Ethan BrownOrléans is a community in Ottawa where history mingles with modernity. Originally a small village founded in the 19th century, it has blossomed into a bustling suburban area known for its vibrant multicultural feel and family-friendly vibes.
With neighbourhoods like Avalon, Chapel Hill, and Convent Glen, there’s a little corner for everyone—great parks, charming local shops, and plenty of activities to enjoy.
- Where is Orléans?
- How to Get to Orléans, Ottawa
- Best Time to Go to Orléans, Ottawa
- What to Do and See in Orléans
- Relax on the sandy Petrie Island Beach
- Catch a performance at Shenkman Arts Centre
- Explore artistic vibe at ACE Arte Studio
- Stroll through the scenic Millennium Park
- Marvel at the beauty of Princess Louise Falls
- Enjoy festive lights on Taffy Lane Holiday Lights
- Shop till you drop at Place d’Orléans Mall
- Have fun at Orleans Bowling Centre-OBC
- Pick your own fruits at Orleans Fruit Farm
- Where to Eat and Drink in Orléans
- Where to Stay in and near Orléans
- FAQs about Ottawa’s Orléans
Where is Orléans?
Orléans is a charming suburban area located in the eastern part of Ottawa. You’ll find it nestled between St. Joseph Boulevard to the south and Innes Road to the north, stretching from Highway 174 on its western edge to Trim Road in the east.
How to Get to Orléans, Ottawa
Closest subway stop: To get to Orléans, if you’re using public transit, hop on the OC Tranpo’s Route 39 bus, which will take you directly into the heart of Orléans. You can catch this bus from Blair Station if you’re coming from downtown Ottawa.
If you’re driving, just take Highway 174, and you’ll be there in no time. Exit at Place d’Orléans Drive, and you’ll find yourself right in the mix of this charming community.
Best Time to Go to Orléans, Ottawa
The best time to experience Orléans’ culture is during festivals held between April to September.
Orléans PoutineFest happens in April—a fantastic few days dedicated to celebrating Canada’s beloved dish, with vendors serving up all sorts of creative poutine variations.
In June, check out the Orléans Craft Beer Festival! It’s the perfect event for sampling unique local brews, wines, spirits, and food and enjoying live music.
And if you’re still hungry for more, mark your calendar for the Orléans Ribfest & Poutine which takes place in September—it’s a fun and tasty event for everyone!
What to Do and See in Orléans
Relax on the sandy Petrie Island Beach
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Website: https://www.petrieisland.org/beaches
Address: 795 Tweddle Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 580 2595
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10:30 AM to 9 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 7 PM
Petrie Island Beach is a gem that’s perfect for those lazy summer days. You can relax on the sandy shores, swim in the calm waters, and soak up the sun with a good book.
The park has great picnic areas, so packing lunch is a fantastic idea. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of hiking trails that offer beautiful views of the Ottawa River and its wildlife.
For those who like more action, there’s canoeing and kayaking available with rentals on-site. Oh, and don’t miss the interpretive centre—it’s a neat place to learn more about the local ecosystem and the island’s history.
Catch a performance at Shenkman Arts Centre
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Website: https://shenkmanarts.ca/
Address: 245 Centrum Blvd.
Contact details: +1 613 580 2700
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 8:30 AM to 8 PM
The Shenkman Arts Centre offers a wide variety of shows, from theatre productions to concerts and dance performances. It’s home to both local talent and broader touring acts, so there’s always something new and exciting to check out.
Beyond performances, the Shenkman Arts Centre also hosts art galleries that feature rotating exhibits. It’s a great opportunity to see some incredible artwork and perhaps even meet the artists on special exhibit nights.
If you’re interested in learning more about the arts, there are workshops and classes available as well. Just head on to their website for more information!
Explore artistic vibe at ACE Arte Studio
– Media credit: ace.arte
Website: http://www.aceartestudio.com/
Address: 2095 St Joseph Blvd Unit 1
Contact details: +1 613 590 1010
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
For those who like to get their hands a little messy, ACE Arte Studio is the perfect stop.
It’s an engaging space where you can dive into various art forms, from painting and sculpture to pottery and mixed media—no matter your skill level!
One cool thing about ACE Arte Studios is their community events. They often host “paint nights” where you sip on a glass of wine while you create. They’ve also got art shows that display participants’ work, along with fantastic programmes tailored just for the kids.
Stroll through the scenic Millennium Park
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Website: https://ottawa.ca/en/residents/recreation-and-parks/parks-and-green-space
Address: 100 Millennium Blvd.
Contact details: +1 613 580 2400
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
For outdoor activities in sprawling fields, Millennium Park is a must-visit! It also has well-maintained walking trails, perfect for stretching your legs and even have a picnic. There’s also an off-leash area where your furry pals can play freely!
