Living Local in Ottawa: Your Guide to Hintonburg
Ever wondered about the buzz surrounding the neighborhood everyone in Ottawa seems to be talking about? Not that it’s dominating every conversation, but trust us, Hintonburg has earned its spot in the local limelight.
Among Ottawa’s diverse offerings, Hintonburg is another stand-out community that caters to a wide range of tastes. It has a unique allure, especially for those with an artistic flair, and is practically a canvas waiting to be explored.
This guide is your ticket to navigating the intricacies of this neighborhood, offering a comprehensive look that will make you feel like a local. So, if you’re ready, let’s delve into the charm and character of Hintonburg!
What is Hintonburg known for?
Hintonburg is known as one of the top ten emerging neighborhoods in Ottawa, particularly for its QUAD arts district. This has led to it being included in an issue of the Financial Times and was noted as the ‘Burg is “thriving again.”
Hintonburg’s Quartier des Artistes / Arts District is credited for blending cultural expression, community spirit, and heritage, which led to its rise in fame.
The History of Hintonburg
Hintonburg, with its roots tracing back to the early 19th century, has a history as diverse and dynamic as its present-day character.
Originally part of Nepean Township, this neighborhood saw its inception in 1826, evolving into the village of Hintonburg, officially incorporated in 1893.
It was named after Joseph Hinton, a respected community leader, and this area became an integral part of Ottawa when it was annexed in 1907.
Wellington Street, stretching from Parliament Hill, has been a central artery through Hintonburg since its early days, once considered part of Mechanicsville to the north.
The neighborhood experienced changes in the 1960s when the NCC took over Lebreton Flats, altering the landscape and dynamics. Commercial decline along Wellington Street was later reversed with gentrification.
The 1950s and 1960s ushered in significant transformations, with the Tunney’s Pasture office campus and the closure of the rail line along Scott Street.
This later became the Transitway bus roadway. Then, the construction of the Queensway/417 influenced the area’s development.
By the early 1990s, Hintonburg faced challenges, notably with issues related to prostitution and drugs. However, concerted community efforts, collaboration with law enforcement, and initiatives like the ‘John School’ helped address these concerns.
Hintonburg’s Community Association, formed in the late 1980s, played a crucial role in advocating for residents’ interests. The neighborhood has evolved over the years, adapting to a new identity as a central-area residential community.
The Hintonburg Community/Recreation Centre, in-fill developments, and the transformation of older industrial buildings into artist spaces showcase the changes.
For those curious about the neighborhood’s rich past, the Hintonburg Community Association published a narrative history in 2003, offering invaluable insights.
As part of its heritage, the Parkdale Fire Station, built in 1923, underwent renovation in 2005, reflecting the commitment to preserving historical landmarks in the area.
Notably, Hintonburg holds a unique place in cinematic history, hosting the very first film projected in Canada using Thomas Edison’s Vitascope technique in 1896.
Population of Hintonburg
According to the latest census, Hintonburg in Ottawa has a population of about 7,844 residents. The median age of residents in Hintonburg is around 36.4 years old.
What’s more, 50% of its population consists of married couples, and 31% are those with children at home. Out of Hintonburg’s entire population, 56.6% use English as their only language.
Weather in Hintonburg
Hintonburg encounters temperatures ranging from 6-80℉ throughout the year. Extreme temperatures below -13℉ or above 88℉ are rare in this vibrant neighborhood.
The warmer season spans approximately 3.9 months, embracing Hintonburg from late May to September. July stands out as the hottest month, inviting residents to enjoy the summer vibes.
Conversely, the colder season lingers for about 3.3 months, beginning early in December and extending into March. During this period, average daily temperatures dip below 33℉, with January marking the coldest stretch of the year.
Hintonburg experiences a diverse climate, offering both cozy winters and pleasant summers for its residents.
Is Hintonburg a good place to live?
Living in Hintonburg is a fantastic choice as this artistic neighborhood boasts a vibrant shopping and dining scene. There are trendy boutiques, cozy bistros, vegan cafes, and inviting coffee shops all lining Wellington Street West.
Come evening, locals enjoy the hip atmosphere of supper clubs and brewpubs or get creative with the Great Canadian Theatre Company with works by local playwrights.
Additionally, you can explore the numerous small galleries, studios, and street murals that contribute to the area’s unique charm. Don’t miss out on the lively fairs and art events held in Laroche Park!
Hintonburg is a dynamic community where creativity not just thrives but also shines as exciting experiences await around every corner.
Housing in Hintonburg
The median rent in Hintonburg costs approximately $2,200, which is a 16% increase compared to 2023. The average rent for a 1BR apartment is $1,999, a 7% increase from the previous year.
In comparison, places like Carlington pay an average of $1,734 for rent, making Hintonburg one of the more expensive areas to live in Ottawa.
Healthcare in Hintonburg
Living in Hintonburg comes with the perk of free healthcare under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
Residents enjoy coverage for visits to family doctors or specialists, along with most primary and emergency healthcare services.
