Aylmer
GatineauIntroduction
In the last ten years, Aylmer has been transformed from a bar town with violence, cheap housing, and unkempt properties, to a quaint, historic, and rejuvenated town. The change began when Aylmer amalgamated with the City of Gatineau. From there, money was spent on transforming the area by adding parks, renovating historic homes, developing infrastructure, and improving the mall.
Lifestyle
Aylmer is, above all else, a family town. Young professionals, with money, aren’t going to move 25mins from the downtown core, even if they can get a better deal on a condo. Sure, you’ll find retired couples, young couples, but if people don’t have kids, they probably will soon. Because of the cheap Quebec daycare, many Ontario residents are moving across the river.
The Vibe
Aylmer has garage sales on every corner almost every weekend; kids playing hockey in the streets; neighbourhood barbecues, and even neighbourhood fundraisers. Parents are up early to take their kids to hockey practice at the local arena; they spend their Saturday evenings at one of the many local restaurants, like Ambrosia, or bowling at disco bowling night. This is an active community, and one that is intent on keeping their streets safe.
Meet the Neighbours
This neighbourhood is ideal for families and those looking to start a family. With parks on every corner, great schools, and quick access to the beach, there is no better place to raise a family. Young couples cross the bridge to set up shop in Aylmer because of the abundance of green space and the quaint historic feel. This is your minivan, two kid family kind of town.
In the Area
Aylmer is rapidly growing, but the city is still intent on keeping a small town feel. There is a large mall, Les Galleries d’Aylmer, which has many shops, a bank, a pharmacy and a grocery store. There are restaurants throughout, many gyms, and a few pool halls.
18 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Aylmer is full of people trying to get to work in Ottawa. What does this mean? Traffic! The fastest way to get from Aylmer to Ottawa is via the Champlain Bridge. Many people opt to bike, as there are excellent paths headed right downtown. There is also the Park and Ride at Rivermead. But get there early! Parking spots fill up fast.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Aylmer is in Quebec, which means, that yes, there are many Francophone residents. In fact, more than 50% of residents in Aylmer still speak French. Don’t be discouraged! This doesn’t mean you won’t get service in English or be able to communicate with your neighbours. Most people are bilingual, and have put the French-English war behind them.
Dollars & Sense
This family-friendly community is full of young families with mortgages. Yes, there are quaint coffee shops, but these places are usually filled with young adults or teenagers. The families spend their money at McDonalds or Tim Hortons, of which there are quite a few in town.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Bistro Ambrosia
A quaint, family-fun restaurant on Main St. Once a large home, this cozy place offers freshly made pasta and excellent wine.
more infoHokkaido Sushi
Great sushi is a rare find in small towns. This all-you-can-eat sushi restaurant has top-notch, freshly made sushi.
more infoResto Bar Marina
With their large patio overlooking the river, this is a great place to meet friends after work. They also have live bands so you can dance the night away.
more infoBistro L’Autre Oeil
This restaurant is meant for beer lovers. They offer almost any kind of beer you can imagine.
more infoBistro Mexicana 129
Homemade Mexican food at its finest. You can also rent out the upstairs for private parties.
more infoPatates Loulou
This is a staple in Aylmer. Everyone knows that this is the best place to get fries in the city!
more info