Last Updated: February 2, 2026
Ottawa’s best neighbourhoods for visitors are ByWard Market for historic energy and nightlife, the Glebe for walkable urban living near Lansdowne, Westboro for food and river trails, Hintonburg for arts and craft breweries, Little Italy (Preston Street) for Italian heritage, and Old Ottawa South for family-friendly parks—each with a distinct character within a short ride of downtown.
Whether you’re a visitor planning your first trip or a local looking to explore beyond your usual haunts, Ottawa’s neighbourhoods offer rich tapestries of culture, cuisine, and character. Check the City of Ottawa neighbourhood profiles and Ottawa Tourism for events in each area. From the bustling ByWard Market to the peaceful tree-lined streets of Old Ottawa South, each area tells its own story.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa’s neighbourhoods each offer a different visitor experience. Start in ByWard Market for historic charm and nightlife, then branch out to the Glebe, Westboro, Hintonburg, Little Italy, Centretown, Old Ottawa South, Wellington West, and Beechwood/Vanier for distinct local culture.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Best for Visitors | ByWard Market, Parliament Hill area |
| 🍽️ Foodie Destinations | Little Italy, Westboro, Hintonburg |
| 🎨 Arts & Culture | Wellington West, Hintonburg |
| 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly | The Glebe, Old Ottawa South |
| 🚶 Most Walkable | Centretown, ByWard Market |
| 🇫🇷 Francophone Culture | Beechwood/Vanier |
How to Choose the Right Neighbourhood
If you are visiting Ottawa, pick a base that matches your daily rhythm. Downtown and Centretown keep you close to the Parliament Hill area, museums, and the Rideau Canal. If you want food-heavy evenings, the ByWard Market guide and the Chinatown guide help you build a walkable crawl. For a slower pace with parks and river trails, look at Westboro or Old Ottawa South. If you want a mix of galleries, breweries, and small restaurants, Hintonburg and Wellington West are the best bets.
When in doubt, split your time: one day in downtown and the Market, one day in the west end (Hintonburg, Little Italy, Westboro), and one day south around the Glebe and Old Ottawa South.
Transit and Pathways
Ottawa is built around neighbourhood pockets connected by the OC Transpo LRT and bus network, plus the National Capital Commission pathways along the Ottawa River and the Rideau Canal. If you are planning a car-free visit, the OC Transpo guide helps map neighbourhood hops, while the river and canal pathways make it easy to walk or bike between downtown, the Market, and the west end.
ByWard Market: Ottawa’s Historic Heart
Since 1826, ByWard Market has served as Ottawa’s premier destination for fresh produce, artisan goods, and vibrant street life. This historic neighbourhood represents one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets, drawing millions of visitors annually to its cobblestone streets and heritage buildings.
The market’s centerpiece remains the historic Market Building, where local farmers and vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and specialty foods year-round. Beyond the market stalls, the surrounding blocks burst with restaurants representing cuisines from around the world, from upscale French bistros to casual pubs and trendy fusion eateries.
Shopping enthusiasts discover boutique clothing stores, art galleries showcasing local and Canadian artists, and specialty shops selling everything from maple syrup to handcrafted jewellery. The National Gallery of Canada sits just blocks away, its distinctive glass and granite architecture housing world-class collections of Canadian and Indigenous art.
Nightlife in ByWard Market ranks among Ottawa’s best, with dozens of bars, pubs, and clubs creating an energetic atmosphere after dark. Live music venues host local and touring acts, while cocktail bars serve craft creations in intimate settings. During summer months, outdoor patios fill with diners enjoying warm evenings in the heart of the capital.
Don’t miss the iconic BeaverTails pastry stand, where this uniquely Canadian treat has been served for decades. The hand-stretched whole wheat pastry, topped with sweet spreads like cinnamon sugar or Nutella, has become synonymous with the Ottawa experience.
