Shopping in Ottawa offers a surprisingly diverse retail landscape that goes far beyond typical mall culture. From historic public markets and artisan boutiques to sprawling outlet centers and high-end fashion districts, Canada’s capital provides a unique blend of local charm and international brands. Whether you are hunting for vintage vinyl, bespoke Canadian fashion, or fresh maple syrup, the city’s distinct neighborhoods each offer a different flavor of commerce.
Navigating the retail scene here requires understanding that Ottawa is a city of distinct villages, each with its own personality. The Glebe is known for its bohemian spirit and independent bookstores, while Westboro leans toward upscale athleisure and gourmet food shops. Meanwhile, the ByWard Market remains the beating heart of the city, where tourists and locals mix among street vendors and historic architecture.
For the savvy shopper, the key to mastering Ottawa’s retail is knowing when to visit. The harsh winters often drive shoppers indoors to climate-controlled centers like the Rideau Centre, whereas the summer months bring vibrant open-air markets and sidewalk sales to life. Additionally, the proximity to the Quebec border means you can easily access distinct francophone boutiques just across the river in Gatineau.
This guide is curated to help you navigate the best retail experiences the region has to offer. We have focused on locations that provide not just goods, but an experience—places where the architecture, the service, and the local flavor elevate a simple transaction into a memorable part of your visit. From budget-friendly thrift havens to luxury jewelers, there is a destination for every taste and budget.
We understand that your time is valuable, especially when traveling. Therefore, we have analyzed foot traffic, local reputation, and the uniqueness of the inventory to bring you a list that satisfies both the practical need for essentials and the desire for unique souvenirs. You won’t find generic strip malls here; instead, we highlight destinations that define Ottawa’s character.
Whether you are a local looking to rediscover your city or a tourist planning a dedicated shopping weekend, the following list serves as your definitive roadmap. Read on to discover the fifteen best shopping destinations in Ottawa, followed by expert tips to enhance your retail therapy experience.
CF Rideau Centre
| Address | 50 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 236-6565 |
This feels like what would happen if a luxury mall and a survival bunker had a very Canadian child.
We found ourselves ducking in several times during a late January conference week...initially for warmth, later for better gloves (critical infrastructure when your face hurts from breathing). Architecturally, the place delivers: soaring glass ceilings, bright open sightlines, and a layout that suggests the designer once lost a bet involving escalators. It’s large. Very large. The kind of mall where you consider dropping breadcrumbs or activating Find My Spouse.
Retail-wise, it punches above its weight. From Simons to Tiffany, it’s a polished mix of practical and aspirational...the perfect place to buy winter gear strong enough to survive Ottawa or emotionally justify the price of winter gear strong enough to survive Ottawa.
That said, the vibe shifts later in the day. Many storefronts had visible security presence, and the entrances often became gathering spots for people trying to escape the cold. It’s a reminder that Canadian winters are not an abstract concept...they’re a logistical challenge with real human consequences. The mall ends up serving as both retail centre and unofficial warming strategy, which creates a slightly uneasy atmosphere in the evenings.
Net: very functional, visually impressive, and absolutely useful when the temperature drops below the emotional stability threshold. But it’s not quite the carefree shopping experience you might expect from the glossy architecture.
Three stars feels about right... strong infrastructure, complicated reality.
We had a wonderful shopping experience at the CF Rideau Centre, a large shopping mall located in downtown Ottawa, Ontario. It was said to be the largest shopping mall in the National Capital Region that features over 170 retailers, including a Simons department store. This shopping center is situated near major attractions like the ByWard Market and the Rideau Canal.
We were so happy to find so many of our favourite stores here like Lulu Lemon, Aritzia, Bath & Body Works, Sephora, Lush Cosmetics, Victoria’s Secret, Swatch, David’s Tea, Lovisa, H&M, Nike, Lego, Purdy’s Chocolate, Starbucks Coffee, Gong Cha and many more. There’s a big food court area and you can find souvenir & gift shops, game store, dessert shops etc. This mall is big, spacious and conveniently located near our hotel. The downside is that we felt a bit uncomfortable at the entrance/ exit of this shopping mall where numerous rude people stopped us and asked for money and cigarettes.
