Did you know that the muscles controlling our eyes are the fastest in the human body?
That’s why keeping our vision in check is super important.
Luckily, Ottawa is filled with amazing optometrists. From regular checkups to treating eye conditions, these eye experts are here to make sure we see the world with clarity and comfort.
How much does an optometrist cost in Ottawa? For general eye exams, an optometrist in Ottawa may charge between $80 and $300, while glaucoma exams run from $100 to $150. Frames or contact lenses can be priced at $120 to $200 per pair. Keep in mind that factors like insurance coverage and additional services may affect the final cost. |
How We Chose the Best Optometrists in Ottawa
1. Merivale Vision Care
Business Address: 1547 Merivale Rd Unit 2, Ottawa, ON K2G 4V3
Website: merivalevisioncare.com
Instagram: instagram.com/eyeseeyow
Phone Number: (613) 226-8446
Business Hours: Mon – Tue, Thurs: 9 AM – 7 PM
Wednesday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Established in 1987, Merivale Vision Care has been a trusted name in Ottawa’s vision care community. Among their optometrists is Dr. William Clarke, a sports enthusiast known for his involvement in sports vision and community outreach.
A patient’s journey begins with an eye exam to help their optometrists understand their concerns and tailor treatments to suit their unique requirements.
Next, with state-of-the-art equipment, they conduct precise vision tests, from assessing depth perception to testing color vision.
Lastly, they use their wide-field digital retinal imaging and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans to provide a comprehensive assessment of your eye health.
In addition to their eye care services, they offer a stylish selection of frames from leading brands like Tom Ford and Gucci. If you prefer contact lenses, you can easily order them online and have them delivered to your doorstep.
Pros
- Over 35 years of experience
- Specializes in sports vision
- Eye exams, vision tests, and eye health assessments
- Uses state-of-the-art technology
- Carries well-known brands
- Contact lens delivery
Cons
- Reports of unfriendly staff
This place is amazing!!!
“This place is amazing!!! The atmosphere is so welcoming and the staff is so friendly. Everyone (doctor, front desk, and dispensing) made my appointment such a good memory! Can’t wait for my next one! The interior is so organized and pretty as well. Definitely a strong 5 star recommendation from me :)”
– Popcorn B, Google Review
The entire team provide excellent customer service
“Dr. Clarke and the entire team at Merivale Vision Care provide excellent customer service. They care for their patients and have state-of-the-art equipment for a thorough and complete eye examination. I highly recommend them!”
– Robert Monet, Google Review
2. Laurier Optical
Business Address: 50 Rideau St #320, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J7
Website: laurier-optical.com/eye-exam-rideau
Instagram: instagram.com/laurieroptical
Phone Number: (613) 569-2222
Business Hours: Mon – Sat: 10 AM – 9 PM
Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Laurier Optical has a team of highly certified eye doctors and optometrists. Among their professionals is Dr. Saleh Yaacoub, a Doctor of Optometry specializing in myopia control and scleral lens fitting.
Unlike other clinics, they welcome walk-ins for eye exams.
Following your exam, they provide a detailed report on your eye health and address any specific concerns you may have.
For those with diabetes in Ontario, Laurier Optical covers regular eye exams, provided you bring proof from your doctor and a list of medications.
And, their range of fashionable eyeglasses includes brands like Tom Ford, Gucci, and Prada, catering to various styles and budgets.
Don’t forget their online promotions, offering deals like 2-for-1 frames and lenses and discounts of up to 35% on designer frames.
To top it off, Laurier Optical offers direct billing for added convenience, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Pros
- Specializes in myopia control and scleral lens fitting
- Welcomes walk-ins
- Covers regular eye exams for diabetics
- Fashionable eyeglass brands
- Has online promotions
- Offers direct billing
Cons
- Reports of terrible customer service
Quick-thinking, professional, and gracious
“The five stars are for the quick-thinking, professional and gracious actions of the team at Laurier Optical. I landed in Ottawa for a three-day business trip only to find out that I forgot to bring extra daily contacts or glass! I didnt realize this until after I threw away the one pair I had landed with. Sigh. With my husband guiding me to the shop, I told the team my issue and they found a suitable replacement in minutes. I could see clearly again! Kindness is so rare, but you will find it here.”
