Liam SmithGet ready to paint the town red and head on to Ottawa’s nightlife scene! From the city’s sleek lounges to its pumping dance floors, we’ve handpicked the hottest nightclubs just for you.
You may or may not get wasted, but one thing’s for sure—you’ll have a blast in these spots!
The Lookout Bar
– Media from thelookoutbar
Address: 41 York St 2nd floor, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7
Contact details: +1 613-789-1624
Opening hours: Tuesday: 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Wednesday: 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM; Thursday: 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Friday: 4:00 AM – 2:00 AM; Saturday: 3:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Sunday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Planning a night out in Ottawa? Consider checking out The Lookout Bar and Nightclub, a popular LGBTQ+ and all-welcoming venue nestled in the vibrant Byward Market.
Perched atop a skyscraper, it offers a laid-back yet elegant rooftop experience with breathtaking city views. Whether you’re into exciting cocktails or shooter specials, there’s something for everyone throughout the week.
Their friendly bartenders are ready to whip up your favourite drinks. With 25 years of experience, The Lookout guarantees an unforgettable night in the heart of the Byward Market.
| Pro tips: Keep an eye on their social media or website to catch upcoming events like drag show nights, and be sure to grab your tickets early to avoid missing out! |
City At Night
– Media from city_atnight
Address: 222 Slater St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5H8
Contact details: (613) 241-2489
Opening hours: Friday and Sunday: 10:00 PM – 2:30 AM; Saturday: 9:00 PM – 2:30 AM
The City At Night is where it’s at for a modern and trendy nightclub experience in Ottawa. With its cozy nooks and lively vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a fun night out.
Despite its small size, this place is buzzing with funky lights and an electric atmosphere. It’s Ottawa’s go-to for underground electronic beats brought to you by the city’s top DJs and event organizers.
Beyond just a club, it’s a place where culture and community thrive. So, if you fancy a night with pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and a community vibe, this is the place to be!
| Pro tips: Parking near The City At Night is usually easy and free. You can find plenty of street parking within a few blocks, which beats paying $20 at the garages in Byward. |
Hyde & Seek
– Media from hydeandseeknights
Address: 130 George St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5W4
Contact details: +1 613-714-5084
Opening hours: Friday to Saturday: 11:00 PM – 2:30 AM
Check out Hyde & Seek Nightclub, a top-notch hotspot in the vibrant heart of Ottawa’s Byward Market. With stylish leather seats, polished tile floors, and stunning artwork, it’s the ideal spot for corporate events, birthdays, or a fun night out with friends.
They even host K-Pop nights, so you can groove to your favourite tunes while enjoying cocktails and attempting some dance moves! Not to mention, the staff is amazing, extremely respectful and helpful throughout the whole night, and the security will make you feel safe on top of everything.
| Pro tips: Just a heads up about the dress code: they don’t allow baggy clothes, headwear, sweatpants, ripped jeans, hoodies, sandals or slides, sleeveless T-shirts, side bags, or jerseys. |
Berlin Nightclub
– Media from 56.berlin
Address: 56 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 7A2
Contact details: +1 613-922-2937
Opening hours: Friday to Saturday: 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Berlin Nightclub is an absolute gem with its three-room setup smack dab in the Market area. Boasting a great music lineup and a team that’s top-notch pro, it’s the place to be for nightlife lovers.
Whether you’re feeling chill and want to catch up with pals on one floor or itching to hit the dance floor on another, Berlin Nightclub has you covered.
It’s not just about the parties here, though. Berlin stays true to its mission by hosting monthly exhibitions, pop-up shops, and more, keeping the vibe fresh and exciting.
| Pro tips: With the club’s layout, the top and bottom floors can get quite loud, making it tough to chat with your pals. That’s why the middle floor is your go-to spot if you want to balance the party vibes with some quality conversation. |
The Show Ottawa
– Media from theshowottawa
Address: 104 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5P5
Contact details: +1 613-882-5392
Opening hours: Thursday to Saturday: 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Since kicking off in April 2018, The Show has become a hot spot right smack dab in the heart of the Byward Market. It’s where the party’s at, with loads of fun events like ladies’ nights and Lucky Charms -Saint Patrick’s Day Party.
