SAW
SAW offers visitors a window into Ottawa's vibrant arts and culture scene. Located 10.4 km from Adam's Airport Inn (21 minutes by car), it's worth the slightly longer drive for culture enthusiasts.
A helpful tip: most national museums in Ottawa offer free admission on Thursday evenings from 5 to 8 PM — a great way to experience the collection without the weekend crowds.
Quick Info
Getting There from Adam’s Airport Inn
From Adam's Airport Inn, take the Airport Parkway to Highway 417 — it's about 21 minutes by car. Paid street parking.
Why Guests Love This
SAW is Ottawa’s leading artist-run centre — a non-profit gallery on Nicholas Street that showcases contemporary art, experimental film, performance, and new media by emerging and mid-career Canadian artists. For guests who gravitate toward art that challenges rather than decorates, SAW delivers consistently. The free admission and compact space make it easy to visit in under an hour, and its location near the University of Ottawa campus means it pairs naturally with a walk through Sandy Hill or the Byward Market, about 20 minutes from Adam’s Airport Inn.
Details
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Location
Accessibility
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
SAW focuses on contemporary and experimental art across multiple disciplines: visual art, video, performance, sound art, and new media. Exhibitions rotate every 4–6 weeks and feature emerging and mid-career Canadian artists. The programming is more avant-garde than the National Gallery or Ottawa Art Gallery — expect work that provokes and surprises.
Yes. SAW is a non-profit artist-run centre and admission is always free. They welcome donations to support their programming and the artists they exhibit.
SAW is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 AM to 6 PM. The gallery is closed Sunday and Monday. Exhibition openings typically take place on Thursday evenings and are open to the public — these are the most social way to experience the space.
SAW is best suited for adults and older teenagers with an interest in contemporary art. The exhibitions can include mature themes, video installations, and conceptual work that may not engage younger children. For families seeking art experiences, the Ottawa Art Gallery or the National Gallery’s family programming are better fits.
SAW at 67 Nicholas Street is approximately 12 km from Ottawa International Airport (YOW). From Adam’s Airport Inn (7 minutes from the terminal), drive about 20 minutes via the Airport Parkway to downtown. Paid parking is available on Nicholas Street and in nearby garages off Daly Avenue.
Staying in Ottawa?
Adam’s Airport Inn is just 21 minutes from SAW. Book direct for the best rate, complimentary breakfast, and up to 14 days of free parking.
Check Availability