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The 7 Best Nightclubs In Ottawa [2025]

  • Last updated: November 29, 2024

Prepare for an unforgettable night out at Ottawa’s top nightclubs! Nightclubs are all about excitement, new friends, great music, and dancing . Luckily, Ottawa offers a fantastic nightlife scene, and we’ve chosen these clubs for their excellent customer reviews, friendly staff, amazing atmosphere, and diverse drink selections. You’re in for a guaranteed good time!

After the club, keep the fun going with a nightcap at the best bars or  the best late night restaurants in Ottawa!

Summary

What to Expect at an Ottawa Club

First-time clubbers may be wondering what they should expect when visiting an Ottawa club. Here are some things you can expect:

  • Cover charge: Most clubs in Ottawa have a cover charge that you must pay before entering. The cover charge is usually around $10-$20.
  • Dress code: Many clubs have a dress code, so be sure to check before you go! Generally, you can expect that no flip-flops, sandals, or sneakers will be allowed.
  • ID: You must be at least 19 years old and have a valid ID to enter a club in Ottawa.
  • Lineups: Be prepared to wait in line! The best clubs are always busy, so be patient and make some new friends while you wait.
  • Inside the club: Once you’re finally inside, expect to be blown away by the music, the lights, and the energy! Get ready to dance the night away.

The Best Nightclubs in Ottawa

Now that you know what to expect, here are the best nightclubs in Ottawa:

1) Chateau Lafayette (The Laff)

Chateau Lafayette has been serving the good people of Ottawa since 1849, and in all that time they’ve never lost sight of what’s important: good beer, good company, and a welcoming atmosphere.

 This old-fashioned bar is the perfect place to enjoy a pint of locally brewed beer, and if you’re feeling adventurous you can even try the “1849” – a beer specifically made for Chateau Lafayette. 

Whether you’re young or old, local or tourist, everyone is welcome at Chateau Lafayette. So come on in and raise a glass to good times and good company!

Business Information:

thelaff.ca
orders@thelaff.ca 
+16132414747
42 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S6, Canada

Customer Review:
“Amazing bar, if you visit ottawa make sure to stop here. Always have good beer and good music, and the onion rings slap. This place is an institution.”
Pros
  • Sell a variety of locally brewed beers
  • Open six nights a week
  • Lots of events
Cons
  • Long waiting time when ordering food

2) The Moonroom

The Moonroom is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends, or even for a romantic date night. The staff are always ready with recommendations and the drinks are of high quality, making the experience one that is definitely worth repeating. 

The garden turnes into an amazing party place during the night, with beautiful lights on the trees and tables. The Moonroom is definitely one of the best cocktail bars in Ottawa. Thanks to their intimate setting, polite staff and delicious cocktails, you’re sure to have a great time at The Moonroom!

Business Information:

facebook.com/themoonroom442
themoonroom442@gmail.com
442 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4N6, Canada

Customer Review:
“Always such a treat to be here! The shishito peppers and halibut ceviche are must-trys. Do not leave without having their truffle Parm popcorn! It is amazing! They have such tasty cocktails and wine as well. Add to that fabulous service and wonderful ambiance, it makes for a great night out!”
Pros
  • Friendly staff
  • Fancy cocktails
  • Excellent rating
Cons
  • A little pricey
  • No official website

3) The Lookout Bar

The Lookout Bar and Nightclub is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends or meet new people! They are known for their vibe, which has been voted number one by a lot of magazines. The outdoor patio overlooks Ottawa’s vibrant Byward Market, making it the perfect place to people-watch.

Come to The Lookout for a shot and cocktail in the middle of downtown Ottawa. They also have exciting specials all week long! Their friendly bartenders will make sure you’re happy with your drink, no matter what flavour or strength. 

So whether you’re looking to let loose or find your next beat, The Lookout is the place to be!

Business Information:

thelookoutbar.com
info@thelookoutbar.com 
+16137891624
41 York St 2nd floor, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7, Canada

Customer Review:
“Best bar in Ottawa, you can truly feel at home here. Staff and management are friendly and always on point with service. The entertainment is awesome and has lots of diversity. For everyone, not only for lgbtq+. Truly need to bring your friends and family for a drink and a good drag show.”
Pros
  • All-welcoming bar
  • Voted as the #1 Nightclub in Ottawa for 2017, 2018 & 2020 by FACES magazine
  • Offers a range of exciting cocktails and shooter specials throughout the week
Cons
  • The website is very basic, not much information about what drinks you can order and you cannot reserve a table.

4) City At Night

City at Night is one of the best places to go in the city if you’re looking for good music and an amazing atmosphere. The people here know how to get the party started, with their spicy house tunes that will have your feet moving without even realizing it! 

