Vincent Massey Park

About Vincent Massey Park

Vincent Massey Park stretches along the Rideau River between Heron Road and the Rideau Canal, about 10 minutes south of downtown Ottawa. It's one of the city's best parks for group gatherings — sheltered picnic areas with electrical hook-ups make it a popular spot for family reunions, company picnics, and community events.

The park is managed by the National Capital Commission and named after Charles Vincent Massey (1887–1967), Canada's 18th Governor General and the first Canadian-born person to hold that post.

What to See and Do

Picnic Areas

The park's main draw is its picnic infrastructure — tables, barbecue pits, and shelters with electrical hook-ups are spread across rolling meadows and wooded areas. It's one of the best parks in Ottawa for large group gatherings.

Sports and Recreation

• Two softball diamonds and open grassy fields
• Playground and wading pool (seasonal)
• Bandstand for outdoor events
• Walking paths through woods and meadows

Cycling

The Capital Pathway (NCC multi-use trail) runs directly through the park, making it an excellent starting point for exploring Ottawa by bike. The pathway connects north to downtown and south to Hog's Back Falls.

Architecture

Three modernist pavilions in the park were designed by Ottawa architect Hart Massey (Vincent Massey's son) in 1958. The designs emphasize geometric forms with concrete, steel, and wood — the entry pavilion features a distinctive tree-inspired hexagonal canopy. They received a Massey Medal for Architecture (silver) in 1958.

History

The park opened in 1958 as "Hog's Back Park and Picnic Grounds" and was renamed in 1959. It was once connected to Hog's Back Park until the two were divided by Heron Road in 1969.

In 2021, the NCC partnered with Indigenous First Nations to conduct an archaeological excavation here, uncovering artifacts dating back up to 5,000 years — including stone tools, pottery sherds, blades, and fossils.

Getting There

• By Car: Access via Heron Road off Riverside Drive. Parking $1/30 min (max $8/day)
• By Transit: OC Transpo bus routes serve the Heron/Riverside area
• By Bike: On the Capital Pathway, connected to the Rideau Canal cycling network