NEIGHBOURHOOD

The ByWard Market

Ottawa

Introduction

The ByWard Market, one of Ottawa’s oldest and largest outdoor markets, is located between Sussex Drive and Cumberland Street, and runs from Rideau Street to Cathcart Street. The ByWard Market is the only place in the city where you’re sure to find people – even at 7 a.m. on a Sunday morning!

Lifestyle

The ByWard Market is the place to be if you’re looking for constant stimulation. There is literally an electric buzz of people, music, traffic, and bicycle bells. In this area, cars are a nuisance, which only lead to more noise, pollution and congestion. When you have everything you could need at your fingertips, why drive?

The Vibe

At all hours of the day and night, there is a palpable pulse to the streets of The ByWard Market. During the day, vendors, local farmers and artists set up shop throughout the area. At every corner, there are musicians, actors, and performers of all kinds sharing their talent with the public.

Meet the Neighbours

People of every lifestyle, income, and age share this small neighbourhood and make it their own. Because of proximity to the University of Ottawa, the Market is the central gathering ground for students and professors, green spaces filled with study groups or artists painting the scenery. Surrounding Federal buildings fill local bars and restaurants with suits toting briefcases rubbing elbows with the local artists and merchants.

In the Area

The ByWard Market appeals to a wide range of residents, from the poor penny-pinching student who lives on an extremely tight budget, to the six-figure-income professional with lots of disposable dough. In The ByWard Market, you can find anything from a tasty hotdog street stand to the best five-star restaurant.

Distance from City Hall

1.2 km

Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Hwy. 417 is within a kilometer, offering quick access to the city. There are two bridges leading to the Outaouais and its many scenic bike paths and hiking trails. For those without a vehicle, the transitway is within blocks and has a heavy flow of buses at all hours. As a bonus, the city is currently building the new light rail train (LRT) which will go through downtown.

The Good, the Bad & the Rest

There is no other area in Ottawa where you will find over 50 restaurants ranging from pub food, to vegan raw, to high-class steakhouses. Within blocks you’ll find museums, churches, schools, groceries, and the Rideau Centre which has all the stores you could possibly need. There is an off leash dog park, plenty of grass to sunbath, the Ottawa River for scenic walks, and the many bike paths for jogging.

Dollars & Sense

The ByWard Market is noisy, busy and congested. A popular truck route travels through the downtown core, creating heavy traffic, noise, and dangers to pedestrians and bikers. Needless to say, if you’re looking for a quiet oasis, this is not the place for you. The good? You can’t beat the energy on the streets. There is a constant buzz and it’s contagious and invigorating.

Neighbourhood Hotspots

Major Hill’s Park

Located just off Sussex, behind the Chateau Laurier, Major Hill's Park is an expansive green space, filled with trees and tulips, is a quiet getaway in the heart of the city.

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Confederation Park

You may come for the green space, but you’ll stay for the many outdoor concerts – and you’ll be back! Confederation Park is a local staple for lovers of the outdoors and culture aficionados alike.

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Rideau Canal

Although technically just past the ByWard Market boundary, this is one of the most popular places in Ottawa. Recognized as the longest skating rink in the winter, it’s the hub for sport enthusiasts and families.

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National Art Gallery:

Oddly enough, the National Art Gallery is known for its large spider. You'll know it when you see it. This building houses some of the most famous pieces of art.

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Royal Thai

Looking for something to eat, but can’t decide what you want? At the Royal Thai you can choose between Thai, Vietnamese or Chinese. The service is excellent and the food will always impress.

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Sasloves

Sasloves is Ottawa’s meat market, bringing local and fresh meat to the dinner tables of carnivores since 1954. You’ll find any kind of meat that you may be looking for!

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Street Corner

Demographic Data

The ByWard Market
Housing
Neighbours
Habits
Cheers!
Wheels
Commute