I had a great experience at CF Rideau Centre. The mall is clean, modern, and offers a fantastic selection of stores, restaurants, and services. Everything is well organized, making it easy to find what you're looking for. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff in most stores are friendly and helpful. Whether you're shopping, grabbing a meal, or just spending some time downtown, this is an excellent place to visit. I would definitely recommend CF Rideau Centre to anyone looking for a great shopping experience in Ottawa.
My fav mall everrrr!! So pretty and nice. Homeless people coming up to me is a bit weird but I can deal with it lol. A guy came and took my food from me when I was trying to throw it out because he said he was hungry.
CF Rideau Centre has always felt like Ottawa’s flagship shopping mall — busy, central, and connected to so much of the city’s daily movement. I’ve been here many times over the years, and it’s consistently been a reliable stop whether for shopping, grabbing food, or just passing through.
Its location makes it one of the main transit hubs in the city, with buses and the LRT bringing people in and out all day. That constant flow gives the mall a lively energy, but it still manages to stay organized and easy to navigate.
I’ve always had a few favourite shops here — Apple, Canada Goose, and Harry Rosen — places I’ve stopped by often and enjoyed over the years. They’ve become part of the routine whenever I’m downtown.
A major landmark in Ottawa’s shopping scene, and a place I’ve returned to many times with consistently good experiences.
Bayshore Shopping Centre
| Address | 100 Bayshore Dr, Ottawa, ON K2B 8C1, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 829-7491 |
Bayshore is solid for a get‑everything shopping outing. Great if you want to grab clothes, groceries, tech or gifts all in one place without having to drive around all over Ottawa.
If you live in Ottawa (or nearby) and want convenience this is quite a one major stop for almost everything you could need. It’s not paradise, and sometimes it’s messy. But it’s reliable.
People who like shopping at malls than online will definitely enjoy more! There is quite a lot of walking around, I usually call stores to ask their location and floor.
I do this very rare so it always creates a new map in my mind.
The mall is beautiful.
I visited just for window shopping and it was a great experience.
Free parking space
Bayshore Shopping Centre is a great place to shop and spend time. There’s a wide variety of stores, from fashion and electronics to dining options. The mall is clean, spacious, and well organized, making it easy to find what you need.
The atmosphere is welcoming and lively. Definitely one of the best shopping centres in the area!
The mall is beautifully renovated. They have great stores and a great food court. This mall has a good variety of stores, and covers all the bases...clothing, jewellery, food, specialty items. It is clean and modern, and is fun to shop at. Parking was also easy. The downfall is the parking structure. It is dark and dingy, even during daylight hours ( not exactly safe). The actual parking spaces are super small- barely fits a 4 door sedan . It's worse than the airport parking. The parking lot is much worse than prior to the renovation.
Wow. What a down turn. Grand entrance is to parking lot. Parking space super small even though so many spots. Idiots park their cars on narrow one lane street completely blocking people from exiting. I grew up here. Used to be cool place to go. Now time for demolition.
ByWard Market
| Address | 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 1K1, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 244-4410 |
If urban cool were a currency, this district would be quietly compounding interest...even in late January, when the temperature feels like it’s been negotiated by a divorce lawyer.
Stayed here during a conference & expected a polite Canadian hibernation. Instead, the neighbourhood delivered a masterclass in winter resilience: glowing patios under strings of warm lights, murals bold enough to wake you up faster than the hotel coffee & just enough foot traffic to remind you that Canadians don’t cancel plans...they just add layers.
Yes, it was cold. The kind of cold that makes you question your life choices somewhere between your hotel door & the first BeaverTail. But the Market leans into winter instead of apologizing for it. Snow softens the historic brick buildings, the red kiosks look like they were curated by a Nordic design committee, and even the street art seems to pop more vividly against a monochrome sky.
What impressed me most was the density of interesting within walking distance. Independent shops, casual restaurants, pubs that feel like they’ve hosted both politicians & people avoiding politicians... all within a few blocks. You can cover the area in an afternoon, but you’ll want to stretch it into several days because each street feels like a slightly different personality test.
