Explore the 12 Best Neighborhoods in Ottawa, Canada (2024)
Canada’s capital, Ottawa, is a lively city where one can explore many things. Similar to several well-known cities in Canada, Ottawa has a patchwork of neighborhoods that exemplify a diversity of cultures, lifestyles, and architectural eras.
In the downtown region, visitors can explore lots of popular neighborhoods featuring some of the highly regarded attractions of Ottawa. Getting around here is also quite easy. It takes only 20 minutes in your car and 35 minutes if you travel by bus.
Explore the 12 Best Neighborhoods in Ottawa, Canada
If you plan to visit Ottawa in the coming months, make a list of all the top-rated neighborhoods, we’ll discuss in this write-up. Keep reading to learn about the best neighborhoods to visit in Ottawa.
1. Bank Street
Located in the south of Parliament Hill is the magnificent Bank Street. It is one of the most well-liked neighborhoods to visit in Ottawa that impeccably combines businesses with Ottawa’s Village. Here, you can find everything from sophisticated eateries to no-frills shawarma joints. On Bank Street, visitors can even locate some of Ottawa’s best nightlife places, for example, the Babylon nightclub and the Barrymores.
If you are coming to Ottawa during June, you must attend the free GlowFair festival. The event illuminates ten city blocks with lighting, artwork, and live music.
2. Glebe
The neighborhood of Glebe is situated south of Centertown and close to Rideau Canal. It showcases an amalgamation of friendly businesses and fun entertainment. The unique charm of this neighborhood is complemented by Lansdowne’s brand-name businesses and major events.
Visit here for live concerts and sports games at TD Place. Shopping buffs can shop for local products at the Ottawa Farmer’s market year-round. You can even chill in the outside park space. The park and on-site historic structures, such as the Aberdeen Pavilion, host several events and festivals. The popular ones include Brewfest, CityFolk, and the Canadian Tulip Festival.
3. ByWard Market
The ByWard Market is among the oldest farmers’ markets in the country. It was established by Lieutenant-Colonel John By in the year 1826. The ByWard Market Square hosts unique shops, indoor food vendors, and a year-round outdoor market selling various amazing goods.
For the night owls, the area has many clubs, pubs, and restaurants. The numerous outside patios give the ideal place for people to watch or to be watched. You can rejoice at the Heart & Crown or any brewpub like Lowertown Brewery.
4. Manotick
According to most historians, the name “Manotick” is derived from an indigenous word that denotes “island in the river.” Manotick is only 25 kilometers south of Parliament Hill. You can visit a working Victorian grist mill, have a perfect lunch on an outside patio, go canoeing alongside Rideau River, or shop at any boutique.
Escape from the stress at Peppermint Organic Spa, which provides various services, counting manicures, facials, pedicures, massages, etc. The nineteenth-century structures, Watson’s Mill, and the Dickinson House museum are worth visiting in the neighborhood. Watson’s Mill is often assumed haunted and hosts many paranormal-themed events in October.
5. Kanata Central
Kanata Central is a one-stop place that can fulfill the lifestyle needs of all. It is situated in the suburban area of Kanata, west of downtown. The neighborhood gives an array of shopping and entertainment opportunities. The large complex comprises Kanata Commons, Kanata Centrum, and Signature Centre. It features more than 120 local and chain businesses composed of various facilities. These include parking spaces, convenient transit service, and outdoor walk-in access.
It even comprises many parks and trails, which include the South March Highlands Conservation Forest and the Carp River Conservation Area.
6. Little Italy
The neighborhood of Little Italy lies to the right west of Chinatown, centered around Preston Street. Around 1900, the area was first settled by Italian emigrants. Another wave of emigrants from Italy and other parts arrived following the second world war. It led to the growth of the multi-ethnic identity of the area.
Little Italy is also famous for being the mecca of authentic Italian cuisine in the city. However, one can also enjoy Asian, Greek, and Indian flavors and other specialties here. For a pleasant sightseeing experience, wander around Preston Street, and you will be immersed in the rich legacy of the neighborhood. You can also visit the gorgeous Dows Lake on the Rideau Canal by sticking with Preston Street south just past Carling Avenue.
