Ottawa Student Life Resources

We’ve compiled a list of student life resources who may be new to the Ottawa area. More resources will be added as we gather more information. While we strive to keep this list up to date, we cannot guarantee it’s accuracy. If you do come across any outdated information, please contact comms@sprott.carleton.ca

Food & Grocery

Did you know you can use your Campus Card off-campus? The Campus Card can get you discounts off-campus as well! Please note that the Card isn’t accepted as payment at these locations. 

Carleton also has a partnership with McKeen Metro Glebe.

Museums & Galleries

As the capital city of Canada, Ottawa boasts a vibrant cultural scene and is home to an array of captivating museums. These museums showcase diverse aspects of art, history, nature, aviation, and more, offering enriching experiences for international students. Here are some of the exceptional museums you can explore in Ottawa.

National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery of Canada is the country’s premier art museum, showcasing Canadian and international art from various periods. It houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations.

Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History offers a comprehensive look into Canada’s rich history and culture. It features exhibits on Canadian heritage, Indigenous history, Canadian achievements, and temporary exhibitions.

Canadian Museum of Nature

The Canadian Museum of Nature is a natural history museum with exhibits dedicated to the Earth’s biodiversity. It explores topics such as dinosaurs, mammals, birds, minerals, and ecosystems.

Canada Aviation and Space Museum

The Canada Aviation and Space Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. It houses a vast collection of aircraft, space artifacts, and interactive exhibits that delve into the history of flight and space exploration.

Bytown Museum

The Bytown Museum provides a glimpse into Ottawa’s early history and the construction of the Rideau Canal, which transformed Bytown into Ottawa. It offers exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.

Canadian War Museum

The Canadian War Museum is dedicated to preserving Canada’s military history. It showcases exhibits on various conflicts, peacekeeping efforts, and the contributions of Canadians in times of war.

The Canada Science and Technology Museum

The Canada Science and Technology Museum is a fascinating institution located in Ottawa, Ontario. It offers a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the history and advancements in science and technology.

Carleton Art Gallery

Carleton University Art Gallery (CUAG) fosters inclusive opportunities for art-based learning. We facilitate spaces of reflection and action around the ideas raised by the artists who anchor our exhibition, public and publication programs. We mentor and support emerging cultural workers. We care for the University’s art collection, an important resource for research, teaching, and display.

Ottawa Tourist Attractions

Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill is the political and cultural heart of Canada. It is home to the iconic Parliament Buildings, where the country’s government functions. The area also features beautiful grounds and stunning views of the Ottawa River.

Peace Tower

The Peace Tower is an iconic landmark located on Parliament Hill. It is the centerpiece of the Parliament Buildings and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.

Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a defining feature of Ottawa. This historic waterway, transformed into a skateway in winter, winds through the city, offering picturesque views and recreational activities. In winter, the frozen Rideau Canal becomes the world’s largest skating rink, where you can glide along the ice and immerse yourself in a unique Canadian experience.

Byward Market

ByWard Market is a vibrant neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere, diverse culinary offerings, and boutique shops. It is a hub of entertainment, arts, and culture in Ottawa. Explore the bustling market stalls offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. Be sure to try the famous BeaverTails pastries, a Canadian treat you won’t want to miss

National Arts Centre

The National Arts Centre (NAC) is a premier performing arts venue in Canada. It hosts a variety of performances, including theater, music, dance, and more, showcasing both Canadian and international talent.

Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park is a natural oasis just minutes from downtown Ottawa. It offers an escape into nature with hiking trails, scenic lookouts, lakes, and picnic areas, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Wellness & Support at Carleton

Carleton University has a wide range of wellness and support to help.

• Wellness Service Navigator
• Health and Counselling Services
• From Intention to Action (FITA)
• Equity and Inclusive Communities (EIC)
• Centre for Indigneous Support and Community Engagement (CISCE)
• AVP Indigenous Teaching, Learning and Research
• International Student Services Office (ISSO)
• Carleton Athletics
• Carleton Wellness programs
• Awards and Financial Aid
• Get Help Now – Crisis/Urgent Counselling Support

CUSA Unified Support Centre

• Food Bank USC – The Unified Support Centre (USC) is a volunteer-supported CUSA department. The Food Centre service cluster is offered by USC, providing on-campus food support and advocacy.
• Safe Walk – Call (613) 520-4066 to request a safe walk and two of our volunteers will be happy to walk with you anywhere on campus and up to 1 hour off campus. They can also accompany you on OC Transpo buses and light rail. The Safe Walk service is available during our operational hours from 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM on weekdays and 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM on weekends.
• Walk and Talk – The Walk and Talk line offers an alternative to the USC’s safe walk service by giving you the option to chat with a USC volunteer over the phone until you reach your destination. Call (613) 520-4449 during their operational hours from 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM on weekdays and 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM on weekends!
• Borrow a First Aid Kit – The USC offers first aid kits to any Carleton University student or group that wants to borrow one for up to a month at a time.
• Prayer Room – The Muslim prayer room (Musala) is open to all Muslim students every day, at all hours. It is a place where students can go to offer their prayers in a clean and safe environment. Ablution (wudhu) facilities are also available beside the Musala. Located in 225A University Centre (2nd Floor).

Child Care

Colonel By Child Care Centre is located on the Carleton University campus and provides child care for families currently connected with Carleton University (current students, faculty and employees). For more information on CBCCC and the application process, please visit https://www.afchildrensservices.ca/our-locations/colonel-by-child-care-centre/.

A Student Guide to Transportation in Ottawa

Ottawa offers a variety of transportation options to help you navigate the city efficiently. This guide will introduce you to the modes of transportation available in Ottawa.

OC Transpo (Bus in Ottawa)

• OC Transpo operates an extensive bus network that covers Ottawa. Buses are an affordable way to get around. You can check schedules and routes on their website or use mobile apps for real-time information.
• O-Train. Ottawa’s light rail system, the O-Train, provides rapid transit service. It connects key areas of the city, including downtown, Carleton University, and the Ottawa International Airport. Note that the LRT Trillium line construction has delayed the reopening of Line 2 and service to Carleton University remains closed until Spring 2024. Line 2 buses will continue to provide service to Carleton.

Para Transpo

Para Transpo is a shared-ride, book-in-advance, public transit service. The service is open to eligible customers who are unable to take conventional transit (buses and O-Train) some or all of the time due to a disability. To use Para Transpo services, you must submit an application.

STO Buses (For neighbouring Gatineau)

• STO operates an extensive bus network in Gatineau, serving various neighborhoods and connecting to Ottawa’s OC Transpo network. Buses are a convenient and cost-effective way to travel around Gatineau. You can find bus schedules, routes, and real-time information on the STO website or through their mobile apps.

Rapibus

• Gatineau’s rapid transit system, known as Rapibus, provides efficient bus service along dedicated lanes. It connects key areas of Gatineau, including downtown, Hull, and Aylmer.

U-pass

As a full-time student, you may be eligible for a U-pass. Eligible students are entitled to unlimited travel on OC Transpo and the Société de transport de l’Outaouais (STO) in Gatineau. Only Para Transpo service to rural zones requires a supplemental fare.

Cycling

Ottawa is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and paths. Consider bringing your own bike or renting one through a bike-sharing program. Remember to follow local traffic rules and wear a helmet.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout the city. Download the respective apps for convenient rides. Please note: You can use Uber/Lyft to get to Gatineau, but you cannot use Uber/Lyft to catch a ride from Gatineau to across the river to Ottawa. There are many taxi companies in Ottawa, including Capital Taxi, Blue Line Taxi and City Cab.