The neighbourhood’s proximity to Parliament Hill makes it ideal for visitors combining political landmarks with urban exploration. Many guided tours of the capital begin or end in ByWard Market, and the area offers numerous hotels and accommodations for overnight stays.
The Glebe: Urban Village Charm
The Glebe embodies Ottawa’s perfect blend of urban convenience and neighbourhood warmth. This tree-lined district south of downtown has evolved into one of the city’s most desirable areas, attracting young professionals, families, and anyone seeking a walkable community with abundant amenities.
Bank Street serves as the Glebe’s commercial spine, stretching for blocks with independent boutiques, bookstores, cafes, and restaurants. Unlike generic shopping districts, Bank Street maintains its local character through businesses like independent booksellers, vintage clothing shops, and specialty food stores that have served the community for generations.
Lansdowne Park anchors the neighbourhood’s southern end, having transformed from a simple fairground into a year-round destination. TD Place stadium hosts Ottawa REDBLACKS CFL football games and Atletico Ottawa soccer matches, while the adjacent urban park offers skating in winter and outdoor activities in summer. The Ottawa Farmers’ Market operates year-round at Lansdowne, bringing together local producers, artisans, and food vendors every Sunday.
Patterson Creek provides a scenic waterway through the neighbourhood, with walking paths that connect to the larger Rideau Canal system. In winter, the creek freezes over for neighbourhood skating, while summer brings kayakers and wildlife watchers to its banks. The canal pathway offers car-free cycling and walking routes connecting the Glebe to downtown and beyond.
Dining options in the Glebe span from casual cafes perfect for morning coffee to upscale restaurants featuring farm-to-table menus. Brunch culture thrives here, with weekend lineups at popular spots serving creative takes on eggs benedict and pancakes. Evening dining ranges from cozy Italian trattorias to contemporary fusion cuisine showcasing local ingredients.
The neighbourhood’s architecture features beautiful heritage homes, many dating to the early 20th century, with wide front porches and mature trees creating a picturesque streetscape. Central Park provides green space for community gatherings, while smaller parks dot the area for family recreation.
For a full-day itinerary, use the Glebe guide to connect Bank Street, Lansdowne, and canal-side walking routes.
Westboro: Eco-Chic Destination
Westboro has cultivated a reputation as Ottawa’s trendiest neighbourhood, where environmental consciousness meets urban sophistication. Richmond Road, the main commercial street, attracts Ottawa’s style-conscious residents with boutique shopping, organic eateries, and a distinctly village-like atmosphere despite its urban setting.
The neighbourhood pioneered Ottawa’s farm-to-table dining movement, with restaurants emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients and sustainable practices. Brunch spots draw crowds for creative dishes featuring eggs from nearby farms and produce from regional growers. Coffee culture thrives with multiple independent roasters offering ethically sourced beans and expert barista preparation.
Shopping in Westboro emphasizes unique finds over chain stores. Fashion boutiques stock Canadian designers and international labels not found elsewhere in Ottawa. Home decor shops showcase modern design and eco-friendly products, while outdoor gear retailer MEC serves the neighbourhood’s active lifestyle enthusiasts with equipment for hiking, cycling, and paddling.
The Ottawa River pathway runs along Westboro’s northern edge, providing direct access to multi-use trails perfect for cycling, running, and walking. Westboro Beach offers summer swimming and beach volleyball, while the pathway continues for dozens of kilometres in both directions, connecting to parks and natural areas. Winter brings ice skating on groomed sections of the pathway and cross-country skiing opportunities.
Real estate in Westboro commands premium prices, reflecting the neighbourhood’s desirability. Mix of heritage homes and modern condominiums attracts diverse residents, from young professionals to empty nesters seeking urban amenities. The community maintains an active residents’ association organizing events and advocating for neighbourhood interests.
