Five of Ottawa’s Best Family Friendly Neighbourhoods

While Ottawa as a whole is a very family friendly city, there are definitely some neighbourhoods that are geared more towards a family lifestyle than others. We too into account things like schools, parks, recreation, to determine which neighbourhoods in the Nation’s Capital have everything a growing family might need. Whether you want to be in east, west or central Ottawa, we’ve got the scoop on Ottawa’s most family friendly neighbourhoods.

Orleans

The ever-growing suburb of Orleans seems to have been designed with families in mind. Conveniently located just 30 minutes east of downtown Ottawa, Orleans features an abundance of parks, excellent recreation centres, and a great selection of schools. And there are so many family friendly things to do in Orleans. Kids Kingdom features a play centre and arcade for kids. The Shenkman Arts Centre offers entertainment year-round with live music, dance, theatre, and comedy in both official languages. The Ray Friel Centre is the largest recreation complex in Ottawa’s east end. The centre boasts three NHL size arenas, a fitness centre, wave pool, whirlpool, sauna, physiotherapy clinic, and a restaurant and coffee shop for the adults to enjoy while the kids play. You can also get out and experience nature at beautiful Mer Bleu bog and Petrie Island. Or visit the Cumberland Heritage Museum to learn about local heritage.

Westboro

If you’re looking for a neighbourhood that’s clean and safe, has great schools and parks, excellent amenities, and quality entertainment for both kids and adults, Westboro is the perfect choice. Located just 10 minutes west of downtown Ottawa, Westboro has a lot to offer families of all ages. With an excellent selection of restaurants, pubs, coffee shops and bakeries as well as some of Ottawa’s most popular shops it’s a very walkable neighbourhood.

It’s also a great neighbourhood for families who like to get outdoors. Westboro Beach offers swimming and a nice sandy beach, beautiful sunsets, and the popular Westboro Beach Café making it a great place to spend the day. Hampton Park is a large, dog-friendly park with wooded walking trails, benches and picnic tables, two baseball diamonds, and a fenced in off-leash dog-park. The popular Westboro Kiwanis Park has several play structures, a wading pool, a tennis court, and picnic area. For indoor activities, the Dovercourt Recreation Centre has an indoor pool, a fitness centre, large gymnasium, art gallery and they also offer classes and lessons.

Stittsville

Once a rural community that has now grown into a suburb, Stittsville offers that small town feel with all the conveniences of the city. Located about 30-minutes west of downtown Ottawa, Stitsville is a safe and friendly neighbourhood that includes lots of parks and greenspace, fantastic schools, and excellent recreation. With an active community association that organizes events throughout the year, Stittsville boasts a close-knit community where neighbours become friends.

There are few places better to live if you’re a hockey family! Stittsville is home to the Canadian Tire Centre, the Bell Sensplex, Tony Graham Recreation Complex, and the CARDELREC Recreation Centre. Not to mention all the other great recreation options including Xtreme Trampoline Park, the Trans Canada Trail, and Amberwood Golf Course. You’re also just minutes away from Tanger outlets, one of Ottawa’s most popular shopping spots.

Barrhaven

Barrhaven has been growing rapidly since the 1980’s and has become one of Ottawa’s most popular family friendly neighbourhoods. Known for its many schools and parks, quiet streets, and convenient amenities, Barrhaven is a great neighbourhood for children to grow up in.  There are over 30 schools in the Barrhaven area with options for all ages in both the public and Catholic school boards as well as private school options.

The area is home to several parks and sports fields where families can enjoy picnics, playgrounds, and outdoor sports. The Walter Baker Sports Centre includes a fitness centre, an 8-lane pool, diving pool, warm teaching pool, sauna, hot tub, and squash courts, as well as two full-sized ice rinks with spectator seating. Barrhaven is also home to the state-of-the-art Minto Recreation Complex which offers swimming pools, ice rinks, a fitness center, racquetball courts, and an artificial turf sports field.

The Glebe

When it comes to Ottawa’s favourite family-friendly neighbourhoods, you’ll find the Glebe high on everyone’s list. Sitting in one of Ottawa’s best locations, just minutes from downtown and surrounded by the Rideau Canal on three sides, the Glebe offers large homes on tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and endless entertainment options for the whole family. With a high walk score and good transit options, the Glebe is also a great choice for families who want to live without a car. Lansdowne Park and Bank Street are home to many of Ottawa’s festivals and events, ensuring those who live in the neighbourhood always have great entertainment at their doorstep. Although housing prices are often higher in the Glebe than in some of Ottawa’s other family-friendly neighbourhood’s, there’s no doubt that it’s worth it for this highly coveted neighbourhood.

No matter what area of town you want to live in, Ottawa has a family-friendly neighbourhood that you’ll love! If you or someone you know is thinking about moving in Ottawa, contact us to find a Realtor® who knows the city and is ready to help you find the perfect new home for your family.