Last Updated: January 14, 2026
From free Wednesday transit rides to 20% off dining and discounted museum admissions, Ottawa seniors can save well over $14,000 annually by knowing where to look for discounts designed specifically for the 65+ community.
Living on a fixed income doesn’t mean limiting your lifestyle in Ottawa. The city offers one of Canada’s most generous collections of senior discounts, spanning public transit, government benefits, recreation programs, retail shopping, cultural attractions, and dining establishments. Whether you’ve lived here for decades or recently retired to the National Capital Region, this comprehensive guide reveals every discount available to help you stretch your dollars further while enjoying everything Ottawa has to offer.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa seniors 65+ ride OC Transpo free on Wednesdays, save 25% on city recreation passes, and access dozens of retail discounts at stores like Shoppers Drug Mart (20% off Thursdays) and Bulk Barn (15% off Wednesdays). Combined with government benefits like OAS, GIS, and Ontario Drug Benefit, annual savings can exceed $14,000-$18,000.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 🚌 Free Transit Day | Wednesdays (all OC Transpo routes) |
| 💰 Monthly Transit Pass | $59.75 (65+) |
| 🏊 Recreation Pass | $57.74/3 months (vs $76.98 adult) |
| 🛒 Best Retail Day | Thursdays (Shoppers 20% off) |
| 🎭 Museum Savings | $4-6 off per admission |
| 📅 Age Requirement | Most discounts start at 65+ |
OC Transpo Senior Transit Discounts
OC Transpo offers free rides every Wednesday for Ottawa seniors 65 and older
Free Wednesday Rides
One of Ottawa’s most valuable senior perks comes from OC Transpo’s Free Wednesday program. Every Wednesday, seniors aged 65 and older ride all bus routes and O-Train lines completely free of charge. No special pass required—simply board with valid age identification.
This benefit applies to:
- All regular bus routes across Ottawa
- O-Train Line 1 (Confederation Line)
- O-Train Line 2 (Trillium Line)
- O-Train Lines 3 and 4 (Kanata and Barrhaven extensions)
For a complete guide to navigating the transit system, see our OC Transpo guide.
Regular Senior Fares
When riding on non-Wednesday days, seniors still enjoy reduced rates compared to adult fares:
| Fare Type | Senior Rate (65+) | Adult Rate | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Ride | $3.28 | $3.75 | $0.47 |
| Day Pass | $8.37 | $11.25 | $2.88 |
| Monthly Pass | $59.75 | $128.75 | $69.00 |
| Annual Savings | ~$717/year | - | - |
How to Get Senior Fares:
- Visit an OC Transpo Customer Service Centre
- Bring government-issued photo ID showing date of birth
- Load senior fares onto your PRESTO card
- Alternatively, request a Senior PRESTO card
Para Transpo for Seniors
Seniors 65+ with mobility challenges can access Para Transpo services. Registered Para Transpo users receive four free trips per month, with additional trips available at the standard senior fare.
