Nestled between the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River, Old Ottawa East is one of the capital’s most charming, scenic, and well-connected neighborhoods. Once a quiet pocket tucked away from the city’s bustle, it’s now a thriving blend of historic homes, new developments, and a strong sense of community.
With easy access to downtown Ottawa, a village-like atmosphere, and beautiful waterfront trails, Old Ottawa East has become a top choice for families, professionals, and retirees who want to balance convenience with character.
Let’s explore why this riverside gem continues to win hearts in 2025.
1. Where Exactly Is Old Ottawa East?
Old Ottawa East sits just south of the downtown core, bordered by:
Rideau Canal to the west
Rideau River to the east
Lees Avenue to the north
Aylmer Avenue and Riverdale Avenue to the south
It’s ideally situated—just minutes from downtown, uOttawa, and The Glebe, yet it retains a quieter, more residential feel.
Residents enjoy the best of both worlds: peaceful streets and waterfront views with downtown Ottawa only a quick bike ride or LRT stop away.
2. A Neighborhood Rich in History and Transformation
Old Ottawa East has deep roots—it was originally home to religious institutions like Saint Paul University and Immaculata High School, giving it a tranquil, academic character.
In the last decade, it’s undergone a major transformation with projects like:
Greystone Village, a modern mixed-use development with condos, townhomes, and green spaces
Main Street revitalization, redesigned with bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and cafés
New pedestrian bridges linking the area to Old Ottawa South and The Glebe
The result? A vibrant, walkable neighborhood that has kept its charm while welcoming a new wave of modern urban living.
3. Real Estate Snapshot: What You’ll Find in 2025
From heritage-style homes on leafy streets to sleek condos overlooking the canal, Old Ottawa East offers diverse options for every lifestyle.
4. Lifestyle: Scenic, Active, and Connected
Few Ottawa neighborhoods offer such a beautiful mix of nature and urban living.
Waterfront Living
Residents enjoy easy access to:
The Rideau Canal Pathway – perfect for walking, running, or skating in winter
The Rideau River Eastern Pathway – a hidden gem for cycling and kayaking
Brantwood Park and Springhurst Park – family-friendly green spaces with playgrounds and sports fields
Walkability & Transit
Old Ottawa East scores high for walkability. You can walk or bike almost anywhere, and the Lees LRT Station puts downtown, uOttawa, and Lansdowne just minutes away.
5. Schools and Family Appeal
For families, Old Ottawa East shines with excellent schools and childcare options, plus safe, quiet streets and a tight-knit community.
Nearby Schools Include:
Lady Evelyn Alternative School (public)
Immaculata High School (Catholic)
Elgin Street Public School (short commute)
St. Nicholas Adult High School
Saint Paul University (right in the neighborhood)
Local daycares and community programs make it easy for young families to settle in and connect.
6. Main Street: The Heart of the Neighborhood
At the center of Old Ottawa East lies Main Street, the community’s spine. Once dominated by traffic, it’s now been redesigned as a pedestrian-friendly corridor filled with local businesses:
The Green Door Restaurant – a beloved vegetarian buffet that’s been around for decades
Sula Wok – popular for takeout and patio dining
Happy Goat Coffee Co. – local coffee culture at its best
Daphné’s – a trendy Greek-inspired eatery that locals love
You’ll also find yoga studios, bakeries, and independent shops, giving the street a small-town-in-the-city vibe.
7. Community Spirit and Local Events
What truly defines Old Ottawa East is its strong community connection. The Old Ottawa East Community Association (OOECA) organizes:
Farmers’ markets and seasonal fairs
Community cleanups and river walks
Events at Brantwood Park like movie nights and outdoor yoga
There’s a genuine feeling of neighbors knowing neighbors, which is increasingly rare in urban settings.
8. Proximity to Everything That Matters
Old Ottawa East’s central location makes it incredibly convenient:
It’s no wonder that professionals, academics, and medical staff love living here—it’s close to work, yet feels far removed from the city rush.
9. Investment Outlook: High Demand, Limited Supply
Because Old Ottawa East is bounded by water on both sides, there’s limited space for new development. That scarcity keeps demand—and prices—strong.
Why it’s a solid investment:
Prime central location
Ongoing infrastructure improvements
Strong rental market from nearby universities and hospitals
Desirability among downsizers and professionals
For investors or long-term homeowners, Old Ottawa East offers both stability and growth potential.
10. Who’s Moving to Old Ottawa East (and Why)
11. The Bottom Line: Why Old Ottawa East Shines in 2025
Old Ottawa East offers something rare: a neighborhood that feels like a village but functions like a city hub. With its waterfront views, strong community identity, and walkable lifestyle, it stands out as one of Ottawa’s most livable and timeless neighborhoods.
Whether you’re a growing family, an academic, or a professional seeking balance, Old Ottawa East delivers a beautiful blend of charm, convenience, and connection—and it’s only getting better.
