Olivia TaylorWelcome to Mackenzie King Estate
Going to Mackenzie King Estate is like stepping into a whole other world; think charming gardens, quaint cottages, and trails that could totally rejuvenate your Instagram feed.
This place was once the summer home of William Lyon Mackenzie King (yeah, the former Prime Minister of Canada! ), and man, did he have taste!
You can stroll around the ruins, sip some tea at the café, or even catch one of the exhibitions. It’s the perfect blend of outdoorsy vibes and a history lesson without the snooze factor.
- Welcome to Mackenzie King Estate
- Where is Mackenzie King Estate?
- How to Get to Mackenzie King Estate
- What to Do and See in Mackenzie King Estate
- Where to Eat and Drink in Mackenzie King Estate
- Where to Shop near Mackenzie King Estate
- Where to Stay near Mackenzie King Estate
- FAQs about Mackenzie King Estate
Where is Mackenzie King Estate?
Mackenzie King Estate is tucked away in the lush Gatineau Park, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Ottawa. It’s like this hidden gem that’s nestled among rolling hills and scenic vistas that’ll have you whipping out your phone for photos every five steps.
So, if you’re up for an adventure that mixes a bit of history with stunning natural beauty, Mackenzie King Estate is where you want to be.
How to Get to Mackenzie King Estate
Closest bus stop: If you’re starting from Ottawa, your best bet is to jump on the bus. You can grab the STO bus route 27 from downtown Ottawa; it’ll swoop you right into Quebec and drop you off conveniently at the entrance to Gatineau Park.
And if driving is more your style, you’ll enjoy a scenic 30-minute road trip. Just head north on King Edward Avenue, cross over the Macdonald-Cartier Bridge to Quebec, stick to Highway 5, and exit at Old Chelsea Road.
Follow the signs straight to Gatineau Park, and boom, you’re there. The drive is pretty straightforward, and the sights along the way are absolutely worth it!
What to Do and See in Mackenzie King Estate
Visit Moorside Cottage, King’s beloved summer home
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Address: MacKenzie King Rd.
Phone: +1 819-827-2020
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Moorside Cottage is basically the summer pad of former Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King. The cottage itself is pretty charming, with lots of his personal belongings still around, which kind of makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Expect to see his personal stuff still there, just like he left it. It’s not just about what’s inside, though.
The gardens around are something else; King had a hand in designing them, so you can expect to see some pretty thoughtful layouts and a bunch of colourful flowers everywhere.
Stroll through picturesque gardens designed by the King himself
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Address: MacKenzie King Rd.
Phone: +1 819-827-2020
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Now, King didn’t stop at just designing those gardens around his cottage. The entire estate is like a giant garden party.
You can take your time strolling through these picturesque spots, which are seriously Instagram-worthy. And if you’re into gardening yourself, you’ll probably get a bunch of ideas to take home.
You can also come across some seasonal blooms here and the little statues sprinkled throughout the garden. They add a whole other level of charm to the stroll.
Hike the surrounding trails of Gatineau Park for scenic views
Address: 33 Chem. Scott
Phone: +1 613-239-5000
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
If you’re the adventurous type or just want to stretch your legs, there’s a bunch of trails around Gatineau Park. The views are out of this world!
You got forests, lakes, and lookouts that’ll make you stop and just soak it all in. The trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, so there’s something for everyone.
And keep an eye out for wildlife; it’s not uncommon to spot some critters while you’re out there.
Enjoy tea at the Mackenzie King Tearoom for a quaint experience
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Address: MacKenzie King Rd.
Phone: +1 819-827-2020
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
The Mackenzie King Tearoom is where it’s at if you’re going to need to chill for a bit after all the walking and exploring around. It’s this quaint little spot where you can grab some tea and pastries and feel all fancy.
The vibe is super cosy, and it’s like a little escape from the outside world. And while you’re sipping on your tea, take a minute to appreciate the vintage decor.
Check out some collection of ruins and architectural fragment
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Address: MacKenzie King Rd.
Phone: +1 819-827-2020
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
No visit to Mackenzie is complete without, of course, checking out the ruins and architectural fragments King collected. It’s like a random treasure trove of history scattered around.
You’ll find bits of old buildings and sculptures that’ll make you feel like you’ve stumbled into some ancient ruins. Just a heads-up: these are spread around the estate, so you might stumble upon them when you least expect it.