Additionally, being situated in Ottawa means easy access to all of the city’s medical providers. In particular, it’s close to the Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus, the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, the Wellington Medical Clinic, and Appletree Medical Clinic.
Hintonburg not only offers a vibrant community but also ensures that your healthcare needs are well taken care of through comprehensive OHIP coverage.
Education in Hintonburg
In Hintonburg, education is the least of your worries because the top universities in Ottawa are easily accessible, and it has its own schools!
It has four schools: Connaught Public School, Devonshire Community School, Fisher Park Public School, and École élémentaire Saint-Francois d’Assise.
The first two offer elementary education, while Fisher Park Public School was formerly a high school but now offers only middle school education. Then École élémentaire Saint-Francois d’Assise is run by the French Catholic Board.
Industries in Hintonburg
The main industry in Hintonburg is focused on culture and the arts due to the abundance of art galleries that call the neighborhood home.
There are jobs to be found in the retail and hospitality industry thanks to the boutiques, cafes, brewpubs, and more at Wellington Street West.
Because of the neighborhood’s trendiness as an art spot for creative buffs, you’re most likely to find employment in either of the two previously mentioned industries.
Transportation in Hintonburg
Hintonburg boasts excellent accessibility through various transportation options. The O-Train connects the neighborhood via the Pimisi Station, Bayview Station, and Tunney’s Pasture Station.
Residents can also rely on convenient bus routes, including Route 11 and 14 buses that run along Wellington/Somerset and Gladstone, covering the neighborhood’s full length.
The Route 16 bus operates along Scott, starting at Tunney’s Pasture, passing through downtown, and reaching Rideau Centre and St-Paul University.
For those with a preference for driving, the Queensway offers easy access via the Parkdale exit. Cyclers will also appreciate Wellington St, a bustling bicycle corridor with safety measures like painted ‘sharrows’ and a dooring strip to enhance cyclist safety.
If you seek a more secure cycling route, Armstrong, just one street north of Wellington, provides a safer alternative. Overall, getting around in Hintonburg is convenient, with various transportation modes to suit different preferences.
Pros and Cons of Living in Hintonburg
So, now we’ve covered the most important aspects of Hintonburg, such as its past, the cost of housing, and its main industry.
Check out the summarized guide on the pros and cons of living in Hintonburg arranged in the table below:
Pros
- Thriving arts & culture community
- Covered by OHIP
- Abundant art galleries, cafes, restaurants, & other places to visit
- Easily accessible via different kinds of public/private transportation
Cons
- Expensive rent
- The job market is mainly focused on retail & hospitality/management or the arts & culture sector
Things to Do in Hintonburg
Hintonburg is a place bursting with charm and tons of activities waiting for you to explore. From quirky boutiques to cultural hotspots, it has something for everyone!
So, let’s dive into the heart of the action and discover the countless ways to make your days in Hintonburg absolutely unforgettable!
1. Explore the historic Parkdale Market.
Address: 366 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Y 1G8, Canada
Website: https://parkdalepublicmarket.ca/
Contact Details: +1 613-244-4410
If you haven’t scratched that itch to shop yet, then you can’t miss Parkdale Market, which proudly holds the title of the second-oldest market in Ottawa!
This vibrant marketplace is a treasure trove of the finest Canadian, provincial, and regional products, making it a cornerstone of the Wellington West neighborhood.
It opens its gates in May, and the market becomes a haven for gardeners and culinary enthusiasts, showcasing the best Ottawa has to offer.
As the seasons unfold, the market transforms its offerings, even becoming a festive hub for Christmas Trees during the holiday season.
Whether it’s a casual meet-up or embarking on your daily and weekly grocery rituals, the Parkdale Public Market stands as a communal cornerstone in Ottawa’s West End!
2. Join a workshop at Maker House.
Address: 987 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2Y1, Canada
Website: https://makerhouse.com/
Contact Details: +1 613-422-6253
Maker House is a beloved local gem that doubles as a gift and furniture store with a commitment to all things homegrown, encouraging you to embrace your creativity.
Beyond offering a curated selection of furniture and home decor, it takes community engagement to the next level by hosting lively workshops and events.
Some of its past workshops include an aromatherapy candle workshop or mastering the art of modern calligraphy. So, just imagine all the diverse and engaging activities waiting for you at Maker House!
3. Celebrate the holidays year-round at Tinseltown Christmas Emporium.
Address: 1096 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3C7, Canada
Website: https://tinseltownchristmasemporium.com/
Contact Details: +1 613-680-7557
If you’re already starting to miss the Christmas spirit in the air, then look no further than the Tinseltown Christmas Emporium, where you’ll feel the holiday spirit year-round.
It’s honestly just like stepping into a perpetual winter wonderland where winter never ends. This enchanting emporium is a treasure trove of ornaments, candles, stockings, and more!
