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Everything You Need to Know about Chapel Hill in Ottawa

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Nestled in the eastern part of the city, the Chapel Hill neighbourhood has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Originally a rural settlement, it’s now known for its community feel and abundance of green spaces.

Chapel Hill is not just about beautiful homes and parks, though—it’s also packed with local shops, cosy cafes, and restaurants. Plus, it’s super close to Place d’Orléans Shopping Centre and Landmark Cinemas Orléans.

So, whether you’re into hiking trails, winter sports, or just looking for a nice spot to relax, Chapel Hill’s got a bit of everything.

Where is Ottawa’s Chapel Hill?

ottawa-s-chapel-hill

Chapel Hill is in the east end of Ottawa, right between Orleans and Blackburn Hamlet. You can think of it as falling into that sweet spot where Innes Road and Navan Road intersect—pretty easy to find.

How to Get to Ottawa’s Chapel Hill

Closest subway stop: Your best option for travelling to Chapel Hill is to board an OC Transpo bus and take route 35, which will take you directly there. Just get off at the Innes/Orleans Boulevard stop, and you’re pretty much in the heart of Chapel Hill.

Driving is also super easy; just take Highway 417, exit at Innes Road, and follow it all the way east until you hit the Chapel Hill area. It’s a pretty straightforward drive, and there’s usually ample parking around.

What to Do and See in Chapel Hill

Go on a picnic at Chapel Hill Park

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Address: 1556 Forest Valley Dr.

Phone: N/A

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM

Website

Chapel Hill Park has plenty of green space where you can easily set up your picnic spot. You’ll find that it’s a great place for families, with a nice playground and splash pad to keep the kids entertained.

And if you’re up for it, you can also explore the other nearby parks, such as Blue Willow Park, Barrington Park, and Racetter Park—all just a short drive away. These parks offer different amenities like sports fields, play structures, and walking paths.

Hike the scenic Dewberry Trail and enjoy nature

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Address: Dolman Ridge Rd.

Phone: N/A

Admission: Free entry 

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

For all the nature lovers out there, hiking the Dewberry Trail is a must. This 1 km trail offers a great way to stretch your legs and soak in some scenic views.

It’s not too strenuous, and you can enjoy it year-round, even in winter when the trail takes on a whole new level of charm. While you’re there, you can also check out nearby Mer Bleue and Greenbelt farms.

These areas are known for their beautiful landscapes and interesting wildlife. Expect to see a diverse range of plant life and maybe even spot some small animals along the trail.

Explore great finds at Place d’Orléans Shopping Centre

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Address: 110 Place d’Orleans Dr.

Phone: +1 613 824 9050

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Wednesday, Saturday – 9:30 AM to 7 PM
  • Thursday and Friday – 9:30 AM to 8 PM
  • Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM

Website

If shopping is your thing, then you definitely have to hit up Place d’Orléans Shopping Centre. This place has everything you might need and more, from big-name retailers to unique local shops.

And if you’re with kids, they’ll love the play areas and other kid-friendly activities available within the mall. Besides shopping and dining, the mall often hosts seasonal activities, fashion shows, and community events, adding an extra layer to your visit.

Catch a movie at Landmark Cinemas Orléans

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Address: 3752 Innes Rd.

Phone: +1 613 830 4400 

Operating hours: 

  • Various times throughout the day

Website

Landmark Cinemas shows all the latest blockbuster movies, and the theatre is constantly updated. It’s a great spot whether you’re planning a date night, a family outing, or just some solo time after you explore the Chapel Hills.

Popcorn and other classic cinema snacks are available here, and they even have reclining seats for ultimate comfort.

One of the best parts of coming here is that they often have special promotions and early screenings of big films. You can take advantage of their loyalty programs, too.

Swing by a game at Heritage Baseball Diamond

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Address: 6160 Orléans Blvd.

Phone: N/A

Admission: Free entry

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM

Heritage Baseball Diamond is known for being well-maintained, so expect a quality field and good facilities. During baseball season, of course, you can catch local teams playing. 

Sometimes, they even host special tournaments or events, so there’s always something a bit different happening. You can also bring along something to sit on if you prefer more comfort than just the bleachers.

