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

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Maplelawn Garden

Explore the serene beauty of Maplelawn Garden, a historic oasis in Ottawa perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.

4.7

Public Sculpture/ Art

Discover the captivating public sculpture art in Ottawa, where creativity and community come together to enrich the urban landscape.

Best landmarks in Westboro

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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

Hampton Park

Discover the beauty of Hampton Park in Ottawa, a peaceful retreat with lush landscapes, walking paths, and family-friendly recreation.

4.6

Ottawa Farmers’ Market: Westboro

Explore the Ottawa Farmers’ Market in Westboro for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a vibrant community atmosphere every Saturday.

4.6

Best restaurants in Westboro

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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

Bowman's Bar & Grill

Experience the best of Ottawa dining at Bowman's Bar & Grill, where delicious grill fare meets a welcoming pub atmosphere.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Westboro

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Trio Bistro and Lounge

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

4.6

Club Ottawa

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Ottawa at Club Ottawa, where unforgettable nights and electrifying music collide in the heart of the capital.

3.4

Legion Ottawa Ontario

Discover the heart of Ottawa’s nightlife at Legion Ottawa – a night club that promises a dynamic atmosphere and unforgettable evenings.

3.0

Best shops in Westboro

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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

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

Pokoloko

Explore Pokoloko in Ottawa's Westboro for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and home goods that celebrate local artistry.

4.9

Three Wild Women

Discover unique women's fashion and stylish accessories at Three Wild Women in Ottawa's charming Westboro district.

4.5

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.