– Tanya Seajay, Google Review
Kept the testing more casual instead of a rigid exam
“The exam was with Dr Saleh Yaacoub, a Waterloo grad who has got some good experience under his belt. Very relaxed and a nice chat kept the testing more casual instead of a rigid exam. I think that style was how he was able to hit the prescription bang on.”
– Hugh Thorne, Google Review
3. Bailey Nelson
Business Address: 50 Rideau St Unit 266 A, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J7
Website: baileynelson.com/pages/rideau-centre
Instagram: instagram.com/baileynelsonca
Phone Number: (613) 216-1417
Business Hours: Mon – Sat: 10 AM – 9 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Bailey Nelson’s goal is to bring the joy back to eye care and turn an ‘I have to’ situation into an ‘I get to’ opportunity. Dr. Fady Rizk, an optician and optometrist with a degree from Georgian College and the University of Waterloo, leads their team.
Their independent optometrist conducts thorough tests for various vision and health issues. Furthermore, they offer remote eye exams, combining convenience with professional service.
Bailey Nelson doesn’t just stop at eye exams; they offer a range of stylish frames and lenses starting from $189, complete with anti-glare and scratch-resistant coatings.
Additionally, their blue light filter option provides relief for those spending long hours in front of screens, promoting better sleep quality.
For added convenience, Bailey Nelson offers direct billing and partners with major insurance providers like Sun Life and Manulife.
Pros
- Led by an optician and optometrist
- Conducts thorough tests for vision and health
- Offers remote eye exams
- Anti-glare and scratch-resistant frames
- Blue light filter option
- Offers direct billing
Cons
- Reports of wrong prescriptions
Absolutely fantastic experience at Bailey Nelson’s!
“Absolutely fantastic experience at Bailey Nelson’s! Hugo provided outstanding customer service. Not only was he professional and knowledgeable about their eyewear, but he also went above and beyond to ensure my sunglasses fit perfectly by offering adjustments. Couldn’t be happier with the service and the product. Highly recommended! Cheers to Hugo and the team at the Bailey Nelson’s!”
– Nick Koushan, Google Review
Simply amazing customer service
“This is the second time I’ve gotten glasses from them and each time they’ve been extremely professional, helpful, knowledgeable and simply amazing customer service. The staff are always so friendly and make the whole experience very easy. The doctors are also very well to deal with and take the time to answer any questions you have. I also like their deals for getting two pairs so I can always get my RX and RX sunglasses. Significantly cheaper than even getting one pair elsewhere.”
– Nancy Wasif, Google Review
4. Bastien & Prizant
Business Address: 447 Cumberland St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7J8
Website: bastienprizantoptometry.com
Instagram: instagram.com/ottawa_optometry
Phone Number: (613) 236-6066
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 5 PM
Bastien & Prizant has been a cornerstone of Ottawa’s eye care community since 1913. With over 30 years of experience, optometrist Dr. Harry Prizant’s mission is to simply take care of people.
Their comprehensive eye exams feature digital retinal imaging by Optomap, ensuring a holistic approach without the need for drops.
Regardless of age, they prioritize proactive diagnosis, offering specialized eye exams tailored to infants, preschoolers, and school-aged children.
In case of eye emergencies or sudden vision changes, Bastien & Prizant is there to provide immediate guidance and care, helping to prevent complications.
Beyond their commitment to eye health, they also boast a curated selection of designer eyewear brands like Fendi and Christian Lacroix.
Additionally, their convenient direct shipping for contact lenses adds another layer of ease.
Pros
- Over 100 years of experience
- Features digital retinal imaging by Optomap
- Specializes in infants and preschoolers
- Handles eye emergencies
- Designer eyewear brands
- Direct shipping for contact lenses
Cons
- No walk-ins
Dr. Prizant is a wonderful optometrist!
