Self guided visit

Bellevue House National Historic Site

The historic house, heritage grounds and ornamental gardens of Bellevue House offer a relaxing space to enjoy learning opportunities, fresh air, and heritage plants at a leisurely pace!

Check out the Parks Canada App for mobile guided tours of the historic site.

Visiting with kids? Check out the Xplorers program!

Visitor Centre 


Check in at the Visitor Center upon arrival. Explore the Many Voices of Confederation exhibit where you will be introduced to Bellevue House and the complex legacy of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald.

Historic House 


Immerse yourself in 1840s life in Kingston on the house’s main floor, where the grandeur of what Bellevue House was, when built, is on full display. As you transition to the upper levels, you will leave luxury behind as the focus shifts to Sir John A. Macdonald’s place in Canada’s colonial history and to broader themes of society, politics, power, and consequences.

Grounds and Gardens 


Take a stroll through the manicured grounds, ornamental gardens, a heritage apple orchard, and the large kitchen garden that surrounds the historic house. Learn about historic garden techniques, lawn care and the importance these gardens played in everyday life.

Looking to enhance your experience? Learn more about the guided opportunities available at the site.

Parks Canada App

Enhance your self-guided experience, download the Parks Canada National App for Apple or Android devices before arriving at the site. Get on-the-go access to the essentials, easy to use navigation, and exclusive access to self-guided tours on your mobile device. Remember to download the Bellevue House tour before arriving at the site for the best experience.

Download the free Parks Canada App

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