Ottawa Art Gallery

About the Ottawa Art Gallery

The Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) is Ottawa's municipal art gallery, located downtown on Mackenzie King Bridge, adjacent to the Arts Court complex and a short walk from the Rideau Centre. The gallery expanded into a striking new building in 2018, tripling its exhibition space.

Unlike the National Gallery of Canada, which charges admission, the OAG is always free. It's a strong option for a free afternoon of art — or a rainy day downtown.

What to See

• Rotating Exhibitions — The gallery presents changing exhibitions of contemporary art by local, national, and international artists. Exhibitions rotate regularly, so there's often something new to see
• Permanent Collection — The OAG holds over 1,200 works, with a focus on Ottawa-area artists
• The Firestone Collection — A significant collection of early 20th-century Canadian art, including works by the Group of Seven, housed within the gallery

Facilities

• Jackson Café — A café on the main level, open during gallery hours
• OAG Shop — Art books, prints, and gifts
• Lockers — Available on Level 1 ($1.00)

Visiting

• Hours: Tue & Sun 10 AM – 6 PM, Wed–Sat 10 AM – 9 PM, Closed Monday
• Admission: Always free. Donations welcomed
• Accessibility: Accessible entrance at 10 Daly Avenue. Para Transpo drop-off at the same address
• Parking: Street metered parking in Sandy Hill. Rideau Centre parkade (80 Nicholas Street) nearby

Getting There

• By Transit: Steps from Rideau Station (O-Train Line 1) and multiple OC Transpo bus stops along Mackenzie King Bridge
• On Foot: A 5-minute walk from the ByWard Market or Rideau Centre
• By Bike: Bike racks at the main entrance (50 Mackenzie King Bridge)