After over 20-years writing about life in Ottawa, we think we have a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer. In this weekly series, we share our picks with you — our top spots for takeout, live music venues, local brews, bands and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!
ByWard Market
One of Canada’s oldest markets, the ByWard Market features produce stalls, handmade jewellery, one-of-a-kind crafts and eclectic clothing. Check out this urban market, one of Ottawa’s must-see locations.
PHOTO: Byward Market via Instagram
Parkdale Market
366 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa
This Hintonburg market is open from May to November, offering produce fresh from the farm. For the past 95 years, Parkdale Market has been a staple in the neighbourhood. Not only does this market feature fruits and vegetables, but also offers plants and shrubs. Kids can play at the adjacent playground.
PHOTO: Parkdale Market via Facebook
Ottawa’s Farmers Market
Multiple locations
This producer-run market features more than 150 vendors, in locations around Ottawa. Their first market was launched in 2006 at Lansdowne Park and has expanded to Westboro, Orléans and Barrhaven. The Ottawa’s Farmers Market is open year round at the Lansdowne location, from 9am to 3pm.
PHOTO: Ottawa Farmers Market via Facebook
613 Flea
Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park
This ever-changing marketplace offers unique goods, antiques, and one of a kind products. A non-for-profit market, 613 Flea is not your typical market. Opens June 19, 2021.
PHOTO: 613 Flea via Facebook
Main Farmers Market
201 Main Street
Main Farmers Market, proudly supports local farmers and producers in the Old Ottawa East neighbourhood. Open every Saturday from May 29 until the end of October, and even offers online pickup!
PHOTO: Main Farmers Market via Facebook
Metcalfe Farmers Market
Metcalfe Fairgrounds, 2821 8th Line Road, Metcalfe
The Metcalfe Farmers Market, located just outside Ottawa, is a producer based marketplace. With locally grown products, this market features fresh produce, baked goods, meats, crafts, jewellery and more. Open Saturdays from 9am to 1pm.
Carp Farmers Market
3790 Carp Rd, Carp
Carp Farmers Market is Eastern Ontario’s largest farmers market and was established 31 years ago. Alongside fresh produce, meats and homemade jams, Carp Farmers Market also offers pottery, woodwork, clothing and self care items. Open Saturdays 8:30 am to 1 pm from May to October.
PHOTO: Carp Farmers Market via Facebook
Almonte’s Farmers Market
155 High Street, Almonte
An array of fresh fruits, baked goods, flowers and woodwork, Almonte’s Farmers Market is a family favourite. Opening May 22, this market every Saturday of the season.
PHOTO: Almonte Farmers Market via Facebook
Ottawa Antique Market
179 Bank Street, Suite A
Located in the heart of Old Ottawa South, travel back in time at the Ottawa Antique Market! With over 25 antique dealers selling vintage goods from the Victorian era to Georgian folk art to Indigenous art, you are guaranteed to find just what you are looking for.
PHOTO: Jason D via Yelp
Ottawa Organic Farmers Market
3191 Riverside Drive (Riverside United Church)
If you are looking for organic and local food, the Ottawa Organic Farmers Market is just the spot. This small market specialises in locally grown products and promises to give you the best ingredients. This year-round family oriented market is open every Saturday, 10am to 12pm.
PHOTO: Ottawa Organic Farmers Market via Facebook