From big outdoor festivals to intimate open mics, Ottawa has everything a music lover could want. Some of the most anticipated shows this year include Katy Perry at the Canadian Tire Centre; the 15th edition of Escapade; Silverstein and the Blue Stones at the Bronson Center; and, of course, Ottawa Bluesfest.
Music is just the start. Why not make the most of your time in Ottawa before and after the show? Here are some of the best experiences to enjoy near the city’s most popular music venues.
LeBreton Flats, on the edge of downtown Ottawa, is home to Bluesfest — one of North America’s biggest outdoor music festivals. If you’re attending this 10-day, multi-stage event, you’re in luck because there’s so much to see and do nearby.
Learn about Canada’s military history at the renowned Canadian War Museum. Grab a bite and a beer at the charming Mill Street Brew Pub (located in a nearly 200-year-old building). Or take a thrilling zipline ride over the Ottawa River, the first and only zipline in the world connecting two provinces.
Speaking of the Ottawa River, take in breathtaking waterfall views and learn about Ottawa’s industrial past at Chaudière Falls, one of the most beautiful spots in the Ottawa-Gatineau area.
Lansdowne Park has it all: sports, shops, food, entertainment, beautiful green space and direct access to the Rideau Canal. It’s one of Ottawa’s most vibrant urban destinations.
Landsdowne is also home to major Ottawa festivals; Escapade, Canada’s biggest EDM festival; CityFolk, a multi-day festival held on the Great Lawn; and other great shows in the arena at TD Place. The music continues on Bank Street at Irene’s Pub, House of TARG, and Red Bird, three essential venues for local live music in Ottawa.
While you're in the neighbourhood, enjoy local shops and eateries in the Glebe, catch a movie at the historic Mayfair Theatre or Lansdowne Cineplex and getting to know Ottawa by meeting its artisans, growers, and other vendors at the Lansdowne Ottawa Farmers’ Market.
When major touring artists come to town, they usually play at Ottawa’s biggest stadium venue, the Canadian Tire Centre. And good news for fans: there’s lots to do before and after a show.
You can kill a few hours at Tanger Outlets Ottawa, your one-stop outdoor mall just north of Highway 417. From Columbia to Crocs to Coach, find great deals at roughly 75 brand-name and designer outlet stores.
Also close by is the Kanata Centrum complex, home to several restaurants and pubs including Crazy Horse, The Three Brewers, Moxies and Jack’s, as well as many fast-food options for a quick bite.
For something offbeat, a quick drive will bring you to the Carp Road Flea Market, open every Sunday during the summer from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. From toys and collectibles to furniture and tools, your next great find awaits!
Originally a high school, the Bronson Centre (also known as the Bronson) is now a happening hub for various non-profits, cultural groups and — you guessed it — concertgoers. Best of all, this mid-size music venue falls right in the middle of two of Ottawa’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
A quick walk up Bronson to Sommerset will place you in the heart of Chinatown. Try some authentic pho at Pho Bo Ga La or dim sum at Ha’s Dim Sum Noodle House. Stroll through boutiques selling traditional Chinese crafts, remedies and gifts. Or snap a pic at the gateway to Chinatown itself, the Royal Arch.
Or head east and enjoy the vibrant street life and diverse flavour of Centretown. Grab a coffee, catch an open mic or take an art class at Art House Café. Order a craft beer and some pub grub at Pour Boy. Or spend a few hours exploring bugs, bones, mammals and minerals at the castle-like Canadian Museum of Nature.
The National Arts Centre (NAC) is Ottawa’s premier venue for world-class performances — from symphonies and ballets to contemporary concerts.
Before or after a show, explore the nearby ByWard Market, one of Ottawa’s liveliest districts with plenty of music venues of its own, including the 27 Club, Dominion Tavern and Rainbow Bistro.
Hungry? Grab a refined bite at Play Food & Wine, or enjoy a relaxed meal at El Camino, famous for its tacos and cocktails. If you're in the mood for a pre-show drink, head to Copper Spirits and Sights, a rooftop bar in the Andaz Hotel offering stunning views of downtown Ottawa.
For a bit of shopping, you’re just steps from the CF Rideau Centre. For sightseeing, you’re just as close to Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada and the picturesque Chateau Laurier.
The Brass Monkey is a must-visit for live rock and roll. This west-end venue is known for hosting incredible tribute bands, local acts and even touring legends. It’s also a hotspot for pool lovers, with some of the best tables in town.
Before the show, fuel up at Big Rig Brewery on Greenbank or, closer, Fitz’s Classic Grill beside the venue. If you’re looking for even more entertainment, take a short drive to the Merivale Bowling Centre for some classic five-pin fun, or test your glow-in-the-dark mini-golf skills at Nepean Putting Edge.
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