Bank Street, stretching from north to south, is Ottawa’s main commercial thoroughfare. Ottawa Future shares the rich history of this street, revealing interesting facts and unique characteristics associated with it.
Bank Street
This is the central stretch of Bank Street, located south of the famous Parliament Hill. It seamlessly connects various businesses with Ottawa. A common misconception is that the street was named after the Bank of Canada headquarters. However, this is not true, as the street got its name in the 19th century, while the bank was established in 1934. In reality, the street was named because it ran from the Ottawa River in the north to the Rideau River in the south.
Historically, by the late 1800s, Bank Street had become home to Chinese laundries, shops, and factories. The area developed while preserving its commercial identity to this day.
What Can You Find on Bank Street?
Bank Street truly offers everything—from fine dining to quick-service eateries. Life on this street is vibrant, so even in the peaceful city of Ottawa, you can always find something to eat or see.
Here’s a closer look at some of the highlights on this famous street:
- Fauna – a restaurant offering exquisite dishes and a unique atmosphere;
- Clover Food & Drink – known for serving delicious local cuisine;
- Sansotei Ramen – a Canadian brand specializing in Tonkotsu ramen inspired by Japan’s Kyushu and Hokkaido regions;
- Moo Shu Ice Cream & Kitchen – known for its frozen treats;
- Wilf & Ada’s – a perfect spot for brunch;
- Flora Hall Brewing – a craft beer destination;
- ISO Spa Floatation Centre – a spa center offering flotation therapy and rejuvenating treatments perfect for relaxation;
- South Keys and Billings Bridge Plaza are popular shopping centers.
Nightlife on Bank Street
Bank Street is home to one of the city’s favorite nightlife spots, Babylon Nightclub, known for its eclectic shows and dance parties. Local musicians also frequent Atomic Rooster, a cozy pub for live performances.
Interesting Facts About Bank Street
- The heart of Ottawa’s main street is renowned for its business and shopping district, commonly referred to as the “Bank Street Promenade.”
- The area between Somerset Street West and Gladstone Avenue along Bank Street is the city’s gay village, which continues to grow and develop. Several businesses in this area cater specifically to Ottawa’s LGBTQ+ community.
- In 2011, Ottawa officially unveiled signs identifying the area as the city’s gay village.
- Bank Street also leads to Lansdowne Park, home to Ottawa’s junior hockey team, the Ottawa 67’s, and professional football team, the Ottawa RedBlacks.
- Bank Street is often considered the dividing line between “East” and “West” Ottawa. A historic example of this division was in 1994, when cable subscribers west of Bank Street were serviced by Maclean-Hunter, while those to the east were served by Rogers.
Historic City Artery
North of Billings Bridge, Bank Street becomes a pedestrian-heavy area, with foot traffic often outnumbering cars, leading to parking challenges and slow-moving traffic.
Further south, toward Leitrim Road, Bank Street transitions into a 4- or 5-lane highway. Much of modern Bank Street was part of Ontario Highway 31 until 1998.
