Best Ottawa Casinos, Poker & Bingo for 2024
The capital city of Ottawa has a thriving gambling industry, with a variety of existing casinos and gambling venues located in the city, and a new large-scale project planned for the near future. The casinos in the city provide a variety of playing options, from slot machines to table games, and even bingo. In addition to the gambling culture, the city is also known for its vibrant tourist and sightseeing opportunities.
List of Ottawa Casinos
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Friends Bingo Ottawa
70 Montreal Road Ottawa, ON K1L 6E7Friends Bingo Ottawa, a renowned gaming venue in Ontario, has contributed over $400 million to 2,200 charities. With a commitment to responsible gaming and high customer satisfaction, it serves as a central hub in the local gaming culture, providing a unique and enjoyable experience for players.
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Overbrook Bingo Ottawa
1150 Lola St, Ottawa, ON K1K 3W9Overbrook Bingo in Ottawa is an enduring presence in Ontario's gaming scene, offering traditional paper bingo, Vegas-style machines, and a vibrant café atmosphere. With unique features like POD games, special events, and exclusive member benefits, it provides a diverse and enjoyable gaming experience.
Map of the Best Ottawa Casinos
Must-Visit Casinos in Ottawa
Ottawa hosts a number of gaming establishments, each with its unique offerings and atmosphere.
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Friends’ Bingo
Friends’ Bingo Hall, situated at 70 Montreal Rd, Ottawa, has become a popular destination for bingo enthusiasts. The hall provides a variety of bingo sessions throughout the day, catering to different schedules. The session timings are spread across the day, with additional sessions during the weekends.
One of the recent events hosted by Friends’ Bingo was a Halloween Party on October 31, 2023, which allowed attendees to participate in a festive atmosphere while enjoying their favorite game. A notable feature of Friends’ Bingo Hall is its loyalty program. This initiative allows regular players to earn points with every session they play, which can later be redeemed for rewards.
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Overbrook Bingo
Overbrook Bingo Palace, located at 1150 Lola St, Ottawa, is another venue that serves bingo lovers. The palace has diversified its offerings by introducing Breakfast Bingo on weekends and a late-night bingo session on Sundays. The various payouts and the addition of Vegas-style machines further enhance the gaming experience.
A unique promotion is the Breakfast Bingo, allowing players to partake in a delightful breakfast while enjoying their game. This innovative approach is a part of Overbrook Bingo Palace's strategy to provide a comprehensive gaming experience.
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Rideau Carleton Casino
The Rideau Carleton Casino, also recognized as Rideau Carleton Raceway, is an iconic gambling and entertainment venue in Ottawa. Since its inception in 1962, it has evolved from a harness racing track to a full-fledged operator with over 1,200 slot machines. The casino's extensive gaming offerings include a range of popular and new games, ensuring that patrons have a variety of options to choose from.
A distinctive feature of Rideau Carleton Casino is its dual offering of a raceway and a casino, enabling guests to enjoy horse racing and casino games in one locale. This facility is set to integrate the upcoming Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, another exciting development that promises to infuse a rich musical vibe into Ottawa’s gambling sector.
Signature Dining & Entertainment at Ottawa Casinos
The gambling venues in Ottawa feature exceptional dining and vibrant entertainment, providing a blend of culinary delights and entertaining live shows.
Best Casino Restaurants in Ottawa
Among the array of dining venues, the restaurants within Rideau Carleton Casino stand out. This venue offers a versatile menu ranging from breakfast skillets to an array of “off the grill” selections.
A short drive from Ottawa takes you to Le Baccara, nestled in Gatineau. This luxurious fine dining venue embodies elegance with its beautiful decor and lively ambiance, perfect for a delightful evening with friends or family. With a menu boasting dishes like chicken Marsala and pepperoni pizza, along with a fine selection of beverages, Le Baccara stands as a testament to luxurious dining near Ottawa.
Live Shows & Performance Highlights
Live entertainment is a staple in Ottawa's casinos, with Rideau Carleton Casino being a notable venue for such events. The operator hosts a myriad of special events at "The Joint," which can accommodate a variety of live performances. Past shows include a performance by the legendary Kim Mitchell on November 18, 2023, and a New Year's Eve party featuring Neon Nostalgic on December 31, 2023.
Offering a diverse range of live entertainment options, from concerts to sporting events, these casinos cater to different preferences, making Ottawa’s casinos a one-stop entertainment destination.
Nightlife and Bars: Where to Unwind
The nightlife within and around Ottawa's casinos presents an array of options for guests looking to unwind post-gaming. The Rideau Carleton Casino, with live bands performing every weekend, offers a lively atmosphere for guests. Near the casino, the ByWard Market is a hub of cultural, home to numerous bars and nightclubs.
Cocktail lounges like the Apothecary Lounge and Montgomery Scotch Lounge offer unique experiences with their craft cocktails and extensive whisky menus, respectively. For late-night entertainment, venues like City At Night provide a modern, sophisticated space to party till the late hours.
Staying in Ottawa: Accommodations Guide
Ottawa's accommodation are as diverse as its gambling offerings, providing a range of lodging options suitable for various preferences and budgets.
