Parks & gardens
Confederation Square
About Confederation Square
Confederation Square is a public plaza in downtown Ottawa centered around the National War Memorial. Travelers visit this site to view the commemorative monuments and reflect on Canada's military history. It serves as a formal open space that connects several of the city's primary administrative and cultural landmarks.
Getting There
The square is located in the heart of the city centre. Most visitors reach it on foot from nearby hotels or government buildings. If traveling from other parts of downtown, it is a short walk or a brief transit ride, typically taking less than 10 to 15 minutes.
Duration of Visit
Depending on your interest in the memorials, allow 30 to 60 minutes to walk through the plaza and observe the monuments.
When to Visit
The area is accessible year-round. It can become crowded during national holidays, commemorative ceremonies, or during winter festivals. Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon generally avoids the heaviest pedestrian traffic from nearby office buildings.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its central location, the square is easily combined with other nearby sites:
- Valiants Memorial: 0.1km
- Peace Tower: 0.4km
- Major's Hill Park: 0.4km
- ByWard Market: 0.4km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors