From the sounds of saxophones in smooth jazz to the electrifying performances of rock bands and everything in between, experience Ottawa’s live music scene at these unbeatable bars and music venues. Here are the best places for a night out enjoying live music.
House of Targ
Take a step back in time at Ottawa’s House of Targ. Found in Old Ottawa South on Bank Street, you’ll feel like you’ve taken a time machine back to the 80s with a variety of vintage pin ball machines and classic arcade games to choose from. With live shows taking place every Wednesday to Sunday, you can enjoy an array of punk, indie and 80s music. Don’t forget to try their Ottawa-famous perogies with flavours like pierogi poutine and bruschetta pierogies.
LIVE! On Elgin
Aptly named LIVE! On Elgin because of its location on Ottawa’s vibrant Elgin Street, this popular venue hosts live music, comedy acts, spoken word, improv, drag shows and more. With an intimate setting and welcoming atmosphere, every visit here is one to remember.
Night Oat
A chill spot to grab a drink with friends from the team behind Oat Couture Oatmeal Cafe, Night Oat promises cozy vibes with a selection of rotating wines, local beers and artisanal cocktails. Live performances run Tuesdays through Saturdays at their locations on Bank in Old Ottawa South and on Gladstone, just south of Ottawa's Chinatown.
Irene’s Pub
Head to Ottawa’s beloved Glebe neighbouhood to catch a live band at Irene’s Pub. Here, you’ll find a cozy and unpretentious atmosphere, incredible food, a couple of pool tables, artwork by local artists and a hidden patio adorned with twinkling lights (during the summer months). Enjoy folk, blues, rock and jazz music as you sip on a cold beer and memories with friends and family.
Jazz@248
For a one-of-a-kind listening experience, head to Jazz@248, where live jam sessions bring together musicians from across the city six nights a week. Upstairs at 248 Bank St, the rotating band grooves while guests settle in just steps away for an intimate, front-row feel. It’s all about jazz here, with a simple lineup of affordable snacks and bar fare that keeps the focus on the sound.
Heart & Crown
There are three Heart & Crown locations around Canada’s capital city, one in the historic ByWard Market, one in Ottawa’s Little Italy neighbourhood and one in Ottawa’s west end, Barrhaven. Dancing to live music has never been easier! The spacious dance floors leave plenty of room to bust a move and the bands always bring an energy that keeps you going all night long. Here, you can enjoy live music every night of the week.
Taproom260
Located 25 minutes east of downtown Ottawa in Orleans is Taproom260. Enjoy an extensive menu that goes beyond the typical pub fare alongside a list of wine beer and cocktails. With live music events taking place regularly throughout the week, you can enjoy quality entertainment with your meal and drinks.
The Rainbow Bistro
Established in 1984, The Rainbow Bistro is “Ottawa’s legendary home of live music.” Located in the ByWard Market neighbourhood, stop by to listen to musical acts both big and small from around the world. Iconic Canadian performers The Tragically Hip and Amanda Marshall have both performed here! The two-storey venue is perfect for both those who like to be close to the stage and those who want to experience the action from afar.
Red Bird
A landmark in the Old Ottawa South neighbourhood, Red Bird is dedicated to live music. It’s packed with 80 seats and features The Snack Café where you can grab locally sourced snack foods like soft pretzels and pastries. Enjoy Bluegrass Mondays, Open Stage Tuesdays and Afternoon Jam on Fridays.
Overflow Brewing Company
This spacious spot near the Bank and Heron intersection is perfect to rock out to live music. With events taking place most days, you can enjoy Overflow Brewing Company’s premium craft beer while taking in the tunes. A patio decorated with twinkling lights is the perfect spot to spend summer nights while the inside is the perfect spot to perch anytime of year.
