The very best 12 nightlife spots in Ottawa, Canada

Are you ready to paint the town red, maple leaf style? Ottawa, the capital of Canada, may be known for its stoic government buildings and serious business, but don't let that fool you—a thriving nightlife scene awaits the intrepid party seeker. Tug on your plaid shirt, adjust your touque, and head to Elgin Street for a pulsating mix of lively pubs, charming dive bars, and hipster havens sure to make you raise your poutine-filled fists in the air and shout, "Cheers, eh!" If you feel like rubbing elbows with the city's finest, head to the Byward Market, where the clinking of glasses and infectious laughter fill the air, tempting even the most reserved Canadians to join in the festivities. And for those who dare to venture a little further, Hintonburg offers a treasure trove of quirky, offbeat establishments—think karaoke in a laundromat or sipping craft cocktails in a former church. Cheers, Ottawa—may your nightlife shine brighter than the Parliament Hill fireworks!

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1. Pour Boy Pub

4.5 (1084)

495 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K1R 5J7, Canada

Nestled in the heart of Ottawa, Pour Boy Pub is an eclectic watering hole that combines the charm of yesteryear with the hipness of the present. Often referred to as the "unofficial headquarters of cozy meets cool," this pub offers an atmosphere that makes you want to sip on aged whisky while playing an intense game of darts (luckily, without the risk of accidentally poking someone's eye out). The pub's quirky decor, like mismatched furniture and ancient maps, adds to its charm, making it the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and wonder how many cocktails you can try before your taste buds start a revolt.

www.pourboypub.com

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2. Lowertown Brewery

3.8 (597)

73 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5T2, Canada

Nestled in Ottawa's vibrant heart, Lowertown Brewery exudes the charm of a neighborhood pub with a humorous twist. This haven for beer enthusiasts offers a generous selection of craft brews that will make you bust out your happy dance, even if your moves are as embarrassing as your dad's at a wedding. With its laid-back atmosphere and knowledgeable staff who are experts at keeping your pint glass half full, Lowertown Brewery is the perfect spot to raise a glass, share a laugh, and maybe even prove that you're the true champion of the pool table.

www.lowertownbrewery.ca

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3. Irene's Pub

4.5 (939)

885 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W4, Canada

Nestled in the heart of beautiful Ottawa lies Irene's Pub, a quirky haven for both locals and adventurous tourists alike. With its cozy, dimly lit interior reminiscent of a time when mustaches were à la mode and typewriters reigned supreme, Irene's welcomes you with open arms (and occasionally a slightly off-key rendition of "Sweet Home Alabama"). The staff, a blend of creative misfits and whiskey-loving storytellers, will regale you with tales of mysterious regulars and questionable dance moves witnessed over the years, ensuring that no evening spent at Irene's is ever ordinary.

irenespub.ca

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4. The Manx

4.7 (1245)

370 Elgin St Suite No. 1, Ottawa, ON K2P 1N1, Canada

Nestled in the heart of Ottawa, The Manx pub is a quaint little spot that oozes charm like a constantly leaking maple tree. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by friendly staff who exude more Canadian politeness than a Mountie politely asking you to move your moose out of the way. The Manx offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for indulging in comfort food and beverages that will warm your soul faster than a beaver building a bonfire.

manxpub.com

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5. The Lieutenant's Pump

4.3 (2319)

361 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M9, Canada

Tucked away in the bustling city of Ottawa, lies a peculiar drinking haven known as The Lieutenant's Pump. Equal parts lively pub and eccentric watering hole, this quirky establishment is a must-visit for those seeking a dash of British charm with a hint of Canadian cheekiness. As you step foot inside, be prepared to be greeted by a medley of eccentric characters, both human and decorative, all eager to share a pint and a witty anecdote or two.

www.lieutenantspump.ca

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6. Elgin Beer Project

4.3 (330)

399 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M9, Canada

Nestled in the heart of Ottawa, the Elgin Beer Project is a delightful haven for beer enthusiasts and thirsty travelers alike. With its funky vibe and lively atmosphere, this joint boasts a fine selection of craft beers that will have you saying, "Oh, hoppy day!" Whether you're a dedicated brew snob or just a casual sipper, this place will make you hop with joy as you indulge in their liquid finery.

