The HI-Ottawa Jail Hostel

Go directly to jail…the HI-Ottawa Jail Hostel!

Have a unique and memorable trip to Ottawa that’ll not only include its sights, attractions, and activities but your overnight sentence in jail as well! The HI-Ottawa Jail Hostel is the only hostel in North America located in a former prison that operated for over 100 years. During your stay in this Victorian-era architectural relic, you’ll sleep in former jail cells, the prison hospital, or maybe even the governor’s quarters! Take a tour to learn what life was like for the prison’s inmates or find out if the jail really is haunted.

Location, Location, Location

Located in the heart of downtown, the HI-Ottawa Jail Hostel is in an ideal location to explore the city’s many nearby sights and attractions while on your prison day-pass. It’s right across the street from shopping at the Rideau Centre, a mere 7 minute walk from the Byward Market and Parliament Hill, and a hop, skip and a jump away from many of the city’s national and local museums, including the Museum of Civilization, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Canadian War Museum. Not to mention being close to the other necessities of life, groceries, beer and liquor stores. Our large walk-in fridge with individual lock spaces will make sure you are the only ones to eat your food.

Inmate Facilities

As an inmate at the HI-Ottawa Jail Hostel we offer you many choices in accommodations, ranging from traditional dorm beds, to semi-private or private rooms carved out of old jail cells.

Our friendly and experienced guards (i.e. staff) will be happy not only to incarcerate you for the night, but also to help you plan and get the most out of your visit. Behave, and maybe they’ll even let you in on some of Ottawa’s best-kept secrets (of which we’re one!).

We hope to see you soon – and remember: you don’t have to commit a crime to do time!

Please note: If you do not hold an HI membership card there will be an additional charge of $5 per night.
All prices are subject to local sales tax.

Directions

From the airport: Take bus # 97 to the Rideau Shopping Centre. Get off on the MacKenzie King Bridge, walk east to the stairs. The hostel is located at the bottom of the stairs.

From the train station: Take bus #95 (Baseline) to the Rideau Shopping Centre. Get off on the MacKenzie King Bridge, walk east to the stairs. The hostel is located at the bottom of the stairs.

From the bus station: Take local bus #4 (Downtown) from the corner of Arlington and Kent St. to Nicholas St. and Rideau. Walk two blocks south. The hostel is on the left.

Facilities

Internet Access, Linen Included, Towels, Security Lockers, Luggage Storage, Guest Kitchen, Telephone/Fax Facilities, 24 hour reception, Travel Desk/Travel Info, Common Room, Bike Parking, BBQ Area, Breakfast Not Included, WiFi in lobby, Web access in lobby, WiFi in room, Breakfast