Along your walk, you’ll find a series of children’s playgrounds, as well as areas for playing sports or flying kites. Cyclists will love the paved paths that weave through the park, and there’s even a skate park for those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline.
During the warmer months, Millennium Park often hosts community events like outdoor concerts and festivals.
Marvel at the beauty of Princess Louise Falls
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Website: http://waterfallsofontario.com/princess-louise-falls.php
Address: St Joseph Blvd.
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
A visit to Princess Louise Falls is like stepping into a little slice of hidden paradise—it’s secluded and surrounded by lush green trees and rugged rocks that add to the enchanting atmosphere.
Several trails lead to the falls, and these offer various perspectives and photo opportunities. A moderately easy hike will get you right up close, where you can see the water rushing down in all its glory.
In the winter, the falls freeze into a stunning ice sculpture, which is equally breathtaking!
Enjoy festive lights on Taffy Lane Holiday Lights
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Website: N/A
Address: Taffy Ln.
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7 PM to 10:30 PM
You’ve got to experience the magic of Taffy Lane during the holiday season! It’s like stepping into a winter wonderland, with the entire street bursting into colour and lights that are dazzling.
Every corner brings a new display, from twinkling fairy lights to larger-than-life inflatable characters. The folks on Taffy Lane go all out to deck their homes with the most impressive decor you’ll see.
Park your car and take a stroll down the street! It’s a great way to soak in all the festive spirit.
Shop till you drop at Place d’Orléans Mall
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Website: http://www.placedorleans.com/
Address: 110 Place d’Orléans Dr.
Contact details: +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
Place d’Orléans Mall is a shopper’s haven, where you’ll find everything from fashion boutiques and shoe stores to tech gadgets and home essentials. They also have lots of seasonal promotions and little extras that’ll make your shopping experience even better.
The food court is also great, offering a range of cuisines to refuel your energy after hitting the stores. And if you’re shopping with little ones, there are plenty of family-friendly amenities here, like designated kids’ play areas and child-friendly restrooms.
Have fun at Orleans Bowling Centre-OBC
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Website: http://www.orleansbowling.com/
Address: 885 Taylor Creek Dr.
Contact details: +1 613 837 7000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 9 AM to 10 PM
- Thursday – 9 AM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 9 AM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 10:30 AM to 10 PM
Cost:
Per Game:
- $8.50 per person
- $4 for shoe rental
Per Lane: (max. of 6 players)
- 1 hour – $61
- 1 hour and 30 minutes – $89
- 2 hours – $109
Bowling at the Orleans Bowling Centre (OBC) is such a fun way to spend a day or evening! Here, you’ll find modern lanes decked out with flashy lights, bumpers for the kiddos, and even some seriously cool cosmic bowling nights where everything glows in the dark.
OBC also has a great arcade area and billiards, so there’s plenty to keep everyone in your group entertained. The food here is worth mentioning too—they serve up tasty snacks and meals perfect for keeping your energy up while you play.
And if you’re planning a birthday party or a group outing, OBC has awesome packages that make organising a breeze!
Pick your own fruits at Orleans Fruit Farm
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Website: https://www.fermedorleans.com/
Address: 1399 St Joseph Blvd.
Contact details: +1 613 830 1303
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Orleans Fruit Farm is where you want to be if picking strawberries or apples sounds like the perfect day out. The fields are well-maintained and the staff are helpful.
After fruit picking, take time to browse through their store. They’ve got fantastic local produce, jams, honey, and even some delightful baked goods. Their apple cider is a must-try, so don’t miss out!
You can also time your visit during their seasonal activities and tours like pumpkin patches and hayrides.
Where to Eat and Drink in Orléans
Mandarin Restaurant
– Media credit: themandarinrestaurants
Address: 2055 Tenth Line Rd.
Phone: +1 613 834 7000
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 4:45 PM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 4:45 PM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for family or group gatherings
Mandarin Restaurant is a buffet lover’s paradise! It has an expansive setup that offers a variety of food stations.
They’re known for serving up classic Mandarin dishes like beef with broccoli, General Tao chicken, and sweet and sour pork. But that’s just the beginning.
You can also indulge in fresh salads, chilled seafood, oven-baked pizza, and a range of noodles and rice dishes. For those looking for something extra special, they offer premium options such as grilled ribeye steak, fried dumplings, and even sushi.
Another highlight here is their dessert selection, especially the coconut pie and lemon meringue pie—save room for those!
Delicious Steak House
– Media credit: onelove.foodie
Address: 2080 St Joseph Blvd.
Phone: +1 613 830 3366
Pricing: $$$
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: Ideal for intimate dinners or date nights
Delicious Steak House lives up to its name! Here, it’s all about perfectly cooked steaks, featuring choices like tender New Yorker and fillet mignon.