Is it buzzing in summer? I’m sure it’s absolute chaos in the best way. But winter reveals character. It doesn’t rely on sunshine and patio season to justify itself. It’s lively, a little gritty, and confident enough to let the experience speak without trying too hard.
If you enjoy neighbourhoods that feel authentic rather than curated by an algorithm, this one belongs on your list. Just pack gloves. And maybe emotional resilience for the wind chill.
Came here over the years and it's always a tourist destination I like going to. It used to be a acentral area for farmers and vendors in the local area and now it's a historical area with alot of shops. There are ones that have been there for years, but some have come and go.
There usual events like festivals that go on from time to time. And when they pop up, market stalls with local vendors show up and those are always a delight to see. You always see localy made products.
You can get here by O-train and by bus but you can also get here by car and park. It is also a very walkable area.
Visit the area during weekday late afternoon before happy hours. Plenty of pubs and music blasting out from venders and restaurants. Probably more vibrant in evenings? I got a gigantic chocolate nuts cake and tea latte in a corner coffee shop with fairly reasonable prices. Last time I was at ByWard market I was looking for the beavers’s tail. Feelings have changed after these years.
ByWard Market District is a place I’ve visited many times over the years, but I only recently realized how popular it is as a landmark in Ottawa. I’ve always come here for the convenience and the variety of shops, cafés, and small local spots. It has a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, and it’s easy to explore both indoors and outdoors. A familiar place that still has something new each time.
Set up Canada Day main stage as well as floral bouquet for red carpet guests and main ballroom setup for the Governor Generals yearly Canada Day luncheon
Tanger Outlets Ottawa
| Address | 8555 Campeau Dr, Ottawa, ON K2T 0K5, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 435-0850 |
It’s got some decent options like Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch and others. Plenty parking with kids activities happening sometimes. This time there was back to school event. We had so much fun. There was a train we took. Best part they accept debit.
Had a good shopping experience at Tanger Outlets Ottawa. There’s a wide variety of popular brands available, many of the same names you’d find at other outlet malls across the GTA, so it offers a familiar selection for regular outlet shoppers..
Plenty of sale items and decent deals across most stores (including Outlet stores). I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn’t too crowded, though that might be because I visited on a weekday. It made browsing and shopping much more relaxed.
The food court is on the smaller side but has a fair range of options to grab a quick bite. Overall, it’s a clean, well-organized outlet that’s great for a casual shopping day without the overwhelming crowds. I'd go there again if I'm visiting Ottawa.
Been here a few times. It’s a straightforward local outlet with a clean layout and a good mix of familiar brands. Easy to walk around and convenient when you’re already in the area.
Years ago, U.S. outlets used to offer much bigger discounts, so the comparison is hard to ignore. These days, Tanger feels more local — still fine for browsing, but not many real deals anymore.
A simple, reliable shopping stop, just without the outlet‑style savings people used to expect.
Update: Thank you — I appreciate the response. It’s always good to have a clean, reliable space for browsing, even if the outlet experience has shifted over time. I’ll continue stopping by when I’m in the area.
Tanger Outlets Ottawa is a great place for shopping, huge selections of almost all popular brands, offer deals and discounts. And you won't be hungry or thirsty during your visit, there are food court, real bubble tea shop, local vendors like le donut and beaver tails. The whole premises is very well kept, neat and clean. We had a wonderful shopping experience today
Tanger Outlets is a great place to shop! There’s a wide variety of stores with excellent deals and discounts, making it easy to find something for everyone. The outlet is clean, well-organized, and easy to walk around. The staff in the stores were friendly and helpful, and there was plenty of parking. Overall, it was a great shopping experience, and I’ll definitely be coming back!
St. Laurent Shopping Centre
| Address | 1200 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1K 3B8, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 745-6858 |
The St. Laurent Shopping Centre is a convenient and well-rounded mall that covers all the essentials. It has a good mix of stores, from everyday brands to a few higher-end options, making it easy to find what you need in one place.
The layout is simple to navigate, and the mall is generally clean and well maintained. The food court offers a decent variety of options, perfect for a quick break while shopping.
