Review: Delta Hotels Ottawa – A Benchmark for Excellence

Queen bed with red skirt and city skyline view from high-rise hotel room with floor-to-ceiling windows

As I was attending a conference in Ottawa, I needed a place to stay a night.

While browsing for hotels, I found an excellent Marriott Bonvoy Points redemption opportunity at Delta Hotels Ottawa City Centre.

Having consistently experienced great stays at Delta properties over the past few years,

I made the booking without hesitation.

Booking (July 2024)

A standard king room at Delta Hotels Ottawa typically goes for around $200-$300.

While this is quite an average price for Delta properties in Canada,

It required only 16,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points to book the exact same room.

Booking using points provided an exceptional value, as it’s relatively easy to earn Bonvoy points in Canada.

If you’re an avid traveler like me, you should definitely look into AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Card and AMEX Cobalt Card!

King bed guest room at Delta Hotels Ottawa City Centre with floor-to-ceiling windows and city view — A 1-king Delta Hotels room in downtown Ottawa, redeemable with 16,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Location

The hotel is located in the heart of downtown Ottawa.

It’s within walking distance to major landmarks such as Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal.

It’s also right by Lyon subway station, making it easy to access ByWard market and Rideau Centre.

Lobby & Check-in

Entrance

The main entrance is on Lyon Street, facing southwest, right across the road from Lyon subway station.

Check-in

The check-in process was very smooth.

There are three main front desk counters, one being a priority lane for Bonvoy Elite members.

There are a couple more desks with computers around the corner, which I believe can also be used to check-in guests during peak times.

Delta lounge check-in desk with blue Marriott Bonvoy signage and cityscape backdrop in Ottawa — The Delta-Marriott Bonvoy lounge entrance in Ottawa features a modern check-in area with branded Bonvoy displays.

Having experienced numerous instances of congested check-in lines during peak times at other hotels, this setup was truly impressive.

(Although this should be a norm rather than something to be impressed by. Seriously.)

Elevators

I forgot to take a picture but there are 4 elevators operating at this hotel.

Multi-level modern hotel lobby with wooden staircase, glass railings, and contemporary furnishings.

Hallway

The hallway is fairly standard, with the only notable feature being the patterned carpet.

Hotel corridor with cream-colored doors, dark carpet, and modern LED ceiling lighting leading toward elevators.

Room (1 King)

Unfortunately I didn’t receive any room upgrades as a Platinum Elite member.

I didn’t proactively ask for one either, but I should’ve after seeing how small the room was.

However, since I was spending only one night, It wasn’t a big deal.

Foyer

There’s almost no foyer space upon entering the room.

immediately on the left is a closet and on the right is the bathroom.

Foyer - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Hotel room with two queen beds, flat-screen TV, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown Ottawa skyline.

Hotel room closet with wooden hangers, black microwave, coffee maker, and amenities shelf at Delta Hotels Ottawa

View

The view wasn’t anything special, facing Lyon Street (southwest), with a handful of residential condo buildings and construction sites.

Bed

The king size bed was very comfortable, and the mattress had a medium firmness.

King Bed - Delta Hotels Ottawa

King bed with white linens and city view at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Queen bed with white linens and red skirt at Delta Hotels Ottawa, dark headboard with abstract artwork

Hotel room with white bedding, work desk, flat-screen TV, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown Ottawa skyline

On both sides of the headboard, there were night lights for those who enjoy reading.

Modern chrome wall-mounted reading lamp on dark wood paneling in aircraft cabin. — Delta cabin lighting fixture.

Desk Area

Despite the room being quite small, it featured a full ergonomic desk.

Conveniently located on top of the desk were charging ports and various cables to connect to the TV.

Desk Area - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Delta Hotel room workspace with wall-mounted TV showing Delta branding, white desk, office chair, and wood platform bed

Modern hotel desk with white surface, desk lamp, water bottle, and colorful accent shelving above; LG monitor and dark desk chair visible

Hotel desk with power strip and informational cards about conservation

In addition to the desk, there were also luggage shelf, mini fridge and a sofa in this area.

Desk Area - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Hotel bed with dark wood frame and metal luggage rack, modern integrated lighting above headboard

Danby compact refrigerator with frosted door in hotel room corner

Cream upholstered armchair by window in hotel room with desk and city view

Wi-Fi

If you’re a Gold Elite member and above, you have access to the enhanced wi-fi connection.

The speed was quite fast with an average download speed of 65 Mbps.

Speedtest result showing 65.19 Mbps download and 37.42 Mbps upload on Rogers network in Kanata, Ontario — Internet speed test from a Rogers network connection in Ottawa.

Bathroom

The bathroom was also very small, but it still had a fully closing and locking door, which I appreciate.

(I hate how some hotels these days use sliding doors or open-style bathrooms to save costs and space)

It also had a complete set of amenities, including Soapbox toiletries.