Cultural events throughout the year celebrate Westboro’s community spirit. The annual Westfest music festival transforms the streets into an outdoor concert venue, while farmers’ markets and art shows bring residents together during warmer months. The neighbourhood’s walkability means most errands can be accomplished on foot, reducing car dependency and fostering chance encounters with neighbours.
If you want a focused river-and-cafes itinerary, start with the Westboro guide and pair it with the Westboro Beach guide.
Hintonburg: Arts and Craft Beer Hub
Hintonburg represents Ottawa’s creative soul, where artists, musicians, and makers have transformed a working-class neighbourhood into the city’s hippest arts district. Wellington Street West serves as the main artery through this eclectic area, lined with galleries, craft breweries, and restaurants that reflect the neighbourhood’s independent spirit.
Craft beer culture defines much of Hintonburg’s identity. Beyond the Pale Brewing helped pioneer Ottawa’s craft beer scene, offering tasting rooms and seasonal releases that attract beer enthusiasts from across the region. Flora Hall Brewing and Tooth and Nail Brewing Company add to the neighbourhood’s reputation as a must-visit destination for craft beer lovers. Each brewery maintains its own personality, from hop-forward IPAs to experimental sours and barrel-aged stouts.
Street art and murals transform Hintonburg’s walls into outdoor galleries. Local and visiting artists have created dozens of large-scale works that add colour and character to industrial buildings and blank facades. The neighbourhood has embraced this artistic expression, with property owners commissioning new works and the community celebrating the area’s creative energy.
Restaurant diversity in Hintonburg exceeds expectations for a relatively compact area. Supply and Demand draws crowds for creative brunch dishes and dinner offerings emphasizing seasonal ingredients. The Soca Kitchen brings Caribbean flavours to Wellington West, while Hintonburg Public House serves elevated pub fare in a welcoming atmosphere. Suzy Q Doughnuts has achieved cult status with inventive flavours that change regularly, often selling out before noon.
Shopping in Hintonburg leans toward independent retailers and artisan makers. Vintage clothing stores offer curated selections from past decades, while home goods shops stock locally made items and unique finds. The Orange Art Gallery showcases contemporary Canadian artists, with rotating exhibitions and artist talks throughout the year.
Community engagement runs strong in Hintonburg, with residents actively participating in neighbourhood planning and development discussions. The area has experienced significant gentrification in recent years, bringing both investment and challenges as longtime residents face rising costs. Community organizations work to maintain the neighbourhood’s inclusive character while managing growth.
Little Italy: Preston Street’s Italian Heritage
Little Italy on Preston Street preserves Ottawa’s Italian-Canadian heritage through authentic restaurants, cultural celebrations, and a strong community identity. This neighbourhood has served as the heart of Ottawa’s Italian community for generations, maintaining traditions while evolving to reflect contemporary Ottawa.
Italian Week, or Settimana Italiana, is the neighbourhood’s signature celebration. It is a multi-day festival with live music, cultural performances, and an Italian food focus. Highlights often include the procession honouring San Antonio di Padua and Italian Car Night, which draws a dedicated crowd of car enthusiasts. The Porchetta Festival is another annual favourite, celebrating slow-roasted pork prepared by local chefs and restaurants.
If you want a deeper dive into restaurants and local landmarks, use the Little Italy guide to plan your route along Preston Street.
Dining on Preston Street ranges from casual sandwich shops to white-tablecloth restaurants. DiRienzo’s Grocery has served authentic Italian sandwiches for decades, with lineups of devoted customers willing to wait for their famous submarine sandwiches. Trattoria Caffe Italia offers traditional Italian dishes in a cozy setting, while newer establishments like Orto Trattoria bring modern interpretations to Italian cuisine.
Gelato shops and espresso bars dot Preston Street, providing authentic Italian desserts and coffee culture. Many establishments import ingredients directly from Italy, ensuring authenticity in their cannoli, tiramisu, and other specialties. Weekend afternoons see families gathering for multi-generational meals, maintaining Italian traditions of long, leisurely dining experiences.
