Exploring the Charming Neighborhood of Ottawa’s Golden Triangle (Including Insights, Pros & Cons, and Must-Do Activities)
If you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered why they call it the Golden Triangle.
Is it another one of the Illuminati’s doings? Are they just flaunting their headquarters or has someone been watching too many conspiracy theory clips?
Now, before you get lost in the rabbit hole of internet research, we’re about to uncover the secrets behind the name, and the answer might be surprisingly more obvious than you’d expect.
In this article, we’re spilling all the tea on what it’s really like living, and perhaps visiting, smack dab in the middle of all the action in the city.
Pros, cons, and a treasure trove of information await!
A Brief Background on Ottawa’s Golden Triangle
Ottawa’s Golden Triangle is a bustling area in the central core located in the middle of Elgin Street, Rideau Canal, Laurier Avenue, and Queensway.
If you check what this district looks like on the map, you’ll see that they make a triangle, especially if you look at the meeting line of Elgin Street and Rideau Canal, hence its cool name!
Things to Know About Ottawa’s Golden Triangle
Population
Based on Area Vibes, there are around 6,275 residents living in the Golden Triangle. That doesn’t sound much, but the population density in the district is actually 3477% higher than in Ottawa!
It means that the number of people living per square meter in the Golden Triangle is significantly greater than the average population density across the entire city of Ottawa.
Safety
Safety in the Golden Triangle has a B+ rating on Area Vibes, which means visitors and potential home buyers can expect a safe environment here.
The total crime rate is 37% lower than the national average with 2,663 per 100,000 people. For reference, the national average crime rate is approximately 4,227 per 100,000 people.
Environment
Golden Triangle is an urban neighborhood located in the heart of Ottawa. It’s a vibrant area, considering its close proximity to the lively downtown and other popular destinations in the city, including the Bank of Canada, Parliament Hill, and the ByWard Market.
The high population density also contributes to the dynamic atmosphere in the vicinity.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the Golden Triangle received a D – ranking on Area Vibes due to its cost of living index score of 105, slightly higher than the national average of 100.
This means that the cost of living in the Golden Triangle is 5% higher than the national average.
Similarly, the Golden Triangle’s rent index score is 91, compared to Ottawa’s 65.
This suggests that compared to the broader Ottawa area, the Golden Triangle has relatively higher rent prices.
Transportation
It’s quite easy to stay connected with the rest of Ottawa if you’re living in the Golden Triangle, thanks to the accessible OC Transpo (OC transpo), which is basically the city’s comprehensive public transportation system.
Folks who live in the Golden Triangle find it easy to travel in the city using the bus and transit.
One can also walk and cycle as the city is very pedestrian and bike-friendly, with plenty of dedicated paths and lanes.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in the Golden Triangle
Living in the Golden Triangle offers advantages such as impeccable amenities, a wealth of recreational activities, a prime location, and excellent accessibility.
However, it also has its disadvantages, including noise pollution, a high cost of living, and limited green spaces.
Advantages of Living in the Golden Triangle
Various Amenities
The Golden Triangle boasts a wide range of convenient amenities, making the quality of living higher in the neighborhood.
There’s accessible transportation, and a broad array of restaurants, cafes, bars, and supermarkets.
If the Golden Triangle doesn’t have it, chances are, it’s just a few minutes away because of its central location.
Array of Recreational Activities
Residents of this neighborhood are also treated to a wide array of recreational activities just within arm’s reach.
They can take a leisurely stroll at one of the few parks like the Golden Triangle Park, St. Luke’s Park, and Minto Park.
It’s also near Confederation Park and other bustling attractions like the National Arts Centre (national arts centre), and the Canadian Museum of Nature.
There are also plenty of hotspots that offer fitness opportunities nearby like Spinco, Ottawa Table Tennis Club, and McNabb Recreation Centre.
Prime Location
The Golden Triangle offers easy access to key neighborhoods in the city like Downtown Ottawa, The Glebe, Lowertown, Centretown (centretown ottawa), Chinatown, and Little Italy.
Imagine Ottawa’s best just within walking distance!
Excellent Accessibility
The neighborhood is well-served by Ottawa’s public transit system, including bus routes along major streets like Elgin Street and the nearby O-Train Confederation Line.
Moreover, major roads and highways, including Queen Elizabeth Driveway and Bronson Avenue, provide convenient access to and from the Golden Triangle.
Its well-connected infrastructure and proximity to key destinations make it an ideal choice for those seeking urban convenience.
Disadvantages of Living in the Golden Triangle
Noise Pollution
The Golden Triangle’s lively atmosphere might not be for some folks, especially since its busy streets make it prone to consistent noise from vehicles.
Additionally, Elgin Street is teeming with dining and entertainment options, making it one of the prime locations for late-night activities in Ottawa.
