Bell Park

Spanning across the western shore of Ramsey Lake, Bell Park is considered the crown jewel of Sudbury. This vast waterfront space in Canada combines natural charm with a rich history, serving as a favorite getaway for both locals and travelers.

Established in 1926 on the lands of lumber magnate William J. Bell, the park today offers guests well-maintained beaches, picturesque gardens, and charming gazebos. One of the site's main highlights is its environmental quality: the park's main beach regularly receives the prestigious international "Blue Flag" award.

The park serves as the region's cultural hub, featuring an open-air amphitheater and hosting various festivals and concerts. Walking along the boardwalk, you can find unique monuments dedicated to the mining industry and the city's successful regreening efforts. It is an ideal location for those seeking tranquility by the water within walking distance of the city center.

To check the latest information on events and visiting rules, you can use the official contact details of the park administration.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers walks along the famous Jim Gordon Walkway, which stretches for about two kilometers. It provides panoramic views of Ramsey Lake, and its convenient boardwalks are suitable for both pedestrians and cyclists. In the summer, you can soak up the sun on the main beach or test your luck at the floating water park near Amphitheatre Beach.

Music and art lovers will appreciate the two historical gazebos, which host free open-air concerts during the warmer months. The park's main stage—the Grace Hartman Amphitheatre—regularly serves as a venue for large-scale festivals that draw thousands of spectators. For families with children, there are modern playgrounds and picnic areas nestled in the shade of mature trees.

In winter, Bell Park is transformed: the frozen surface of the lake becomes one of the longest and most scenic skating paths in the region. The walking trails remain open for Nordic walking, and the snow-covered gardens create a true northern fairytale atmosphere, making the park a relevant destination year-round.

Conveniently located in the central part of the city, the park zone is easy to reach. The main entrance and parking areas are situated along Paris Street, while McNaughton Street and Elizabeth Street also lead to the site. If you prefer traveling by car or taxi, the drive from downtown Sudbury takes only about 5–10 minutes.

For those using public transit, regular bus routes are available. The nearest stops are located on Paris St and Ramsey Lake Rd, from which you can reach the park entrance in just a few minutes. From the local Sudbury Airport, the drive takes approximately 30–40 minutes.

Many tourists prefer to reach the park on foot or by bicycle while enjoying the city views. Thanks to its extensive network of trails, Bell Park is easily accessible from various neighborhoods, and its proximity to the Science North center makes it a logical stop on a weekend itinerary.

The history of this picturesque spot began in 1926 when lumber magnate William J. Bell and his wife Catherine donated 110 acres of their land to the city. Bell was a prominent figure in the region's economy in the late 19th century, and his Belrock estate was once located nearby, later becoming an art gallery.

In 1967, as part of Canada's Centennial celebrations, the territory was significantly expanded and modernized. During this period, a maple leaf-shaped garden and the amphitheater were added. The project was overseen by Grace Hartman — the first female mayor in the city's history, after whom the park's main amphitheater was later named.

The park also serves as a living monument to the region's ecological revival. It was here that the 10-millionth tree was ceremoniously planted as part of Sudbury's regreening program launched in 1978. Additionally, the grounds feature an 18-foot monument dedicated to the hard work of the miners who shaped the city's identity.

To take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the lake views, most visitors find 2–4 hours to be sufficient. This allows enough time to see the monuments, explore the gardens, and relax on one of the beaches. If you plan to have a picnic or attend a summer concert at the amphitheater, your visit could last half a day.

During the winter season, when an extensive skating path opens on Ramsey Lake, outdoor enthusiasts typically spend about 1.5–2 hours here. If you decide to combine your park visit with a trip to the neighboring Science North center, it is worth setting aside a full day for the entire cultural program.

Bell Park is open for walks and visits 24 hours a day; however, official services, beach infrastructure, and recreational facilities operate on a set schedule. The administration and main services operate according to the following hours:

Daily (Monday — Sunday): 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM.

During the winter season, the skating path's operating hours may vary depending on weather conditions and ice safety, so it is recommended to check for the latest updates on the city portal before your visit.

A stroll around Ramsey Lake offers excellent opportunities to discover local culture and gastronomy. After relaxing in nature, you can visit art spaces or enjoy lunch at one of the city's popular establishments.