Key Factors of a Night Out

This infographic titled "A Night Out in Numbers" presents statistics related to nightlife in Ottawa on a red background with black icons and white text. It highlights that the average cost of a cocktail in Ottawa is $12, represented by two clinking wine glasses. It also warns that individuals are four times more likely to drink five times the recommended alcohol limit when pre-drinking, shown with a caution triangle icon. Another statistic reveals that 6,976 cases were reported in 2022 in the Rideau-Vanier ward, accompanied by a police badge symbol. Lastly, a bus icon notes that public transit services in Ottawa end at 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. Decorative sparkle icons are used throughout to enhance the visual appeal.

More to Note

How Ottawa Compares to Other Cities

	Clubs	Bars	Late-Night Restaurants
Ottawa	39	147	82
Montreal	100	196	102
Toronto	120	196	207

Uber Ranking

In Uber’s Canada Nightlife Index Report, which ranked Canadian cities based on nightlife in 2024, Ottawa placed 4th in the country. This means that during peak hours, Ottawa has one of the highest rates for Ubers. However, taking this method of transportation may be more popular since OC Transpo service is ineffective during these hours. As discussed in Episode 2: Sip, Skip, and Stay In, this significantly increases the cost for students on a night out since they feel it is the safest, and most practical way to get home.

HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON A NIGHT OUT

Description

Want to enjoy a night out in Ottawa without breaking the bank? In this video, learn top tips on how to save money while still having fun—whether you’re hitting the ByWard Market, catching a show, or just grabbing drinks with friends. From happy hour deals to free events, here’s how to do Ottawa on a budget!

Video transcript

00:00:00 Speaker 1

Hey everyone, if you’re a student in Ottawa, you know going out can get expensive fast. Between drinks, Ubers, cover charges, and food, your bank account might be crying at the end of the night, but I’ve got you covered. Today, we’re talking about how to have a full night out from museums to clubbing without going broke. Let’s dive in.

00:00:20 Speaker 1

Let’s start with one of the biggest budget hacks: pre gaming. Drinks at bars can cost $10 or more, but if you and your friends start at home, you’ll save a lot.

00:00:29 Speaker 1

Make a playlist, split the cost of snacks and mixers, and hang out while getting ready. It saves money and sets the vibe. And if you don’t have playlist, we have one on our website. Feel free to check it out.

00:00:41 Speaker 1

It’s Canadian classics that you can listen to while getting ready. But not everybody wants to drink. Bonus tip: if you’re not drinking, make yourself a fun mocktail. Still festive, still fun and way cheaper than anything you’ll buy at the bar.

00:00:55 Speaker 1

Ottawa is full of free and cheap events, if you know where to look. Thursday nights, the National Gallery and Museum of History are free after 5:00 PM. Wanna dance? Try free salsa lessons at City Hall.

00:01:08 Speaker 1

Into laughs? Yuk Yuks comedy club has a pay what you can comedy night. And keep an eye out for free destivals like Winterlude, Capital Pride or Glow Fair. Follow local student groups and event pages on Instagram. That’s where the gems are usually hiding.

00:01:23 Speaker 1

Let’s talk food. You don’t have to spend $20 to eat out after a night of dancing. Head up El’s Furniture Warehouse. Everything on the menu is under 10 bucks. Looking for happy hour deals? Half price apps before 7:00 PM can go a long way. And street food is your friend. Shawarma, poutine, and pizza by the slice. Delicious and budget friendly.

00:01:44 Speaker 1

Pro tip: share a dish with the friend or save leftovers for tomorrow’s hangover fix.

00:01:49 Speaker 1

Now getting home safe and cheap? Totally doable. Split an Uber with friends or use your U pass for OC Transpo. Plan your bus trips before you leave so you’re not stuck. Rotate a designated driver in your friend group. The sober MVP always wins. Ottawa bylaws-they’re strict. Drinking in public, loud parties, or even just hanging out in big groups can lead to fines. Keep the pregame indoors, keep the volume low. Don’t be the reason your house gets a $250 ticket.

00:02:18 Speaker 1

Here’s your ultimate budget night in Ottawa. Start early with a free museum, pregame with your friends, check out a cheap comedy or dance night, grab a bite for under $10, carpool, or take the bus home safe. Fun doesn’t have to mean broke, it just means being smart.