Hotels in Downtown Ottawa, Ottawa

Top reasons to visit Downtown Ottawa

• Cultural Experiences: Discover historic civic buildings and dynamic arts centres that showcase Ottawa’s rich heritage.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Enjoy live music performances and engaging photo tours that enhance the lively city environment.
• Shopping Opportunities: Explore an array of shopping malls and centres, perfect for a delightful retail experience.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Experience urban parks and family-oriented attractions that cater to visitors of all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from stylish hotels and charming bed and breakfasts to suit various preferences.

Find great hotels in and around Downtown Ottawa

In the heart of Downtown Ottawa, a diverse selection of accommodation options awaits, from stylish hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Ideal for both leisure and business travellers, the area boasts facilities that cater to various needs, including LGBTQIA-friendly and pet-friendly choices. Whether you’re searching for the Hilton Ottawa Downtown or other hotels in the vicinity, you’re sure to find the perfect base for your Canadian adventure.

• The Business Inn: The Business Inn offers a budget-friendly option for travellers seeking a comfortable stay close to Downtown Ottawa, located 1km from the heart of the city. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this hotel caters primarily to business travellers, providing essential amenities that facilitate a productive visit. Guests can enjoy features such as complimentary Wi-Fi, a business centre, and spacious rooms equipped with kitchenettes for added convenience. The warm and welcoming atmosphere ensures a restful retreat after a day of work or exploration.
• Lord Elgin Hotel: Situated in the vibrant Downtown Ottawa, the Lord Elgin Hotel showcases a 4-star experience with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This eco-certified property embraces a family-friendly and adventurous theme, offering a range of recreational activities for all ages. Guests can engage in nearby adventure sports such as canoeing, ice skating, and snowshoeing, making it ideal for those seeking a dynamic vacation. The hotel also caters to families with child-friendly amenities, including cribs and breakfast options for youngsters, ensuring a delightful stay for families keen on eco-conscious travel.
• Fairmont Chateau Laurier: The Fairmont Chateau Laurier stands as a 4.5-star emblem of luxury nestled in the heart of Downtown Ottawa, boasting a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. With its city-themed elegance, this property appeals to families seeking a blend of sophistication and comfort. The hotel provides essential amenities for children, such as highchairs and first aid kits, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for families. Its central location allows easy access to various attractions, making it an excellent gateway for exploring the rich cultural offerings of Ottawa.

Where to stay near Downtown Ottawa

Downtown Ottawa is a vibrant hub that perfectly blends urban elegance with family-friendly charm. Visitors will find themselves in the heart of the city, surrounded by excellent shopping opportunities and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Explore the renowned Ottawa City Centre, where friendly locals and diverse experiences await, making it an ideal destination for family, business, or a romantic getaway. With its rich cultural offerings and lively streets, Downtown Ottawa promises a memorable travel experience.

• Ottawa: As the capital city of Canada, Ottawa is a vibrant metropolis offering a unique blend of history and modernity. Located in the heart of Ontario, Downtown Ottawa is the hub for cultural and governmental activities. The city is particularly lively from July to September, attracting families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including the stunning Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and numerous shopping centres. With its sports facilities and educational institutions, Ottawa provides a dynamic travel experience that caters to diverse interests.
• Gatineau: Just a mile across the Ottawa River from Downtown Ottawa, Gatineau is a charming city that offers a romantic and family-friendly atmosphere. Known for its beautiful parks and nature reserves, Gatineau is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures. Peak visitor numbers occur between July and September, making it a popular summer destination. Highlights include the Canadian Museum of History and the scenic Gatineau Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and relaxing spa treatments. Gatineau's rich cultural heritage is evident in its historic civic buildings that showcase the city’s vibrant past.
• Centretown: Located a mere 1km from Downtown Ottawa, Centretown is a bustling neighbourhood that offers a mix of urban excitement and local charm. Popular among families and business travellers, this area is known for its educational institutions and shopping centres. With peak visitor traffic occurring in March to April and July, Centretown is a vibrant hub filled with cafes, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Key highlights include the historic civic buildings and the convention centre, making it a fantastic spot for both leisure and business activities.