People seeking peace and quiet after sundown might not find this appealing about the Golden Triangle.
High Cost of Living
The Golden Triangle’s prime location unfortunately comes with a cost. Those who are on a budget might not be able to afford its high cost of living.
That being said, many residents feel that the benefits – such as prime location, excellent amenities, vibrant community, and accessibility – justify the expenses.
Limited Green Spaces
If you’re thinking of moving to the Golden Triangle, consider if you like its urban vibe. While there are several parks in the neighborhood, the green spaces are still quite limited, compared to when you live in rural neighborhoods like Chapel Hill (chapel hill).
What to See and Do in Ottawa’s Golden Triangle
Explore vegetarian dishes at Pure Kitchen Elgin
Website: https://www.purekitchenottawa.com
Address: 340 Elgin St.
Contact details: +1 613-233-7873
Operating hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Vegans and vegetarians will enjoy visiting or living in the Golden Triangle because Pure Kitchen is just in the neighborhood.
This popular Elgin Street favorite has a diverse array of exciting, fresh bites all of which are made for optimal nourishment.
Consider getting the radical cauliflower wings, a surprising crowd favorite for its exciting take on the usual pub fare.
Those who have an undying love for poutine should also try out Pure Kitchen’s version made with vegetarian gravy.
Solve immersive puzzles at Escape Manor
Website: https://www.escapemanor.com/ottawa
Address: 292-A Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-695-1655
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Thursday and Friday – 11 AM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 12 AM
Escape Manor (escape manor ottawa) is just on the fringe of the Golden Triangle, offering a variety of escape rooms you and your friends can enjoy.
Among their various locations across the city, this one stands out as the most popular due to its extensive range of options.
Death Row is a popular choice for its challenging gameplay and immersive storytelling. It’s a 60-minute experience that allows a maximum of 6 people.
In addition to the escape rooms, you can also engage in parlor games such as darts and bocce balls.
Indulge in classic Italian dishes at Johnny Farina
Website: https://www.johnnyfarina.com
Address: 216 Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-565-5155
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
- Thursday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
Johnny Farina is a laid-back eatery that serves authentic Italian cuisine with a modern, innovative twist.
Expect popular Italian favorites, including wood-fired pizza and pasta.
The Margherita pizza is much recommended to those who like a classic tomato-based dish.
However, if you like something more exciting, get yourself some pizza carbonara – a tantalizing blend of creamy sauce, crispy bacon, savory mozzarella, and a poached egg atop a crisp crust.
Treat yourself to bold Mexican flavors at Pancho Villa
Website: https://www.panchovilla.ca
Address: 361 Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-234-8872
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Wednesday – 5 PM to 10 PM
- Thursday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Pancho Villa is one of the Mexican restaurants (mexican restaurant ottawa) in the Golden Triangle truly worth exploring.
I love the diverse assortment of dishes; there’s something for every palate here! Folks can choose from an assortment of flavors of nachos, enchiladas, appetizers, local specialties, and more.
A lot of regulars enjoy sipping on margaritas by the outdoor patio, so consider joining in and experiencing how the locals do it while soaking up the lively atmosphere while you’re here.
Try out different kinds of whisky at Deacon Brodies Pub
Website: https://deaconbrodies.ca
Address: 247 Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-236-6464
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 2 AM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 2 AM
Whisky drinkers – rejoice! Deacon Brodies Pub might as well be your next playground.
This vibrant pub has more than 400 bottles of whisky on its shelf, which means there’s an extensive collection for you to explore – not all at once though!
They have a delicious menu too, so if you’re just looking for tasty eats, then by all means! The fish & chips are a must-try.
Savor delicious boba drinks at Meow Tea
Website: http://meowtea.ca
Address: 279 Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-230-8588
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 11:30 PM
Those with a sweet tooth in the Golden Triangle will enjoy their proximity to Meow Tea, a quaint bubble tea spot with an exciting collection of unique and classic flavors.
The meow meow milk tea is a popular drink option that delights with its creamy sweetness.
But my personal favorite is the matcha slush with cheese cream for its harmonious balance of earthy matcha and rich cheese cream.
Enjoy a cup of coffee at Wise Town Cafe
Website: https://www.wisetown.cafe
Address: 329A Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-422-6999
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 9 AM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 9 AM to 1 AM
Is a neighborhood really livable without a coffee shop in walking distance? For caffeine-fueled writers like me, it certainly isn’t.
Folks with the same lifestyle will enjoy the Golden Triangle because of the lovely addition of Wise Town Cafe to the area.
Here’s a tip: make sure to explore their monthly specials menu for the seasonal offerings that highlight exciting and unique offerings!
Oh, and don’t get me started on the charming atmosphere! Stepping inside the establishment feels like entering a cozy oasis filled with lush greenery, creating a welcoming and relaxed ambiance.