Liam SmithThe East End of Ottawa has a little bit of everything—gritty, upscale, quiet, and vibrant, all rolled into one. Rockcliffe Park is all about stunning estates and embassy vibes, while Vanier and Overbrook keep it real with a mix of urban grit and character.
Alta Vista serves up cosy suburban streets perfect for families, and New Edinburgh charms with bakeries and coffee shops. Then there’s Orleans, Blackburn Hamlet, Beacon Hill, Cumberland, and Rockland, rounding out the East End’s energy.
- Where is Ottawa’s East End?
- How to Get Around the East End
- Best Time to Go to Ottawa's East End
- What to Do and See in and around East End
- Visit the Canadian Aviation Museum and explore flying innovations
- Stroll the Strathcona Park paths
- Hike the Mer Bleue trails
- Enjoy Rockcliffe Lookout’s panoramic Ottawa River scenery
- Explore Vanier Museopark’s exhibits of francophone heritage
- Tour the 1920s village building in Cumberland Museum
- Watch movies at Landmark Cinemas Orleans
- Reflect at Humanics Sanctuary surrounded by art sculptures
- Enjoy swimming and nature at the Petrie Island Beach
- Catch a baseball game at the Ottawa Stadium
- Where to Eat and Drink in and around East End
- Where to Stay in near East End
- FAQs about Ottawa’s East End
Where is Ottawa’s East End?
Ottawa’s East End is located east of the Rideau River and south of the Ottawa River. It’s the part of the city where the rivers frame vibrant neighbourhoods like Vanier, Orleans, and Rockcliffe Park.
The area sprawls to include spots like Alta Vista, Beacon Hill, Blackburn Hamlet, Cumberland, and Rockland.
Just remember: if you’re heading east from downtown, you’ll know you’re in the East End once the Rideau River is behind you!
How to Get Around the East End
Closest bus stop: Getting around Ottawa’s East End is pretty straightforward. OC Transpo buses have you covered, with routes running all through neighbourhoods like Vanier, Orleans, and Alta Vista—just hop on a bus, and you’ll be set.
The Blair Transit Station is your go-to for connecting to the wider city, including the O-Tran LRT Line 1, making it easy to go downtown (or the rest of Ottawa).
If you’re driving, major roads like Innes Road, Montreal Road, and St Laurent Boulevard will guide you through the area. And for cyclists, the East End boasts plenty of bike paths, especially near the rivers and green spaces.
Best Time to Go to Ottawa’s East End
The best time to visit the East End depends on what you’re into, but if you ask me, spring and summer are when things come alive. One event you can’t miss is the Vanier Sugar Festival—an all-about maple syrup treats event, typically held in March or April.
If you’re more of a summer foodie, the Orléans Ribfest & Poutine in June is where the magic happens. Think mouthwatering ribs, crispy poutine, and a great mix of music and good vibes.
And if fresh produce and charming markets are your thing, check out the Cumberland Farmers’ Market, which runs weekly from spring through fall. So, whether you love food, festivals, or outdoor vibes, the East End has something to keep you smiling.
What to Do and See in and around East End
Visit the Canadian Aviation Museum and explore flying innovations
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Website: https://ingeniumcanada.org/aviation
Address: 11 Aviation Pkwy
Contact details: +1 613 991 3044
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adult (ages 18 and above) – $16.75
- Senior (ages 60 and above) – $14.50
- Student (ages 18 and above with valid ID) – $14.50
- Youth (ages 3 to 17) – $11.50
- Children ages 2 and under – Free
- Family (6 people – max. of 2 adults) – $42.25
The Canadian Aviation and Space Museum is one of the largest aviation museums in the country, offering an impressive collection of aircraft. You’ll come across everything from early 20th-century planes to modern jets and sleek spacecraft.
They also have interactive displays that are fun to check out. There’s also a section focused on Canada’s contributions to space exploration, including satellites and Canadarm-related artefacts.
Plus, the museum grounds outside host occasional demonstrations, like vintage flybys, that are well worth checking out.
Stroll the Strathcona Park paths
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Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/residents/recreation-and-parks/parks-and-green-space
Address: 25 Range Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 580 2595
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Strathcona Park along the Rideau River is a peaceful spot for a walk, jog, or picnic. The park is best known for its beautifully maintained trails that wind through open fields, shaded areas, and alongside the picturesque river.
One of the park’s highlights is its famous Echo Drive Fountain. This fountain marks the site where Ottawa’s first public drinking fountain was erected in 1912, showcasing early efforts in urban beautification,
The Adàwe Crossing overlooking the Rideau River also gives you great vantage points to soak in the views or snap some photos, especially when the golden hour sets in.
Hike the Mer Bleue trails
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Website: http://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/mer-bleue
Address: Ridge Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 239 5000
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Mer Bleue Conservation Area is a gem just outside Ottawa that offers a different experience from your usual hike. It’s a rare boreal peat bog—a unique ecosystem you won’t find everywhere!
The trails, especially the boardwalk loops, make exploring a breeze, and you’re treated to incredible scenery that feels untouched by time. The informational signs along the way give fascinating tidbits about the flora and fauna.