7. Sparks Street
Sparks Street is located amid Ottawa’s urban core. This place has a rich history associated with its evolution from a poor farmland to a home for many companies and government offices. The area is packed with businesses primarily busy on weekdays and special occasions. Visitors can have a delightful shopping and dining experience at Sparks Street. For the foodies, the sophisticated restaurant Riviera is the ideal choice. Those who are interested in shopping can head to The Snow Goose Gallery. Popular festivals like the Sparks Street Poutinefest are too celebrated year-round, inviting thousands of people. Also, there is no need to pay any entrance fee to attend these events.
8. Wellington West
Located just west of downtown is Wellington West. The current region of Wellington Street West was undeveloped during the initial nineteenth century. It had a main road that goes west from downtown.
Within this walkable neighborhood, two communities comprise many one-of-a-kind specialty stores, community centers, and establishments. The one thing that often attracts visitors is its delectable culinary scene. The music buffs can catch a live show at the Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern. The neighborhood businesses offer free food samples and many amusement activities for children on any particular Saturday in September.
9. Elgin Street
Elgin Street is a couple of blocks from the Rideau Canal. This neighborhood has a village-like aura with a buzzing downtown. Earlier, it was named Biddy’s Lane, but with the expansion of Ottawa, Prime Minister Mackenzie King directed a remodeling plan that resulted in projects like the National War Memorial and the inauguration of the Lord Elgin Hotel.
With an abundance of pubs, lounges, and bars, Elgin Street is never out of options to offer nightlife experiences and entertainment. Along with that, the visitors can even buy some souvenirs here, like homewares, jewelry items, or candles, during the Ottawa tour. Book lovers can shop at Perfect Books for the best sellers and locally-written works.
10. Vanier
Only a few miles east of downtown is the neighborhood of Vanier. It is a residential area where visitors can explore an urban sugar shack, cycle alongside the Rideau River, or wander around the farmer’s market. Originally, this neighborhood was called Eastview, but later in 1969, it was renamed Vanier. Until 2001, when it was merged with Canada’s capital, Vanier remained independent.
Vanier is perfect for those seeking fun activities and sightseeing opportunities. Le Centre d’artistes Voix Visuelle, a fascinating museum, is among the top-rated places you shouldn’t miss in Vanier. East Feast, a popular festival in early September, is another fun thing to enjoy here.
11. Westboro Village
The vibrant Westboro Village is situated west of Wellington Village. During the early 1800s, Westboro Village was a rural area with farms all around. A vast number of shops can be found in this neighborhood of Ottawa. There are unlimited fashion accessories throughout the area. If you are a woman fond of fashion jewelry, you can shop at Magpie Jewellery for an Ottawa-shaped necklace.
Westboro offers a wide range of activities year-round, especially during summer. Partake in the water sports activities, let loose on the soft sand, and capture the striking sunset with your camera.
12. Heart of Orleans
Another one of the highly regarded neighborhoods to visit in Ottawa is the Heart of Orleans. It is located just east of downtown and is popular for the multi-ethnic feel it gives to visitors. Founded in the 1830s, the neighborhood of Heart of Orleans offers a variety of activities to engage in, like dining and shopping.
The area comprises tonnes of stores that incorporate the outlets of prominent national and international chains. Stray Dog Brewing Company, Rangoli, Bon Goût Créole, and St. Martha’s Brasserie are some of the best craft breweries and restaurants.
The neighborhood also organizes numerous events year-round. The popular ones are the Orléans Craft Beer Festival and the Orléans Cork and Fork Festival, held in June and November, respectively.
Summing Up
Ottawa is undoubtedly a favorite travel destination. All the aforementioned best neighborhoods to visit in Ottawa can make your vacation more memorable. From history buffs to nature lovers, Ottawa fulfills the desires of everyone. Make a perfect journey to lure your inner traveler and get an exciting travel experience at one of the best neighborhoods to visit in Ottawa.
Prepare a list of the places discussed in this guide before planning your trip. Don’t miss out on the fun and entertainment options each neighborhood offers.
