Kitchener 
The expansive property of Ruthven Park National Historic Site sits on the banks of the Grand River about halfway between Hamilton and Lake Erie. At the heart of the riverside property is a century-old but well-preserved Greek Revival mansion surrounded by manicured gardens and other property buildings. Ruthven Park also sits on the site of a former Ontario small town called Indiana, with the only remaining signs of the town located within the cemetery.
Across the Ruthven Park property are several more pieces of history to uncover, gorgeous trails beside the Grand River, picturesque picnic areas, and quiet or more hidden spots for quiet reflection. The park draws in those looking for peace and quiet, artistic inspiration, fresh air and recreation, or to attend one of the Historic Site’s annual events.
Historic Mansion Tours
Ruthven Park Trails
The beautiful grounds of Ruthven Park sit on the banks of the Grand River, where there is a dense and diverse forest. Among the large variety of trees in these neighbouring woods are also an abundance and a wide variety of wildflowers and birds. These are all relatively simple and short trails that run through level and even terrain. With this, there could be time to travel across all of the park’s trails and see all of the Ruthven Park sights during the hikes.
- The Riverside Trail offers the best views of the Grand River and a look into the stone remains of an old home. About 0.5 km runs along the river, while the other 0.5km forms a loop through the trees. The 0.25km Butterfly Meadow trail crosses the Riverside loop and offers chances at spotting several types of birds or butterflies as it crosses a large open meadow.
- Combine the Fox Den trail with the Carolinian Wood trail to create about 1.5km of a hike through the diverse forest that encircles the site and mansion. There are also more great river views from the Fox Den trail, and views of Slink Island, which is part of the whole estate (although not accessible to the public).
- The Indiana Trail is on the far north side of Ruthven Park and runs through what was once the town of Indiana, past the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Cemetery.
- At the centre of all of these trails are the main Ruthven Park grounds with the Greek revival mansion, and all the was restored from the original property. This includes the picturesque laneway lined with trees, stable ruins, an old coach house, and picnic areas.
Birding
Ruthven Park is home to a Registered Bird Banding Station, and you may get to see rare species like the Cerulean and Prothonotary Warblers. The site hosts the annual Fall Migration Festival and bird-banding programs during migration season.
Picnic at Ruthven Park National Historic Site
Wind down and relax after all that hiking, or simply visit the park to enjoy a quiet meal within the beautiful natural settings. There is a large picnic area next to the main parking lot, which provides nearby access to all of the park hiking trails. The Welcome Centre is also home to washrooms, with more washroom facilities located around the park.
- The Coach House Café is also open on select dates this summer to offer the perfect selection of picnic snacks.
Annual Celtic Festival
The premier event at Ruthven Park Historic Site each year requires a bit of a wait over the summer, as the festival won’t take place until the September Long Weekend. On September 5, 2026, Ruthven Park will play host to an annual Celtic Festival that will celebrate the culture in numerous ways.
- This is a ticketed event intended for all ages, while the beer garden areas are only open to those 19 and older.
- Explore Celtic culture through live music, food, and a market of vendors.
- More fun activities at the festival will include a petting zoo with Highland cows, guided walks around the Indiana Cemetery, more mansion tours, and a children’s play area.
More Summer Events at Ruthven Park
There are events and retreats being consistently added to the Ruthven Park summer schedule. These historic mansion grounds make for a perfect backdrop to numerous events, activities, and workshops.
- Those beautiful grounds include several different types of manicured gardens, all of which are used for Ruthven Park events. Stop to smell the roses in the park at the Secret Garden Experience on June 13, which includes a bouquet, floral art workshops, and tasting experiences. Ruthven Park will also host the Garden Afternoon Tea on July 4th with sandwiches, sweets, fine teas, and the picturesque outdoor landscapes of the gardens.
- Later in the summer, Ruthven Park will host an afternoon Wellness Retreat, with yoga as an ideal activity for this beautiful setting. The 6-hour retreat will include yoga and meditation time, arts and crafts, a guided walk, and a catered lunch. The retreat is scheduled for August 2nd, with the possibility of more yoga activities added over the summer.
Planning Your Trip – The Ruthven Park National Historic Site
What: The Ruthven Park National Historic Site is a large property which centres around the Thompson Family mansion. The Thompsons owned and inhabited the property for five generations from the 1840s to the 1990s, and it now serves as a museum, birding destination, hiking spot, and picnic area. The estate features a Greek Revival mansion, carefully landscaped grounds overlooking the Grand River, and remnants of the former town of Indiana. These elements together reflect early Upper Canadian life, combining architecture, natural beauty, and the legacy of a once-thriving riverside community.
Location and how to get there: 243 Haldimand County Hwy 54, Cayuga
Ruthven Park National Historic Site is located approximately 45 km (40min drive) from Hamilton, 130 km (1 hr 30 min drive) from Toronto and 150 km (1 hr 45 min drive) from London.
Best time to go: May-September
Cost:
Free to visit and explore the grounds at Ruthven Park.
Guided Tours: Adult: $12.00
Seniors (65+)/Students(13-18): $10.00
Youth (4-12): $5.00
Families of 4: $25.00
Secret Garden Experience: $75 & up
Garden Afternoon Tea: $55 per person
Wellness Retreat: $140 per person
Celtic Festival $15 per person
For more information:
Ruthven Park National Historic Site