4. Get crafting at Wabi-Sabi.
Address: 1078 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2Y3, Canada
Website: https://wabi-sabi.ca/
Contact Details: +1 613-725-5648
Whether you’re a long-time crafter or just starting to get into the hobby, you can easily delve into the world of crafting at Wabi-Sabi.
This yarn and fiber store is a haven that goes beyond mere supplies – it’s a hub of learning and inspiration. Wabi-Sabi provides classes tailored to various skill levels, making it your ultimate destination for all things crafty in Hintonburg!
5. Make your escape at the Escape Manor.
Address: 982 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X8, Canada
Website: https://www.escapemanor.com/
Contact Details: +1 613-695-1655 ext. 3
If you’ve ever dreamed of making a grand escape without actually being sent to jail or trapped somewhere for real, Escape Manor is the right place to go!
It’s a popular destination for group gatherings and an epitome of the escape room craze.
With a diverse array of themed rooms, you can embark on a collaborative journey, solving intricate puzzles and uncovering clues that will pave the way for your escape.
Suitable for all ages, Escape Manor offers a fantastic and entertaining option for group get-togethers in Hintonburg!
6. Appreciate art at the Orange Art Gallery.
Address: 290 City Centre Ave, Ottawa, ON K1R 7R7, Canada
Website: https://www.orangeartgallery.ca/
Contact Details: +1 613-761-1500
You can’t visit Hintonburg without indulging in the thing it’s most known for, which is appreciating its vibrant culture and arts scene! So, start your artistic journey by visiting the Orange Art Gallery.
This family-run establishment, welcoming art lovers since 2010, offers a delightful blend of local exhibits, music nights, and engaging art classes.
Here, you’ll get to immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere as you explore the diverse displays within the gallery. It’s conveniently situated next to the ‘Art is In’ bakery and is an ideal spot to indulge in both artistic and culinary delights!
7. Have fun with your kids or pets at Hintonburg Park.
Address: 49 Fairmont Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Y 1X4, Canada
Hintonburg Park is a charming space that’s designed to cater to the enjoyment of kids, pets, and adults alike. It’s bounded by walls or fencing on all sides, ensuring a secure environment for everyone.
A lively splash pad adds a refreshing touch, perfect for warm days, while numerous mature trees offer ample shade for relaxation. The park’s expansive green spaces provide an ideal setting for a picnic, games, and leisurely strolls.
Additionally, the restrooms are also near Hintonburg Park, so you don’t have to worry if the call of nature rears its head while you enjoy your day out.
8. Enjoy classic French cuisine with a Canadian twist at Absinthe.
Address: 1208 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2Z7, Canada
Website: https://www.absinthecafe.ca/
Contact Details: +1 613-761-1138
Must-order Menu Items: Steak Frites, Salmon Entree, Crème Brulee, Beer Tartare
Price Range: $$ (Average)
Absinthe has been delighting patrons since 2003 with classic French cuisine served with a Canadian twist. With inventive plating, locally sourced ingredients, and indescribable flavors, it’s no wonder why it’s a staple in Hintonburg!
The menu boasts a delectable array of dishes, but if you ask us what’s the fan favorite, it has to be the Steak Frites! If you’re a bit more daring, try out the Beef Tartare, which is one of Absinthe’s most popular dishes for a reason.
And be sure to have some room left in your tummy after all that food so you can also try out the decadent Crème Brulee.
9. Taste authentic Thai cuisine at Siam Bistro.
Address: 1268 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3A5, Canada
Website: https://www.siambistro.com/
Contact Details: +1 613-728-3111
Must-order Menu Items: Pad Thai Noodles with Shrimp, Green Mango Salad, Red Curry Shrimp, Green Curry Chicken
Price Range: $$ (Average)
When you’ve had enough of our local cuisine, you can also savor the rich flavors of authentic Thai cuisine at Siam Bistro in Hintonburg. The cozy ambiance creates an intimate and relaxed setting, allowing you to fully enjoy the diverse and authentic food.
While you’re at Siam Bistro, be sure to explore its must-try menu items, my personal favorite being the Pad Thai Noodles with Shrimp!
From curries to noodle dishes, soups, and spring rolls, you can get all that and more signature Thai dishes right here!
10. Attain inner peace at PranaShanti Yoga Centre.
Address: 950 Gladstone Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3E6, Canada
Website: https://pranashanti.com/
Contact Details: +1 613-761-9642
Once you’re tired from all that snacking, shopping, and exploring, one of the best ways to wind down is with some soothing yoga. And what’s awesome about Hintonburg is that PranaShanti Yoga Centre calls this neighborhood home!
It’s been hailed by many locals as one of the top yoga centers in Ottawa, and rightfully so, because it’s certainly a well-equipped and safe space for all its students. And despite the amount of equipment, PranaShanti maintains an immaculate environment.
Aside from your typical sessions, it also offers a wide range of training and sometimes even holds yoga sessions outside of the building and even yoga retreats! Additionally, if you’re not up to face-to-face classes, online yoga sessions are also available.
So, if you want to stay updated about its available events, make sure to keep an eye out on its social media accounts!