Its location is a big advantage, especially with direct access to transit, which makes it very easy to get to. Overall, it’s a reliable spot for shopping, grabbing a bite, and spending a few casual hours.
St. Laurent Shopping Centre is a great place to shop. It has a wide variety of stores, so it’s easy to find what you need. The mall is clean, well maintained, and has a welcoming atmosphere. The staff in many of the stores are friendly and helpful, making the shopping experience even better. I always enjoy visiting and would definitely recommend it to others.
I’ve been to St. Laurent Shopping Centre countless times over the years, and it’s a place that carries a lot of memories for me. The easy parking has always made it one of the most convenient malls to visit — quick to get in, quick to get out, and reliable every time.
It’s also one of the biggest shopping centres in Ottawa, along with Bayshore, Rideau Centre, and Place d’Orléans. The mix of stores, the familiar layout, and the steady atmosphere make it a spot I kept returning to without even thinking about it.
It was also a nice place for my son when he was a toddler — we spent many years stopping by Toys“R”Us, and those visits became part of our routine. Little moments like that stay with you.
A solid, dependable mall that’s been part of my Ottawa experience for a long time.
St. Laurent Centre is a solid mall - bigger than I expected coming in from out of province. I popped in on a Tuesday evening and loved how quiet and easy to get around it was without the usual weekend rush. The food court had a great selection and I ended up with a really satisfying bowl of pho that was exactly what I needed after a long drive. Definitely worth swinging by if you're in the area and need to pick something up or just want to cool down and wander around.
This mall is clean and has all the essentials, dollar store, coffee shop, hair salon, etc. Will be coming again
Carlingwood Shopping Centre
| Address | 2121 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON K2A 1H2, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 725-1551 |
I'm new in the neighbourhood. I find it wonderful to have a Mall with a good variety of shops and lots of free parking nearby. I used to live behind Carlingwood when I was a child and have good memories of hanging out at the lunch counter, buying teen magazines, as well as going to Sears for anything one needed to buy like gifts, clothes for school, records, etc. I really hope the rumors are not true about closing it. Whenever I'm at the Mall there are always lots of people shopping or eating in the food court. I'd hate to see high-rise buildings taking away the Mall or even only its parking. Where else can one shop in this city without paying for parking? Use it or lose it, in my opinion.
Accessibility: Fully accessible with main entrance in the front.
-Lots of space to navigate.
-Decent selection of stores.
-Front parking gets busy but there's parking all around the mall.
-OK selection of stores. This mall has two stores I can't find anywhere else in Ottawa so I'm very grateful for this.
-Overall quiet here, a lot of more senior shoppers.
I can’t remember the last time I visited this mall if I even ever have 😂 but I was pleasantly surprised. It’s a nice little shopping centre with some good stores and a adequate food court. The covid thing has really limited the amount of seating and that’s really not convenient. I’m sure they could open up some more and still be within safety standards. Hopefully it will improve down the road. 👍☺️
Always a delight to visit. This time was able to see a special Christmas visitor "the Grinch". Was able to be seen without reservation as they had a opening. Champs staff were awesome towards my daughter while looking for a pair of shoes to purchase. Great service and great little mall
Same mall since the 50s. Different stores but has had the same feel since the 1990s. At least it's still open and thriving. Only thing as a downpoint is the moving of transit stops what were against the Sears store before the reconstruction of that part of the mall. Needs more greenery outside like they used to have.
Sparks Street BIA & MA
| Address | 56 Sparks St. #608, Ottawa, ON K1P 5B7, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (613) 230-0984 |
We had such a wonderful time here and visited multiple times just to see it again. We'll be back again next year 💯.
Went down to check out Prismatica on Sparks Street which is an installation running from Sep 25 to Oct 25, 2020. Heard about it on a commercial and decided to go down for a selfie and to support local business.
Glad we didn’t bring the kid. Prismatica is cool but underwhelming. A line of about 20 giant 2 m tall prisms that you can spin. The signage says that as they spin, a variable-intensity soundtrack comprised of bell sounds will play. So, yes, as some of them spin, they have little bell chimes that play.
Still, it is a fun back drop for selfies with the reflecting rainbows.