Para Transpo Registration:
- Phone: 613-560-5000
- Address: OC Transpo Customer Service Centre, Rideau Centre
- Requirements: Medical documentation may be required for registration
Government Benefits for Ottawa Seniors
Federal and provincial programs provide substantial monthly income support for Ottawa seniors
Federal Benefits
Old Age Security (OAS) Canada’s largest pension program for seniors 65+. Maximum monthly payment in 2026:
- Ages 65-74: $727.67/month
- Ages 75+: $800.44/month (10% supplement)
OAS payments are income-tested through the OAS clawback (recovery tax) starting at approximately $90,000 in net income.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) Additional monthly income for low-income OAS recipients:
- Single seniors: Up to $1,086.88/month
- Married/common-law (both receiving OAS): Up to $654.23/month each
To Apply:
- Online: Service Canada website (service.canada.gc.ca)
- Phone: 1-800-277-9914
- In Person: Service Canada Centre, 110 O’Connor Street, Ottawa
Ontario Provincial Benefits
Ontario GAINS (Guaranteed Annual Income System) Provincial supplement for low-income seniors receiving OAS/GIS:
- Maximum: Up to $83/month additional
- Automatically assessed when you apply for GIS
Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) Prescription drug coverage for all Ontario residents 65+:
- Annual Deductible: $100 (if income over $22,200)
- Co-Payment: $6.11 per prescription (higher income) or $2.00 (lower income)
- Coverage: Over 5,000 drug products covered
Seniors Co-Payment Program Reduces prescription costs for eligible low-income seniors:
- Eliminates the $100 annual deductible
- Reduces co-payment to $2.00 per prescription
To Enroll:
- ODB coverage is automatic at age 65 for Ontario residents with valid OHIP
- Apply for Seniors Co-Payment through Service Ontario
City of Ottawa Recreation Discounts
City recreation centres offer reduced rates for seniors on swimming, fitness, and programs
Recreation Passes
The City of Ottawa offers significant discounts on recreation passes for seniors aged 62 and older:
| Pass Type | Senior (62+) | Adult | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Month Pass | $57.74 | $76.98 | $19.24 |
| Annual Pass | ~$230.96 | ~$307.92 | $76.96 |
These passes provide access to:
- Drop-in swimming at all 33 city pools
- Fitness centre access
- Public skating sessions
- Walking tracks
- Gymnasium activities
For details on swimming facilities, see our Swimming Pools Ottawa guide.
Daily Drop-In Rates
Prefer pay-as-you-go? Seniors enjoy reduced daily rates:
| Activity | Senior Rate | Adult Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Swimming | $3.00 | $6.25 |
| Fitness Centre | $3.75 | $5.00 |
| Public Skating | $2.00 | $4.00 |
Outdoor Skating
During winter, Ottawa’s outdoor skating rinks offer free public skating for all ages. The Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest skating rink, is completely free when conditions permit.
For a complete list of outdoor rinks, see our Ottawa Outdoor Skating Rinks guide.
Senior-Specific Programs
Many recreation centres offer programs designed specifically for seniors:
- Gentle aquafit classes
- Senior yoga and tai chi
- Walking clubs
- Pickleball leagues
- Social dance classes
Registration: Through Register Ottawa at ottawa.ca/recreation
Retail Senior Discounts
Major retailers across Ottawa offer weekly senior discount days with savings of 10-20%
Pharmacy Discounts
Shoppers Drug Mart - Seniors Day Thursday
- Discount: 20% off regular-priced merchandise
- Age: 55+ with PC Optimum card
- Day: Every Thursday
- Exclusions: Prescriptions, lottery, gift cards, some electronics
This is one of Ottawa’s most valuable retail discounts. With locations throughout the city, including Rideau Centre and Bank Street, seniors can save significantly on health and beauty products, household items, and seasonal merchandise.
Jean Coutu
- Discount: 10% off purchases
- Age: 65+
- Day: Every Wednesday
- Locations: Multiple locations in Ottawa-Gatineau region
Grocery and Bulk Stores
Bulk Barn - Senior Wednesday
- Discount: 15% off entire purchase
- Age: 65+
- Day: Every Wednesday
- Tip: Stock up on nuts, dried fruits, baking supplies, and snacks
Bulk Barn’s senior discount makes Wednesday an ideal shopping day. Combine this with OC Transpo’s free Wednesday rides for maximum savings.