Things to do near Downtown Ottawa

Shopping

Discover the Rideau Centre in Downtown Ottawa, a bustling shopping hub featuring over 180 shops, from high-street fashion to local boutiques. For a more unique experience, visit the ByWard Market, where you can find artisanal products and handmade crafts amidst vibrant stalls and eateries.

Recreation

Immerse yourself in tranquility at the Holtz Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and soothing massages. For a breath of fresh air, visit the Rideau Canal, perfect for leisurely strolls or cycling along its picturesque banks, offering stunning views and a chance to unwind amidst nature.

Adventure

Lafleche Aerial Park offers an exhilarating zipline and ropes course experience, located 26km from Downtown Ottawa. Embrace the thrill of soaring through the treetops while navigating various challenges, all set in a vibrant outdoor atmosphere that invites adventure enthusiasts to explore nature from a unique perspective.

Nightlife

In Downtown Ottawa, the lively ByWard Market offers a mix of trendy bars and bustling pubs, where you can enjoy local craft beers. The National Arts Centre frequently hosts live performances, while the Casino du Lac-Leamy provides a vibrant gaming atmosphere and entertainment options for a memorable night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Ottawa

For a budget-friendly visit to Downtown Ottawa, consider planning your trip in March or between December and January, as accommodation prices tend to be lower during these months. To maximise savings, book your stay for a Monday rather than a Saturday. Utilise Expedia's search tool to find affordable hotels and consider combining bookings for flights and activities for added discounts. Additionally, explore free activities and public transport options to further stretch your budget while enjoying the sights of Ottawa.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Ottawa are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Downtown Ottawa is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Ottawa is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation in Downtown Ottawa with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Ottawa

Downtown Ottawa offers a vibrant mix of attractions perfect for city-themed, family, or business vacations. Visitors can explore historic civic government buildings, lush urban parks, and dynamic arts centres, catering to those seeking culture, family fun, and outdoor experiences. Additional sights and activities abound, making Downtown Ottawa an ideal destination for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the local charm and culture.

• Parliament Hill: This iconic historic government building is a symbol of Canadian democracy, offering stunning neo-Gothic architecture. Visitors can stroll the beautifully landscaped grounds, witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and explore guided tours that delve into Canada's political history and culture.
• Canadian Museum of History: Located just 2km from Downtown Ottawa, this museum showcases Canada's rich history through engaging exhibits and stunning architecture. The Great Hall, with its breathtaking views of Parliament Hill, is a highlight, alongside diverse displays that celebrate Indigenous cultures and Canadian achievements.
• National Arts Centre: Situated in the heart of Downtown Ottawa, this vibrant arts centre hosts an array of performances, from theatre to classical music. With a commitment to showcasing Canadian talent, it offers a dynamic cultural experience, complete with dining options and stunning views of the Rideau Canal.

Best time to go to Downtown Ottawa

The best time to visit Downtown Ottawa is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	15.3°F (-9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	27.9°F (-2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
May	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Ottawa

Arriving in Downtown Ottawa is convenient via the major airports. Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) is situated approximately 11km away, with excellent accommodation options such as the 5-star Fairmont Chateau Laurier Gold Experience and the 4.5-star Fairmont Chateau Laurier. The Hilton Lac-Leamy, also a 4.5-star hotel, is located 14km from the airport. Alternatively, Ogdensburg International Airport (OGS) lies 84km away, with nearby options like the 3-star Sherman Inn and The Inn at Gran View Ogdensburg, both offering easy airport access. Massena International Airport (MSS), located 85km from downtown, features hotels such as the Blue Spruce Motel and Super 8 by Wyndham Massena NY, also providing convenient access to the airport.