Ottawa is known around the world as the glorious capital city of Canada, and the city’s downtown is at the heart of it all. Whether you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, fine dining, an exciting night out on the town, or an in-depth look at Canada’s national history, Ottawa’s downtown offers something for everyone.
National Landmarks and Scenic Sights
In Ottawa the term “downtown” is frequently interchanged with “Centretown”, the name of the city’s most central and populous neighbourhood. Centretown includes some of the most significant landmarks in Ottawa, most notably Parliament Hill. The Parliament Hill grounds include the east, west, and centre blocks, as well as the Peace Tower and the Library of Parliament. There are several statues and monuments located on the grounds as well, including the Centennial Flame and the Victoria Tower Bell. Parliament Hill attracts millions of tourists and visitors every year.
In addition to Parliament, visitors to the area can explore the outdoor pedestrian mall located on Sparks Street, or the bustling commercial districts along Bank and Elgin Streets. These popular business areas offer a variety of restaurants, pubs, casual eateries, and interesting shops and boutiques that prove popular with tourists and residents alike. Other popular tourist sites in Centretown include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of Nature, the National War Memorial, and Ottawa’s Financial District.
Centretown also features many beautiful parks and natural landmarks. The city’s location on the banks of the Ottawa River allows for spectacular scenery at any time of year, as boats travel the river against the backdrop of autumn’s changing colours and the Rideau Canal transforms into a 7 kilometre long skateway once the temperatures have dropped. Centretown’s well-maintained urban parks are perfect spots for an afternoon lunch, a game of frisbee with friends, or simply relaxing with a cup of coffee.
Living in Ottawa’s Centretown
When you decide to make Centretown your home, you can expect a wide range of different property types to choose from. The neighbourhood features some of Ottawa’s oldest and most unique detached houses for those who are looking for a traditional family home, and there are also a growing number of updated and new homes built on existing downtown lots. Both old and new row units and townhomes are also available along the quieter, residential side streets found in the neighbourhood.
For those who prefer high-rise living with sweeping views of the city or the Ottawa River, a range of condominiums are available offering a variety of different floor plans and amenities to suit the needs of any buyer. Centretown is also an ideal choice of location for anyone considering purchasing an investment property, as many renters choose to live in the area to be close to work, school, and the conveniences of downtown living.
For more information about living in Centretown, the heart of the nation’s capital, contact us today! We’re happy to answer any questions you might have about this or any of Ottawa’s other unique neighbourhoods.
