August is Pride Month in Ottawa! Celebrate Pride and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community year-round by supporting queer-owned businesses in Ottawa. The city is proud to be a welcoming and safe destination for queer and trans travellers with a vibrant mix of queer hangouts, gay bars and experiences by and for 2SLGBTQIA+ people.
Explore the city’s unofficial Gay Village in Centretown on Bank Street – note the rainbow street banners and crosswalks. Don’t miss the queer-friendly museums and galleries. Check out this guide to queer travel to the capital and read on to discover some local queer- and trans-owned businesses.
Little Jo Berry’s
This bakery and coffee shop is proudly owned by Jo Masterson, queer and non-binary entrepreneur and community builder. Little Jo Berry’s is committed to creating delicious vegan goods and a safe and welcoming space for all. The shop offers a wide selection of mouthwateringly unique treats like homemade pop tarts, gluten-free cookie sandwiches and savoury items like pizza rolls, as well as coffee, soda, seltzers and more. With a strict ‘no food or body shaming’ policy, everyone is welcome to feel good about themselves and what they eat at Little Jo Berry’s!
The Spaniel’s Tale
Down the block from Little Jo Berry’s, The Spaniel’s Tale specializes in queer and Canadian authors. With a diverse collection of adult and children’s literature, this is a must-visit for book lovers! The Spaniel’s Tale is owned by couple Cole and Stephen. Keep an eye out for their eponymous spaniel, often found lounging in the bookstore’s office.
Bread By Us
A Hintonburg staple since 2013, Bread By Us is a queer-owned artisanal bakery and espresso bar offering hand-laminated pastries, rustic sourdough breads and expertly crafted coffee. A true labour of love from its owners and team, the bakery is known for its friendly staff and strong sense of community between customers and crew. With a focus on sustainability and ethical practices, Bread By Us is a warm, welcoming space where quality and connection come first.
Escape Bicycle Tours & Rentals
See Ottawa city on two wheels with Escape Bicycle Tours & Rentals! This proudly 2SLGBTQIA+-owned and operated tour company offers rentals and tours by bike, e-bike, kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP). Book a tour of the city's landmarks, history and culture. You can also rent scooters and boats to create your own adventure in the city. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on safety and comfort, Escape Bicycle Tours is a great option for anyone looking to explore Ottawa's vibrant neighborhoods and attractions. They welcome everyone to their cozy shop on Sparks Street or their summer kiosk at the NCC River House where they have a diverse team who are dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming environment for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Venus Envy
A staple in Ottawa’s queer scene, Venus Envy is a queer- and trans-owned adult shop and bookstore, which has provided educational materials and workshops to the community since 1998. Venus Envy has a curated selection of books for 2SLGBTQIA+ folks hoping to learn more about themselves and others. The friendly, informative and queer staff can help shoppers find the best products suited to their needs, including a range of gender-affirming products.
Milk Shop
In the heart of the iconic ByWard Market you’ll find Milk Shop, a vibrant and inclusive store that sells clothing, stationery, fun greeting cards and home and body products. Celebrating the 2SLGBTQIA+ community no matter what month it is, you'll find local items created by queer artists year-round. The welcoming and affirming atmosphere at Milk Shop makes it a safe space for people of all gender identities and sexual orientations to express themselves authentically. If you’re searching for your new favourite piece of clothing or a one-of-a-kind item, be sure to check out Milk Shop.
In Bloom Tattoo Co.
In Bloom Tattoo Collective is a queer and trans-owned tattoo shop in downtown Ottawa that provides trauma-informed tattooing. With a team of two talented resident artists, as well as guest artists, who specialize in a variety of tattoo styles, In Bloom Tattoo Co. offers an accessible and inclusive experience for everyone. The shop takes great care to ensure clients feel comfortable and respected throughout the entire process. Whether you're looking for a small tattoo or a full sleeve, In Bloom Tattoo Co. is a great queer-friendly and socially conscious option.
Rideau Rollers
Located in Ottawa's Chinatown, this one-stop shop for roller skating and derby gear also sponsors the Ottawa Valley Roller Derby league. Rideau Rollers regularly hosts events around the city, creating opportunities for queer folks and skaters alike to take part in roller discos, dance lessons and trail skates.
Hello Dolly Pastries
Hello Dolly Pastries serves up custom cookie designs, cakes and meringues. Found on Wellington Street West in the trendy Hintonburg neighbourhood, you can easily satisfy your sweet tooth at this queer-owned and neurodivergent-operated establishment. Hello Dolly Pastries often collaborates with local artists, making it easy to tell a story of diversity, creativity and community spirit through their treats.
Ottawa Tourism is an accredited Rainbow Registered organization, recognized by Canada's 2SLGBTQIA+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) for meeting stringent criteria attesting to diverse and inclusive practices. Rainbow Registered is a national accreditation for 2SLGBTQIA+ friendly businesses and organizations. When you see a Rainbow Registered symbol, you know the business or organization meets standards to ensure 2SLGBTQIA+ customers feel safe, welcomed and accepted.
