Ottawa Jail Hostel, Heritage prison turned hostel in downtown Ottawa, Canada
Description
Ottawa Jail Hostel is a former prison in downtown Ottawa with thick stone walls, iron doors, and original cells from the 1800s. The building has been converted into a modern lodging facility while preserving its industrial architecture and historical character.
History
The prison was established in 1862 as Carleton County Gaol and operated until 1972. The site witnessed significant executions and played an important role in Ottawa's development during the 1800s and early 1900s.
Culture
The building maintains its austere character from its past while functioning as a gathering place for travelers. Visitors experience the contrast between heavy stone walls and the friendly community spaces where people meet and share stories.
Practical
The hostel offers both shared and private rooms with amenities such as free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a full kitchen available to guests. Because of the building's historic structure, accessibility may be limited in certain areas, so checking ahead is recommended.
Did you know?
Guests can sleep in authentic prison cells with original iron doors and stone walls from the 1800s. This direct experience offers insight into what confinement felt like during that era.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Ottawa).
Senate of Canada Building
383 m
Confederation Park
369 m
Major-General George R Pearkes Building
159 m
Cartier Square Drill Hall
369 m
Ottawa Art Gallery
98 m
Rideau Skating Rink
259 m
National Arts Centre
389 m
Mackenzie King Bridge
238 m
Transportation Building
329 m
Laurier Avenue Bridge
248 m
Albion Hotel
121 m
Carleton County Court House
79 m
Carleton County Registry Office
96 m
112 Daly Avenue
355 m
63-65 William Street
335 m
107-115 Rideau Street
292 m
65 Stewart Street
329 m
The Atwood
300 m
Registry Office
48 m
101 Rideau Street
297 m
103-105 Rideau Street
294 m
Rideau Hotel
302 m
Sandy Hill West Heritage Conservation District
267 m
14 Waller Street
259 m
Union Mission
211 m
106-110 Daly Avenue
340 m
66-68 Stewart Street
329 m
89 Rideau Street
310 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes