLō Best Western Kanata to be a perfect choice—a charming lodging option exuding sophistication without the hefty price tag.
People rave about its clean rooms and I can see why! During my stay, I was impressed by the immaculate cleanliness and peaceful atmosphere, which made for a truly relaxing experience.
Where to Eat Near Walter Baker Park
D’arcy Mcgee’s
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Address: 655 Terry Fox Dr
Phone: +1 613-836-8311
Pricing: $$
Directions
D’arcy Mcgee’s is a locally loved Irish pub with multiple locations across the city. Ottawans love it for its vibrant atmosphere and ridiculously good fish and chips. Really – no matter which location you go to, it’s the best-seller.
The fish comes with just the right amount of batter, nothing too crazy. Oh, and the tartar sauce? It brings such an irresistible tangy kick to the dish!
By the way, no one leaves D’arcy Mcgee’s without getting a glass of cold beer. It’s practically a tradition – pinkie swear! Okay, maybe not in an official, legally binding way, but let’s just say it’s highly encouraged!
East Side Mario’s
Address: 651 Terry Fox Dr, Kanata
Phone: +1 613-836-3680
Pricing: $$
Website
East Side Mario’s is a famous family-friendly destination renowned for its Italian-American dishes, particularly revered for the eat-all-you-can set-up.
The chicken parm is a crowd favorite that never disappoints. And if I were you, I’d save room for their decadent desserts!
Kanata Noodle House
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Address: 500 Hazeldean Rd, Kanata
Phone: +1 613-831-1121
Pricing: $
Website
Kanata Noodle House is a premier destination for authentic Vietnamese cuisine and other popular Asian classics. It’s a mere 3-minute drive from Walter Baker Park, or if you’re up for a quick stroll, it’s just under 15 minutes away.
The pad thai is extremely popular here, and fans of Thai cuisine are surely in for a treat! The dish is prepared with authentic Thai seasonings and ingredients, with generous portions of peanuts and meat, making it a flavorful and satisfying choice.
Top Nearby Destinations
Old Quarry Trail
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Address: Eagleson Rd, Kanata
Directions
Old Quarry Trail is another verdant destination just 6 minutes from Walter Baker Park. While it boasts an enchanting landscape all year round, it’s especially popular for hiking and is considered one of the best hiking trails in Ottawa during winter.
Sluggerz Batting Cage
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Address: 5315 Abbott St E, Stittsville
Phone: +1 613-877-2124
Website
Sluggers Batting Cage is the only one of its kind in Ottawa, making it a unique and sought-after destination for baseball enthusiasts.
Located 8 minutes from Walter Baker Park, it’s the perfect spot to hone your batting skills or simply enjoy a fun session of baseball practice.