Iconic and historical buildings are abundant on this stree. Sparks street is the story of Ottawa since its birth.
Grateful for the beautiful weather and seemingly smaller event this year. Having the wire protectors along the sides of the street rather than across the middle made it a lot easier to navigate in a mobility device. Saw many more people using mobility devices this year than in the past. Would still prefer the Market than the brick sidewalk of Sparks St.
Whenever you come to Ottawa....Sparks street is worth the stroll.
Ottawa Train Yards
| Address | 165 Trainyards Dr, Ottawa, ON K1G 6M8, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 723-7490 |
I love going to this store even though I don't plan on getting married. Anytime soon. Overall, they have exceptional staff that work very hard to help out customers. Also I love how you can go on the website order that day.And pick up in, store that day.
It's a very convenient place. Many of the places I normally shop are all in this location. Only drawback is that people in the parking lot cannot drive.
Should've stayed as an actual train yard. Too much parking takes up so much land which means less walkability and less space for businesses to set up shop.
Ample parking. Not plowed well 24-hours after storm ended. But of a maze if you don't know exactly where shop is. Thank goodness for Waze!!
I like that I can find almost everything I need for house, groceries, clothes, etc. I find it not the best experience, though, because it's not very walk friendly, shops are too spread over the shopping area. It can also get busy with the traffic with all the narrow roads and parking lots. Too cold to walk around in the winter and too hot for the summer. It's basically a place you run your errands and get out. Cafes and restaurants with nice patios are missing.
College Square Mall
| Address | 1377 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean, ON K2G 1V7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 727-3222 |
Big Loblaws stores like this one are good, but 20 years ago they were great, innovative, almost event shopping. Today they're just more expensive I would rather shop elsewhere.
College Square Mall is a convenient and easy place to shop. It has a good mix of stores and services, making it perfect for quick errands or casual shopping. The area is clean, accessible, and easy to navigate.
Overall, a great spot for everyday needs!
Collage Square Mall is a market place at Deer field Ottawa the city & Capital of Canada, Dollarama, Lab Low, Home depo others many shopping center, Car parking facilities available. There is a Bus stoppage also.
Good variety of stores. The space could be much more people oriented and much less car oriented. Would be a great change to see when the new LRT line comes in. Some cute sitting spots but not much of a true square.
I REALLY like this shopping centre. I was able to visit the 5 shops I wanted to go to in 1 place.
Place d'Orléans Shopping Centre
| Address | 110 Place d'Orléans Dr, Orléans, ON K1C 2L9, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 824-9050 |
We stopped by Place d'Orleans last Saturday afternoon just to walk around, and honestly it was a pleasant surprise for a mall visit. The food court had a decent variety and we ended up splitting a poutine while people watching near the seating area. Parking was plentiful and close to the entrance, which we always appreciate now that walking long distances isn't as easy as it used to be. Staff at a couple of the shops were friendly and patient with us, chatting about the mall's history while we browsed, and it made for a really nice, relaxed afternoon out.
Amazing mall! Clean, spacious, and beautifully designed. Lots of great stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The atmosphere is excellent, and everything is well organized. Definitely worth visiting! Highly recommended
My husband and I stopped in at Place d'Orleans a couple of weeks ago while we were doing a bit of sightseeing in the east end of Ottawa, and we were pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to find parking right inside the main entrance. We spent a good chunk of the afternoon just wandering around, and the mall was clean, bright, and comfortable - exactly what you want when your feet need a rest from all the walking. We grabbed a bite at the food court and my husband was thrilled to find a decent poutine, which he had been looking for all trip. A lovely, relaxed stop and we would not hesitate to visit again if we are ever back in the area.
Place De Orleans is a sprawling mall that is easily accessible by a number of bus routes. The O LRT is also almost ready. This mall has very good air-conditioned seating facilities with plenty of free space even on crowded days. The Sport Check Store on the 2nd floor has a fantastic range of sporting goods, apparel, shoes, eye wear etc. The shoes section is the highlight of the store and one must shop here if shoes is their passion. The food courts serve a mind boggling variety of culinary treats that are a foodies delight, be it a quick meal or a dessert. Well deserved 5 stars.