Mer Bleue’s hiking trails are also worth your time. They vary in difficulty, so whether you’re looking for a casual hike or a more vigorous adventure, you’ll find a trail here!
Enjoy Rockcliffe Lookout’s panoramic Ottawa River scenery
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Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Rockcliffe Lookout gives you some of the most stunning views of the Ottawa River and its surrounding landscape. The lookout is perched high enough to give you sweeping vistas, and there are plenty of spots to appreciate the view or have a picnic.
Since it’s near Rockcliffe Park, you’ll be close to historic landmarks like Rideau Hall and the Governor General’s Residence—worth the detour!
Explore Vanier Museopark’s exhibits of francophone heritage
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Website: http://www.museoparc.ca/
Address: 300 Pères-Blancs Ave 2e étage
Contact details: +1 613 842 9871
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 10 AM to 4 PM
The Vanier Museopark is a charming spot dedicated to celebrating the heritage and culture of Ottawa’s French-speaking community. It’s housed in an unassuming building housing a little museum showcasing the community’s history, traditions, and more.
The Museopark also highlights Ottawa’s long-standing ties to maple syrup production, and even has a sugar shack nearby. If you’re visiting when the shack is active, you’ll have the chance to witness the syrup-making process and taste the results!
Keep an eye on their website to time your visit during their activities for kids and families.
Tour the 1920s village building in Cumberland Museum
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Address: 2940 Ch. Old Montreal Rd, Cumberland
Contact details: +1 613 580 2988
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adult – $9.14
- Senior (ages 65 and above) – $6.47
- Student (with valid ID) – $6.47
- Youth (ages 6 to 17) – $6.47
- Children ages 5 and under – Free
- Family (2 adults and accompanying children) – $23.15
Cumberland Heritage Village Museum is like a time capsule of 1920s and 1930s rural Ontario. It has dozens of authentic buildings, like a one-room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a working general store.
Inside, you’ll often find interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and friendly staff in period costumes. You’ll also get hands-on experiences like handling old tools, baking with historic recipes during special events, or learn about early farming techniques.
There are also many kid-friendly activities, like miniature train rides and old-fashioned games on the lawn. Just a heads up: the museum spans a large outdoor area where most attractions are located, so wear comfortable shoes!
Watch movies at Landmark Cinemas Orleans
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Website: http://www.landmarkcinemas.com/orleans/contact-us
Address: 3752 Innes Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 830 4400
Operating hours:
- Various times throughout the day
Landmark Cinemas in Orleans is one of those cinemas where you’ll appreciate comfort aside from the entertainment. For starters, they’ve got those awesome reclining seats! They also have state-of-the-art sound systems and crisp visuals.
What’s even better is the theatre isn’t overwhelmingly massive, so it’s perfect if you prefer something uncrowded. There’s also a variety of snacks beyond the usual popcorn, so you’ll love the variety here!
Reflect at Humanics Sanctuary surrounded by art sculptures
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Website: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EEW9jgK96pfX2b8g9
Address: 3468 Ch. Old Montreal Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 697 1525
Operating hours:
- Monday, Thursday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adults – $10
- Students and Seniors – $7
- Children under 10 – Free
- Family (2 adults and children under 18) – $25
Associate Member (annual fee):
- Individual membership – $25
- Family membership ( for 2 adults and children under 18) – $60
Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park is an outdoor gallery and meditation space featuring stunning sculptures, art installations, and spiritual spaces. Many sculptures here are themed around humanity, cultural diversity, and more.
Some challenge your perspective, while others focus on pure beauty, like intricate carvings or symbolism that reflects the world’s interconnectedness. It’s not crowded or overwhelming, so it’s perfect for some downtime.
Enjoy swimming and nature at the Petrie Island Beach
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Website: https://www.petrieisland.org/beaches
Address: 795 Tweddle Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 580 2595
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10:30 AM to 9 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 7 PM
Petrie Island Beach is perfect for those wanting to soak up the sun. Swimming in its calm waters is always a big attraction, and lifeguards are often on duty during peak times. There are also picnic areas here.
Washrooms, change rooms, and rental options for kayaks or paddle boards make it convenient to enjoy more than just swimming.
The area is amazing for nature lovers, too, with its walking paths and trails through wetlands filled with local wildlife.
Catch a baseball game at the Ottawa Stadium
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Website: http://ottawatitans.com/
Address: 300 Coventry Rd.
Contact details: +1 343 633 2273
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Catching a baseball game at the Ottawa Stadium is one of the best ways to have fun in Ottawa East. This stadium is home to the Ottawa Titans baseball team, and game days here are always lively and exciting.
If you’ve got little ones, they’ll love the cheerful mascot appearances and kid-friendly entertainment scattered throughout the venue. For adults, grab a beer and snack, sit back, and enjoy the view of the field—and of course, the game!
Where to Eat and Drink in and around East End
Rockcliffe Boathouse Restaurant & Marina
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Address: Promenade Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier
Phone: +1 613 744 5253
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Good to know: Ideal for romantic dinner or intimate gatherings
Rockcliffe Boathouse is tucked by the marina, offering serene river views that pair perfectly with their great food. Their menu has casual yet satisfying appetisers like cheese sticks, wings, onion rings, and fries—easy crowd-pleasers.