Trust us, you won’t want to miss out on what they’ve got brewing. Be sure to swing by their website for all the latest updates and happenings!
| Pro tip: Just a heads up, this spot caters mainly to the college and university crowd, so you’ll find a younger crowd here, typically under 25. |
The Hudson
– Media from thehudsonottawa
Address: 158 Rideau St #1/2, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J9
Contact details: +1 613-799-7721
Opening hours: Friday to Saturday: 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Enter the bustling streets of downtown Ottawa and discover The Hudson, a cleverly themed New York-style nightclub that commands attention. Tucked away on Rideau St., right in the heart of downtown, this nightclub promises weekend excitement infused with welcoming vibes.
The interiors exude elegance, while the skilled bartenders craft an array of top-notch drinks to satisfy all cravings. And the premium events are the norm, thanks to their dedicated team that aims to make every night memorable.
| Pro tips: When the party kicks into high gear and everyone starts feeling the vibe, things can heat up pretty quickly, and the air might get a bit stuffy. So, if you’re not up for getting cozy in a sweaty dance crowd, just keep an eye out and find your comfortable spot. |
The Palace
– Media from thepalaceottawa
Address: 400A Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J9
Contact details: +1 613-366-1045
Opening hours: Friday to Saturday: 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
If you’re craving that dose of glitz and glam in your nightlife, The Palace is a place to check out! Nestled right in the heart of the ByWard Market, this multi-level nightclub is the go-to spot for those who want to immerse themselves in a world of pulsating beats and vibrant vibes.
With renowned DJs and live bands in the mix, the energy at The Palace stays sky-high, and you’ll have a night that lasts well into the early hours!
You can expect to groove to afrobeat amidst luxury chandeliers and lavish decor at The Palace. It’s more than just a party; it’s a pure indulgence, blending flash and culture for an unforgettable night out!
| Pro tip: Don’t fret about waiting in line because each VIP booth and table has a private entrance and a VIP host. Keep in mind that all reservations require a $100 deposit to secure your spot! |
NUVO Lounge 295
– Media from nuvo_lounge295
Address: 295 Dalhousie St #1, Ottawa, ON K1N 7E5
Contact details: +1 343-596-5400
Opening hours: Friday to Sunday: 11:00 PM – 2:30 AM
Nestled in the heart of Dalhousie, NUVO Lounge offers a relaxed vibe with its dance floor.
What’s impressive is how NUVO Lounge maintains its spaciousness even when bustling with patrons. Thanks to its multi-level layout, there’s plenty of room to mingle without feeling cramped.
Let’s talk about ambiance – NUVO’s themed lighting sets the perfect mood. Neon hues dance through the windows, syncing with the beats and adding an extra layer of cool to your night out. So, if you’re after a laid-back evening with good vibes, NUVO Lounge 295 won’t disappoint!
| Pro tip: Keep in mind that there’s indoor parking available at the back of NUVO for just $5 all night. If you prefer street parking, you’ll find spots within walking distance at no charge. |
The Sky Lounge
– Media from skyloungeottawa
Address: 73 York St Top Floor, Ottawa, ON K1N 5T2
Contact details: +1 613-790-1685
Opening hours: Friday to Saturday: 9:30 PM – 2:00 AM
The Sky Lounge makes every night a unique experience. How? Well, it’s hosted by experienced DJs and professional hosts who know how to keep the party going.
Plus, it’s perched on top of a towering building and offers an unbeatable view of the city skyline. It’s a thrill like no other, especially when combined with a few drinks to get the party started.
But don’t be fooled by the height – even though indoors, the place is surprisingly roomy. The dance floor? It’s spacious and squeaky clean, giving you all the space you need to show off your dance moves without feeling like sardines in a can.
| Pro tip: It’s also a plus that they’ve got their photographer on hand to capture all the unforgettable moments. Just pay a small fee, and you’ll have your photos emailed within a week. |
The Latin Paradise
– Media from tlpottawa
Address: 133 Besserer St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J9
Contact details: +1 343-588-1773
Opening hours: Tuesday to Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Thursday and Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Latin Paradise is where Ottawa’s Latin music and dance enthusiasts and nightlife connoisseurs gather for an unforgettable experience.
Picture yourself enveloped in the vibrant rhythms of Latin music, moving to the beat as top-tier DJs set the dance floor ablaze—awesome, right?