Place d’Orléans is a really good mall with a wide variety of stores, making it a convenient spot for just about anything you need. My family enjoys going there because it has everything from clothing and electronics to food and everyday essentials all in one place.
It’s also very family-friendly, with a clean and comfortable atmosphere that makes it easy to spend a few hours walking around. The food court has plenty of options, which is great when we go as a family and everyone wants something different.
Overall, it’s a reliable and enjoyable mall in Orléans that offers a good mix of shopping, dining, and convenience for families.
City Centre
| Address | 250 City Centre Ave, Ottawa, ON K1R 6K7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 759-8383 |
Very Central but building could have better lighting around. The underpass path fr Someset is horrible. City should carefully consider safety on that pathway.
I would not lock my bike outside over there. It will be gone. Several very nice places to eat there.
Contemporary facility.
Very clean and automated entry/exits. Large, drive-in bay enabling short distances to your locker.
Flatbed dollies provided to facilitate item transport.
Not cheap but certainly a secure environment for storage needs.
Not a convenient place to attempt for this visit, surprisingly there seems only eligible individual door entrance & not prominent signage nor symbol and we can’t get in. Spent an hour half to reach the place & never find the entrance door, hence we dropped the itinerary planned; 😔
Great space and neat shops and things to see but the paid parking after 90 minutes screams of cash grab. Why make patrons feel anxious about their parking when they can be relaxing with a beer or playing games? At least make it 3 hours free. There's so much wasted space and no one wants to go there anymore because of the parking.
Interesting going around to the back of the building to get to Habitat for Humanity ReStore loading docks.
Les Promenades Gatineau
| Address | 1100 Bd Maloney O, Gatineau, QC J8T 6G3, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (819) 568-1158 |
Brought my golden retriever by a few days ago just to see how dog-friendly the area around the mall was, and I was pleasantly surprised by how welcoming the staff at the main entrance were when we asked about the pet policy. The covered parking structure was a lifesaver since it kept us both out of the heat while I got my bearings. We ended up strolling the outer walkways and my dog got more attention from passersby than I did, which honestly made the whole trip way more enjoyable. Definitely coming back when I need a good excuse to get us both out of the house.
An okay mall experience, mostly just clothing and phone companies. Its Missing some stores Id love to see in there; EBGames, Swarofkis as an example.
The food court is pretty good, I always end up grabbing something from it when there and they got some bubble tea options.
I really like the Animal Stuffy Rider rental vehicals for kids, the fact Costco is right there, the movie/music store Sunrise Records and winners. There is also Change Lingerie that has a great selection of wears for busty woman.
Les Galeries de l'Outaouais has been my go-to mall for years, and last Friday evening it was as lively and well-kept as ever. The food court was packed around 6 pm but we still found seats pretty quickly, which says a lot about how well the space is laid out. I always appreciate how clean the common areas are, even on a busy Friday night when the whole place is buzzing. If you haven't stopped by in a while, the store selection has only gotten better and it's absolutely worth the trip.
Les Promenades Gatineau is a beautiful and well maintained place to stop. I visited very early in the morning while traveling from Toronto toward Gatineau and decided to stop in to get some breakfast. The mall was clean, quiet, and comfortable, and it immediately gave the impression of being newer or very well cared for.
Because it was an early visit, I did not get the opportunity to explore the entire mall, but what I did see left a very positive impression. The layout felt open and easy to walk through, and the atmosphere was calm, which made it a pleasant break during a long drive.
Parking was plentiful and easy, which made the stop stress free. After hours of driving, being able to park easily and step into a clean, organized space made a big difference. It felt like a convenient and practical stop along the way rather than a rushed detour.
Although this was a short visit, it was enough to make me want to come back. On a future trip, I would plan to spend more time here to explore the stores and the rest of the mall. This is a great place to stop if you are traveling from Toronto to Gatineau or visiting the area. Strongly recommended for a clean, comfortable, and convenient break.
It was a Tuesday night, this mall used to be closed, but during the holiday season it opened until nine o'clock. It was so nice to see that all the stores were properly decorated, with a lot more vibes at night. The kids were having fun, thanks to Andrew the train operator!
