About
Neighbourhood Description
Centretown is Ottawa’s vibrant urban core, offering an exceptional blend of residential living, employment, entertainment, and culture in the heart of the city. Generally bounded by the Rideau Canal to the east, Bronson Avenue to the west, Highway 417 to the south, and downtown Ottawa to the north, this dynamic neighbourhood is one of the capital’s most walkable and connected communities.
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Home to a diverse mix of historic homes, classic brick walk-ups, modern condominium towers, and luxury apartment developments, Centretown appeals to professionals, students, downsizers, and anyone seeking an active urban lifestyle. The neighbourhood's bustling streets are lined with cafés, restaurants, pubs, boutiques, grocery stores, and specialty retailers, particularly along Bank Street, one of Ottawa's most popular commercial corridors. Residents enjoy access to hundreds of dining and entertainment options, making it easy to experience the city's best food, culture, and nightlife just steps from home.
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Centretown is also one of Ottawa's most transit-friendly neighbourhoods. Residents benefit from convenient access to the O-Train Confederation Line through nearby Parliament, Lyon, and uOttawa stations, providing rapid connections across the city. Numerous OC Transpo bus routes serve the area, while extensive cycling infrastructure, dedicated bike lanes, and pedestrian-friendly streets make commuting without a vehicle both practical and convenient. Many of Ottawa's largest employers, government offices, and educational institutions are within walking distance.
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The neighbourhood is rich in cultural, recreational, and community amenities. Residents can easily access the Rideau Canal, one of Ottawa's most iconic landmarks, as well as numerous parks, recreation facilities, and community centres. Attractions such as the Canadian Museum of Nature, Parliament Hill, the National Arts Centre, embassies, and several historic churches are all nearby. The community also offers access to fitness facilities, sports clubs, and year-round outdoor recreation opportunities.
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Combining urban convenience, outstanding transit access, diverse housing options, and a vibrant streetscape, Centretown remains one of Ottawa’s most desirable neighbourhoods for those who want to live, work, and play in the centre of the nation’s capital.
Upcoming Events
Check out the Centretown Ottawa Event Calendar!
https://centretownottawa.ca/events-in-centretown/
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Third Place Ottawa
https://www.thirdspaceott.com/ottawaeventspace
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Neighbourhood Groups
and Resources
Schools
Board              Typical Local Path
OCDSB
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OCSB
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CEPEO
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CECCE
Centennial PS / Elgin Street PS / Cambridge Street Community PS (JK–6) → Glashan (7–8)→ Lisgar or Glebe (9–12)
St. Patrick Catholic School / St. Anthony (JK–8) → St. Patrick’s HS (9–12)
École Élémentaire Publique Francojeunesse (JK–6) → De La Salle (7–12)
Sainte-Anne / Au Coeur d’Ottawa (Finnish School Model) (JK–6) → Saint-Jean-Babtiste (7–9) → Samuel-Genest / Franco-Cité  (7–12)
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Centretown
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