Their pizza and nachos hit the spot and are super easy to share. When it’s time for mains, their fish and chips and chicken fingers stand out.
Drinks here are worth mentioning, too. Cocktails are always in demand, with the Ocean Gin and Strawberry Daiquiri being local favourites.
The SconeWitch (Beechwood)
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Address: 35 Beechwood Ave.
Phone: +1 613 741 4141
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Good to know: Great for families with kids
The SconeWitch is where you go when you need a quick bite or freshly baked comfort food. Their scones are undeniably the stars, coming in various flavour combinations like lemon poppy seed and savoury herb & onion.
You also can’t leave without trying their homemade spreads. Pair those scones with their signature jams like lemon curd or cranberry-mango chutney—or better yet, buy one to bring home!
Don’t leave without trying the iconic SconeWitches, featuring their baked scones turned into sandwiches. Popular picks include poached salmon and smoked turkey.
The Soca Kitchen
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Address: 224 Beechwood Ave., Vanier
Phone: +1 613 695 9190
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5 PM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 5 PM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, 5 PM to 8 PM
Good to know: Great for families or groups
The Soca Kitchen is especially known for its raw bar and Spanish-inspired dishes. Brunch here kicks off strong with fresh oysters, fish, and vegetarian tacos. There’s also the Caribbean-style whole fried fish of the day, rightfully voted one of their best.
Then, pair these with crowd-favourite drinks like the Fusion Mojito or Soca Caesar, because why not? When it’s time for lunch or dinner, there’s a lot to dive into, from charred eggplant to a 10-oz striploin steak and frites and various paella options (a must-try for big groups!).
Delicious Steak House
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Address: 2080 St Joseph Blvd, Orléans
Phone: +1 613 830 3366
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4 PM to 9:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 4 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 4 PM to 9 PM
Good to know: Ideal for intimate dinners or special occasions
Delicious Steak House consistently delivers high-quality cuts and a variety of flavours that appeal to everyone. Ribeye, New Yorker, fillet mignon—it’s steak heaven here!
For non-meat eaters, they have fantastic honey ginger-glazed salmon and crusted chicken. If you’re starting with appetisers, make sure to try their standout escargot or lobster-crab cakes—our favorites!
For an extra special experience, pair your meal with something from their extensive wine list.
Clocktower Brew Pub New Edinburgh
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Address: 422 MacKay St.
Phone: +1 613 747 3777
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
- Tuesday – 11:30 AM to 1 AM
- Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Thursday and Friday – 11:30 AM to 1:30 AM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 12:30 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Good to know: Great for casual dining or group hangouts
Clocktower Brew Pub is perfect if you’re into hearty comfort foods. Start with their Clocktower nachos or dive into their classic fish and chips or chicken wings.
The poutine here is also worth a mention—you can never go wrong with loaded fries while sipping cold beer. If you’re starving, go for the meatloaf or one of their flatbreads, which are staples for a reason.
Now, this brewpub lives up to its name—they brew their own craft beers, and pairing one with their food is a no-brainer!
Where to Stay in near East End
Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa
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Address: 100 Coventry Rd.
Phone: +1 613 741 2300
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa is right off Highway 417, offering easy access to downtown and nearby attractions.
The rooms here are spacious, with comfortable beds, workspaces, flat-screen TVs, and free high-speed internet. There’s also a fully equipped gym, an indoor pool, a business centre, and meeting rooms.
Perfect for families, the hotel has suites, and cribs or rollaway beds can be requested. The best part? The entire family is welcome here, including Fido!
Les Suites Hotel Ottawa
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Address: 130 Besserer St.
Phone: +1 613 232 2000
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Les Suites Hotel offers apartment-style comfort blended with hotel convenience. Each suite features a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and separate living areas—ideal for relaxing after your East End journey.
Complimentary high-speed internet, an indoor pool, and a fitness centre round out the amenities. You can also benefit from their on-site parking, meeting rooms, and in-suite workspaces.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ottawa East – Orleans by IHG
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Address: 500 Brisebois Cres.
Phone: +1 613 824 8444
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites is a great choice for those seeking a quieter stay with convenient access, since it’s near Place d’Orleans shopping center and some local parks.
Its modern rooms include comfortable beds, workstations, mini-fridges, and microwaves. Plus, there’s free parking and complimentary breakfast!
As for its amenities, there’s an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and a lounge with WiFi—all you need for a complete stay!
Courtyard Ottawa East
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Address: 200 Coventry Rd.
Phone: +1 613 741 9862
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Courtyard Ottawa East simplifies your stay with modern amenities and convenient locations. Their rooms feature ergonomic workstations, mini-fridges, microwaves, and flat-screen TVs, making it suitable for both short and long stays.
There’s also an indoor pool, fitness centre, and free parking, adding convenience to the experience. Furthermore, it’s just minutes away from St Laurent Shopping centre and downtown Ottawa—great if you like to explore the city more.