Pet Supply Stores
Pet Valu
- Discount: 10% off purchases
- Age: 60+
- Day: Last Thursday of each month
- Locations: Orleans, Kanata, Barrhaven, and more
Global Pet Foods
- Discount: 15% off purchases
- Age: 60+
- Day: Last Tuesday of each month
Hardware and Home Improvement
Home Hardware
- Discount: 10% off (varies by location)
- Age: 65+
- Day: Typically Tuesdays (check your local store)
Canadian Tire
- Discount: Occasional senior discount days
- Note: Not consistent; check flyers or call ahead
Thrift Stores
Value Village
- Discount: 30% off entire purchase
- Age: 60+
- Day: Every Tuesday
Value Village’s senior discount is exceptionally generous, making Tuesday shopping trips worthwhile for clothing, housewares, and furniture.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
National museums offer reduced admission rates for seniors, with some providing free Thursday evening access
National Museums
Ottawa’s world-class museums offer senior admission discounts:
| Museum | Senior Admission | Adult Admission | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian War Museum | $18.00 | $23.00 | $5.00 |
| Canadian Museum of Nature | $19.00 | $24.00 | $5.00 |
| Canadian Museum of History | $20.00 | $25.00 | $5.00 |
| National Gallery of Canada | $16.00 | $20.00 | $4.00 |
| Canada Science and Technology Museum | $17.00 | $21.00 | $4.00 |
| Canada Aviation and Space Museum | $17.00 | $21.00 | $4.00 |
Free Admission Hours
Several museums offer free admission during specific hours:
Thursday Evening Free Admission (4-8 PM)
- Canadian Museum of Nature
- Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Canada Aviation and Space Museum
For a complete list of free museum opportunities, see our Free Museum Hours Ottawa guide.
Local Galleries and Attractions
Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum
- Location: Carp (3929 Carp Road)
- Senior admission available
- Fascinating Cold War history experience
Bytown Museum
- Senior rates available
- Located beside the Rideau Canal locks
Entertainment Discounts
Movie theatres and entertainment venues offer reduced pricing for seniors throughout the week
Movie Theatres
Cineplex
- Senior Admission: $13.95 (varies by location)
- Adult Admission: $14.95-$16.95
- Age: 65+
- Tip: Tuesday discount days offer even better savings for all ages
Landmark Cinemas
- Senior Admission: Typically $2-3 less than adult
- Age: 65+
- Locations: Kanata, Orleans
Live Theatre
National Arts Centre
- Senior discounts on select performances
- Rush tickets often available
- Phone: 613-947-7000
Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC)
- Pay-What-You-Can performances
- Senior subscription packages available
- Location: 1233 Wellington Street West
Gladstone Theatre
- Affordable community theatre pricing
- Occasional senior matinee discounts
Sports Events
Ottawa Senators
- No official senior discount, but upper-level seats start at reasonable prices
- Watch for promotional nights
Ottawa 67’s (OHL Hockey)
- Senior tickets available at reduced rates
- Affordable family entertainment at TD Place
Dining Discounts
Several Ottawa restaurants offer discounts ranging from 10-20% for seniors
Chain Restaurants
Mandarin Restaurant
- Discount: 20% off buffet
- Age: 65+
- Days: All week (verify with location)
- Ottawa Location: 2910 Carling Avenue
Mandarin’s generous 20% discount makes their expansive buffet even more attractive for senior diners. This applies to the individual meal, not group bills.
Golden Griddle
- Discount: 10% off total bill
- Age: 55+
- Days: All week
- Ottawa Location: 1385 Woodroffe Avenue
Denny’s
- Discount: 15% off (AARP members)
- Age: 55+
- Note: Limited Ottawa locations
Local Dining Tips
Many local Ottawa restaurants offer informal senior discounts or smaller portion sizes at reduced prices. Always ask about senior specials when dining:
- Breakfast spots often have senior menus
- Some pubs offer weekday lunch specials appealing to seniors
- Early bird dinner specials (typically 4-6 PM) provide savings
ByWard Market restaurants occasionally offer senior weekday lunch discounts. Check with individual establishments.
Senior Centres and Community Resources
Ottawa’s senior centres offer affordable memberships with extensive programming and social activities
Good Companions Seniors’ Centre
Address: 670 Albert Street, Ottawa Phone: 613-236-0428 Website: goodcompanions.ca
Membership: $40/year
One of Ottawa’s most established senior centres, Good Companions offers:
- Daily hot lunch program ($10-12)
- Fitness classes and exercise programs
- Arts and crafts workshops
- Computer classes
- Social events and day trips
- Billiards, cards, and games
- Health clinics and information sessions
The centre is centrally located near LeBreton Flats, accessible by OC Transpo routes serving Albert Street.
