About Ottawa
The city of Ottawa is Canada’s fourth-largest city, home to over one million residents in a metropolitan area that spans both sides of the Ottawa River.
The city serves as the nation’s political heart, with Parliament Hill anchoring a downtown core that seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern development.
Founded in 1826 as Bytown, a settlement built around the construction of the Rideau Canal, Ottawa was chosen as Canada’s capital by Queen Victoria in 1857. This decision shaped its evolution into the bilingual, culturally rich city it is today.
The city’s economy extends well beyond government, with thriving technology, healthcare, and education sectors. Major employers include the federal public service, Shopify, Nokia, and the Ottawa Hospital network.
This economic diversity creates stability that benefits the local real estate market, where buyers can find everything from historic homes in established neighbourhoods like The Glebe and Rockcliffe Park to new construction in growing communities like Barrhaven and Orléans.
Why Choose Paul Rushforth Real Estate for Ottawa
Our real estate agents bring years of experience matching buyers with homes that fit their lifestyle and budget.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer exploring up-and-coming Ottawa neighbourhoods or looking to settle in one of the city’s top established communities, our team provides expert guidance through every step of the process.
Browse our current property listings to start your search!
Schools in Ottawa
Many young families are excited about Ottawa due to the proximity of many great schools located within just a two-kilometre radius.
Please note: We have included a Fraser’s Institute Ranking where applicable. This is not the only way to determine school quality. For more information, please contact the individual schools.
- Location: 30 Varley Dr, Kanata, ON K2K 1G4
- Grade Range: Kindergarten to Grade 8
- https://werskinejohnstonps.ocdsb.ca/
- Location: 21 Leacock Way, Kanata, ON K2K 2C4
- Grade Range: Kindergarten to Grade 8
- https://stephenleacockps.ocdsb.ca/
- Location: 2381 Ogilvie Rd, Gloucester, ON K1J 7N4
- Grade Range: Grade 9 to Grade 12
- Programs: International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Fraser Ranking: #1 in Ottawa, #4 in Ontario
- https://colonelbyss.ocdsb.ca/
- Location: 29 Lisgar St, Ottawa, ON K2P 0B9
- Grade Range: Grade 9 to Grade 12
- Programs: Gifted Program, Advanced Placement (AP)
- Note: Ottawa’s oldest high school
- https://lisgarci.ocdsb.ca/
- Location: The Parkway, Kanata, ON K2K 1Y4
- Grade Range: Grade 9 to Grade 12
- Programs: French Immersion, Specialist High Skills Major
- https://earlofmarchss.ocdsb.ca/
- Location: 362 Mariposa Ave, Rockcliffe Park, ON K1M 0T3
- Grade Range: Grade 4 to Grade 12
- Programs: International Baccalaureate (IB)
- https://www.ashbury.ca
- Location: 261 Buena Vista Rd, Rockcliffe Park, ON K1M 0V9
- Grade Range: Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12
- Programs: All-girls education, International Baccalaureate (IB)
- https://www.elmwood.ca
Shopping in Ottawa
The city of Ottawa offers diverse shopping experiences across its many neighbourhoods.
CF Rideau Centre
Located downtown, this flagship shopping centre offers a wide mix of retailers and convenient access to Ottawa’s O-Train system.
Bayshore Shopping Centre
Serving Ottawa’s west end, Bayshore features a large selection of national retailers with easy access from Highway 417.
St. Laurent Centre
Situated in east-central Ottawa, this established mall provides a broad range of shopping options in a central location.
Tanger Outlets
This open-air outlet destination in Kanata focuses on brand-name retailers and discount shopping in a relaxed setting.
ByWard Market
One of Ottawa’s most recognizable districts, the ByWard Market combines shopping, dining, and local vendors in a lively, historic setting.
Westboro Village
Stretching along Richmond Road, Westboro Village blends athleisure retailers, boutiques, cafés, and modern dining.
The Glebe
Independent shops and historic charm define this walkable district along Bank Street.
Hintonburg
Creative boutiques, local businesses, and the Parkdale Market anchor this up-and-coming neighbourhood shopping area.
Farm Boy
Founded in Ottawa, Farm Boy has become a go-to grocery destination for fresh food, specialty products, and everyday essentials across the city.
Public Transportation
OC Transpo operates Ottawa’s integrated transit network, which has expanded significantly with the O-Train light rail system.