Where to Eat and Drink in Mackenzie King Estate
Restaurant Alpina
Address: 1189 Chem. de la Montagne
Phone: +1 819-607-6677
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday, Thursday – 7 AM to 2 PM
- Wednesday – 7 AM to 2:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 7 AM to 3 PM
Good to know: Great for kids
Restaurant Alpina is your spot if you’re craving some hearty mountain grub with a view to complement. Here, expect to come across their homemade fries, quesadilla poulet, pizza, plates of pasta, and their variety of poutine featuring their homemade sauce.
Give their patio a try in the warmer months, ’cause the views are unbeatable and it really adds to the whole experience. Plus, they occasionally have live music events, which always make for a lively evening!
Bistro la Gargouille
Address: 556 Boulevard Saint-Joseph
Phone: +1 819-525-7799
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Thursday and Friday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Saturday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 4 PM to 11 PM
Good to know: Great for kids
Bistro la Gargouille is all about French bistro vibes with dishes that are simple yet oh-so-tasty. You can swing by for some of their signature dishes, like the steak frites, tacos, poutine, tartares, and more—total classics done right.
When it comes to drinks, they’ve got a nice list of French wines and some craft beer from local breweries. But if you want something tastier, then their cocktails are pretty spot-on.
It’s quite cosy, so if you’re going on a weekend, maybe call ahead to snag a table.
Saint-Eloi Café Bistro
Address: 100 Rue Atawe
Phone: +1 819-595-3222
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday – 7 AM to 2 PM, 4 PM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 7 AM to 2 PM
Good to know: Great for kids
Saint-Eloi Café Bistro gives you that modern café feel with a menu that’s a mix of comfort food and some healthier options. Its location is killer, right by the water, so after your meal, a relaxing walk along the shore is highly recommended.
Their burgers and pizzas are a big hit—juicy and well-seasoned, with some vegetarian options available too. If you’re looking for something lighter, their salads are fresh and have a creative twist.
Drinks here mean good coffee, a selection of teas, and some local craft beers. They do cocktails too, which are perfect for those evening chill sessions.
Bistro L’Autre Oeil
Address: 152 Principale St.
Phone: +1 819-682-1221
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 1 AM
Good to know: Great for kids
Bistro L’Autre Oeil is famously known as a go-to for beer enthusiasts. With over 500 kinds of beer, both bottled and on tap, it’s like a beer museum where you can drink the exhibits!
The food here is pretty chill—think killer poutine, super fries, and nachos that are big enough to share. Perfect munchies to go with your beer.
And it’s not just beer; they’ve got a cool selection of spirits and wines, and the staff is super knowledgeable if you need recommendations.
Spritz
Address: 25 Allée de Hambourg
Phone: +1 819-770-0927
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Thursday to Saturday – 5 PM to 12 AM
Good to know: Great for kids
Spritz is your destination if you’re feeling a bit fancy and want a touch of nightlife. This place has a sleek modern look, and as the name suggests, they specialise in spritz cocktails.
The menu here is all about small plates, like calamari fritti, bruschetta amalfitana, burrata and porcini, and insalata cesare. You can also aim for their pasta dishes or even pizza if that’s more your thing, along with some charcuterie boards.
Speaking of drinks, their signature Spritz options are refreshing and varied, perfect to enjoy after a day of exploring.
Where to Shop near Mackenzie King Estate
Boutique Habitude Design
Address: 425 Bd Saint-Joseph #14
Phone: +1 819-307-5076
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 5 PM
Boutique Habitude is where you need to go if you’re into unique home decor and stylish gifts. They carry all sorts of cool items, from handcrafted furniture to artisanal decorations, that are perfect for adding a touch of quirkiness to your living space.
Their selection changes often, which means there’s always something new to discover each time you visit. If you’re big on eco-friendly and local products, you’ll love this place.
They source a lot of their stock from local artisans and designers, so it’s a great way to support the community while sprucing up your home.
Les Promenades Gatineau
Address: 1100 Bd Maloney O
Phone: +1 819-568-1158
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Thursday and Friday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Les Promenades Gatineau is more than just a shopping centre—it’s like the heartbeat of local shopping! Whether you need a new outfit, a quick bite, or just a place to hang out, this is your spot.
This mall is huge, so it’s packed with all kinds of stores—from big-brand names to special local shops. Beyond fashion, gadgets, and some sports gear, they’ve also got some great options for food if shopping sparks your appetite.
