In 1974, a dedicated group of artists and arts supporters pursued a vision: to find a home for Ottawa’s professional arts producers and presenters. In 1978, Mayor Marion Dewar’s Advisory Group on the Arts recommended the establishment of a municipal arts centre, an arts council, an arts festival, and a permanent art collection for the City.
Before Arts Court was an arts centre, it served as the Carleton County Court House. Built for this purpose between 1870 and 1871, the Court House was part of a legal precinct that included the former Carleton County Jail, the Carleton County Registry Office, and the former City Registry Office on Nicholas Street.
The building was designated for demolition by the Ontario Government in 1980. However, in 1985, the City of Ottawa took ownership of the building and designated the Ottawa Arts Court Foundation trustees as its custodians. It came back to life and became Ottawa’s central arts hub in 1988.
In-person visiting hours
*Follow building health protocols.
- Saturday, June 7 202510am to 5pm
Virtual and 3D Tours
This building does not offer virtual or 3D tours.
This Year for Doors Open Ottawa:
This year, Doors Open at Arts Court aligns with our Open House Party and Summer Pique 2025, turning the entire building into a vibrant, multidisciplinary arts hub on June 7th.
From 12–5 PM, drop by for the Open House Party—a free, family-friendly afternoon of exhibitions, screenings, performances, workshops, and more.
Starting at 5 PM, Summer Pique takes over. Produced by Debaser, this pay-what-you-can festival showcases an eclectic mix of musical, visual, and multimedia artists, offering an immersive evening of bold, contemporary art.
Whether you're exploring historic spaces or catching cutting-edge performances, it's a one-day celebration you won’t want to miss.
Architecture
Amenities and features
- Public washrooms
- Accessible access
- Bike parking
- Metered/paid parking
- Family friendly
- OC Transpo nearby