They play house/techno/trance music of local artists and host international events as well, bringing in some of the biggest names in the scene. The atmosphere is great too, dark, intimate and cozy. 

So if you are a fan of electronic music, don’t hesitate to check this place out. You won’t be disappointed!

Business Information:

cityatnight.ca
cityatnight.info@gmail.com
222 Slater St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5H8, Canada

Customer Review:
“Had a great time out at this club, dancing all night 'till close. Music was loud but had a great vibe. The staff was friendly and helpful all round. Big dance floor was packed. I'll be back.”
Pros
  • Pros: Plenty of events and concerts
  • Great seating options, from 4-6 guests to as many as 12 guests
  • Convenient location
Cons
  • $25 entry fee
  • Often overcrowded with lots of people

5) Mercury Lounge

Mercury Lounge is the perfect place to get your groove on and dance the night away. With a variety of DJs playing different styles of music, there’s always something new and exciting happening. And if you need help getting around, the friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you. 

The intimate setting is perfect for shows, and with multiple floors, it feels like you’re the only one in on all the secrets and tales from the underground world! So come on down and let loose at Mercury Lounge— you won’t be disappointed.

Business Information:

mercurylounge.com
+16137895324
56 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 7A2, Canada

Customer Review:
“There is nothing like this in Ottawa, and only some of the best clubs in North America can compare. One of my all-time favourite places to DJ in the world (having lived in Ibiza and Manchester, this means a lot). Ottawa would not be the same without it.”
Pros
  • They host a variety of DJs with different styles
  • Plenty of early starts and late finish events
Cons
  • Some food items are a little pricey

6) Swizzles

Swizzles Bar & Grill is a friendly, laid-back spot in the heart of Ottawa. You’ll find plenty to entertain you on any given day: from men and women alike – everyone’s welcome at Swizzles! They pride themselves on being the go-to spot for karaoke in the city, and with their vast library of songs, there’s something for everyone. 

Whether you’re looking to belt out your favourite tunes from across the eras or just have some fun, Swizzles is the place to be. So come on down and see what all the fuss is about!

Business Information:

swizzles.ca
feedback.swizzles@gmail.com
+16132324200
246 B Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5E4, Canada

Customer Review:
“This place is always the best time on Karaoke nights! The vibe is immaculate and the bartenders/hosts are the friendliest on the planet! I definitely recommend this place for everyone looking to have a great time Karaokeing it up!”
Pros
  • Different events are offered throughout the week such as karaoke night and comedy night
Cons
  • A few complaints about customer service

7) Room 104

If you’re looking for a great place to have a few drinks, you need to check out Room 104 on Clarence Street. The bartenders are always welcoming and friendly, and they make sure your drinks are delicious. 

The music is great, too – you’ll definitely have an amazing time if you go there. Not to mention that the atmosphere has a really cool arcade feel, with DJs playing all night long.

 So if you’re looking for a place to let loose and have some fun, Room 104 is definitely the place for you. Just be warned: once you go there, you may never want to leave!

Business Information:

instagram.com/room104ottawa
+16138608261
104 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5P6, Canada

Customer Review:
“Great place to spend your night. This spots the jack of all trades when it comes to bars. Good music, great people and always an amazing time.”
Pros
  • Great menu selection, 100+ shots being offered
  • Has a unique 1980s design which includes pop culture, arcade games, chandeliers, Plush Leather banquettes and colourful wall art.
Cons
  • The drinks can be a bit pricey
  • Some of the arcade games do not work
FAQs About Nightclubs
Yes, Ottawa offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of entertainment options. From bustling nightclubs to cozy pubs, live music venues to late-night dining spots, there’s something to suit different tastes and preferences, making it a city where you can enjoy a lively and diverse nightlife experience.
Some clubs have a strict formal dress code. To avoid getting turned at the door, be sure to wear
Bars and clubs have widely different atmospheres and drinks on the menu. Bars tend to be much more relaxed and quiet, and many places to sit. Bars tend to serve locally crafted beers and brews whereas clubs are more wine and cocktail-focused. Clubs tend to have loud music, more people, and a dancefloor.
Many bars have no entrance fee. You’ll know if there is a cover charge or not because clubs will usually have a sign that says there is or isn’t one.
Final Thoughts

Ottawa is home to an exciting nightlife scene, featuring incredible nightclubs with lively atmospheres and delectable drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for dancing, mingling, or simply enjoying a night out, Ottawa’s clubs cater to every preference. Explore the top nightclubs in Ottawa for a night to remember!

For even more ways to enjoy yourself in the city, don’t miss these must-see recommendations:

The Best Go-Karting Spots In And Around Ottawa
The Best Indoor Activities In Ottawa
Fun Activities For Adults In Ottawa
Fun Activities For Couples In Ottawa

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