Lowertown Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Lowertown
Popular places to visit
National Gallery of Canada
This riverside museum features artwork from throughout Canada’s history in a massive, glassy structure.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
Tour the brilliant blue-and-gold interior of this Gothic Revival church, one of Ottawa’s oldest.
Alexandra Bridge
Find out about the history of Ottawa when you spend time at Alexandra Bridge. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
Canadian Tire Centre
Catch an event at Canadian Tire Centre during your trip to Ottawa. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this family-friendly area.
Byward Market Square
Fresh local produce, artisanal handicrafts and historic courtyards are some of the many features of Ottawa’s oldest and busiest market.
Parliament Hill
Spend a day enjoying the lively debates, artworks, library and Gothic Revival architecture of Canada’s political heart.
Activities
Ottawa: Canadian Museum of Nature Admission
Secrets of the Château Laurier Hotel Tour
Ottawa: Haunted Night Walking Tour
Ottawa: Bilingual Guided City Tour by Amphibious Bus
Our pick of the best Lowertown Hotel Deals
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG
"Front desk customer service was rude and not properly attending to guests"
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Econo Lodge Downtown Ottawa
"Good stay"
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
"Location can’t be beat, iconic and majestic views. Very fairly priced per night, however, logistically valet is a nightmare, takes forever to get car parked and retrieved, and service is truly lacking. Made a reservation for Zoe’s for lunch and table took 20 minutes to be ready, only for it to be ..."
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
The Business Inn
"Amazing, they have everything you need and more!"
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Wyndham Gatineau-Ottawa & Conference Centre
"This place was great. Close to everything and the room was much nicer than expected"
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Cartier Place Suite Hotel
"The room was not the size we were promised. The water in the swimming pool was cold. The parking was too expensive. I would not recommend this hotel, unless there is no other choice."
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Lowertown
ByWard Market
A noteworthy feature of ByWard Market is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Byward Market Square and Rideau Centre.
Downtown Ottawa
Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Ottawa. Check out top attractions like Rideau Centre and Rideau Mall, and jump on the metro at Rideau Station or Parliament Station to see more of the city.
Sandy Hill
Shopping and restaurants are highlights of Sandy Hill. Make a stop by Laurier House or Rideau Centre while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at uOttawa Station to get around town.
Hull
Hull is a destination visitors seek out for its interesting museums, casinos and stunning river views. You might want to check out attractions like Canadian Museum of History or Casino du Lac Leamy while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Downtown Gatineau
You'll enjoy the gardens and festivals in Downtown Gatineau. You might want to make time for a stop at Canadian Museum of History or Canadian Children's Museum.
Centretown
Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Centretown. Top attractions like Elgin Street and Canadian Museum of Nature are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Parliament Station or Lyon Station to see more of the city.
