Gatineau Olympiques road trip guide

Best seats

The 4,000-seat bowl is compact and new (2021), so sideline sections are the pick; avoid the middle of the 32-seat corner top rows, which are a long shuffle to get out.

Parking

Several lots around the arena are free on Olympiques game nights (the City of Gatineau publishes the list). The parking garage is the main option and has long lines before games and a slow exit after, so leave extra time or take the bus. (Free (game nights))

Getting there

The arena is at 500 boulevard de la Cité in east Gatineau, right next to the STO's Station de la Cité on the Rapibus line, about 10–15 minutes' drive from downtown Ottawa via Highway 50.

Bar scene

The area is mostly strip malls, so there isn't much within walking distance; the complex has its own restaurant-bar, Resto bar Loft Le 1973, for a drink or meal before puck drop.

Pre-game bars

• Resto bar Loft Le 1973 — Restaurant-bar inside the Centre Slush Puppie complex

Insider tips

• Your Olympiques game ticket doubles as a free ride on the regular STO bus network on game day (from 5 pm on weekdays, all day on weekends).
• Lots near the arena are free on Olympiques game nights, but the garage is slow to clear, so the bus is often quicker.
• Outside food and drink are not allowed. Only food bought on site may be brought in.
• Air horns, whistles, cowbells, trumpets, megaphones and laser pointers are banned.
• Buying tickets online in advance avoids the box-office line.

Nearest big-league teams (great to pair up)

Also nearby: pro, minor & junior