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Canada’s Oldest Bars: 12 Historic Pubs Still in Operation Today

By SHANNON KELLY

The Olde Angel Inn in Niagara-on-the-Lake was founded in 1789 (Photo: Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake)

Determining Canada’s oldest bars is a delicate matter. First, it depends on the meaning of “oldest”: Is it the oldest continuously operating pubs? The first bars to open in Canada, despite having closed for a period or having changed names and/or locations?

And then there are the establishments with a fuzzy history: they may have closed, they may not have—no one is quite sure. Not to mention that Canada wasn’t even technically Canada until 1867, so—if you’re one to split hairs—bars opened before that date weren’t Canadian.

You see the problem. (more…)

Best Bars in Ottawa: Winter Edition

Best Winter Bars in Ottawa: the Earl of Sussex (Photo: paellaking)

When the temperature drops, Ottawa residents are not deterred: they bundle up and brave the elements in order to socialize and have fun. Visitors can do the same, using our list of the best bars in Ottawa to head to in winter. These are cozy places that will make you feel welcome and warm—no matter what the weather’s like outside.

See the list of the best winter bars in Ottawa »

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Best Bars in Ottawa’s Byward Market

Best Bars in Ottawa’s Byward Market: the disco balls spins at the Mercury Lounge (Photo: Greencolander)

Any local will tell you that the place for nightlife in Ottawa is Byward Market. The area is packed every weekend, and offers a huge diversity of bars, pubs, clubs and live music venues. For visitors looking for the best bars in Byward Market, our experts have put together this guide with options that will please any taste.

See the list of the best bars in Ottawa’s Byward Market »

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Hot Attraction: Downtown Rideau

Photo credit: Nina Iouguina

Dining, entertainment, and shopping — what more could you ask for? Downtown Rideau spans a 23-block area and includes 475 businesses and organizations that contribute to the eclectic urban vibe. Some highlights from this district include the two-storey Urban Outfitters store (the only one in Ottawa), the Rideau Centre (home to 180 stores), an assortment of restaurants, and artistic venues such as the National Arts Centre and the Ottawa Art Gallery. The beauty about this area: you can buy an outfit, go out to dinner, and catch a show, all within a few blocks.

Photo credit: Nina Iouguina

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