Olde Forge Community Resource Centre
Address: 2730 Carling Avenue, Ottawa Phone: 613-829-9777 Website: oldeforge.ca
Membership: FREE
Olde Forge serves the west Ottawa community (Westboro to Kanata) with:
- Seniors Active Living programs
- Transportation assistance
- Meals on Wheels
- Home support services
- Social activities
- Tax clinics (seasonal)
- Friendly visiting programs
Kanata Seniors Centre
Address: 2500 Campeau Drive, Kanata Phone: 613-580-2580
Operated by the City of Ottawa, the Kanata Seniors Centre provides:
- Drop-in activities
- Fitness programs
- Art classes
- Social gatherings
- Information and referral services
Additional Senior Resources
Council on Aging of Ottawa
- Advocacy and information
- Senior housing resources
- Age-friendly city initiatives
- Phone: 613-789-3577
Elder Abuse Ottawa
- Support and resources
- Confidential helpline
- Phone: 613-789-8619
Ottawa Public Library
- Free membership
- Large print books
- Audiobooks and digital resources
- Computer access and technology help
- Home delivery service for mobility-limited seniors
How to Maximize Your Senior Savings
Strategic planning can help Ottawa seniors save over $14,000 annually on transit, shopping, and activities
Create a Weekly Schedule
Organize your activities around discount days:
| Day | Best Activities |
|---|---|
| Monday | Regular activities, library visits |
| Tuesday | Value Village (30% off), Global Pet Foods (last Tuesday) |
| Wednesday | FREE OC Transpo, Bulk Barn (15% off), Jean Coutu (10% off) |
| Thursday | Shoppers Drug Mart (20% off), Free museum evenings, Pet Valu (last Thursday) |
| Friday | Regular activities, early bird restaurant specials |
| Weekend | Recreation activities, free outdoor events |
Annual Savings Calculation
For an active Ottawa senior, potential annual savings include:
| Category | Annual Savings |
|---|---|
| OC Transpo (monthly pass vs adult) | $828 |
| Wednesday free transit (52 days) | $170+ |
| Recreation pass discount | $77 |
| Shoppers Thursday (weekly $50 spend) | $520 |
| Bulk Barn Wednesday (monthly $40 spend) | $72 |
| Museum visits (12 per year) | $60 |
| OAS/GIS benefits | $8,700-$12,000+ |
| Ontario Drug Benefit | $500-2,000+ |
| Total Potential Savings | $14,000-$18,000+ |
Essential Cards to Carry
Always have these cards when seeking senior discounts:
- Government-issued photo ID with birthdate
- PRESTO card loaded with senior fares
- PC Optimum card (for Shoppers Drug Mart)
- Ontario Health Card (for ODB benefits)
- Senior centre membership cards
FAQ
Q: At what age do OC Transpo senior discounts begin?
Senior transit discounts begin at age 65. You must present valid photo identification showing your date of birth when loading senior fares onto your PRESTO card. The free Wednesday program also requires proof of age if asked.
Q: How do I get a senior PRESTO card?
Visit any OC Transpo Customer Service Centre (Rideau Centre, St-Laurent, or Billings Bridge) with government-issued photo ID showing your birthdate. Staff will set up senior fare rates on your existing PRESTO card or issue a new one.
Q: Are senior discounts available at all Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Ottawa?
Yes, the 20% seniors discount on Thursdays applies at all Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Ottawa. You must be 55+ and present your PC Optimum card. Exclusions apply to prescriptions, lottery products, and gift cards.
Q: Do I need to be a Canadian citizen to receive OAS benefits?