Train Lines
12.5 km electric light rail connecting 13 stations from Tunney’s Pasture to Blair. Trains run every 5 minutes during peak times and never more than 15 minutes apart, seven days a week.
19 km diesel light rail running from Bayview to Limebank in Riverside South. Trains currently run Monday to Friday, approximately every 12 minutes.
Connects South Keys to Ottawa International Airport, making Ottawa one of only three Canadian cities with rail service to its airport. Trains run Monday to Friday, approximately every 12 minutes.
Bus Network
- Frequent routes: Service every 15 minutes or less from 6 am to 6 pm on weekdays, seven days a week, along main roads
- Connexion routes: Quick connections from neighbourhoods to O-Train stations during weekday rush hours
- Local routes: Custom routing to destinations not on Frequent routes
- Night service: Overnight bus service when the O-Train closes, seven days a week
Fares are affordable, and the system accepts credit card taps at fare gates through O-Payment.
Healthcare in Ottawa
For families learning about the city of Ottawa, access to healthcare is often a top priority. Ottawa’s healthcare network serves over 1.3 million residents through multiple major facilities.
The Ottawa Hospital operates three campuses:
- The Civic Campus houses the Regional Trauma Centre and the renowned University of Ottawa Heart Institute (Canada’s largest cardiac centre)
- The General Campus is home to the Cancer Centre and neuroscience programs
- The Riverside Campus provides outpatient services
Families with children are served by the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Eastern Ontario’s pediatric hospital, located in Alta Vista.
West Ottawa residents rely on Queensway Carleton Hospital, while Montfort Hospital serves as Ontario’s only Francophone academic hospital, an important resource in this bilingual city.
Like many cities in Canada, finding a family doctor in Ottawa can be challenging. Many residents use Appletree Medical Group’s network of walk-in clinics, which offer online wait-time tracking.
Community and Entertainment in Ottawa
As the nation’s capital city, Ottawa boasts a vibrant cultural scene with world-class museums, year-round festivals, and major entertainment developments on the horizon.
Winterlude
Ottawa embraces winter with seasonal activities, ice sculptures, and family-friendly experiences across the city.
Canadian Tulip Festival
Each spring, vibrant tulip displays celebrate Ottawa’s international ties and add colour to parks and public spaces. The Canadian Tulip Festival is a beautiful way to celebrate Mother’s Day
RBC Bluesfest
Live music takes centre stage during this major outdoor festival featuring a wide range of performers and genres.
Ottawa International Animation Festival
Animation enthusiasts gather for screenings, exhibitions, and creative programming celebrating animated film and digital art.
Ottawa International Children’s Festival
Young audiences enjoy theatre, music, and dance designed specifically for children and families.
Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG)
Showcasing regional and Canadian artists, the OAG features rotating exhibitions and public programs in a central downtown location.
Aberdeen Pavilion
This historic structure at Lansdowne Park hosts markets, exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year.
Canadian Tire Centre
Located in Kanata, this arena hosts Ottawa Senators games, concerts, and large-scale entertainment events.
TD Place
Situated at Lansdowne Park, TD Place welcomes professional sports, concerts, festivals, and community events year-round.
Rideau Canal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site offering boating and pathways in warmer months and skating opportunities in winter. It’s also the world’s largest skating rink.
Calypso Waterpark
East of Ottawa, this large waterpark delivers summer fun with slides, wave pools, and attractions for all ages.
Lansdowne Park
A mixed-use destination featuring sports venues, public spaces, retail, dining, and community events.
Mer Bleue Bog
Boardwalk trails guide visitors through this rare wetland ecosystem located within Ottawa’s city limits.
Parliament Hill
Canada’s most recognizable landmark anchors downtown Ottawa with historic architecture, scenic grounds, and programming that reflects the country’s political and civic heritage.
National Gallery of Canada
This iconic national gallery showcases Canadian, Indigenous, and international art within one of Ottawa’s most striking architectural landmarks.
Canadian Museum of History
Located just across the river in Gatineau, this Canadian museum explores our social and cultural past and includes the popular Canadian Children’s Museum.
Canadian War Museum
Through immersive exhibits, the Canadian War Museum examines Canada’s military history, peacekeeping efforts, and stories of remembrance.