From quick eats to sit-down restaurants, you’ll definitely find something tasty. Oh, and they do events from time to time, like holiday celebrations and fashion shows, which are pretty fun if you’re into that sort of thing.
SmartCentres Hull
Address: 35 Boulevard du Plateau
Phone: +1 905-760-6200
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
SmartCentres Hull is a convenient, one-stop shop. It’s laid-back, easy to navigate, and has plenty of parking, which is always a plus.
You’ll find a bunch of practical stores here, like Walmart and other big names that cover everything from groceries to clothing to electronics. It makes running errands a breeze since you can pretty much tick off everything on your list in one go.
This place is great for families, too, because you can handle your shopping while the kids stay entertained at some of the kid-friendly spots around.
La Maison Simons
Address: 1100 Bd Maloney O local 50
Phone: +1 819-561-3630
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Thursday and Friday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
La Maison Simons is not just a store; it’s like a fashion institution around here. They have a massive range of clothing for men and women, from casual wear to more formal outfits.
Plus, they carry exclusive brands that you might not find anywhere else in the area. The home goods section is pretty impressive, too.
Think stylish bedding, cool kitchen gadgets, and chic bathroom accessories—great for giving your home a little refresh.
St+Amour
Address: 131 Boulevard Saint-Joseph
Phone: +1 819-770-5434
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
St+Amour is like a treasure trove for dudes who want to look sharp without having to sift through racks aimlessly.
This place is packed with pretty much everything a guy could need, like shirts that actually fit well and suits that make you look like a million bucks without costing a dime.
They’ve also got a variety of shoes and an array of socks to add a pop of colour or class to your look. Now, beyond the clothing, the folks here are super helpful and friendly and will make sure you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Where to Stay near Mackenzie King Estate
Hilton Lac-Leamy
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Address: 3 Bd du Casino
Phone: +1 819-790-6444
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Hilton Lac-Leamy is like a mini-vacation on its own. You’ve got everything from a casino for those who like to live it up, a tennis court for when you want to play, and a fitness centre to a luxurious spa for folks looking to chill out.
They even have a bunch of pools—yes, multiple pools—so you can take your pick for a swim. And for the foodies, there’s a spread of restaurants that’ll probably have you thinking twice about leaving the hotel to eat elsewhere.
Plus, if you’re into stunning views, you’re in for a treat, because some of their rooms give you a front-row seat to some pretty awesome scenery.
Château Cartier Hotel & Resort Gatineau
Address: 1170 Chem. d’Aylmer
Phone: +1 819-778-0000
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Château Cartier Hotel & Resort Gatineau packs a punch with its golf course—yes, you heard that right. You can go from bed to tee-off in practically no time.
They also have a spa if you just need to chill and a fitness centre for keeping up with your workouts. The rooms are pretty snug too, decked out with comfort in mind—think big, comfy beds and all the amenities you’d want for a restful stay.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Gatineau
– Media credit: guiguif83
Address: 11 Imp. de la Gare Talon
Phone: +1 819-503-8800
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
If you’re the kind who likes things straightforward with no fuss, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Gatineau is your go-to. This hotel gets you set up with all the essentials: nice, clean rooms, a free breakfast to kick-start your day, and Wi-Fi that actually works.
Plus, it’s pretty close to some neat spots, so you can wander around without having to plan a mini-expedition.
Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Conference Centre
Address: 35 Laurier St.
Phone: +1 819-778-6111
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
The Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Conference Centre Gatineau offers up some sleek rooms with comfy beds perfect for crashing after a day of adventure.
They’ve got a restaurant on-site for when those food cravings hit and a fitness centre that’s open 24/7, so there’s no excuse to skip your workout routine.
What’s more, it’s got a prime spot across from the Canadian Museum of History too, which is like hitting the jackpot if you’re a history buff or just love soaking up culture.
Les Suites Victoria
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Address: 1 Rue Victoria
Phone: +1 819-777-8899
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Les Suites Victoria offers a vibe that makes you feel more like you’re staying in a cool, chic apartment rather than a hotel. Here, you’re looking at some stylish rooms that straight-up feel like you’re in a chic apartment, not just a hotel.
Plus, they’ve got a café on-site that’s pretty cool for morning coffees or chilling in the evening. Being close to some of the fun spots to hang out around town also means you’re never far from a good time.
