12 Must-Visit Ottawa Downtown Shopping Spots (With Menswear, Books, Bling, and Other Fabulous Finds!)
A month ago, I was supposed to grab a gift for a friend, so I went to Downtown Ottawa to do some shopping. But as fate would have it, my quest turned into an adventure in the area’s shopping wonderland.
Instead of a gift, I somehow found myself knee-deep in quirky jewelry and vintage finds and debating whether I really needed a Puma Speedcats.
Spoiler alert: I didn’t need them, but oh, how I wanted them. Regretfully, I managed to talk myself out of it, though I still have flashbacks to those sleek shoes!
But hey, at least I discovered some truly incredible spots that I just had to share.
In case you didn’t know, Ottawa’s downtown shopping scene is an endless ocean of hidden gems. From chic menswear to eclectic accessories and must-have books, you’ll want to dive right in and splurge!
1. CF Rideau Centre
— Media credit: cfrideaucentre
Website: https://shops.cadillacfairview.com/property/cf-rideau-centre
Address: 50 Rideau St
Contact details: +1 613-236-6565
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
CF Rideau Centre is a popular shopping center in Downtown Ottawa for its three floors of pure retail haven.
With hundreds of stores to choose from, you won’t have any trouble finding what you need.
From popular apparel shops like Aritzia, Anthropologie, and Kate Spade to top spots for electronics and essentials like Apple, Best Buy, and Aswaq Market, this place has it all.
2. 240 Sparks
— Media credit: stillwellgray
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zAn2K7d1QEU5mxwE6
Address: 240 Sparks St.
Contact details: +1 613-234-5349
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, and Saturday – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Friday – 9:30 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – closed
240 Sparks is a cozy mall located along the iconic Sparks Street.
Here’s where you’ll find a delightful mix of boutique shops and local gems. From unique fashion finds to quirky gifts and delicious eateries, it’s a shopping hub that guarantees a delightful experience for shopaholics.
So, if you’re in the mood for some indoor shopping that’s both relaxed and eclectic, this spot is your perfect destination!
3. Viens Avec Moi
— Media credit: viensavecmoiofficial
Website: https://viensavecmoi.ca/
Address: 797 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-234-1771
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Elegantly French, Viens Avec Moi elevates the daily staples into chic delights. It’s a Bank Street gem for shoppers looking to fill their wardrobe with stylish and sophisticated pieces.
Beyond its incredible fashion finds, this spot is also renowned for its swimwear collection. So, whether you’re after a standout new outfit or the perfect swimsuit for your next getaway, you’re bound to discover something fabulous to suit your style.
4. Schad
— Media credit: schadboutique
Website: https://schad.ca/
Address: 459 Sussex Dr
Contact details: +1 613-769-8626
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 5 PM
Schad is a true fashionista’s paradise, offering a curated selection of the season’s most coveted and unique styles in footwear and clothing for women.
Imagine a boutique that’s like a treasure chest, filled with standout pieces that make a statement! You’ll have no trouble revamping your boring closet into the wardrobe of your dreams.
5. Heba Boutique
— Media credit: boutiqueheba
Website: https://boutiqueheba.com/
Address: 1440 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-695-1400
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Heba Boutique is a fashion gem where Muslim women can find stylish clothing that perfectly balances modern trends with modesty.
Since opening its doors in 2016, this vibrant boutique has shown that you can have both style and modesty without compromise, offering pieces that make a statement while staying true to your values.
6. Milk Shop
— Media credit: milkshopottawa
Website: https://milkshop.ca/
Address: 45 William St
Contact details: +1 613-789-6455
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, and Saturday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Thursday and Friday – 10 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Nestled in the heart of ByWard Market, Milk Shop is a modest boutique where folks can indulge in trendy clothing, jewelry, and accessories.
If you adore trends, I’m telling you now – it’s impossible to take a look around and leave without a shopping bag on hand!
7. Bellwethers Vintage
— Media credit: bellwethersvintage
Website: https://www.facebook.com/bellwethersvintage/
Address: 9 Florence St,
Contact details: +1 613-882-2165
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – 12 PM to 5 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 6 PM
Bellwethers Vintage lets you curate your wardrobe with one-of-a-kind finds that let you strut down the sidewalk confidently, knowing no one else has the same kind of standout style.
I don’t know about you, but for me, there’s a special charm about finding unique clothes at a vintage store where each piece has its own story.
Admittedly, I love it when people ask me where I got something, and I reply with, “Oh, I got it from a vintage store!”. It makes me feel like a stylish treasure hunter, unearthing hidden gems that add a personal touch to my wardrobe.
Bellwethers Vintage is definitely a must-visit, especially if you’re sick of the monotony of fast fashion and want something to truly express your individuality.
8. Stomping Ground
— Media credit:stompingground
Website: https://stompingground.ca/
Address: 728 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-422-7867
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Stomping Ground is a well-rounded men’s store filled with essentials, including clothes, accessories, grooming products, and shoes – lots and lots of shoes.
They’ve got the latest kicks to help you craft the most fire outfits, whether you’re all about the latest trends, prefer something more classic, or want to define your own style.
9. Moores Clothing for Men
— Media credit: mooresclothing
Website: https://www.mooresclothing.ca/
Address: 162 Bank St,
Contact details: +1 613-235-2121
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Found yourself in the city needing some top-notch men’s business attire? Moores has got you covered!
This sophisticated shopping destination offers a wide range of high-quality suits, dress shirts, and accessories – basically, everything you need for a sharp, professional look.
10. True Bijoux
— Media credit: truebijoux
Website: https://truebijoux.ca/
Address: 206 Sparks St.
Contact details: +1 613-232-2229
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
If you’re on the hunt for jewelry that strikes the perfect balance between fashion-forward and timeless elegance, True Bijoux is your go-to spot.
This chic jeweler is all about offering a stunning array of pieces that cater to both men and women, whether you’re after something bold and trendy or a classic gem that never goes out of style.
If you’re visiting Ottawa and want a unique and lavish souvenir, you know where to go!
11. Karuna Natural Wears
— Media credit: karuna_natural_wears
Website: https://karunanaturalwears.ca/
Address: 218 Bank St,
Contact details: +1 613-680-7531
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 6:30 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Karuna, which means compassion in Nepali, is a haven of Nepalese and Tibetan traditions.
Whether you’re looking for a standout piece of jewelry or a tranquil singing bowl, Karuna offers a selection that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful.
This isn’t just a shopping experience – it’s an invitation to connect with something deeply enriching and truly exceptional.
12. Librairie du Soleil
— Media credit: laliseanne
Website: https://dusoleil.leslibraires.ca/
Address: 33 George St
Contact details: +1 613-241-6999
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM
- Thursday and Friday – 9:30 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Okay, now who said that shopping is only for fashionistas? I know bookworms want to indulge in a little retail therapy too!
Don’t worry – I have just the thing. Librairie du Soleil is a ByWard Market destination, boasting a cozy space perfect for finding your next read, especially if you adore reading novels in French.
They have one of the best collections of French titles in the city, that’s for sure.