Bellevue House National Historic Site

Bellevue House is an important part of Canadian history, being the home of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald. However, I was quite disappointed to learn that it is only open to visitors for four months of the year — May through August. It seems unfortunate that such a significant national historic site remains closed to tourists for most of the year. Extending its open season would allow more Canadians and visitors alike to appreciate this vital piece of our heritage.

Came to know more about the history of the house and ended up being well informed. The house was well preserved and there are a lot of interactive stuff to do and learn from. The only thing we wish it had is some descriptive or information about the plants in the garden. Other than that, it's a lovely place to visit.

I've loved visiting this place since I was a small child. I've been here probably a dozen times over my life time. I brought my service dog last time and they had no issues which was refreshing. I never get tired of the history and the beauty of the house and grounds. When I was little I used to dream about living there.

Wonderful, with free admission (guided tours for $). The grounds and house are quite beautiful and you'll appreciate the shaded grounds on hot days. Its also a nice in-between stop if going from downtown to Kingston Penetentiary. Learn a bit of history with plenty of interpretive panels and knowledgable staff at the house.

We were hesitant to visit this site due to John A. MacDonald’s policies related to the Indian Act and Residential Schools. However, we found that we could sign up for the ‘Unpacking MacDonald’ Tour which promised to explore MacDonald’s legacy…both the positive and the negative. The tour, led by Jake, a perk staff & student at Queens doing a PhD in History. The tour was excellent…informative, interactive & thought-provoking. The renovation (physical & cultural) that Parks Canada has completed in this location was obviously completed with a great deal of thought as well as consultation with local Indigenous & community members. The tour was 1.5 hrs and we easily spent another hour exploring on our own…listening to several of the videos and reading all the information & reflections. We highly recommend.

Great place to visit the rental the first PM stayed at. Yeah they didn't hide how he wasn't a good person but overall pretty cool to see a moment in time. The tour guides were informative.. especially the guy with the mustache and cool tattoos.

A very informative place to visit to know so much information on the 1st prime minister of canada Sir John A Macdonald from his yonger years and his family history. And was free to visit because parks canada has a special this year 2025.

Really nice experience. The staff were incredibly welcoming and genuinely caring. Highly recommended.