And keep an eye out for those foul balls—they’re occasional freebies if you can catch one!

Check out a book at Ottawa Public Library—Orléans

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Address: 1705 Orléans Blvd.

Phone: +1 613 580 2940

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday – 10 AM to 8:30 PM
  • Friday – 1 PM to 6 PM
  • Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Website

For folks who love to read, the Ottawa Public Library—Orléans is a goldmine. This branch holds a massive collection of books across all genres, from the latest bestsellers to timeless classics. 

Plus, if they don’t have what you’re looking for, you can request it from another branch easily. Beyond just books, you can also check out the artworks they have on display, and they also offer various programs for all ages.

Storytime for kids, workshops for adults, and even tech tutorials if you need a little boost in your digital skills. They also have a good selection of digital resources if you prefer to read on your tablet or e-reader.

Admire local art at the Shenkman Arts Centre

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Address: 245 Centrum Blvd.

Phone: +1 613 580 2700

Admission: Free entry

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 10 PM
  • Sunday – 8:30 AM to 8 PM

Website

Shenkman Arts Centre is where you can admire a diverse range of artwork from local artists, and they even regularly rotate the exhibits! Whether you’re into paintings, sculptures, or more contemporary installations, it’s all covered here.

They also host a variety of performances—from theatre to dance to live music. Additionally, they offer art classes and workshops, so if you’re feeling inspired, you can roll up your sleeves and create something yourself.

The centre is also a great place to meet local artists and like-minded individuals. They frequently organise talks and meet-the-artist sessions.

Where to Eat and Drink in Chapel Hill

The Bad Alibi

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Address: 5935 Jeanne D’Arc Blvd S.

Phone: +1 613 424 7000

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 1 AM

Good to know: Great for casual hangouts, watching sports, and enjoying live music

Website

Menu

The Bad Alibi’s jalapeño torpedoes, The Big Dip (Cheese Curds with spicy Mexican-Style Chorizo), along with the pickle pogos are must-tries for starters. These appetisers are crowd favourites, so you’re definitely in for a treat.

But don’t stop there—the steak frites version 2.0 is something you can’t miss. It’s a fantastic AAA Ontario striploin with a house-made chimichurri, oysters, mushrooms, and kimchi potatoes.

On the drinks front, you’re going to want to try their new cocktails, such as Empress French and Winter Aperol Spritz. Both of these are already getting a lot of love from the regulars.

Delicious Steak House 

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Address: 2080 St Joseph Blvd.

Phone: +1 613 830 3366

Pricing: $$$

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Thursday – 4 PM to 9:30 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 4 PM to 10 PM
  • Sunday – 4 PM to 9 PM

Good to know: Great for date nights, family dinners

Website

Menu

True to its name, Delicious Steak House is all about the steaks—ribeye, New Yorker, fillet mignon—they’ve got it all. They also have some non-steak options that are just as tasty, like the honey ginger glazed salmon and chicken parmigiana.

Bringing the kids? Their handheld options, like the Bold BBQ burger and Royale burger, are perfect for the little ones, and honestly, they might even steal a bite or two for yourself.

To pair with those juicy steaks, you can’t go wrong with any of their wines—they have a selection that really complements the mains.

Meatings Barbecue 

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Address: 5380 Canotek Rd #23

Phone: +1 613 680 6328

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Friday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday – 10 AM to 2 PM

Good to know: Great for BBQ lovers, casual dining, and takeout

Website

Menu

Everything here in Meatings Barbecue is smoked to perfection. Their sliced beef brisket and St. Louis ribs are the big stars, but don’t sleep on the smoked wings, pork belly burnt ends, and smoked sausages either.

And when it comes to sides, their smoked beans and the mixed meat mac n’ cheese casserole are top picks among regulars. 

For sauce lovers, Meatings has some amazing choices—their Maple Barbecue Sauce and Signature Rub are so good, you’ll probably want to take some home.

Moxies Orleans Restaurant 

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Address: 3818 Innes Rd.

