The Lookout Bar

Gay bar · Ottawa ByWard Market

A balcony with views all the way to Parliament Hill, theme nights during the week and drag at weekends: the Lookout is considered Ottawa’s oldest gay bar.

• ★ 4.3 on Google (876)
• Balcony with a view
• Drag Fri/Sat
• Ottawa’s oldest gay bar

Address

41 York St, 2nd floor
Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7

Opening hours

Tue 7 pm–midnight
Wed–Fri 7 pm–2 am
Sat 3 pm–2 am
Sun 3–11 pm
Mon closed

Entry

some shows ticketed via Eventbrite or at the door

Crowd

mixed, all genders, locals, students and travellers

Flirt factor

medium

Programme

Drag shows on Fridays and Saturdays
Theme nights on Thursdays
Sunday Tradition on Sundays

What makes the Lookout special

The Lookout is on the second floor of a building in the ByWard Market, Ottawa’s lively market and nightlife district, and is considered the city’s oldest gay bar. According to the bar, its balcony is the only licensed balcony in Ottawa, with views over the market all the way to Parliament Hill. In summer it is the most sought-after spot.

There is drag on Fridays and Saturdays, theme nights on Thursdays and karaoke during the week. Cocktail and shooter specials change throughout the week. Tickets for bigger shows are available in advance via Eventbrite.

Atmosphere and crowd

The crowd is mixed: locals, students and travellers dropping in on pub crawls through the market. It is busiest on Fridays and Saturdays. With almost 900 reviews, the Lookout is one of Ottawa’s best-known queer bars, with drag and karaoke getting particular praise.

Contact

Editorially researched, as of October 2026. Sources: bar website, Out x Out, Google reviews (4.3 stars, 876 reviews). Opening hours, prices and programme may change, please check before visiting.