Neighbourhood Spotlight: Qualicum – Graham Park

Situated in College Ward in Ottawa's west end, Qualicum-Graham Park is a quiet neighbourhood with easy access to many of city amenities. Bounded by the Queensway to the north, Baseline Road to the south, and Morrison Drive and Richmond Road to the east and west, the area was formerly farm land, largely owned and cultivated by the Bruce family until residential development began in the 1960s. Most of the homes built during that period are substantial homes on large lots, some of which will be of particular interest to fans of mid-century architecture. More recent construction has included custom homes, townhomes, and condominiums along the neighbourhood's fringes. Mature trees and plentiful parkland make the area feel like a secluded oasis; Graham Creek, which dissects the neighbourhood and flows from nearby Bruce Pit Quarry toward the Ottawa River, give a bucolic feel to many local yards; some even include picturesque footbridges. Nonetheless, transportation, recreation, and other resources are all conveniently at hand.

While new condo developments have made the area attractive to young people and empty-nesters, Qualicum-Graham Park's convenient location has traditionally made it popular with families: the Queensway-Carleton Hospital is located within neighbourhood boundaries; the Bayshore Shopping Centre, Pinecrest shopping area, and IKEA are all a stone's throw away; and ready access to the Queesnway make the commute into Tunney's Pasture or downtown a breeze. The Greenbelt bike path is also adjacent to this community, which gives bikers or walkers a beautiful, car-free route to the river or out into the wilds of the Ottawa Valley. An active community association runs a community centre where after school activities, yoga classes, and other community gatherings take place, and the seasonal festivities and a community skating rink they organize give the area sense of conviviality and neighbourhood pride.

If you are looking for a home in Qualicum-Graham Park or elsewhere in Ottawa, please contact our office or check our current listings to learn more.