MNP Park Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Ottawa Historical Sites
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction to MNP Park and Its Significance
Situated within Ottawa’s dynamic landscape, MNP Park is a premier sports and community hub on the Carleton University campus. The park’s evolution—originally Raven Field, later Keith Harris Stadium, and now MNP Park—reflects its deep ties to local culture, university athletics, and the city’s commemorative traditions. Today, MNP Park stands as a testament to inclusivity, athletic excellence, and community engagement, all while offering convenient access to many of Ottawa’s renowned historical and cultural attractions.
From exhilarating Carleton Ravens football and soccer games to grassroots sports and citywide festivals, MNP Park is more than a stadium; it is an integral part of Ottawa’s urban fabric. The venue is well-connected by public transit, offers accessible amenities, and features unique gathering spaces like the “Perch” grassy hill, making it an inviting destination for both locals and visitors.
This comprehensive guide details visiting hours, ticketing information, amenities, transportation options, nearby attractions, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit. For up-to-date schedules and insider insights, always refer to the Carleton Ravens Athletics website and Ottawa Tourism.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Development of MNP Park
- Naming Significance and Commemorative Policy
- Cultural and Community Impact
- Visiting Hours and Ticketing
- Accessibility and Amenities
- Location, Parking, and Transit
- Events and Activities at MNP Park
- Nearby Attractions and Ottawa Historical Sites
- Seasonal Festivals and Citywide Events
- Visuals and Interactive Media
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion and Planning Tips
- Official Sources and Further Reading
Historical Development of MNP Park
MNP Park’s roots trace back to its beginnings as Raven Field, serving as the central outdoor athletic facility for Carleton University’s varsity teams. In 1998, it was renamed Keith Harris Stadium in honor of Carleton Athletics’ long-serving director and Hall of Fame member, Keith Harris. A major renovation in 2011 expanded capacity to 3,044 fixed seats, plus 500 spots on the “Perch” hill, bringing the total capacity to approximately 3,500. Modern press boxes and improved amenities were added to support both university and professional teams, including the Ottawa Fury FC during the 2014 NASL season (Carleton Newsroom).
Naming Significance and Commemorative Policy
The venue’s renaming journey reflects broader trends in Canadian sports facility management and Ottawa’s dedication to commemorative inclusivity. After a brief period as TAAG Park in 2022, a corporate partnership with MNP LLP gave the stadium its current name. This aligns with Ottawa’s Commemorative Naming Policy, which emphasizes equity, inclusion, and the recognition of the Anishinabe Algonquin Host Nation’s traditional land rights (Ottawa Commemorative Naming Policy).
Cultural and Community Impact
MNP Park is not just a sports venue; it’s a lively community gathering space. Its accessible campus location and proximity to public transit make it a focal point for university events, varsity athletics, and recreational activities. The park supports community growth through local team hosting, youth sports, and public events, fostering a strong sense of belonging among athletes, students, and Ottawa residents.
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
- Event Hours: MNP Park opens to the public during scheduled varsity games, special events, and community activities—primarily from late August through November for football and during soccer and rugby seasons. Hours vary by event; consult the Carleton Ravens Athletics website for the latest details.
- Tickets: Tickets for Carleton Ravens games can be purchased online or at the stadium box office on game days. Pricing varies by sport and event, with some community events offering free or discounted entry. Students, alumni, and seniors often receive special rates.
- General Access: Outside of scheduled events, public access is limited. Always verify event details in advance.
Accessibility and Amenities
MNP Park is designed for inclusivity:
- Wheelchair-accessible seating and pathways
- Accessible washrooms and changerooms in the adjacent fieldhouse
- Reserved parking for disabled visitors
- Concession stands with snacks and beverages during events
- Modern press boxes, viewing platforms, and bilingual signage
For specific accessibility needs, contact Carleton University Athletics prior to your visit (Carleton Ravens Athletics).
Location, Parking, and Transit
- Location: On Carleton University’s campus, easily accessed from Bronson Avenue and University Road.
