Liam SmithWelcome to Wellington Street
Wellington Street in Ottawa is where politics and poutine spoon each other.
I mean, you’ve got the grandiose Parliament Buildings throwing shade in the best way possible, and just a hop away, you’ve got local eateries where you can drown your political sorrows in gravy and cheese curds.
It’s the place where you’ll be walking by some serious history one second, then chuckling at cheeky street art the next. Plus, there’s always some kind of festival or street fair popping up when you least expect it.
- Welcome to Wellington Street
- Where is Wellington Street?
- How to Get to Wellington Street
- Best Time to Go to Wellington Street
- What to Do and See in Wellington Street
- Where to Eat and Drink in Wellington Street
- Where to Shop in Wellington Street
- Where to Stay near Wellington Street
- FAQs about Ottawa’s Wellington Street
Where is Wellington Street?
Wellington Street is right at the heart of Ottawa’s action, stretching from the historic Parliament Hill out westward across downtown.
This street is like the city’s backbone, connecting several iconic neighbourhoods and it’s where you’ll find a heap of cool government buildings, cafes, and nifty little shops.
How to Get to Wellington Street
Closest train station: You can hop off at the Parliament LRT station, where you literally can’t miss Wellington when you pop up from there.
Closest bus stop: If buses are more your jam, snag a ride on any number of routes that cruise by Parliament Hill; they all pretty much make a pit stop along Wellington Street.
Best Time to Go to Wellington Street
The best time to go to Wellington Street, Ottawa, is during the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend from May 25 to May 26, 2024. It’s not just any weekend—it’s the biggest running and walking party in Canada!
This event showcases six races, including the Ottawa Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, 2K, and Kids Marathon. Picture the buzz, the energy, and folks from all over the globe coming together right in the heart of Ottawa.
Seriously, if you want to catch Wellington Street at its most lively and get swept up in some real community spirit, this is the time to do it.
What to Do and See in Wellington Street
Explore Parliament Hill for a glimpse of Canada’s governance
– Media credit: killboy_p0werhead
Address: Wellington St.
Phone: +1 613-992-4793
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 6 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
Parliament Hill is like the ultimate must-see, and the first thing you’ll notice here is the Centennial Flame. It’s pretty epic and makes for a great photo op.
Visiting Parliament Hill isn’t just about snapping pictures, though. You get this cool, up-close look at where all of Canada’s big decisions get made.
Plus, they offer these guided tours, totally free, where you can dive into Canada’s history and see all the intricate details of the buildings.
Honour fallen soldiers at the Memorial Chamber
– Media credit: clicks_by_brij
Address: 111 Wellington St.
Phone: N/A
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM
Tucked inside the Peace Tower, the Memorial Chamber is a spot that just kind of commands silence.
The place is dedicated to soldiers who’ve given their lives, and everything from the books of remembrance with their names to the solemn architecture makes you stop and reflect. It’s a real moment of pause from the hustle and bustle outside.
No rush here; you can take your time. And the view from the Peace Tower, by the way, is absolutely worth it, because it puts a lot of things into perspective—literally and metaphorically.
Pay respects at the Terry Fox Statue, a symbol of courage
– Media credit: ontourwith.sam
Address: 90 Wellington St.
Phone: +1 866-811-0055
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Even if you don’t know his story, the Terry Fox statue just radiates inspiration. Terry Fox is a Canadian hero, and his Marathon of Hope across Canada is legendary.
The statue captures his determination and courage, and standing there, you kind of soak in that spirit. It’s right outside Parliament Hill, so you can’t miss it.
Just take a moment to read the plaque too; his story’s something everyone should know. Plus, it’s another great photo to remember your trip with, capturing a piece of true Canadian spirit.
Check out the National War Memorial
– Media credit: prlawless1
Address: Wellington St.
Phone: +1 866-522-2122
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
The National War Memorial is like a silent, powerful nod to all the Canadian heroes. Standing there, right in the heart of downtown, it kind of envelops you in this profound sense of gratitude and reflection.
They have these incredible ceremonies on Remembrance Day, but honestly, any day you go, it’s moving. And remember to keep an eye out for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the base of the monument.
It adds another layer of meaning to your visit, but it’s not just about the past, either. You get this real sense of ongoing respect and remembrance that’s pretty special.
Relax and have a picnic at Pindigen Park
– Media credit: lgayowski
Address: Wellington St.
Phone: +1 613-239-5000
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
If you’re looking to switch gears and find a little oasis in the city, Pindigen Park is the spot. It’s this perfect slice of green where you can chill out, have a picnic, or just lay back and watch the clouds do their thing.
