Dow's Lake Pavilion

About Dow's Lake Pavilion

Dow's Lake Pavilion sits on the shores of Dow's Lake, a wide section of the Rideau Canal in Ottawa's Glebe neighbourhood. It's a year-round recreation hub that changes with the seasons — paddling in summer, skating in winter, and tulips in spring.

The pavilion houses restaurants with views over the lake and serves as a rental centre for boats and winter equipment. It's a less crowded alternative to the downtown section of the canal, with abundant parking.

What to Do

Spring (May)

Dow's Lake is a focal point of the Canadian Tulip Festival. Tulip displays line the shores of the lake and the surrounding pathways, with the Dow's Lake Partners Plaza hosting festival events and vendors.

Summer (May to Early October)

The marina rents equipment for on-the-water recreation:

All rentals include life jackets, paddles, and a safety kit. Last rental is typically at 8 PM.

Winter

The pavilion becomes a gateway to the Rideau Canal Skateway — the world's largest naturally frozen skating rink. Rentals available:

• Skates
• Snowshoes
• Sleighs

The Skateway stretches 7.8 km from Dow's Lake to the Parliament Hill locks. Skating is free; rentals are available on site.

Dining

The pavilion houses restaurants with lake views, open seasonally. It's a popular spot for drinks on the patio overlooking the water in warmer months.

Getting There

• By Car: Parking available at the pavilion — more space than downtown canal access points
• By Bike: Connected to the Rideau Canal pathway network and the Queen Elizabeth Driveway (often closed to cars on weekends in summer)
• By Transit: OC Transpo bus routes along Queen Elizabeth Drive. About a 20-minute walk from Dow's Lake area
• On Foot: Connected to Commissioners Park and the Dominion Arboretum via canal pathways