★★★★★ 4.4(2,046 reviews)10.8 km from hotel~22 min drive
Legendary watering hole dating from 1849 featuring live music, pub grub & a lively ambiance.
The Laff is a solid choice for an evening out in Ottawa, located 10.8 km from Adam's Airport Inn (22 minutes by car). With 2,046 Google reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it's clearly a local favourite.
Ottawa's nightlife tends to be relaxed and welcoming — smart casual dress is the norm. The bar scene heats up after 9 PM on weekends.
Getting There from Adam’s Airport Inn
22 min
From Adam's Airport Inn, take the Airport Parkway to Highway 417 — it's about 22 minutes by car. Paid parking lot.
Why Guests Love This
The Laff has been pouring pints since 1849, making it one of Ottawa’s oldest continuously operating bars — and it wears that history comfortably. The live music calendar runs nearly every night, covering blues, rock, folk, and open mic sets, which gives it an energy that manufactured nightlife venues simply cannot replicate. Located on York Street in the ByWard Market, it pairs naturally with an evening of exploring the neighbourhood. Guests who want a genuine taste of Ottawa’s local culture rather than a tourist experience find exactly that here.
The Laff hosts live music most nights, typically starting between 8 PM and 9 PM. The lineup leans toward blues, rock, and folk acts, with open mic nights on select evenings. Check their website or social media for the weekly schedule. There is no cover charge for most performances.
What kind of food does The Laff serve?
Traditional pub fare — burgers, fish and chips, wings, and hearty sandwiches. The menu is straightforward and portions are honest. It’s the kind of food designed to pair with a pint rather than win culinary awards, and it does that job well.
Is The Laff a good spot for a casual evening out?
It’s one of the best in Ottawa for exactly that. The atmosphere is lively without being overwhelming, the staff are welcoming to first-time visitors, and the live music provides built-in entertainment. Arrive early on weekends if you want a table near the stage.
How old is The Laff?
The Laff dates back to 1849, making it one of the oldest bars in Ottawa and among the oldest in Ontario. The building retains much of its original character, and the worn wood floors and low ceilings give it an authenticity that newer establishments cannot replicate.
How do I get to The Laff from Ottawa Airport?
The Laff is approximately 12 km from Ottawa International Airport (YOW) on York Street in the ByWard Market. From Adam’s Airport Inn (7 minutes from the terminal), the drive takes about 20 minutes via the Airport Parkway. Paid parking is available in nearby ByWard Market garages.
Staying in Ottawa?
Adam’s Airport Inn is just 22 minutes from The Laff. Complimentary breakfast and up to 14 days of free parking included with every stay.