What’s cool about Pindigen Park is that it’s not just green space, but the whole vibe of learning and cultural appreciation, with art installations and information about the indigenous heritage of the area.
Bring some snacks, a good book, or even your dog—it’s all good. It’s like this little escape in the middle of the urban hustle, where you can breathe easy for a bit.
Enjoy a guided tour of the Supreme Court of Canada
Address: 301 Wellington St.
Phone: +1 613-995-4330
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 5 PM
For something a bit different, you go to the Supreme Court of Canada, which is as grand as it sounds. They offer these free guided tours that are actually super interesting.
You’d think it’d be all legalese and stiff, but it’s fascinating to get insight into how Canada’s legal system ticks. The building itself is stunning, with all this history and grandeur.
Plus, the guides are really good at breaking down the complex stuff, so you walk away feeling pretty smart. And you might catch a glimpse of a real-life court session, which is totally worth your time, if I may say so.
Where to Eat and Drink in Wellington Street
Supply and Demand
Address: 1335 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613-680-2949
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 5 PM to 10 PM
Good to know: Perfect for seafood lovers
Supply and Demand is all about those scrumptious, locally sourced ingredients that just pop in your mouth. We’re talking about dishes like oysters on the half shell, beef tartare, and their infamous squid ink rigatoni.
It’s the perfect spot if you’re into trying a bit of everything, since their menu always keeps you on your toes. What you should really keep an eye out for, though, are their desserts like the caramel flan and chocolate basque cheesecake.
Wellington Gastropub
Address: 1325 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613-729-1315
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 5 PM to 9 PM
- Wednesday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 2 PM
Good to know: Ideal for craft beer enthusiasts
Wellington Gastropub is an absolute staple on Wellington Street for anyone who loves good beer and even better food.
From their braised beef short ribs to the ever-changing fish of the day and even some vegetarian options, they seriously cater to everyone’s taste.
The atmosphere is exactly what you’d hope for in a gastropub; it’s lively, it’s bustling, but it’s got this warm, inviting feeling. Moreover, they’ve got an impressive selection of local and international brews that are worth checking out.
Bar Lupulus
Address: 1242 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613-759-4677
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday, Thursday – 5 PM to 10 PM
- Tuesday and Wednesday – 5:30 PM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 11:30 PM
Good to know: Spot for rare beer finds and elevated bar food
If you’re in the mood for some craft beer and modern, funky food, Bar Lupulus has got you covered. They’ve taken the craft beer game to a whole new level with an insane selection that will make any beer lover’s heart skip a beat.
Plus, the food here is not an afterthought, either. We’re talking charcuterie boards, fancy cheese platters, raw bars, and some next-level mains like Sunchoke, Turbot and Wild Boar.
Absinthe
Address: 1208 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613-761-1138
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday and Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Thursday and Friday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 3 PM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for European fare lovers
Absinthe is where you go when you want comfort food but, like, elevated to an art form. They’ve got it all—from mouth-watering steak frites and scallops to their legendary salmon and belly and pasta dish.
One thing you’ll want to mark your calendar for is their absinthe service. It’s not just a drink; it’s practically a ceremony, complete with the traditional absinthe spoon and sugar cube.
Whether or not you’re an absinthe fan, it’s something you’ve got to experience at least once.
Petit Bill’s Bistro
Address: 1293 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613-729-2500
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM
- Thursday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
- Saturday – 4 PM to 9:30 PM
Good to know: Great for family and groups
Petit Bill’s Bistro is your ticket to experiencing that small-town French bistro vibe right here in Ottawa. They serve everything from killer lobster poutine, lobster tail, and beef short rib to the juiciest burgers, not to mention their signature duck confit.
The space is warm and welcoming—the kind of place you can pop into for a casual yet hearty meal, be it a date night or a dinner with the folks.
And the service matches the mood perfectly—friendly and attentive, with a knack for making every guest feel special.
Where to Shop in Wellington Street
Kindred Shop and Studio
Address: 1243 Wellington St. W.
Phone: [email protected]
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Kindred Shop and Studio is a delightful little spot where you can find the most unique gifts and goodies. They’re all about supporting local artists, so you’ll see a bunch of handcrafted jewellery, art prints, and some pretty cool housewares.
It’s a bit like a treasure hunt because you never know what new finds you’ll discover. And keep an eye out for their workshop schedule too, since you could join in on a crafty evening and make something awesome yourself.
Victoire Boutique
Address: 1282 Wellington St. W Unit B.
Phone: +1 613-421-0089
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 5 PM
Victoire Boutique is like the go-to place for anyone with a love for Canadian fashion. You can score some super stylish dresses, indie designer pieces, and quirky accessories here.