“Dr. Prizant is a wonderful optometrist! He is experienced and knowledgeable. I had been misdiagnosed by another doctor and sold a pair of frames completely wrong for the bridge of my nose. Dr. Prizant explained all of this to me and even helped me pick out a pair of new frames. His staff is also friendly and efficient. This is definitely the place to go for your eye care!”
– Margaret Pearcy, Google Review
Dr Prizant is a wonderful, patient, and kind doctor
“Dr Prizant is a wonderful, patient and kind doctor. His attention to detail is amazing. My husband and 6 month old went for exams and glasses and it was quick and the customer service was unbelievable. Highly recommend!!!”
– Yudit Timbo, Google Review
5. LensCrafters
Business Address: 1200 St. Laurent Blvd #103, Ottawa, ON K1K 3B8
Website: local.lenscrafters.com/canada/on/ottawa/1200-st-laurant-blvd.html
Instagram: instagram.com/LensCrafters
Phone Number: (613) 747-6188
Business Hours: Mon – Sat: 9:30 AM – 9 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
For over three decades, LensCrafters has been improving lives through clear vision in partnership with OneSight, now known as the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation.
Their St. Laurent Blvd. is led by Dr. Sheldon Butler, who delivers personalized care using cutting-edge technology like the CLARIFYE eye exam.
They understand the importance of early detection and intervention, so they offer comprehensive eye exams and stylish frames designed for young eyes.
And, they offer premium lens solutions and trendy frames from brands like Michael Kors and Dolce&Gabbana. Whether you’re looking for prescription glasses, sunglasses, or contact lenses, their staff will help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Additionally, they accept most vision insurance plans, including Blue Cross, Sunlife, and Manulif.
Patients can also enjoy exclusive discounts in-store, including 50% off lenses with frame purchase.
Pros
- Over 30 years of experience
- Partners with OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation
- Offers the CLARIFYE eye exam
- Provides eye exams for kids
- Offers trendy branded frames
- Accepts most vision insurance plans
- Exclusive in-store discounts
Cons
- Reports of rude staff
Had a great experience at LensCrafters at St-Laurent
“I had a great experience at LensCrafters at St-Laurent shopping mall. I went to purchase there for the first time the other day and everyone was so helpful. I chose a frame that I adored and was assisted through a step by step process with a representative and the optician. I can’t wait to receive my new frames soon. Thank you for such great service and kindness. I hope to return for a future purchase.”
– S R, Google Review
Sheldon was very patient and attentive
“Sheldon was very patient and attentive to my situation and gave me reassurance about what’s going to transpire with my revised prescription. I really appreciate and value coming here for my eyewear needs.”
– Cobra Strife, Google Review
6. Eyemaxx Optical Studio
Business Address: 237 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L6
Website: eyemaxx.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/eyemaxx613
Phone Number: (613) 216-6076
Business Hours: Mon – Tue, Fri: 10 AM – 6 PM
Wed – Thurs: 10 AM – 7 PM
Sat – Sun: 10 AM – 5 PM
Established in 2008 by Dawn Maxwell, Eyemaxx Optical Studio continues a legacy of eye care passed down from her father. Her journey started at the age of 14 when she started working alongside him as a part-time receptionist.
Dr. Alexa Lavigne, one of her clinic’s optometrists, earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Doctorate of Optometry with honors. She also participated in mission trips to Northern Peru to provide eye care and donate glasses.
Comprehensive eye exams are offered at the clinic seven days a week, along with screenings for conditions like cataracts, diabetes, and macular degeneration.
They’re also equipped with an on-site lab. With a diverse selection of fashion-forward frames, they cater to various styles, lifestyles, and budgets.
Unlike other clinics, they offer services in multiple languages, including English, French, Vietnamese, Mandarin, and Hakka.
Pros
- Over a decade of experience
- Participates in charitable works
- Comprehensive eye exams 7 days a week
- Offers screenings for conditions
- Has an on-site lab
- Offers services in multiple languages
Cons
- Reports of long wait times for glasses
Dr. LAVIGNE is the absolute best
“Excellent service. Patient and professional expertise. Dr. LAVIGNE is the absolute best. Her patience and caring is 5 star. Very happy with tje courteous service from each member in the front of the store. Michael Vaswani.”