But before you dive into the mains, don’t skip their appetisers; the honey ginger-glazed salmon and crusted chicken are crowd favourites. And if you’re in the mood for sharing, the Seafood Oscar—a mix of salmon, shrimp, and scallops—should be on your radar.
Their extensive wine list is also something to look forward to, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for your meal.
Occo Kitchen
– Media credit: occokitchen
Address: 4240 Innes Rd.
Phone: +1 613 834 1200
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for casual brunch and lunch with family or friends
At Occo Kitchen, get ready to be impressed by their menu of beers and creative cocktails! These drinks go hand in hand with their tasty appetisers like cauliflower wings or maple bacon baked brie.
If you’re craving pub classics, their fish burger, East Coast donair, and chicken club are always top picks. For something more filling, their mains, like the Ahi tuna poke bowl, rigatoni bolognese, and steak frites, won’t disappoint.
And a little tip: Try to drop by during their weekday happy hours to snag some great deals.
The Bad Alibi
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Address: 5935 Jeanne D’Arc Blvd S.
Phone: +1 613 424 7000
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 1 AM
Good to know: Great for night outs
When you’re in the mood for something casual yet flavourful, The Bad Alibi is the spot to be. They’ve got these amazing taco wontons and jalapeño torpedoes to start with—spicy and satisfying.
And for mains, the seafood linguine and beef stroganoff are solid options. If burgers are more your thing, you can’t go wrong with the Patty Waggon burger or the spicy Firehouse burger.
Their drink menu is extensive enough to please both alcohol and non-alcoholic drinkers, with standouts like the Corona Sunbrew and Broadhead Blueberry Blonde being quite popular.
The Barley Mow Orleans
– Media credit: aussieaxle
Address: 2034 Tenth Line Rd.
Phone: +1 613 841 5111
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Thursday and Friday – 11 AM to 1 AM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 12 AM
Good to know: Great for groups, family, or drink night
The Barley Mow Orleans is your go-to pub if you’re a beer and draught lover. Their menu has some fantastic appetisers that pair perfectly with your drink of choice, like the Big Pretzel and Sticky Fingers (chicken tenders).
And if you’re a burger fan, their Barley burger and Black Bird (blackened chicken with bacon, roasted salsa, and jalapeño) are must-tries. They also offer a kids’ menu featuring fun options like mac n’ cheese.
Be sure to check out their seasonal and special menu too, as they often have interesting new dishes and drinks featuring local flavours.
Where to Stay in and near Orléans
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ottawa East
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Address: 500 Brisebois Cres.
Phone: +1 613 824 8444
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ottawa East has everything you need for a comfortable stay. They offer free breakfast and they’ve got a fitness centre so you can keep up with your workout routine.
The rooms are spacious and come with free Wi-Fi. Their amenities are notable, with the indoor pool being a favourite of many travellers! Plus, they have a business centre if you need to get some work done.
Parking is free as well—a convenient perk!
The Metcalfe Hotel by Gray Collection
– Media credit: metcalfehotel
Address: 123 Metcalfe St.
Phone: +1 613 231 6555
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Metcalfe Hotel by Grey Collection is a gem in the heart of Ottawa. Here, they offer all the modern amenities you’d expect, like free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre, and even a pool.
The rooms are super cosy and come with everything you need for a comfortable stay. You’ll love their on-site restaurant too, which offers a great selection of meals.
They also have meeting rooms if you’re in town for business. Finally, its location is just fantastic—you’re right downtown, so everything is within walking distance.
Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa
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Address: 100 Coventry Rd.
Phone: +1 613 741 2300
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
For reliability and comfort, the Hampton Inn by Hilton is a good bet. This place is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, where you get to enjoy a free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and an indoor pool.
The fitness centre is well-equipped, so you won’t miss out on your workouts. One thing you’ll appreciate is the free parking, so no need to worry about finding a spot or paying extra.
The hotel is not in the heart of downtown but it’s well-connected by public transport. You might have to plan your day a bit more if you’re aiming to see the key attractions, but the comfort and amenities here make up for it.
Courtyard Ottawa East
– Media credit: courtyardmarriottottawa
Address: 200 Coventry Rd.
Phone: +1 613 741 9862
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
The Courtyard Ottawa East is another solid option for staying near Orléans. They offer free Wi-Fi, and there’s an on-site restaurant that serves delicious meals.
The rooms are spacious and modern, equipped with everything you might need. One of the standout features here is their indoor pool and hot tub—something to help you relax after a long day!
They also have a fitness centre, business centre, and meeting rooms. Just be aware that while the location is convenient for getting around, it’s a bit farther from the downtown core.
