Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East, an IHG Hotel

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East, an IHG Hotel Overview

First Impressions

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East, an IHG Hotel sits right on King Edward Avenue, and honestly, the location surprised me in the best way. You’re basically in the heart of Ottawa without the chaos that usually comes with downtown hotels. It’s one of those three-star places that doesn’t try to be something it’s not — just solid, reliable, and actually pretty smart about what travelers need.

Location & Getting Around

Here’s what I love about this spot — you can walk to the Rideau Centre in about ten minutes, but you’re tucked away enough that you’re not dealing with constant street noise. The ByWard Market is right there too, which means you’ve got restaurants and nightlife within easy reach. I mean, couples clearly get this because they rate it really highly for romantic getaways, and I can see why. There’s something nice about being able to stroll along the Rideau River or pop over to Major’s Hill Park without needing a car or transit.

The Room Experience

The room setup is pretty typical Holiday Inn Express — clean lines, decent space, and everything works like it should. What I appreciated was the attention to small details, you know? Good lighting for actually reading, outlets where you need them, and a bathroom that doesn’t feel cramped. The suites give you a bit more breathing room if you’re staying longer or just want to spread out after a day of sightseeing.

Breakfast & Practical Perks

The continental breakfast here is actually worth getting up for — they do both buffet style and individual options, which worked well when I visited during busy season. You’ve got your standard fare but also some decent hot options that’ll fuel you for a day of exploring Parliament Hill or the museums. The parking situation is a real win too — having private parking downtown Ottawa is honestly a game-changer if you’re driving in from Toronto or Montreal.

Why Guests Love It

Look, this isn’t going to blow your mind with fancy amenities, but it nails the fundamentals really well. The staff seems to actually care about making your stay smooth, and the whole place has this efficient, no-nonsense vibe that works whether you’re here for business or just exploring the capital. For couples especially, there’s something appealing about having a comfortable base that’s close to everything but still feels like a retreat at the end of the day. It’s the kind of place where you check in, settle in quickly, and then get on with enjoying Ottawa — which is exactly what a good downtown hotel should do.

Facilities