– MnM, Google Review
The level of service was just outstanding
“I just picked up my second pair of glasses from Eyemaxx. Once again the level of service was just outstanding. Everyone is helpful, knowledgable and went above and beyond every step of the way. Thanks for being awesome, guys!”
– Michael Korn, Google Review
7. Conroy Optometric Centre
Business Address: 2310 St. Laurent Blvd #311, Ottawa, ON K1G 5H9
Website: eye-care.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/conroyoptometric
Phone Number: (613) 247-2020
Business Hours: Mon, Thurs: 11 AM – 8 PM
Tue – Wed: 9 AM – 6 PM
Friday: 9 AM – 3 PM
Established in 1991, Conroy Optometric Centre has been committed to providing comprehensive eye care for the whole family.
Dr. Sammak, one of their popular optometrists, hails from Iran. She holds a Master of Handicraft degree and earned her Doctor of Optometry degree in 2021.
Her clinic caters to patients of all ages–kids, adults, and seniors–from managing childhood myopia to helping adults find the perfect pair of glasses to match their style.
They also perform thorough eye exams, assessing vision and detecting any signs of eye diseases or conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
Emergency eye care services are also offered for unexpected incidents like injuries or accidents.
For those considering laser eye surgery, they provide comprehensive consultations to help patients understand their options and make informed decisions.
Pros
- Over 20 years of experience
- Caters to kids, adults, and seniors
- Routine eye exams
- Detects any signs of eye diseases or conditions
- Emergency eye care services
- Laser eye surgery consultations
Cons
- Reports of rude receptionists
Really appreciate this clinic and Dr Sammak
“Really appreciate this clinic and Dr Sammak, Who had me in on short notice after I got something in my eye. Was not too impressed with our hospital system when I went into emergency and I could barely see, they told me I had nothing in my eye. Dr Sammak gave me an emergency same day appointment and was able to remove four pieces of metal. Since then I have been fine. Can’t say how much I appreciate it. Thank you vey, very much!”
– Pentech Plumbing, Google Review
Been going here for over 20 years
“Been going here for over 20 years, would not want to go anywhere else.”
– Pat Riopelle, Google Review
8. Eyes in the Glebe
– Media credit: mesadesign
Business Address: 831 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3V9
Website: eitg.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/eyesintheglebe
Phone Number: (613) 699-2376
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 4:30 PM
Founded in 2015 in Ottawa’s charming Glebe community, Eyes in the Glebe is a unique fusion of independent eyewear and optometry services.
The clinic is captained by Dr. Jay Mithani, an optometrist with expertise in specialized contact lens fittings and laser eye surgery consultations.
Their eye exams use advanced technology like retinal imaging, digital OCT, and fundus imaging to assess uncorrected vision and color motility. For patients considering laser eye surgery, Eyes in the Glebe provides comprehensive pre- and post-operative care.
Innovative services like orthokeratology for myopia control offer alternative solutions to correct vision issues. It reshapes the cornea overnight to reduce dependency on daytime glasses or lenses.
Additionally, the clinic offers the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) for cataract surgery, which is better than traditional fixed-power lenses. This is because it allows postoperative adjustments without the need for additional surgery.
Pros
- Over 9 years of experience
- Uses advanced technology
- Pre- and post-operative care
- Offers orthokeratology
- Offers the Light Adjustable Lens
Cons
- Pricey
Nothing but incredible since the very first visit
“We’ve been seeing Dr. Mithani for years now (and through multiple renovations) and the service has been nothing but incredible since the very first visit. The attention to detail during examinations and through explanations of your eye health bring peace of mind knowing your vision is in good hands. While they have an excellent curation of the most stunning hand picked frames, there’s never any pressure to make a purchase. The associates at the front are always very friendly and happy to help or provide honest advice on frames. They were very accommodating when I dropped and scratched my lens after only a few days.”