They’ve got a fab mix of vintage-inspired and contemporary clothing that’ll definitely add some excitement to your wardrobe. And the vibe here is super friendly—it feels just like shopping with your best buds.
Maker House Co.
Address: 987 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613-422-6253
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 11 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Maker House Co. is all about local, sustainable goods—think local artworks, kitchen and bath stuff, as well as candles and some greeting cards. If you’re ever looking for a gift that’s got a story, this is your place.
And it’s not all shopping; they’re community-minded to the core, hosting events and raising money for neighbourhood projects. So yeah, shopping here feels good on so many levels.
Trove Fashion
Address: 1000 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613-421-4216
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – 12 PM to 5 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 6 PM
If you’re keen on fashion but love sustainability, Trove Fashion is the jackpot. This consignment store is a haven for fashionistas who hunt for designer labels without the hefty price tags.
From chic bags to shoes and clothing, you’re practically in a pre-loved luxury heaven. And hey, if you’ve got some gently used designer items at home, consider bringing them here; you could make some cash while clearing out your closet.
Il Negozio Nicastro
Address: 1355 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613-729-9100
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Now, if you want authentic Italian groceries, Il Negozio Nicastro probably has them. It’s a family-run gem filled with all the best Italian staple ingredients: cheeses, cured meats—you name it.
They’ve got a deli counter where the sandwiches are top-notch, perfect for a grab-and-go lunch. If you’re into cooking, they offer specialty ingredients that’ll really elevate your next pasta night.
Oh, and don’t leave without trying some of their homemade treats—their cannoli are out of this world!
Where to Stay near Wellington Street
Lord Elgin Hotel
Address: 100 Elgin St.
Phone: +1 613-235-3333
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
The Lord Elgin Hotel is a classic place, offering some pretty sweet amenities like an indoor pool, a sauna, a fitness centre, and a gift shop right on-site, which you can browse before or after you stroll.
It oozes charm and history, which totally adds to its vibe. But here’s the kicker: it’s just a stone’s throw away from the Parliament Buildings, so it’s super convenient.
Plus, the views of Confederation Park are something you don’t want to miss. And my advice is: don’t skip their dining; the grub is top-notch.
Hilton Garden Inn
Address: 361 Queen St.
Phone: +1 613-234-6363
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
The Hilton Garden Inn on Queen Street is seriously a hot pick for staying close to Wellington Street. Take the indoor pool, for instance, perfect for a dip year-round, and the fitness centre that’s open 24/7 means you can sweat it out any time you feel like it.
What’s more is that you can always hit up the Tulip Bar and Restaurant on-site whenever you get hungry or in the mood for a drink or two. Now, the rooms here are all about being cosy with some being pet-friendly, so your furry buddy can tag along.
As for the perks, one of my favourites has got to be the EV charging station they have in their parking area. For anyone road-tripping with an electric vehicle, this is a game changer.
Ottawa Marriott Hotel
Address: 100 Kent St.
Phone: +1 613-238-1122
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
The Ottawa Marriott Hotel is a gem for families and business travellers alike. They’ve got this crazy cool rooftop restaurant that offers panoramic views of the city—a must-do for a unique dining experience.
Moreover, the rooms here are spacious and comfy. Plus, there’s an indoor pool and a kid’s playroom, which is pretty neat if you’re travelling with the little ones.
One thing to note is that it’s literally steps away from Wellington Street, making it a breeze to hop over to any attractions. Oh, and be sure to take advantage of their concierge for some insider tips on the area!
Sheraton Ottawa Hotel
Address: 150 Albert St.
Phone: +1 613-238-1500
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Honestly, the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel is one of those places that just feels like it’s in the middle of everything. You’ve got easy access to Wellington Street and a bunch of cool places to check out nearby.
The rooms are what you’d expect—clean, comfortable, and equipped with all the essentials. But it’s their on-site restaurants that’s a real perk, with Carleton Grill offering free breakfast and Sasha’s Lounge with small plates and cocktails.
Plus, they’re pet-friendly, so you can bring along your furry friend. Just a little heads up: the parking situation can be a bit tricky, so look into it before you arrive.
The Metcalfe Hotel by Gray Collection
Address: 123 Metcalfe St.
Phone: +1 613-231-6555
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
The Metcalfe Hotel is bursting with character and offers a kind of boutique vibe that’s hard to find. They’ve got a fitness centre, an indoor pool, an indoor basketball court, and the rooms—oh, they’re just the right mix of comfort and style.
If you’re into architecture, you’ll appreciate the building’s heritage. One thing you gotta do is check out their lobby; it’s cosy and perfect for chilling after a day of exploring.
Just so you know, they’ve got a sauna too, which is pretty perfect for relaxation after all that Wellington stroll.