Luxury Casino Resorts and Their Amenities
Luxury resorts like Hilton Lac-Leamy and Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Gatineau/Manoir du Casino offer a lavish stay with a variety of amenities. With luxurious guestrooms, relaxing spa facilities, and proximity to major operators, these resorts ensure a comfortable and entertaining stay. The convenience of having a variety of amenities and attractions on-site or nearby makes staying at these luxury resorts an appealing choice for visitors.
Budget-Friendly Stays Near the Casino
For those looking to maximize their budget, Ottawa offers budget-friendly accommodations near the casinos. Hotels like The Westin Ottawa and Sheraton Ottawa Hotel have received positive reviews for their spacious rooms and good service. Their proximity to the operators and affordability make them an attractive option for guests.
Experience Local Charm: B&Bs and Inns
Ottawa's B&Bs offer personalized service, unique architectural features, and a chance to experience life in a local neighborhood. With home-cooked meals often on the menu, staying at a B&B or inn provides a cozy, intimate experience. Establishments like Benner’s Bed & Breakfast and Auberge Des Arts Bed and Breakfast are among the well-reviewed options in Ottawa, offering a slice of local charm to their guests. The appeal of such stays lies in their personalized touch, affordability, and the unique opportunity to interact with other guests.
Transportation: Getting To and Around the Casinos
Accessibility is one of the most important features that Ottawa casinos think about, with several transportation options available to ensure a hassle-free commute to and around the casino premises. Public transportation, like the Société de transport de l’Outaouais’ (STO) No. 21 bus, facilitates easy transit to Casino du Lac-Leamy, with free bus tickets available to guests staying at participating hotels.
For those who prefer a direct commute, shuttle services like the free shuttle from the Greensboro Transit station to the slots at Rideau Carleton, offer a convenient alternative. Moreover, private taxis provide a quicker way to reach the operators, catering to those who prioritize convenience.
On-site parking is another notable feature, with Rideau Carleton Casino offering free parking spaces for guests who prefer to drive. Moreover, accessibility for customers with disabilities is prioritized, with wheelchairs available upon request, ensuring a seamless Ontario casino experience for all.
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Visit Other Cities in Ontario with Casinos
Beyond Gaming: Exploring Ottawa
The fun extends beyond the casino floors in Ottawa, opening up a variety of experiences for tourists and local alike. Ottawa is home to a long list historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders, inviting visitors to partake in a journey of discovery.
Tourist Attractions Near Casinos
Ottawa, Canada's vibrant capital, has an array of tourist attractions that are conveniently situated near the city's casinos. The iconic Parliament of Canada showcases Gothic Revival architecture, offering a blend of educational and visual appeal.
A short distance away, the Canadian War Museum chronicles Canada’s military history, presenting an exploration of the nation's past. The natural splendor of Ottawa is epitomized by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal, which transforms into the world's largest skating rink in winter, providing a picturesque setting for leisure and recreation.
ByWard Market is a public market full of boutiques, galleries, and eateries, offering a taste of local life. The National Gallery of Canada, home to a vast collection of Canadian and indigenous art, invites a deeper appreciation of the country's artistic heritage.
Local Events & Festivals Worth Checking Out
Ottawa's presents a wide variety of events and festivals that take place throughout the year. Whether it's celebrating the fall harvest at Pumpkin Days at Saunders Farm or immersing in literary discussions at the Ottawa International Writers Festival, Ottawa City offers a gamut of experiences that resonate with diverse interests.
The allure of autumn is celebrated through the Pumpkins After Dark festival, while the Day of the Dead Festival offers a vibrant immersion into Mexican culture. The Ottawa Symphony’s 2023/24 Season promises a melodious journey through a series of concerts, and the One World Bazaar beckons with the allure of global discoveries under one roof.
Shopping and Leisure Spots in Ottawa
The Bayshore Shopping Centre and the historic ByWard Market cater to retail enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of stores and market stalls.
For those inclined towards outdoor adventures, the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River provide a playground for boating, kayaking, and even whitewater rafting. The extensive network of recreational pathways welcomes cycling enthusiasts to explore Ottawa on two wheels.
FAQs
- What makes Ottawa casinos different from others in Ontario? Ottawa casinos stand out for their unique blend of historical charm, modern gaming facilities, and a commitment towards sustainability and technological innovation.
- Are there age restrictions for entering Ottawa casinos? Yes, individuals must be 19 years of age or older to enter casinos in Ottawa, in line with Ontario's legal gambling age.
- What are the peak hours for casinos in Ottawa? Peak hours usually occur during evenings and weekends, although it may vary slightly from one casino to another.
- How do loyalty programs in Ottawa casinos work? Loyalty programs reward frequent visitors with points, which can be redeemed for various perks like discounts, special offers, or even exclusive event invitations.
- Can you book casino packages for special occasions in Ottawa? Yes, many Ottawa casinos offer special packages for occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate events, providing a tailored experience for memorable celebrations.
With more than half a decade of experience, Meri Zimic has been planning, writing, and publishing content for OntarioGambling.ca and the GambleSites Network since the inception. With her Bosnian heritage, she loves the multi-cultural aspect of Ontario and it's varied players.