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Aviation and aerospace Canadian history come to life through aircraft displays, space artifacts, and interactive exhibits designed for all ages.
Canadian Museum of Nature
Set in a historic downtown building, this museum focuses on wildlife, fossils, and natural science with engaging, family-friendly exhibits.
Canada Science and Technology Museum
Hands-on displays invite visitors to explore innovation, discovery, and technological advancement in an interactive setting.
Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Just minutes from downtown, this working farm offers insight into food production, agriculture, and rural life within an urban environment.
Bytown Museum
Situated beside the Rideau Canal locks, this museum tells the story of Ottawa’s early days as Bytown and the canal’s construction.
Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum
An underground bunker turned museum provides a fascinating look at Cold War history and Canada’s emergency preparedness.
Royal Canadian Mint
At the Royal Canadian Mint, visitors can explore how Canadian coins are produced and learn about the craftsmanship behind the nation’s currency.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
One of Ottawa’s oldest churches stands out for its ornate interior, historic significance, and role as a National Historic Site.
Dining Out in Ottawa
Ottawa’s dining scene blends nationally recognized fine dining with neighbourhood favourites and globally inspired cuisine, offering something for every taste and occasion.
Shawarma Palace
Often cited as a local favourite, this Ottawa staple reflects the city’s reputation as Canada’s shawarma capital.
Zak’s Diner
A 24-hour classic in the ByWard Market, Zak’s serves comfort food in a lively, retro setting popular with both locals and visitors.
Little Italy (Preston Street)
Preston Street blends traditional Italian eateries with contemporary restaurants, cafés, and espresso bars.
Wellington West
Gastropubs, bistros, and casual dining spots give this area a relaxed yet creative culinary vibe.
Atelier
Chef Marc Lepine’s restaurant pushes culinary boundaries with innovative tasting menus rooted in modern Canadian cuisine.
Riviera
Located on Sparks Street, Riviera pairs refined dishes with an elegant dining room, making it a popular choice for celebrations and business dining.
Beckta
Set inside a heritage home, Beckta delivers elevated seasonal cuisine and a polished dining experience ideal for special occasions.
Arlo Wine Bar
This intimate wine bar focuses on seasonal, locally inspired dishes paired with a carefully curated wine list in a relaxed neighbourhood setting.
Perch
Known for its creative plates and welcoming atmosphere, Perch blends thoughtful cooking with a casual dining experience that highlights local ingredients.
Stofa
Stofa delivers refined, ingredient-driven cuisine in a cozy space, offering a menu that evolves with the seasons and showcases Ottawa’s culinary talent.
Parks in Ottawa
The city of Ottawa offers an extensive network of parks, pathways, and waterfront spaces that support outdoor recreation, fitness, and relaxation throughout the year.
Gatineau Park
Located just minutes from downtown, Gatineau Park features scenic lookouts, beaches, and year-round trails for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing.
Major’s Hill Park
Situated near Parliament Hill, this centrally located park offers sweeping views of the Ottawa River and hosts seasonal events and festivals.
Commissioners Park
Bordering the Rideau Canal, Commissioners Park is known for its landscaped pathways and popular springtime flower displays.
Capital Pathway
Running alongside the canal, this pathway supports walking, cycling, and running while offering easy access to waterfront scenery.
Greenbelt Trails
Ottawa’s Greenbelt includes an extensive trail network that winds through forests, wetlands, and conservation areas across the city.
Mooney’s Bay Park
This large recreational park includes beaches, picnic areas, sports fields, and open green space popular with families and athletes.
Andrew Haydon Park
Located in the west end, this waterfront park offers open lawns, walking paths, and scenic views along the Ottawa River.
Brewer Park
Situated near Carleton University, Brewer Park features multiple sports fields and serves as a hub for organized sports and casual recreation.
Ready to Call Ottawa Home?
Interested in moving to the city of Ottawa? Our team of agents are equipped with the local knowledge to find you a place you can call home in any of the city’s diverse neighbourhoods.
If you’re ready to buy in Ottawa, choose Paul Rushforth Real Estate to ensure you get the best service and expertise.
Paul Rushforth
Since 2004, Paul and his team have helped over 7000 families reach their real estate dreams. He continues to train and consult agents throughout the industry and is considered one of the most forward thinking pioneers in the industry, blazing trails for those around him.