The neighbourhood’s architecture reflects its Italian heritage, with brick commercial buildings housing businesses that have served the community for generations. Murals and decorative elements celebrate Italian culture, while the Italian flag flies prominently throughout the district. The Preston Street Business Improvement Area works to maintain the neighbourhood’s character while attracting new visitors and businesses.
Centretown: Downtown Living
Centretown delivers urban living at its finest, offering the conveniences of downtown Ottawa with residential neighbourhoods just steps from the city’s political and cultural centre. This diverse district stretches from the downtown core westward, encompassing everything from high-rise apartments to Victorian row houses.
The National Arts Centre anchors Centretown’s cultural offerings, presenting world-class theatre, music, and dance performances throughout the year. Its recent renovations created new public spaces along the Rideau Canal, with outdoor terraces and glass walls connecting the building to its surroundings. The NAC Orchestra performs regularly, while touring Broadway productions and contemporary dance companies round out the programming.
Parliament Hill sits at Centretown’s eastern edge, making the neighbourhood ideal for government workers and political enthusiasts. Many federal office buildings occupy the area, creating a workday bustle that quiets in evenings and weekends. The proximity to national institutions and monuments attracts tourists, while residents enjoy easy access to Parliament Hill’s grounds and events.
Dining diversity reflects Centretown’s multicultural population, with restaurants representing cuisines from across Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and beyond. Somali restaurants cluster along Bank Street, while Vietnamese pho houses, Lebanese shawarma shops, and Thai restaurants provide affordable, authentic meals. Upscale dining options serve business lunches and special occasions with contemporary Canadian cuisine.
Shopping in Centretown tends toward practical rather than boutique, with grocery stores, pharmacies, and service businesses meeting residents’ daily needs. However, Elgin Street maintains a concentration of restaurants and bars popular for after-work gatherings and weekend outings. The street’s mix of pubs, cocktail bars, and casual eateries creates a neighbourhood gathering place.
Green spaces include Confederation Park, hosting outdoor concerts and events during summer months, and Patterson Creek, which connects to the Rideau Canal system for skating and walking. The canal pathway provides car-free recreation routes, with many Centretown residents using it for daily commuting by bicycle.
The neighbourhood’s walkability and transit connections make car ownership optional for many residents. Bus routes crisscross the area, while the future light rail expansion will add more transit options. Cycling infrastructure continues improving, with protected bike lanes on major streets and connections to the city’s pathway network.
Old Ottawa South: Family-Friendly Haven
Old Ottawa South exemplifies family-friendly urban living, where tree-lined streets, excellent parks, and strong community bonds create an ideal environment for raising children while maintaining urban convenience. This neighbourhood has cultivated a reputation as one of Ottawa’s most desirable residential areas, with waitlists for housing reflecting its popularity.
Brewer Park serves as the neighbourhood’s recreational centerpiece, offering extensive playing fields, playgrounds, and winter skating on the Rideau Canal. The park’s size accommodates multiple sports simultaneously, from baseball and soccer to frisbee and picnicking. During winter, the canal becomes the world’s largest skating rink, with Old Ottawa South residents enjoying direct access to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bank Street provides commercial services and shopping through Old Ottawa South, though on a quieter scale than the Glebe’s section to the north. Local cafes, small grocers, and family-owned restaurants serve the community with a neighbourhood feel. Weekend mornings see families strolling to breakfast spots and bakeries, often encountering neighbours and friends.
The neighbourhood’s architecture features character homes built primarily in the early-to-mid 20th century. Wide lots, front porches, and mature trees create a picturesque environment that appeals to families seeking space and charm. Many homes have been lovingly maintained or renovated, preserving historical details while updating for modern living.
Community engagement runs deep in Old Ottawa South, with the Old Ottawa South Community Association organizing events, advocating for neighbourhood interests, and maintaining strong social bonds. Annual events like the Mayfair Lawn Bowling Club’s tournaments and community clean-up days bring residents together. The neighbourhood’s schools enjoy strong parent involvement and community support.