No, but you must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18 to receive partial OAS. For full OAS, you need 40 years of Canadian residence after age 18. Legal status as a permanent resident or citizen is required.
Q: What documentation do I need to apply for Ontario Drug Benefit?
ODB coverage is automatic at age 65 for Ontario residents with valid OHIP. You don’t need to apply separately. Your OHIP card serves as proof of coverage when filling prescriptions.
Q: Are senior recreation passes valid at all City of Ottawa facilities?
Yes, a City of Ottawa recreation pass grants access to all 33+ city facilities, including pools, fitness centres, and skating rinks. Passes purchased at any location work citywide.
Q: Do restaurants require proof of age for senior discounts?
Most chain restaurants request proof of age for senior discounts. Carry government-issued ID when dining out. Local restaurants may be less formal but having ID ready ensures you receive applicable discounts.
Q: Can I use senior discounts in Gatineau as well?
Some discounts (like Shoppers Drug Mart) work at all locations. However, Quebec senior benefits and transit discounts have different rules. STO (Societe de transport de l’Outaouais) offers its own senior programs separate from OC Transpo.
Q: Is there a senior discount for the Rideau Canal Skateway?
The Rideau Canal Skateway is completely free for all ages when open during winter. There’s no admission charge, though you’ll pay for skate rentals if needed. It’s one of Ottawa’s best free winter activities for seniors.
Q: How do I register for Para Transpo services?
Contact OC Transpo at 613-560-5000 to begin the Para Transpo registration process. You may need to provide medical documentation confirming mobility limitations. Once registered, seniors 65+ receive four free trips monthly.
Q: Do Value Village seniors discount stack with other sales?
Yes, the 30% Tuesday senior discount at Value Village applies on top of colour-tag sales. This can result in significant savings, especially on already-reduced items during clearance periods.
Q: What’s the best day for seniors to shop in Ottawa?
Wednesday and Thursday offer the most discounts. Wednesday provides free transit plus Bulk Barn (15% off) and Jean Coutu (10% off). Thursday offers Shoppers Drug Mart (20% off) and free evening museum admission at select locations.
Q: Are senior discounts available at Canadian Tire?
Canadian Tire doesn’t have a consistent senior discount program. However, individual locations occasionally run senior discount days. Check store flyers or call your local Canadian Tire to inquire about current promotions.
Q: Do I need to join a senior centre to access City of Ottawa recreation programs?
No, City of Ottawa recreation programs are open to all residents regardless of senior centre membership. However, joining centres like Good Companions ($40/year) or Olde Forge (free) provides additional programming, social opportunities, and support services.
Q: Can my spouse use my senior transit benefits if they’re under 65?
No, OC Transpo senior fares and free Wednesday rides are individual benefits requiring each rider to be 65+. Your spouse would pay adult fares until they reach 65 and obtain their own senior PRESTO designation.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa stands out as one of Canada’s most senior-friendly cities, offering a remarkable array of discounts and benefits designed to help residents 65 and older live comfortably and actively. From the generous free Wednesday transit program to substantial government benefits, discounted recreation passes, and widespread retail savings, the annual value exceeds $14,000 for many seniors who take full advantage of available programs.
The key to maximizing these benefits lies in organization. Mark discount days on your calendar, carry the right identification and loyalty cards, and don’t hesitate to ask about senior pricing wherever you go. Many businesses offer discounts not actively advertised, so a polite inquiry often reveals additional savings.
Beyond financial benefits, Ottawa’s senior centres and community resources provide invaluable social connections, health support, and opportunities for continued learning and engagement. Whether you’re attending a fitness class at Good Companions, browsing the stacks at Ottawa Public Library, or catching a free Thursday evening museum visit, Ottawa offers countless ways to enjoy retirement to its fullest.
Sources: OC Transpo Senior Fares, Service Canada - Old Age Security, Ontario Drug Benefit, City of Ottawa Recreation, Good Companions Seniors Centre, Olde Forge Community Resource Centre