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7. The Senate Sports Tavern and Eatery

4.2 (636)

33 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5M4, Canada

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey at The Senate Sports Tavern and Eatery in Ottawa. This lively establishment is the epitome of a sports fan's paradise, where you can cheer on your favorite team while indulging in delectable bites and sipping on refreshing libations. The ambiance is so electric that even if your team loses, you'll come out feeling like a winner – well-fed and thoroughly entertained.

www.thesenate.ca

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8. The Dominion Tavern

4.5 (447)

33 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7, Canada

Welcome to the eccentric haven in Ottawa, The Dominion Tavern! This unpretentious watering hole defies the laws of time, ensuring patrons are whisked away to a retro wonderland where flannel fashion and ironic mustaches reign supreme. Step inside and prepare to embark on a wild journey through the vintage glory days, where cheap drinks flow like maple syrup, and live bands provide the perfect soundtrack to set your hips a-swingin'. Brace yourself for an avalanche of nostalgic vibes as you soak in the Dominion Tavern's delightfully tacky decor. Uniting the charm of a bygone era with a generous portion of kitsch, this place screams, "Weird is good, and being cool is overrated." From the quirky collection of mismatched furniture to the framed portraits of long-forgotten local celebrities, each corner of this establishment is an immersive delight, ready to transport unsuspecting patrons on a whimsical journey that's part time travel, part gin and tonic. Whether you're a master in the art of the air guitar or a self-proclaimed karaoke superstar, the Dominion Tavern has you covered. Be ready to bust a move on the postage-stamp-sized dance floor or embrace the diva within as you grace the cramped karaoke stage. With a crowd that ranges from hipsters in their prime to nostalgic Gen-Xers reliving their glory days, this lively watering hole guarantees an unforgettable night of mingling, hollering to classic tunes, and perhaps discovering some hidden dance moves you never knew you possessed. So, if you're up for a memorable evening in Ottawa's most charming time capsule, make your way to The Dominion Tavern. Just remember to leave your inhibitions at the door, fasten your suspenders, and buckle up for a hilarious adventure that will surely keep your Instagram feed buzzing with envy.

www.tavern.ca

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9. The Whiskey Bar

3 (47)

112 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5T5, Canada

Welcome to The Whiskey Bar, an establishment in Ottawa that will make you raise your glass and your eyebrows. This place takes its love for whiskey so seriously that even the menu appears to be speaking with a Scottish accent. With a decor that resembles an Irish pub crossed with a whisky distillery, this joint will make you feel like you stumbled into a Tipsy Time Machine. Prepare yourself for an impressive array of whiskey options that'll leave you resembling the emoji with hearts for eyes. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just someone who enjoys spelling "whiskey" with an "e," this bar has got you covered. Just be sure to pace yourself, because you might end up whispering sweet nothings to a bottle of Glenfiddich before the night is through.

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10. Heart & Crown - ByWard Market

4.2 (2847)

67 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5P5, Canada

Nestled in the vibrant ByWard Market of Ottawa, Heart & Crown is a jovial Irish pub that will undoubtedly steal your heart (and possibly your sobriety). As you step through its charming wooden doors, be prepared to embark on a delightful adventure filled with Guinness-fueled merry-making and lively music that will make even the shyest of wallflowers attempt an Irish jig. Whether you're yearning for a hearty plate of comfort food, a pint of liquid courage, or just some good old banter with friendly locals, you'll find all of that and more at Heart & Crown.

www.heartandcrown.pub

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11. The Albion Rooms

4.4 (657)

33 Nicholas St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9M7, Canada

Welcome to The Albion Rooms in the heart of Ottawa, where elegant meets eclectic and traditional greets trendy with a firm handshake. Anything but your average hotel, this gem invites you to step into a world where the fusion of chic and history is as seamless as a squirrel doing ballet on ice. Prepare yourself for a whimsical hosting experience that's destined to leave you wondering if you've unwittingly stumbled into Alice's Wonderland.

thealbionrooms.com

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12. Mugshots

2244 Innes Rd, Gloucester, ON K1B 4C4, Canada

Welcome to Mugshots in Ottawa, where you can enjoy a unique dining experience combined with a hint of mischief. This funky joint, nestled in the heart of the city, is a haven for those seeking a taste of quirky charm. With its walls adorned with captivating mugshots of famous celebrities, you'll find yourself pondering life's eternal question – which Hollywood star would you want as your cellmate?

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ottawa by plane is to fly into Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) from major cities such as Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.

Car

The best way to get to Ottawa by car is via Highway 401, which connects Ottawa to major cities such as Toronto and Montreal.

Train

The best way to get to Ottawa by train is via Via Rail Canada from major Canadian cities such as Toronto and Montreal.

Boat

While Ottawa doesn't have direct access by boat, travelers can take a cruise down the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which connects Ottawa to other cities in Ontario including Kingston and Brockville.

Bus

The best way to get to Ottawa by bus is to take Greyhound or Megabus from cities such as Toronto, Montreal, or New York City.

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