Kanata Centrum Shopping Centre
| Address | &, 510 Earl Grey Dr #110-130, Ottawa, ON K2T 1G7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
A great selection of shops and restaurants. Crazy Horse being one of my favorites. Usually very busy. But designed very well so traffic moves quickly.
A gigantic shopping area that pretty much has everything you could possibly be looking for. In addition it has a number of great spots to eat and plenty of parking space. The place loses a point for the convoluted streets. It's hard to gauge where you have to go in order to get anywhere. Overall it's a great place to walk around and discover new shops.
Solid shopping area with a good mix of stores and restaurants. Plenty of big-name shops, fast food, sit-down places, and essentials all in one area, which makes it convenient. Parking is generally easy to find, and the layout is straightforward once you've been there a couple of times. It can get busy during peak hours, but overall it's a reliable spot for shopping, grabbing food, or running errands without having to drive all over the city.
This review is with respect to the "violinist" currently playing at top volume at Kanata Centrum, across the street from where I live. Perhaps RioCan is not familiar with the buskers who are not really musicians, but fake their playing to recorded music in order to scam funds from sympathetic shoppers. This is common in North America and Europe.
This shopping centre has everything you could possibly look for! There's tons of restaurants, clothing stores and others so it's a place for all. There's tons of parking spaces, both regular and for handicapped. It is very hard to navigate along the streets which is very stressful. I highly recommend if you're in the area!
Billings Bridge Shopping Centre
| Address | 2269 Riverside Dr., Ottawa, ON K1H 8K2, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 733-2595 |
premier downtown shopping destination in the heart of Ottawa. For anyone visiting or living in the urban core, this massive three-level indoor mall provides unparalleled convenience. It serves as a bustling hub that balances retail therapy with everyday practical amenities. It features an exceptional lineup of mid-to-high-end brand-name stores, catering easily to varying budgets and fashion tastes. Beyond clothing and style, the center functions as a complete lifestyle destination where visitors can accomplish multiple tasks in one trip. The ground-level food court is famously large, offering an abundant selection of quick bites, specialized eateries, and drinks that make it perfect for a post-sightseeing meal. Its strategic location makes it incredibly easy to access, especially for pedestrians exploring the nearby Parliament Hill area. Navigating the bright, well-maintained corridors is seamless, and the atmosphere remains lively throughout the week. While paid parking is required, the mall’s direct transit connections and central footprint solidify its reputation as a highly accessible retail landmark. It remains a reliable, all-in-one stop for high-quality retail, excellent food, and essential urban services.
In my experience, this shopping mall has been declining. Few shoppers. No public wifi any more. I don't know precisely what was going on these days. A lot has changed
Nice and spacey clean. Have 3 banks inside. Lots of deals in independent. The sofa bench in front of Walmart was stained midday. U have a phone repair shop if u need tech. Kinda small.
Mall is currently a bit of a dump in my opinion. Was there today and an older fellow just cleared his throat and spit on the floor right beside us in the food court. Also when trying to assist my friend in the accessible washroom we had to go search for a person to unlock it. Very inconvenient especially for those who have walking limitations etc to have to go search out security. Good place if you need a phone as there are 300 cell phone stores and kiosks. I think it's went downhill over the years but hopefully the new renovations make it decent
3 stars for the convenient location. No more than that, really. I go when I need to hit a Walmart and Dollarama. Hours can be a little inconvenient on weekends. The bus stop is convenient outside. Nonetheless, I find this place is usually busy, decrepit, and smelling of fresh, hot pee! Still, very convenient. Minus points for pee smell and uncleanliness 🙁
Merivale Mall
| Address | 1642 Merivale Rd, Nepean, ON K2G 1J3, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 748-7767 |
A great mall with a number of good stores. Sport check is a quality one. It’s also great that they have the VR experience in the mall. Planet Fitness is very spacious. Mall has great seating, garbages, hand sanitizing, and isn’t so big that you get lost in it. Also, with Subway and Pizza Pizza, a TD and a CIBC, it’s got pretty much everything you need.
