From colourful streets lined with murals and cafés to hidden parks, independent cinemas and scenic waterfronts, there’s plenty to discover just beyond campus.
Whether you're new to Ottawa or just looking for a new place to explore, these neighbourhoods make it easy to spend an afternoon trying something different. Grab a friend, hop on the O-Train or the bus, and discover a side of the city you might not have experienced.
Chinatown
If you’re looking to try something new, Chinatown’s a great place to start. Stretching along Somerset Street West, this vibrant neighbourhood is known for its incredible variety of Asian cuisine. Whether you’re craving ramen, pho, dumplings, Korean barbecue, sushi or bubble tea, you'll find no shortage of options.
Beyond the food, take some time to browse specialty grocery stores, admire the colourful murals and stop by the iconic Chinatown Royal Gateway. If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss the Chinatown Night Market, where the streets come alive with local vendors, live entertainment and even more delicious food.
Best for: food lovers
Don't miss
• Ramen, pho and dumplings
• Bubble tea
• Specialty grocery stores
• Chinatown Night Market
• Chinatown Royal Gateway
“I love coming to Chinatown with friends because there’s always something new to try. Whether we’re grabbing bubble tea, sharing dumplings or just walking around after dinner, it's one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Ottawa.”
Kenza Guessous
— a translational and molecular medicine student and a student ambassador
Hintonburg
Hintonburg is one of Ottawa's most creative neighbourhoods and a favourite among students looking for something different. Spend the afternoon on Wellington Street West exploring vintage and thrift stores, browsing local art galleries or discovering small businesses you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re hunting for your next thrifted outfit or simply enjoying a coffee while wandering around, Hintonburg’s well worth the visit. The neighborhood is between two LRT stations, Bayview to the east and Tunney’s Pasture to the west.
Best for: thrifting and local art
Don’t miss
• Vintage and thrift shopping
• Local art galleries
• Public art and murals
• Independent cafés
• Handmade goods
ByWard Market
Just a short walk from campus, the ByWard Market is one of Ottawa’s most popular neighbourhoods and an easy place to spend an afternoon. Browse local boutiques, stop for a coffee, try a new restaurant or pick up something sweet as you explore the historic streets. Just steps away, Major’s Hill Park offers beautiful views of Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal, making it the perfect place to relax after exploring the Market. No matter the season, there’s always something happening, from outdoor patios in the summer to festivals and seasonal events throughout the year.
Best for: a day with friends
Don't miss
• Local cafés
• International restaurants
• Boutique shopping
• Major’s Hill Park
• Seasonal events
• Street performers and public art
“I love how there’s always something to do. Whether I’m trying a new café with friends, walking around or relaxing at Major’s Hill Park, it’s one of those places I keep coming back to because every visit feels a little different.”
Rihame Fahmi
— Fourth-year biomedical sciences student
Wellington West
Connected to Hintonburg, Wellington West is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. The neighbourhood is filled with independent boutiques, bookstores, bakeries and cafés, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring.
Whether you’re picking up a bubble tea, searching for your next read or treating yourself to something sweet, there’s always something new to discover.
Best for: shopping and cafés
Don’t miss
• Independent bookstores
• Bubble tea
• Local bakeries
• Boutique shopping
• Coffee shops
Little Italy
Little Italy is one of Ottawa’s go-to destinations for a night out. Preston Street is lined with restaurants, patios and dessert spots, making it the perfect place for dinner followed by gelato and an evening stroll.
Visit during Italian Week to experience live entertainment, community events and one of Ottawa’s liveliest neighbourhood celebrations. The aptly named Corso Italia LRT station gives you easy access to la dolce vita.
Best for: Dinner with friends
Don’t miss
• Italian cuisine
• Gelato
• Preston Street
• Patios
• Italian Week
The Glebe
Whether you’re attending a football or soccer match at TD Place, browsing the Lansdowne Farmers’ Market or exploring the shops along Bank Street, there’s always something happening in the Glebe.
It’s a neighbourhood that’s easy to visit year-round, with festivals, events and local businesses bringing it to life in every season.
Best for: sports and weekend events
Don’t miss
• TD Place
• Lansdowne Park
• Farmers’ Market
• Bank Street shopping
• Seasonal events
Tunney’s Pasture
Looking for an easy way to explore beyond campus? Hop on the O-Train at uOttawa station and you'll be at Tunney’s Pasture station in about 12 minutes.
From there, stroll through Wellington West, where you’ll find independent boutiques, bookstores, cafés and bakeries perfect for a leisurely afternoon. If you have time, continue into neighbouring Hintonburg to browse vintage shops, admire local murals and discover unique art galleries.
If you’re visiting between May and mid-October, stop by the Parkdale Public Market, which is open daily throughout the season and features fresh produce, flowers, baked goods and local vendors. End your afternoon with a 15-minute walk to Remic Rapids Park, a peaceful riverside spot that’s perfect for relaxing, enjoying the views and watching the sunset.
Best for: a relaxing afternoon
Don't miss
• Wellington West boutiques and cafés
• Hintonburg vintage shops and murals
• Parkdale Public Market (May to mid-October)
• Remic Rapids Park
• Ottawa River views
Old Ottawa South
Old Ottawa South offers a quieter atmosphere that’s perfect for an afternoon away from the city’s busiest streets. Browse local shops along Bank Street, stop for a coffee or catch a film at the historic Mayfair Theatre, one of Ottawa’s oldest cinemas.
It's an easy neighbourhood to explore when you’re looking to slow down.
Best for: a slower pace
Don’t miss
• Mayfair Theatre
• Rideau Canal pathways
• Local cafés
• Independent shops
New Edinburgh
One of Ottawa’s quieter neighbourhoods, New Edinburgh is known for its tree-lined streets, heritage homes and scenic river views. Visit the grounds of Rideau Hall (residence of the governor-general), explore Stanley Park or enjoy a peaceful walk along the Rideau River.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a break from the city’s busier areas.
Best for: nature and history
Don’t miss
• Rideau Hall
• Stanley Park
• Rideau River pathways
• Heritage architecture
• Scenic walking routes
Westboro
If you’re looking to spend more time outside, Westboro has plenty to offer. Walk or bike along the Ottawa River Pathway, relax at Westboro Beach or enjoy a picnic with friends while taking in the waterfront views.
It’s one of the city’s best neighbourhoods for staying active or just unwinding after a busy week.
Best for: outdoor activities
Don’t miss
• Westboro Beach
• Ottawa River Pathway
• Cycling and running trails
• Picnic areas
• Sunset views