Step back in time and explore the grounds and heritage gardens of historic Bellevue House knowing that seeds were planted here for the birth of a country. Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, and his family made Bellevue House their home from 1848 to 1849. Wander through the family’s preserved kitchen garden, orchard and ornamental garden. A costumed guide will lead you through the site and stories regarding Sir John A. Macdonald and Canada’s Confederation. We encourage visitors to explore the many viewpoints related to Sir John A. Macdonald’s legacy and Confederation. 

Featured things to do

People in front of Bellevue House
Bellevue Virtual Tour
Bellevue House Xplorers program
Many Voices of Confederation exhibit

Hours of operation

May 18th- June 30th 
Open Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesday & Wednesday)

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Complete schedule

Fees

Regular admission fees will not apply during the restoration.

Detailed fees list

Contact us

Telephone: 613-545-8666
Toll-free: 1-888-773-8888
Fax: 613-545-8721
Email: Send an email

Sites nearby

  • Thousand Islands National Park

    Granite islands speckle the St. Lawrence River in a transition zone between Canadian Shield and Adirondack Mountains. Explore by boating, paddling, or hiking. Awesome Thousand Islands National Park awaits, a few hours from Toronto or Montreal.

  • Kingston Fortifications National Historic Site

    Kingston Fortifications National Historic Site is located in and around the harbour area of Kingston, Ontario. Situated at the mouth of the Cataraqui River, and overlooking the confluence of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, the fortifications consist of five separate 19th-century military installations.

  • Fort Wellington National Historic Site

    At Fort Wellington, one of the fortified posts the British built to defend its colonies against American invasion in 1812 and 1838, you can relive this precarious period when the fate of Canada hung in the balance.

  • Rideau Canal National Historic Site

    An historic 19th century military waterway linking rivers and lakes across Eastern Ontario’s countryside, the Rideau Canal is now a popular natural playground, perfect for boating, paddling, fishing, camping, hiking and cycling the canal’s wooded pathways.

  • Laurier House National Historic Site

    Two of Canada’s most important Prime Ministers, Sir Wilfrid Laurier and the Rt. Hon. William Lyon Mackenzie King, resided in this Victorian Ottawa mansion where they entertained dignitaries and politicians while often conducting the nation’s business.