5 Best Antique Stores in Ottawa for One-of-a-Kind Finds
I can lose track of time in a good thrift shop, especially when every shelf looks like it might be hiding something brilliant. Finding the best antique store in Ottawa gives me that same treasure-hunt thrill, just with a little more history attached.
Some days I’m after vintage décor, while other days I’m perfectly happy spotting an odd collectible I didn’t know I needed!
For this review, we checked out the city’s standout antique shops for interesting selections, fair value, and treasures worth making room for at home. Happy hunting!
How much does it cost to shop at an antique store in Ottawa?
Antique prices in Ottawa can start at around $10 for small vintage trinkets and décor. Mid-century and restored furniture generally ranges from $100 to $700.
High-end period antiques can cost considerably more. Rare or premium pieces, including 18th-century furniture, may range from $1,500 to $8,000+.
1. True Bijoux
Address: 206 Sparks Street
Contact: 1-613-232-2229 | [email protected]
Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10 AM – 5.30 PM | Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM
True Bijoux is the kind of place I’d happily browse when I’m in the mood for something with a little history and sparkle. Their vintage and estate jewellery selection stands out, but they also carry newer fine jewellery, engagement rings, and custom pieces.
I like that their Ottawa atelier handles custom work, redesigns, and restorations in-house. Complimentary checks and cleaning are another nice touch, along with one free polish each year.
Qualifying surprise ring purchases may also include a complimentary first sizing within three months!
Their pricing is fixed rather than built around constant sales, which keeps things refreshingly straightforward. The catch is that prices aren’t negotiable, so bargain hunters won’t get much room to haggle.
Having another jeweller repair or service a piece can also void True Bijoux’s manufacturing-defect warranty.
“Wonderful Service for Our Engagement Ring”
An engagement under lockdown isn’t easy, but with the help of Lindsay and her team, my partner managed to pull it off without a hitch! Not only was the ring perfect, but it fit as well (though we were reassured that it would be resized even under the circumstances). We were so pleased that we decided to return for our wedding bands and received the same wonderful service. I even picked up a pair of pearl earrings for the wedding day. For a girl whose heart was set on antique pieces, I got everything I wanted and more.
- Xenon Booth Xenon Booth | Google Reviews
2. A Fine Thing Antiques
Address: 383 Catherine St
Contact: (613) 729-1388
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM | Sunday, noon – 5 PM
A Fine Thing Antiques feels made for shoppers who enjoy finding character-filled pieces without having to buy on the spot. Their 20% layaway option is especially handy when a vintage dresser or teak chair catches your eye before payday does.
I also like that they offer delivery across parts of Ontario and Quebec, which takes some of the muscle work out of larger purchases.
The shop leans heavily into furniture and home décor, so there’s plenty to browse if you’re furnishing a space with more personality.
That said, the opening hours are fairly limited, especially on weekdays when they close at 4:30 PM. If you work regular office hours, you may need to plan your treasure hunt around the weekend.
“Great gem and unique vintage finds”
This is such an amazing antique store, and I love it so much. I have found so many gems here, and there are so many unique vintage finds this store is amazing. If you appreciate old, vintage items and see them for their value you will LOVE this store.
- Emilie Corriveau-Plaziac | Google Reviews
3. Highjinx
Address: 290 Kent St
Contact: 613.864.4289 | 613.298.8302 | [email protected]
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, noon – 5 PM
Highjinx is the kind of place where treasure hunting comes with a little extra heart. The shop mixes vintage finds, antiques, oddities, and useful housewares while helping fund community support for neighbours in need.
I like that the inventory feels unpredictable in a good way, so every visit can turn up something completely different.
Shopping here also helps support initiatives such as their food pantry and furniture bank!
Their independence is another standout, since Highjinx says it doesn’t rely on government funding. That community-driven model gives the whole place more personality than your average vintage shop.
The main catch is that they don’t accept clothing donations, so apparel drop-offs need another destination. Their donated inventory can also vary quite a bit, which means specific finds aren’t always guaranteed.
“Interesting Vintage Finds and Great Cause”
Love love love this place. Always has interesting vintage/antique gems, from furniture, clothes, art, records, kitchen things, toys… Lots of turnover. Supporting a great cause while you shop! Prices are great, and they have store cats.
- LauraLaura | Google Reviews
“Amazing Shop with Community Kitchen”
Favourite vintage and antique place in the city!
But also have a community kitchen in the back that’s open to the public! Full of groceries and toiletries for folks who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford them.
These ladies have an amazing shop!
- Tia vom Scheidt | Google Reviews
4. Ernest Johnson Antiques
Area served: Ottawa, Ontario
Contact: (613) 720-5206 | [email protected]
Hours: By appointment
Ernest Johnson Antiques is a good fit if your idea of treasure hunting leans more polished than rummage-bin chaotic. The online showroom focuses on fine and decorative art from the 18th to 20th centuries, with English, European, and Asian pieces in the mix.
I also like the 24-hour in-home trial, which lets you see whether a piece actually works in your space. If you keep it, the delivery charge is waived, and buyers can request extra photos or condition reports beforehand.
Ernest Johnson also brings decades of appraisal experience and longstanding membership in the Canadian Antique Dealers Association. That adds reassuring expertise when you’re shopping at the more serious end of the antique market.
The downside is that there’s no traditional walk-in shop, so private viewings need to be arranged in advance. If you return an item after an in-home trial, you’ll still pay the delivery and pickup charges.
5. Ottawa Antique Market
Address: 1179 Bank Street, Unit A
Contact: 613-730-6000 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday, Wednesday-Thursday, Saturday, 10 AM – 6 PM | Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM | Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM
Ottawa Antique Market is the kind of place where I’d happily lose an hour without noticing. With 25 dealers spread across more than 10,000 square feet, there’s a lot to poke through.
The mix is impressively broad, from Early Canadiana and Art Deco to mid-century pieces, jewellery, art, rugs, and collectibles. That variety makes repeat visits feel worthwhile because different booths can turn up completely different finds.
Sellers have options too, since the market buys antiques and collectibles and can arrange in-home viewings for larger estates. That’s handy if hauling everything to Bank Street isn’t exactly your idea of a fun afternoon.
The main drawback is simply the size, since browsing everything properly can take time. If you’re squeezing in a quick stop, this probably isn’t the place to rush.
“Pleasant Experience at Ottawa Antique Mall”
A must-visit antique mall in Ottawa. They have various paintings, porcelains, and furniture.
I bought a painting with a frame here for 30 CAD.
Different from the ordinary antique market, the arrangement of items is organized. Shopping here is a pleasant experience.
- TzuHsien Tsai | Google Reviews
“Treasures Found in Antique Store”
If you like poking around antique stores, this place might be for you! Lots of nice things to look at, some treasures found! Friendly people, worth a good look if you are in the area.
- G D | Google Reviews