Perhaps all that comes to mind when you hear about Ottawa is its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings. Well, as much as that’s right, the capital has a lot more to it. Let’s consider the casino culture, for instance. Do you actually know that, according to approximations, Ontario, which hosts Ottawa, accounts for the lion’s share (about 28.1%) of Canada’s gross gambling revenue?
With a growing appetite for gaming, entertainment and nightlife, the region’s offerings are expanding and pulling in visitors from across Canada and beyond. Thankfully, the rise of the best Ontario online casinos has made it possible for players who can’t access physical venues to immerse themselves from anyplace at any time.
With just a simple touch of a button on your smartphone, you can now conveniently access Ontario online casinos, further explaining the region’s casino appeal. To learn more about why it’s such a unique tourism draw, keep reading.
Casino du Lac-Leamy
Just directly across Ottawa is Gatineau city, located on the northern bank of the Ottawa River, where you find this massive entertainment complex. Formerly known as the Casino de Hull, the center has existed since March 1996 and is operated by a subsidiary of Loto-Québec – Société des casinos du Québec.
Surprisingly, almost a decade ago, the casino generated over CA$244,679,000 in profit after attracting more than two and a half million visitors. As if that’s not enough, it also employed over 1,400 people. Visiting this destination, you will have around 1,800 slot machines and 60 table games to explore.
There are also other fascinating features around the casino, including:
• Lac de la Carrière
• Leamy Lake
• A 349-room Hilton hotel
It’s not just the gamblers who show up. Tourists flock here for the whole package, including gourmet food at Restaurant Arome, dancing at Club Alea, firework shows across different locations and so much more.
Rideau Carleton Casino
Widely known for horse racing and gambling, this complex has been around for several decades. It introduced slot machines at the beginning of the 21st century, under the authority of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). According to a 2000 report by cbc.ca, these games were expected to generate up to $130 million in annual revenues.
You’ll also find the Capital Fair raceway, which offers facilities for several charitable fundraisers and yearly events for different embassies. A few years ago, Rideau Carleton and Hard Rock International confirmed a partnership to transform the location into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, among the country’s top all-inclusive hotel and casino destinations.
This $350 million investment was not just a facelift for a local landmark but rather Hard Rock’s ambitious move to promote the capital into a global hub for entertainment and tourism.
Phase one was set to open during the spring season of 2025 and would include a 150-room luxury hotel, Hard Rock live theatre and 22 suites. Interestingly, the live theatre will host about 1,800 seated guests and 2,200 standing.
Upon completion, the casino section will be expanded to feature 1,500 slot machines and 40 table games, which will improve Ottawa’s international appeal among gamblers. And since every Hard Rock destination is incomplete without the undying, guitar-bedecked encounter, we look forward to about 10 restaurants and bars anchored by the renowned Hard Rock Cafe.
What’s more, this destination is just about 10 minutes from the Ottawa International Airport, making it easily accessible for visitors. Plus, it runs 24/7, ensuring the fun never stops.
More Than Just a Game
Another beautiful part of Ottawa’s gaming options is how well they complement the city’s broader tourism appeal. At least, visitors don’t just come to gamble but to explore, and casinos become a natural addition to their plans.
For instance, someone visiting the town for Winterlude or Canada Day might take in a skating trail and a museum and then wrap up the evening with dinner and a few hours at a casino. We have already seen how this is possible at venues like Rideau Carleton, which offer more fun beyond just gambling.
For visitors who may want some evening entertainment without leaving the region, such offerings can be very handy.
Locals are also benefiting from the spread of the gambling industry in Ottawa. A good example is the recent Hard Rock – Rideau Carleton partnership. Can you imagine that, according to reports, it provided over 1,900 jobs during the construction phase alone? Hundreds more are projected when the complex becomes fully operational.
Plus, some of these casinos have ‘giving back to the community’ as part of their ethos. Surprisingly, within a short span of about 12 months, Hard Rock Ottawa had donated more than $75,000 to local charities. This is minus the $20,000 it donated to Minwaashin Lodge (an Indigenous women’s shelter) during its groundbreaking ceremony in 2023.
What is Our Final Word?
It shouldn’t actually be surprising that Ottawa’s gambling industry appeals to both local and international audiences. Destinations like Rideau Carleton often combine casino offerings with other world-class environments, ensuring visitors receive experiences beyond spinning the reels and sitting at poker tables.
Plus, these destinations have made a name among locals by creating employment opportunities and supporting local activities through donations. As major investments await completion, the city is poised to offer even more for travellers seeking fun without sacrificing culture or comfort.