Cycling culture thrives in Old Ottawa South, with many families using cargo bikes and bike trailers for daily transportation. The neighbourhood’s relatively flat terrain and residential streets create safe cycling routes, while the canal pathway provides car-free commuting to downtown and beyond. Many households own multiple bicycles, using them year-round for errands and recreation.
Windsor Park offers another gathering place for families, with playground equipment and open spaces for neighbourhood kids to play. The park hosts informal gatherings and organized sports leagues, serving as a social hub during warmer months. Winter brings tobogganing and snow fort building, maintaining the park’s role as a community centre regardless of season.
Wellington West: Creative District
Wellington West encompasses the stretch of Wellington Street running through Hintonburg and Wellington Village, creating Ottawa’s premier arts and culture district. This neighbourhood has evolved dramatically over the past two decades, transforming from a quiet residential area into a destination for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Art galleries and artist studios concentrate in Wellington West, with spaces ranging from contemporary galleries showing established artists to cooperative studios where emerging creators develop their practices. Regular gallery walks and art openings create opportunities to meet artists and view new work, with many galleries offering affordable pieces alongside high-end collections.
Independent boutiques define Wellington West’s shopping scene, emphasizing Canadian designers and artisan makers. Vintage shops offer carefully curated selections from past decades, while contemporary fashion boutiques stock labels not found in shopping malls. Home decor stores showcase modern design and handcrafted items, from ceramics to textiles to furniture.
Restaurant diversity matches any Ottawa neighbourhood, with options spanning casual cafes to fine dining establishments. Brunch culture thrives with creative menus and local ingredients. Ethnic restaurants bring flavours from around the world, including exceptional Thai, Vietnamese, and Middle Eastern options. Many restaurants maintain small, intimate dining rooms that fill quickly during peak hours.
The craft brewery scene that helped define Hintonburg extends throughout Wellington West, with tasting rooms and beer gardens creating gathering places for neighbours and visitors. Many breweries host events like trivia nights, live music, and seasonal releases, becoming community hubs beyond simple drinking establishments.
Street festivals and community events activate Wellington West throughout the year. Art Battle competitions see painters creating works in real-time while audiences watch and vote for favourites. Outdoor markets bring together makers and small businesses, while music festivals transform the street into outdoor venues. These events reinforce the neighbourhood’s creative identity and community connections.
Development pressures have brought both opportunities and challenges to Wellington West. New condominiums and mixed-use buildings add density and residents, supporting local businesses while raising concerns about neighbourhood character. Community organizations work to balance growth with preservation of the independent, creative spirit that makes Wellington West unique.
Beechwood/Vanier: Francophone Character
Beechwood and Vanier preserve Ottawa’s francophone heritage, maintaining French-Canadian culture and language in a historically significant neighbourhood. Until 2001, Vanier existed as a separate municipality, and its identity as Ottawa’s francophone heart continues despite amalgamation into the larger city.
French language pervades Beechwood Avenue’s commercial district, with many businesses operating primarily or entirely in French. Bilingual Ottawa residents appreciate the opportunity to shop and dine in French, while the neighbourhood maintains cultural institutions supporting francophone identity. La Nouvelle Scene Gilles Desjardins theatre presents French-language productions, from contemporary plays to classic works.
Community centres and organizations throughout Vanier serve francophone residents, offering programs in French and celebrating French-Canadian culture. The Centre Pauline-Charron provides recreational and social programs, while French-language schools educate children in their mother tongue. These institutions anchor the neighbourhood’s cultural identity and provide gathering places for the community.
Beechwood Avenue has experienced revitalization in recent years, with new restaurants and shops joining established businesses. The street’s Beechwood Village section has become a destination for dining and shopping, while maintaining its francophone character. Cafes serve croissants and espresso, while restaurants offer French-Canadian classics alongside contemporary cuisine.