And amidst the pulsating energy, you can indulge in a culinary journey with tantalizing dishes and refreshing beverages! It’s the perfect spot whether you’re celebrating a milestone or seeking a lively escape!
| Pro tip: Feel free to ask about their vegan or vegetarian options because they can definitely hook you up with some tasty dishes. |
The House of Targ
– Media from houseoftarg
Address: 1077 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W9
Contact details: +1 613-680-8274
Opening hours: Wednesday: 85:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Thursday: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Friday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
The House of Targ in ByWard Market is the spot for intense electronic beats and immersive sounds. This multi-room nightclub boasts cutting-edge lighting and sound systems, forming a mesmerizing blend of sights and sounds that’ll keep you on your feet.
Renowned DJs and producers keep the beats pumping with everything from drum and bass to techno and house music. It’s a diverse musical experience that’ll have you dancing until the early hours of the morning in an electrifying atmosphere!
Basically, The House of Targ is a mashup of an arcade, live music spot, and bar all rolled into one venue! While you’re enjoying live performances, don’t forget to dive into some vintage arcade games for an extra dose of fun and excitement.
| Pro tip: If you’re driving, your best bet for parking is along Sunnyside, the cross street. And if you’re taking public transit, just hop on the #6 or #7 – they’ll drop you right at their doorstep! |
Mavericks
– Media from mavericksottawa
Address: 221 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5X8
Contact details: +1 819-360-7094
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Mavericks is where Ottawa’s music scene comes alive – you won’t find its vibrant atmosphere anywhere else! With its considerable space, Mavericks is home to stellar concerts that draw crowds from all over.
The venue features a stylish and classy environment, complete with modern lighting and sound systems that makes for an unforgettable concert experience. You can also grab some beer or explore the variety of spirits available as you groove to the beats of your favourite artists.
| Pro tip: If you’re looking to book a booth or the venue for an event, reach out to them through their Instagram account for a quicker response! |
The Rainbow Bistro
– Media from rainbowbistro
Address: 76 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M6
Contact details: +1 613-859-5123
Opening hours: Thursday to Saturday: 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM
The Rainbow Bistro has quite the musical journey! Starting as Ottawa’s beloved “Home of the Blues,” it’s now a legendary spot for live performances.
You name them, they’ve probably graced the stage here – from blues greats like Koko Taylor and Son Seals to Canadian icons like the Tragically Hip and Blue Rodeo.
This venue has also seen the likes of Dr. John, Jeff Healey, and k.d. lang rockin’ out, making it a must-visit for music lovers of all genres. And let’s not forget about the local talents – The Rainbow Bistro is where they gather and shine, proving themselves in the city’s bustling music scene.
Guests usually have a blast here, soaking up the unique vibes and enjoying some strong drinks without breaking the bank. Plus, with the cozy size of the place, you can snag awesome seats no matter where you’re at in the building.
| Pro tip: We suggest grabbing some earplugs either at the event (they usually sell them there) or beforehand because the music can get super loud. |
Swizzles
– Media from swizzlesbar
Address: 246 B Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5E4
Contact details: +1 613-232-4200
Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Thursday to Friday: 3:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Saturday: 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Sunday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Right in the heart of downtown Ottawa, you’ll find Swizzles, the go-to spot for bringing folks together. They’ve got different gimmicks – from fabulous drag shows to live tunes and karaoke nights that are off the charts.
With a diverse lineup of events, including lively drag shows, charity gigs, sensational live music, and entertaining karaoke sessions, boredom is never on the menu. What sets Swizzles apart is not just its fantastic events but also its LGBTQ-friendly environment, attracting a vibrant mix of people.
So, whether you’re in the mood for themed dance nights or just kicking back, Swizzles is the go-to spot where you can truly be yourself and have an absolute blast!
| Pro tip: It tends to get pretty crowded, so it’s a smart move to reserve a table in advance if you want a comfy spot for you and your crew. Otherwise, you might find yourself just standing around. |
Dominion Tavern
– Media from dominiontavern
Address: 33 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7
Contact details: +1 613-241-7706
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 PM – 2:00 AM
If you’re after that true city feel, some pocket-friendly beers, and the only pool tables around, you can check out the Dominion Tavern – an Ottawa classic for over twenty years. They’ve got you covered for a good time with those one-of-a-kind pool tables, budget-friendly drinks, and tunes that take you back.
With live music blasting the joint every evening, the Dominion Tavern has become a go-to spot for punk, garage, and indie music lovers. It’s where you’ll catch intimate performances by top artists from the punk, metal, and rock scenes.
| Pro tips: If trendy isn’t your thing, then this spot might just be your vibe. It’s all about mutual respect here – treat the staff right, and they’ll treat you right. And when it comes to tunes, expect punk rock, metal, and good ol’ rock on the menu. |
