Dow’s Lake: A Local’s Guide to Living Here
Perched along the Rideau Canal, Dow’s Lake is one of Ottawa’s most picturesque and prestigious neighbourhoods. With waterfront trails, elegant homes, and walkable access to Little Italy, this pocket-sized area offers a peaceful, scenic lifestyle just minutes from downtown. Whether you're looking to paddle in the summer or skate in the winter, this is a true four-season neighbourhood that blends nature and city life beautifully.
Why People Love Living in Dow’s Lake
Waterfront Living: Direct access to the Rideau Canal, with scenic views year-round.
Outdoor Lifestyle: Steps from kayaking, paddle boarding, cycling, skating, and more.
Elegant, Quiet Streets: A calm and exclusive feel, tucked away from busy traffic.
Connected and Walkable: A short walk to Little Italy, the Glebe, Lansdowne, and the O-Train.
Ideal for Professionals: Central location with easy commutes and luxury homes.
Types of Homes in Dow’s Lake
Real estate in Dow’s Lake is limited — and highly desirable. Homes here include historic estates, luxury infills, and boutique condos with water views.
Detached homes: $1.2M–$3M+
Luxury infills and renovations: $1.5M–$4M
Condos: From $500,000 for smaller units to $1.5M+ for canal-facing penthouses
Rentals: Upscale townhomes and apartments, usually $2,500–$5,000/month
Inventory is low, and properties rarely stay on the market long — this is a premium location.
Who Lives Here
Dow’s Lake attracts those who want the best of both worlds — serenity and proximity.
Doctors and professionals working at the Civic Hospital or in the downtown core
Retirees and downsizers seeking a luxury lifestyle in a low-maintenance condo
Wealthier families and executives wanting space, views, and prestige
Outdoor enthusiasts who love the active lifestyle the area supports
It’s a small, exclusive community with a strong sense of privacy and refinement.
Schools & Education
While Dow’s Lake doesn’t contain schools within its small footprint, it's close to many top-rated options in nearby neighbourhoods:
Elmdale Public School
Mutchmor Public School
St. Anthony Catholic School
Immaculata High School
Glebe Collegiate Institute
Turnbull School (private)
Families here often prioritize location and lifestyle but still have access to excellent education nearby.
Amenities & Highlights
Rideau Canal & Dow’s Lake Pavilion: Walk, bike, skate, or paddle right outside your door
Tulip Festival: A front-row seat to Ottawa’s most beautiful spring event
Little Italy & Preston Street: Ottawa’s best Italian food, bars, and gelato just steps away
Commissioners Park: Stunning flowerbeds, wide pathways, and summer events
O-Train (Carling Station): Quick transit access north to Bayview or south to Carleton
Everything is within walking distance — but nature is always in view.
Getting Around
Dow’s Lake is centrally located, yet peaceful — a rare combo.
Driving: Close to Carling Avenue, Bronson, and the Queensway
Transit: Walk to Carling O-Train station or catch OC Transpo routes on nearby streets
Cycling: Direct access to Ottawa’s pathway network via the canal
Walk Score: Very high — you can walk to groceries, restaurants, green space, and transit easily
You won’t need your car for much.
What Does a Home Cost in Dow’s Lake?
Dow’s Lake is one of Ottawa’s highest-value neighbourhoods, and prices reflect that.
Detached homes: $1.2M–$3.5M+
Luxury infills: Often $2M+ depending on size and finishes
Boutique condos: $500,000–$1.5M+
Rentals: Limited supply, mostly executive-level homes and suites
Days on market: Luxury homes take slightly longer to sell, but demand is consistent
This isn’t an entry-level market — it’s a move-up or luxury lifestyle choice.
Browse Homes in Dow’s Lake
Whether you’re looking for a stunning waterfront condo or an architect-designed dream home, Dow’s Lake offers a level of peace, prestige, and walkability that’s hard to beat in Ottawa. It’s the kind of place where mornings start with a walk by the water and weekends feel like a getaway.
Ready to Explore Dow’s Lake?
If you’re dreaming of waterfront walks, an unbeatable location, and a peaceful pace without leaving the city, Dow’s Lake might be the perfect place to land. Reach out today to learn more or start browsing what’s currently available.