Alta Vista, ON
Renting Guide
A family-friendly neighbourhood in Ottawa with abundant parks and convenient amenities.
Alta Vista is a charming neighbourhood located in the southern part of Ottawa, known for its elevated position above the Rideau River valley. Bounded by Smyth Road, St. Laurent Boulevard, Walkley Road, Heron Road, Bank Street, and Riverside Drive, it offers a peaceful residential atmosphere just a short distance from the bustling city center. Originally developed in the 1960s as a premier family neighbourhood, Alta Vista continues to be a sought-after area for those seeking a blend of community spirit and urban convenience.
The neighbourhood is characterized by its wide, tree-lined streets, spacious lots, and a variety of architectural styles that reflect its mid-20th-century origins. Residents of Alta Vista enjoy access to numerous parks, schools, and community amenities, making it an ideal place for families and individuals alike. The area is well-connected to the rest of Ottawa, providing residents with easy access to the city's cultural and business hubs while maintaining a tranquil suburban feel.
Today, Alta Vista remains a vibrant community with a strong sense of identity and pride. It offers a harmonious blend of residential living, green spaces, and convenient access to essential services and recreational activities. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a family, Alta Vista provides a welcoming environment where you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the serenity of suburban life and the proximity to Ottawa's vibrant downtown.
About
Alta Vista is a neighbourhood in the south end of Ottawa, bordered by Smyth Road to the north, St. Laurent Boulevard to the east, Walkley Road and Heron Road to the south, and Bank Street and Riverside Drive to the west. Alta Vista Drive is a major street running through the neighbourhood, named for its location on a rise above the Rideau River valley, offering a higher elevation than much of Ottawa.
This primarily residential area boasts numerous elementary and high schools, community centres, churches, and parks. Designed in the 1960s as Ottawa's premier family neighbourhood, many families continue to call Alta Vista home. The community fosters a strong sense of belonging, where knowing your neighbours is common. Residents often organize children's soccer and baseball leagues, emphasizing fun and camaraderie over competition.
Rental Options
Rental options in Alta Vista are diverse, ranging from bachelor and one-bedroom apartments in high-rises to charming two to four-bedroom homes and duplexes with large lots and backyards. Some homeowners also rent out basement suites. For those looking to find rentals in Alta Vista, Rentals.ca offers a unique map feature that displays all rental listings in the area, allowing you to filter by price, number of bedrooms, neighbourhood, and bathrooms.
Life & Style
Alta Vista offers an abundance of green spaces, with more than a dozen parks to explore. The neighbourhood's residential streets are lined with mature trees, providing a pleasant environment for walking or cycling. During the winter months, outdoor rinks and tobogganing hills become popular spots for community activities, adding to the area's charm and appeal.
Neighbourhood
Alta Vista's proximity to hospitals and universities attracts a diverse group of residents, including medical professionals and students. The General Campus of the Ottawa Hospital and The Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario are located on the north side of Smyth Road, while the Riverside Campus of the Ottawa Hospital is situated at Smyth and Riverside Drive, ensuring excellent healthcare access for the community.
Land Mark
The OC Transpo Transitway runs through Alta Vista, with two stations in the neighbourhood for bus riders: Pleasant Park and Riverside. Just outside, you'll find Billings Bridge and Smyth stations. Alta Vista is conveniently located about a 10-minute drive from downtown Ottawa, as well as the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, making it accessible for students and professionals alike.
Fun Fact
Alta Vista is conveniently located near major shopping destinations, including the Billings Bridge Plaza Shopping Centre at Bank Street and Riverside, and the Elmvale Shopping Centre at St. Laurent and Smyth. Additionally, the South Keys shopping area, with its array of big box stores, restaurants, and a movie theatre, is just a short drive away. The nearby Ottawa Trainyards Shopping Centre offers a variety of outlet stores, providing even more shopping options for residents.