- Public Transit: Served by Ottawa’s O-Train Trillium Line (Carleton Station) and multiple bus routes.
- Parking: Limited on-site parking, with additional spaces in nearby university lots. Accessible parking is available close to the main entrance.
Events and Activities at MNP Park
Varsity Sports and Signature Events
MNP Park hosts Carleton Ravens football, soccer, and rugby games, as well as Ontario University Athletics (OUA) competitions. The stadium is known for its energetic atmosphere, especially during football season and the famous Panda Game rivalry events (Stadium Journey).
Community and Recreational Activities
The park also supports intramural leagues, youth sports camps, and community athletic events. Its durable FieldTurf allows for year-round use, and the “Perch” hill provides a unique spot for fans to gather.
Concessions
During events, food trucks and concession stands offer classic stadium fare such as burgers, hot dogs, poutine, snacks, and beverages (Stadium Journey).
Nearby Attractions and Ottawa Historical Sites
- Dow’s Lake: Canoeing, kayaking, and ice skating; hosts the Canadian Tulip Festival (Trek Zone).
- Dominion Arboretum: 26 hectares of botanical diversity and scenic walking paths (Trek Zone).
- Commissioners Park: Renowned for its tulip displays and tranquil canal-side walks (Trek Zone).
- TD Place Stadium & Lansdowne Park: Home to professional sports teams and major festivals (Trek Zone).
- Billings Bridge Plaza: Shopping and dining options nearby (Trek Zone).
- Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, National Gallery of Canada: Ottawa’s iconic historical and cultural sites are a short transit ride away.
Seasonal Festivals and Citywide Events
MNP Park’s central location offers access to Ottawa’s standout festivals:
- Ottawa Jazz Festival (June 20–29, 2025): Live music at Confederation Park (Ottawa Jazz Festival).
- Canadian Tulip Festival (May): Vibrant tulip displays at Commissioners Park and Dow’s Lake (Ottawa Tourism).
- RBC Ottawa Bluesfest (July 10–20, 2025): One of Canada’s largest music festivals (Project Local Love).
- Hope Volleyball SummerFest (July 12, 2025): Mooney’s Bay Beach (Todo Canada).
- Ottawa Chamberfest (July 18–27, 2025): International chamber music (Project Local Love).
- CityFolk Festival (September 10–14, 2025): Folk and roots music at Lansdowne Park (Todo Canada).
- Capital Pride (August 16–24, 2025): Citywide LGBTQ+ events (Project Local Love).
For a full, current listing, consult the Ottawa Tourism event calendar.
Visuals and Interactive Media
Explore images, virtual tours, and interactive maps on the Carleton Ravens Athletics website and Ottawa tourism portals. Alt text examples: “MNP Park stadium seating during a Carleton Ravens football game,” “The grassy Perch hill filled with spectators,” “Entrance to MNP Park on Carleton University campus.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are MNP Park’s visiting hours?
A: Visiting hours depend on scheduled events; check the Carleton Ravens Athletics website for the latest information.
Q: How do I buy tickets for events?
A: Purchase tickets online or at the stadium on game days. Special rates are available for students, alumni, and seniors.
Q: Is MNP Park accessible?
A: Yes, the park features wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, parking, and restrooms.
Q: Can I visit outside of event times?
A: Public access is generally restricted to scheduled events.
Q: What are the best nearby attractions?
A: Dow’s Lake, Dominion Arboretum, Commissioners Park, TD Place Stadium, and Ottawa’s historical sites are all within easy reach.
Conclusion and Planning Tips
MNP Park is a vibrant destination that brings together Ottawa’s love of sports, culture, and community. Its history, accessibility, and prime location make it an essential stop for fans and visitors alike. Plan ahead by checking event schedules and ticket availability through the Carleton Ravens Athletics site. Enhance your experience by exploring nearby attractions and participating in citywide events and festivals.
For updates, exclusive content, and tips on Ottawa’s sports and cultural scene, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Make MNP Park a highlight of your Ottawa itinerary and immerse yourself in the city’s spirited community.