Actually if you like a quiet, CLEAN small mall to walk with clean parking and friendly staff this would be it. BRASS & GIFTS is a overly store with unique and massive variety, also the rug/carpet store has great prices and big selection, the major Marshalls is awesome, big and great variety, and the Farm Boy is the best one I've been to and like the most, (except I wish they had some farm characters making noise too not just the Monkey swinging, I know, I'm weird that way... I love the chickens at the Barrhaven Greenbank location much more when going with my Grandchild and even on y own it adds a bit of fun and a smile to my day)... anyways, the Sport Check is also great and the Pizza Pizza is pretty good too. I actually like this mall and hope it will be around a long time. Oh, and the parking is FREEeeeeeeee and plentiful
Nice mall. Some outdated stores but Marshall’s,Sport Chek and Farm boy make it worth the trip. If you’re in the area, I’d stop in. I saw the one Female security guard, she looked a me a few times but never bothered me once I was sitting for a long period waiting for my ride. Maybe she’s hit and miss with who she chooses to bother? Lol
Went to Marshall's. Never disappointed. Walked in, bought a wedding gift sitting at the front table, paid, and walked out. It was great!
This mall is not for an active shopper! It is nice and clean and there are loads of parking spaces available but unfortunately, there are limited choices when it comes to apparel and food and the washrooms need to be renovated. This is definitely more of a leisure mall.
Essential Tips for Shopping in Ottawa
To truly maximize your time and budget in the capital, it helps to understand the local retail culture. Ottawa is a bilingual city, and while English is universally spoken, a friendly "Bonjour" can go a long way in customer service. Below are five essential strategies to ensure you shop like a local, avoid common tourist pitfalls, and find the hidden gems that make this city special.
1. Understand the Parking Dynamics
Parking in popular areas like the ByWard Market and Westboro can be expensive and scarce, especially on weekends. Instead of circling the block, look for the city-owned parking garages which often offer free parking on weekends and evenings. Alternatively, utilizing the O-Train or the city’s extensive bus network can save you both money and stress, dropping you directly at the entrance of major malls and shopping streets.
2. Leverage the US Dollar and Tax Refunds
As an American visitor, you will find your dollar often stretches further due to favorable exchange rates. However, be aware that Ontario has a 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) applied to most goods. While Canada does not offer a general tax refund for tourists like some countries, many retailers offer duty-free shopping services for larger purchases, or you can claim a rebate on accommodations, so always ask at the counter.
3. Shop the Seasons and Stat Holidays
Ottawa experiences extreme retail cycles. The best deals on winter gear occur in late January, while patio furniture and summer fashion go on clearance in August. Be cautious of Canadian statutory holidays, such as Canada Day (July 1st) or Victoria Day, where many independent boutiques may close entirely, though tourist-oriented shops in the Market usually remain open.
4. Explore the Neighborhoods on Foot
The best shopping in Ottawa is not found in a single massive complex but scattered across walkable high streets. Dedicate time to simply walking the length of Wellington West or Bank Street. These arteries are lined with independent retailers that don’t have a large online presence. Wandering allows you to discover pop-up shops, local artisans, and cafes that provide the perfect break between purchases.
5. Ask About "Made in Canada" Specifics
If you are looking for authentic souvenirs, don’t just look for maple leaves on the packaging. Check the labels for "Product of Canada" versus "Made in Canada," as the latter only requires 51% Canadian content. For truly local goods, ask shopkeepers to point you toward items made by Ontario artisans or Indigenous-owned brands, which are often higher quality than mass-produced trinkets sold in tourist traps.
Ottawa’s retail scene is a reflection of the city itself: polished yet unpretentious, historic yet forward-thinking. By mixing visits to high-end centers with strolls through historic markets, you curate an experience that feeds both your wardrobe and your understanding of Canadian culture. The city rewards the curious shopper who is willing to look beyond the surface and engage with the local vendors.
As you plan your itinerary, remember that shopping here is rarely a race. It is an opportunity to slow down, enjoy a beaver tail pastry between stores, and appreciate the architectural beauty that surrounds the retail spaces. With this guide in hand, you are well-equipped to navigate the best that Ottawa has to offer, ensuring you leave with both full bags and lasting memories.