Phone: +1 613 830 7200 

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Sunday to Tuesday – 11 AM to 11 PM
  • Wednesday and Thursday – 11 AM to 12 AM
  • Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM

Good to know: Ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions

Website

Menu

Moxies Orleans is your go-to spot whether you’re rolling in solo, with a bunch of friends, or bringing the whole family. Everyone raves about their dry ribs, 1 lb chicken wings, and potstickers.

And if you’re in the mood for something more filling, you’ve absolutely got to try their mushroom sirloin or the baby back ribs. Just pair these mains with a Skinny Mango Margarita or Lavender Lemonade, and you’re set for a great meal.

Veggie lover? Their Beyond Meat Burger and Vegan Black Bean Tacos are crowd favourites, too! Additionally, they’ve got a separate menu for the little ones, featuring kid-approved dishes like pizza, chicken fingers, and even pan-seared salmon.

Cucina da Vito 

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Address: 2701 St Joseph Blvd.

Phone: +1 613 834 8486

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Saturday – 5 PM to 10 PM

Good to know: Great for romantic dinners, celebrating special occasions

Website

Menu

Cucina da Vito is the place to be if you’re craving some authentic Italian fare. You can’t go wrong with their pasta dishes—people loved their Tortellini Alla Panna and Penne Primavera.

And for seafood lovers, take note: their grilled salmon and basa loin topped with shrimp are not to be missed. Of course, what’s a good Italian meal without dessert? 

You can finish up with their best-selling tiramisu and crème brûlée to round off a perfect dining experience. Furthermore, they’ve got a relaxed but refined atmosphere that’s great for lingering over your food and really enjoying each bite.

Where to Stay in and near Chapel Hill

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ottawa East – Orleans 

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Address: 500 Brisebois Cres.

Phone: +1 613 824 8444

Pricing: $$$

Operating hours: 

  • Check-in – 3 PM
  • Check-out – 11 AM

Website

Holiday Inn Express & Suites has everything you need for a hassle-free stay. Located just off Brisebois Crescent, you’re pretty close to the shopping and dining options in Orleans.

Now here, they’ve got free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, along with a fitness centre and indoor pool. They also have a business centre, which is super handy for any last-minute work tasks or printing needs. 

Plus, it’s an easy drive from downtown Ottawa, so you can get your dose of city life without being stuck right in the middle of it.

Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa

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Address: 100 Coventry Rd.

Phone: +1 613 741 2300

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Check-in – 3 PM
  • Check-out – 11 AM

Website

Hampton Inn by Hilton is great if you’ve got kids or are in town for an event, given its proximity to the RCGT Park and the St. Laurent Shopping Centre. Furthermore, they’ve got you covered with a free hot breakfast every morning, perfect to kickstart your day.

They also have a well-equipped fitness centre and a heated indoor pool. The free parking is a nice bonus, and if you’re here for business, you’ll appreciate the meeting rooms and business center facilities.

Plus, with easy access to Highway 417, getting around Ottawa is a breeze from here.

Courtyard Ottawa East 

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Address: 200 Coventry Rd.

Phone: +1 613 741 9862

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Check-in – 4 PM
  • Check-out – 11 AM

Website

Courtyard Ottawa East offers a blend of comfort and functionality. Their rooms are spacious, and each comes with a mini-fridge and microwave.

They have an on-site bistro too, where you can grab a breakfast or dinner. If you’re here for work, the business center and flexible meeting spaces are great.

The location is solid, with easy access to downtown Ottawa and attractions like the EY Centre and Ottawa Train Station.

Les Suites Hotel Ottawa 

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Address: 130 Besserer St.

Phone: +1 613 232 2000

Pricing: $

Operating hours: 

  • Check-in – 3 PM
  • Check-out – 11 AM

Website

Les Suites Hotel’s suites come with full kitchens, washers, and dryers, making it ideal for longer stays or family trips. Plus, you’re right in the heart of downtown Ottawa, just steps away from the ByWard Market, Rideau Centre, and many other attractions.

Moreover, the amenities here are great, with an indoor pool fitness centre, along with pet-friendly rooms. If you’re staying for an extended period, they also offer discounted rates for long-term stays.