– Stephen Davidson, Google Review
Whole family has been going to Eyes in the Glebe since they opened
“Our whole family has been going to Eyes in the Glebe since they opened. Our eye exams and prescriptions have always been extremely accurate. Dr. Mithani helped my then teenage daughter tremendously by diagnosing her eye condition, which no one else had (optometrist, opthamologist). She put her new glasses on and that was the end of her “learning disability”. The frames and the lenses from Eyes in the Glebe are extremely high quality. If you have a challenging prescription ie progressives, convergence issues, you will see the difference.”
– M Groenevelt, Google Review
9. Wellington Vision Care
Business Address: 1282C Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3A7
Website: wellingtonvisioncare.com
Instagram: instagram.com/wellingtonvisioncare
Phone Number: (613) 421-4880
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 10 AM – 6 PM
Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Wellington Vision Care is a locally-owned clinic where a team of opticians and optometrists provide personalized care. It has Dr. Joelle Zagury on its roster, a respected optometrist educated at the University of Waterloo.
During the eye exam, the optometrist gathers important details to assess your vision and identify any potential issues. From symptoms to family history, every aspect of your eye health is considered.
Also, whether you’re new to contact lenses or a long-time wearer, their eye doctors offer expert lens fittings and comprehensive examinations. Plus, they provide services like replacing defective lenses at no charge.
For children ages 7 to 19, Optomap imaging is available at a reduced fee, with supplemental testing provided when necessary.
In addition to standard eye care services, Wellington Vision Care specializes in treating Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). They address issues like eye strain and discomfort associated with prolonged screen time.
Pros
- Team of opticians and optometrists
- Comprehensive eye exam
- Expert lens fittings
- Replaces defective lenses at no charge
- Optomap imaging discounts for children
- Treats Computer Vision Syndrome
Cons
- Reports of inaccurate measurements
I’ve been a patient at Wellington Vision Care for several years
“I’ve been a patient at Wellington Vision Care for several years. Every one of my experiences has been excellent. From the optomotrists and their medical staff that are extremely knowledgeable and responsive to the opticians who are extremely helpful. Everyone, and amazingly I do mean everyone, seems to go out of their way to make you feel welcome, appreciated and a priority. I’ve not come accross this level of service anywhere before.”
– Ella Mar, Google Review
I always get excellent care and attention
“I have been a client for a few years and really appreciate the great team. I always get excellent care and attention, whether from Dr Zagury or the amazing, friendly and professional team that helps with choosing and fitting glasses. Highly recommend!”
– Amy Bell, Google Review
10. Clearly
Business Address: 50 Rideau St #237, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J7
Website: clearly.ca/en-ca/c/stores/ottawa/rideau-centre
Instagram: instagram.com/clearlyca
Phone Number: (343) 308-0529
Business Hours: Mon – Sat: 10 AM – 9 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Clearly, born in 2000, has been committed to providing 20/20 vision for over 20 years. Its optometrist is Dr. Andrew Asgarpour, who studied at the University of Alberta and the New England College of Optometry in Boston.
His clinic uses advanced digital retinal imaging to ensure a thorough examination of your eyes. And, there are self-serve sanitization stations throughout the store for added peace of mind.
With prescription glasses starting at just $9 and contact lenses from $4, Clearly offers affordable options to suit every style and lifestyle. They even provide free glasses for kids aged 10 and under.
For your convenience, their service team is available 24/7 via chat, email, and phone. They also offer same-day contact lenses and direct billing both online and in-store.
Impressively, Clearly has donated over 750,000 pairs of glasses to people in need, making a meaningful impact on communities worldwide.
Pros
- Over 29 years of experience
- Uses advanced digital retinal imaging
- Self-serve sanitization stations
- Affordable eyewear
- Free glasses for kids
- Service team is available 24/7
- Same-day contact lenses and direct billing
- Donated over 750,000 pairs of glasses
Cons
- Reports of wrong prescriptions
Best eye exam I have ever received
“Outstanding care and service. Perhaps the best eye exam I have ever received. All members of the staff were exceptional! My sincere thanks!”
– Brian Freund, Google Review
One of the best stores in Ottawa
“100% recommended one of the best stores in Ottawa. Best customer service.”
– Irvan Singh, Google Review