The neighbourhood’s diversity has increased significantly, with immigrant communities from North Africa, the Middle East, and other regions adding new cultural dimensions. Many francophone immigrants from countries like Haiti, Morocco, and Lebanon have chosen Vanier for its French language community and affordable housing. This diversity enriches the neighbourhood while sometimes creating tensions around cultural change.
Urban development and gentrification discussions have intensified in Vanier as Ottawa’s housing market pressures push development into previously overlooked neighbourhoods. New condominium projects bring investment and new residents, while raising concerns about affordability and displacement of long-term residents. Community groups advocate for inclusive development that preserves Vanier’s francophone character and supports existing residents.
Historical significance runs deep in Vanier, with connections to Ottawa’s working-class francophone history and the broader French-Canadian experience. Many families have lived in the neighbourhood for generations, maintaining traditions and cultural practices that connect to Quebec and Acadian heritage. This living history makes Vanier essential to understanding Ottawa’s francophone identity.
FAQ
Q: What is the best neighbourhood for first-time visitors to Ottawa?
ByWard Market offers the ideal introduction to Ottawa, combining historic charm with convenient access to Parliament Hill, museums, and diverse dining options. Its central location, abundance of hotels, and concentration of attractions make it perfect for visitors wanting to experience multiple aspects of the city without extensive travel.
Q: Which Ottawa neighbourhood has the best restaurants?
Little Italy on Preston Street and Hintonburg both excel for food lovers, though with different focuses. Preston Street specializes in authentic Italian cuisine and hosts major food festivals, while Hintonburg offers diverse international options, craft breweries, and creative fusion restaurants. Westboro also ranks highly for farm-to-table dining and upscale brunch spots.
Q: Are Ottawa neighbourhoods walkable and transit-friendly?
Centretown, ByWard Market, The Glebe, and Old Ottawa South rank as Ottawa’s most walkable neighbourhoods with excellent transit connections. These areas allow residents and visitors to accomplish most daily activities on foot or by bicycle, with bus routes providing connections to other parts of the city. Future LRT expansion will further improve transit access.
Q: Which neighbourhood is best for families with children?
Old Ottawa South and The Glebe both excel for families, offering excellent schools, abundant parks, safe residential streets, and strong community connections. Old Ottawa South provides slightly more space and quieter streets, while The Glebe offers more commercial amenities and urban conveniences. Both neighbourhoods feature active community associations and family-oriented events.
Q: Can you experience French culture in Ottawa neighbourhoods?
Beechwood/Vanier preserves Ottawa’s francophone heritage with French-language businesses, cultural institutions, and community organizations. Many businesses operate primarily in French, and the neighbourhood hosts francophone theatre, schools, and community centres. The area provides authentic French-Canadian cultural experiences within Canada’s officially bilingual capital.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s neighbourhoods offer remarkable diversity, each providing distinct experiences that reflect different aspects of the capital’s character. From ByWard Market’s historic energy to Beechwood/Vanier’s francophone culture, from the Glebe’s urban village charm to Hintonburg’s creative spirit, these areas showcase Ottawa’s evolution while maintaining unique identities.
Whether you’re seeking Italian festivals on Preston Street, craft breweries in Wellington West, family parks in Old Ottawa South, or eco-chic shopping in Westboro, Ottawa’s neighbourhoods deliver authentic experiences that go beyond typical tourist attractions. The city’s manageable size makes exploring multiple areas feasible in a single visit, while each neighbourhood rewards deeper exploration for those with time to linger.
As Ottawa continues growing and evolving, these neighbourhoods maintain the human-scale communities and local character that make the capital not just Canada’s political centre, but one of the country’s most livable and visitable cities. Plan your exploration, discover your favourites, and experience the diverse neighbourhoods that make Ottawa truly special.
For more Ottawa neighbourhood guides, visit Ottawa Where to Go or explore Things to Do in the capital!
