Shopping in Ottawa - authentic goods, best outlets, malls and boutiques

Ottawa is replete with modern shopping centers, boutiques, markets, gift shops, and art workshops. The bulk of tourist-oriented stores are in the historic district where it's worth taking a stroll along Sparks Street Mall. Many tourists come here in search of interesting souvenirs, regional delicacies, and other popular goods. The variety of fashion boutiques is the strong suit of Preston Street. Here you can choose fashionable outfits for every taste, check out some luxury stores of world-famous brands, as well as young designers' boutiques offering much more attractive prices.

A real city attraction is ByWard Market that was named so in honor of John By, the founder of Ottawa. In 1826, he developed the first project of the market, which has been operating continuously for almost 200 years. Over this period, the market area has increased several times. Currently, it is a large shopping and entertainment district. Besides shops and outdoor retail space, it concentrates various restaurants and cafes, pubs and night clubs.

Here you can buy everything, from seasonal fruits and vegetables to unique works of art and handicrafts. This market will be of interest not only for shopping enthusiasts but also for gourmets. At local restaurants, they can try the most popular dishes of regional cuisine. This market is also notable for the fact that it often serves as a venue for street performances, music concerts, and other entertainment events. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Ottawa's shopping malls are no less attractive for travelers than the historic market. Rideau Centre was opened in the 80s of the last century. For over 30 years now, this mall has been one of the most popular and visited in the city. Admirers of famous brands such as Gap, Guess, Lacoste, Mexx will especially enjoy shopping at this center. More budget-friendly stores like Sephora and Zara are available to thrifty customers. Apart from clothing and shoe stores, the mall houses several electronics stores and a large supermarket on the ground floor.

St. Laurent Centre is a historic shopping center that continues to be the largest in Ottawa since its opening in 1967. It accommodates 195 stores of popular global brands selling clothes of various styles, shoes, and original accessories. St. Laurent Centre offers jewelry and accessories stores, cosmetics and perfume shops, as well as homeware stores. Visitors to the center can always combine shopping with dining at its restaurants and cafes.

Bayshore Shopping Centre awaits fans of brands such as The Bay, Jean Machine, Winners, Sports Experts, Bath&Body Works, and Home Sense. Here you can buy high-quality clothes from leading manufacturers, as well as enjoy a wide selection of sports clothes and shoes. A number of children's and electronics stores, several large jewelry stores are available to customers, too.

240 Sparks Shopping Center can be found in the heart of the city center. It occupies the first three floors of a seven-story building. Many tourists know this shopping center for its first-class supermarket. It is worth checking it out in search of the best seasonal fruits and berries, which are sold in nice packages. Besides traditional clothing and shoe stores, it's worth noting the mall's bookstore selling colorful books about Ottawa's history and sights.

One of the beautiful historic buildings houses the Ottawa Farmers' Market. At this market, farmers sell the best products from all over the region. Its visitors will have a chance to choose some wonderful tasty souvenirs for loved ones. The market is open all year round, it is especially interesting to visit it on Christmas when traditional festive treats appear on the counters. The Ottawa Farmers' Market attracts tourists with nice open-air restaurants where you can try traditional regional dishes made from the freshest ingredients. Several stalls at the market sell fresh pastries and confectioneries from local bakeries. Besides a wide range of products, the market features a beautiful design.