Westboro, Ottawa Travel Guide

Discover Westboro: Ottawa's trendy neighbourhood known for its vibrant streets, scenic parks, and rich cultural experiences along the beautiful Ottawa River.

Nestled along the banks of the Ottawa River, Westboro is a vibrant neighbourhood that effortlessly blends urban chic with natural beauty. This trendy area is a haven for both locals and visitors, offering a unique mix of boutique shops, artisanal cafes, and lush green spaces. Its main thoroughfare, Richmond Road, is lined with an array of independent stores and eateries, making it a bustling hub of activity. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Westboro. The neighbourhood is home to several parks and trails, including the scenic Westboro Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or take a leisurely stroll along the Ottawa River Pathway. For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, the nearby Gatineau Park offers extensive hiking and biking trails, just a short drive away. Cultural experiences are abundant in Westboro, with a variety of art galleries, live music venues, and community events that showcase the local talent. The neighbourhood is also known for its annual festivals, such as Westfest, which celebrate music, art, and culture, drawing crowds from all over the city. Foodies will be delighted by the culinary offerings in Westboro. The area is a food lover's paradise, featuring everything from gourmet restaurants to cozy cafes and bustling farmers' markets. Whether you're in the mood for a freshly brewed coffee, a gourmet meal, or a sweet treat from a local bakery, Westboro has something to satisfy every palate.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Westboro.

Visit Westboro Beach early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful start to your day.
Explore the shops on Richmond Road for unique, locally made goods and souvenirs.
Check out the local events calendar for community festivals and live performances during your visit.
Take a bike ride along the Ottawa River Pathway for stunning views and a refreshing outdoor experience.
Don’t miss the chance to try the diverse range of cuisines at the neighbourhood's many restaurants and cafes.

Explore Westboro: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Westboro

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National Gallery of Canada

Explore the National Gallery of Canada: A premier destination for art lovers featuring an extensive collection of Canadian and international masterpieces.

4.7

Canadian War Museum

Visit the Canadian War Museum to explore Canada’s military history through compelling exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories of sacrifice and bravery.

4.7

Major's Hill Park

Explore Major's Hill Park: A tranquil escape in Ottawa with stunning views of Parliament and lush landscapes perfect for relaxation and cultural events.

4.8

Bytown Museum

Discover Ottawa's rich heritage at the Bytown Museum, where history comes alive along the scenic Rideau Canal.

4.5

Best landmarks in Westboro

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Parliament Hill

Discover the historical charm and political significance of Parliament Hill, a top tourist attraction in Ottawa, Canada.

4.7

The National War Memorial

Explore the National War Memorial in Ottawa, a solemn tribute honoring the courage and sacrifices of Canadian soldiers through history.

4.7

Clocktower Brew Pub Westboro

Explore the vibrant flavors of Ottawa at Clocktower Brew Pub Westboro, where craft beer meets delicious pub fare in a cozy atmosphere.

4.0

Westboro Beach

Discover the tranquil beauty of Westboro Beach in Ottawa, where relaxation meets recreation along the stunning Ottawa River.

4.3

Best restaurants in Westboro

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Pure Kitchen Westboro

Discover Pure Kitchen in Westboro: Ottawa's premier destination for delicious vegetarian and vegan dining experiences.

4.5

Gezellig

Experience exquisite Canadian cuisine at Gezellig in Ottawa's Westboro - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

4.6

Supply and Demand

Discover culinary excellence at Supply and Demand – Ottawa's premier destination for fresh flavors and exquisite dining experiences.

4.8

Fratelli Westboro

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Fratelli Westboro - where every dish tells a story.

4.5

Best bars in Westboro

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Bar Lupulus

Discover Bar Lupulus: A Premier Wine Bar in Ottawa's Wellington Village, Offering Exceptional Wines, Craft Beers, and Gourmet Cuisine.

4.6

The Third

Discover The Third, a vibrant bar and restaurant in Ottawa offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a nostalgic 50's diner atmosphere.

4.6

Clocktower Brew Pub Westboro

Experience Ottawa’s vibrant craft beer culture at Clocktower Brew Pub Westboro, where local brews meet delicious pub cuisine.

4.0

The Moonroom

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Moonroom, Ottawa's premier lounge and bar in the heart of Little Italy, featuring innovative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Westboro

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Trio Bistro and Lounge

Discover Trio Bistro and Lounge, where exquisite cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere in Ottawa's charming Westboro neighborhood.

4.6

Hyde & Seek

Hyde & Seek: Ottawa's premier night club offering an unforgettable blend of cocktails, music, and vibrant nightlife in Byward Market.

4.0

The Show Ottawa

Dive into the heart of Ottawa's nightlife at The Show Ottawa, where music, dance, and fun come together for an electrifying experience.

3.0

The 27 Club

Discover Ottawa's nightlife at The 27 Club, where live music and vibrant energy create unforgettable evenings in the Byward Market.

4.0

Best shops in Westboro

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Maker House Co.

Explore Maker House Co. in Ottawa for unique gifts, local art, and handcrafted treasures that embody the spirit of the city.

4.8

boogie + birdie

Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Boogie + Birdie, Ottawa's charming gift shop offering candles, jewelry, and home goods.

4.7

Flamingo Motif Boutique

Explore Flamingo Motif Boutique in Ottawa for unique gifts, stylish accessories, and exquisite jewelry that capture the city’s charm.

4.8

Crazy Moose Clothing Co

Explore Crazy Moose Clothing Co in Ottawa's Byward Market for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of Canada.

4.4

Explore Westboro on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Westboro, mapped for you.

Westboro Essentials

Westboro is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Ottawa. If you are coming from downtown Ottawa, you can take the O-Train Line 1 to Westboro Station, which is just a short walk from the heart of the neighborhood. Alternatively, several OC Transpo bus routes, such as the 14 and 18, connect Westboro to other parts of the city. If you are driving, Westboro is conveniently located along the Ottawa River Parkway, with ample street parking available, though it can fill up quickly during peak times.
Westboro is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. The O-Train Line 1 provides a quick way to reach other parts of Ottawa. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, with bike lanes along major streets. OC Transpo buses serve the area, offering routes to various neighborhoods. Rideshare services like Uber are available for those looking for more convenience.
Westboro is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is wise to remain vigilant. Areas to be cautious of include certain parks after dark, such as Byron Linear Park. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in vehicles and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are several hospitals nearby, including The Ottawa Hospital - General Campus. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For non-urgent health issues, pharmacy services are available throughout Westboro.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, as Westboro has a relaxed vibe. Don't wear overly formal attire unless attending a specific event. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting churches or community events. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers, and don't speak loudly. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or wave. Eating & Drinking: Do try local eateries and support small businesses. Don't litter or leave food scraps in public areas.
To experience Westboro like a local, visit the vibrant Westboro Village, where you can find boutique shops, cafes, and local markets. Check out the Westboro Farmers' Market during the summer months for fresh produce. Engage with local residents, as they are often happy to share recommendations and stories about the neighborhood. Don't miss the scenic Ottawa River pathways for walking or cycling, offering stunning views of the water.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Westboro

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Westboro. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh re-vwah]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [see voo pleh/duh ryen]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ex-koo-zay mwah/dey-zoh-lay]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mon sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byen/ay voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr luh meh-noo/see voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay/see voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh suh-koor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay vooz ahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-puh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-puh-lay uh mayd-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ash-tay...]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhewst]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vez voo bay-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kel uhr ay-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay uhn uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [dees uhr ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [ee-air]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor dewee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kah-truh]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [sept]
- 8Huit
  [wheet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuhf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo ay...]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kel ay lah-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vez voo muh mohn-tray/sur lah kart]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shahn/bus]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ...)
  [uhn bee-yay/poor]

History of Westboro

Westboro's history began in the early 19th century when it was primarily inhabited by farmers and settlers attracted to its fertile land along the Ottawa River. The area was originally known as 'Westboro Beach' and was popular for its scenic views and recreational opportunities. The establishment of the Ottawa River and the construction of the Rideau Canal in the 1830s significantly influenced local development, facilitating trade and transportation.
Westboro was incorporated as a village in 1896, reflecting its growing population and economic activity. The arrival of the Ottawa Electric Railway in the early 1900s enhanced connectivity to downtown Ottawa, encouraging more residents to move to Westboro. This period saw the construction of many homes and businesses, establishing Westboro as a vibrant community.
Post-World War II, Westboro experienced a significant population boom as returning veterans sought housing. The demand led to the development of suburban homes and commercial spaces, fundamentally changing the character of the neighborhood. The 1950s and 1960s marked a transition from a rural community to a suburban hub, with an emphasis on family-oriented living.
In the late 20th century, Westboro underwent a cultural renaissance as local businesses, restaurants, and cafés began to flourish. The neighborhood became known for its vibrant arts scene, including galleries and theater companies. By the early 2000s, Westboro was recognized for its unique blend of urban and suburban lifestyles, attracting young professionals and families alike.
Today, Westboro continues to evolve with ongoing development projects that aim to enhance the community while preserving its historical charm. Initiatives focused on sustainability and community engagement have emerged, further solidifying Westboro's reputation as a progressive neighborhood within Ottawa. The blend of historic architecture and modern amenities reflects the neighborhood's dynamic character.