Bathroom - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Modern hotel bathroom with granite vanity, illuminated mirror, and dark tile flooring at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Modern shower with white subway tiles, rain showerhead, handheld sprayer, and four amenity bottles on shelf

Bathroom amenities shelf at Delta Hotels Ottawa with glasses, toiletries, tissue box, and rolled towels

Three white pump bottles of Soapbox argan oil products (body wash, conditioner, shampoo) in a hotel bathroom shelf.

Conair hair dryer on granite bathroom counter with complimentary soap at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Executive Lounge

Delta Hotels Ottawa has a club lounge located on the second floor. (Mezzanine floor)

I can confidently say this lounge offers some of THE BEST food and beverage options among hotels I’ve stayed in Canada

This compensates for the lack of a skyline view, which is typically offered by other Delta hotels but isn’t possible from the second floor.

The staff named Taylor in the lounge was super friendly and provided an excellent service.

(I was quite chatty, and I hope I didn’t bother her too much! 🥶)

Executive Lounge - Delta Hotels Ottawa

theclub Marriott Bonvoy lounge signage on warm wood wall at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Delta Hotels Ottawa lounge with olive-green seating, white tables, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown Ottawa buildings

Delta Hotels Ottawa lounge with cream armchairs, white built-in shelving, fireplace, and bar seating area

White built-in shelving with books and decorative ceramic bottles on a bright yellow accent shelf in a modern lounge

Modern airport lounge with orange bar counter, fireplace, wall-mounted TV, and open shelving at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Delta Hotels airport lounge seating area with red armchairs, gray sofa with yellow cushions, and arched windows overlooking tarmac

Work desk with monitor in airport lounge, yellow accent wall with plant and pendant lamp

Delta Hotels Ottawa lounge buffet with warming lights, coffee service, stacked plates, and complimentary amenities bar

The lounge is open from 6am to 10pm and light snacks and drinks are offered throughout the day.

Snacks in the Lounge - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Lounge snack display with fresh fruit, chips, and crackers on marble countertop

Hotel lounge mini fridge stocked with Pepsi, 7UP, Sprite, and Canada Dry beverages on white wire shelves.

Open mini-fridge stocked with fresh milk cartons, V8 juice, and various canned beverages in a hotel lounge

The highlight of my stay was the hors d’oeuvres offered from 5 pm to 8 pm.

Normally, the evening lounge food isn’t enough for a full meal.

But Delta Ottawa not only provided a wide variety of options, they were also very delicious.

I ate so much that I almost got a food coma afterward. 😅

Hors D'oeuvre - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Hors d'oeuvres and charcuterie display on kitchen counter with pastries, fresh vegetables, cheese, and desserts in glasses.

Plated oat-based hors d'oeuvre squares with raspberries, blackberries, and red coulis on a serving tray, alongside fresh fruit display.

Charcuterie board with cheeses, fresh berries, grapes, and cured meats on wood platter, flanked by granola bars and vegetable platters.

Vegetable and dip platter with celery, cherry tomatoes, cauliflower, and white dip sauce on wooden board

Individual salad servings with shredded vegetables, greens, and egg yolk in glass bowls on wooden base at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Crispy fried chicken pieces in a chafing dish at a hotel lounge buffet, with serving plates and utensils nearby.

Golden fried shrimp in a metal serving tray lined with checkered paper at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Bacon and cheese pizza squares on a gray plate

Wood-fired pizza with charred crust, melted cheese, and beef and green pepper toppings on white plate

Breakfast

For Marriott Platinum Elite and above members, complimentary breakfast is served in the Club Lounge.

The breakfast was again exceptional, showcasing Delta Hotels Ottawa’s commitment to top-notch hospitality.

Breakfast - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Breakfast buffet spread with sliced watermelon, strawberries, melon, meats, cucumber, cheese, pastries, and desserts at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Yogurt parfaits with fresh berries and granola on wooden board at Marriott Bonvoy hotel breakfast

Buffet spread at Delta Hotels Ottawa breakfast with strawberry and blackberry mousse cups, fruit compote, cheese, and cornflakes

Sliced watermelon on white plate at Marriott Bonvoy lounge with melon label visible

Sliced melon and papaya on white plates at a hotel breakfast buffet

Mixed berries platter with strawberries, blackberries and blueberries on white plate at buffet breakfast

Peeled hard-boiled eggs in white bowl at buffet, Delta Hotels breakfast

Breakfast buffet with lemon poppy seed muffins and scrambled eggs in metal chafing dishes

Breakfast buffet with sausages and crispy bacon in metal chafing dishes at a hotel breakfast service

Fried chicken nuggets in a stainless steel serving pan at a breakfast buffet

Breakfast pastries including croissants, chocolate croissants, and cinnamon rolls on white plates at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Cinnamon rolls and chocolate pastries on white plates at a hotel breakfast buffet

Four compartments of a hotel breakfast display case showing sliced bread, toast, and baked goods with small informational cards.

Kraft Pure jam jars and packets arranged on a hotel shelf with strawberry branding and cityscape wallpaper background

Nutella and Kraft cheese spreads in single-serve packets on a white shelf in hotel room

Starbucks beverage station with white cups, Tazo tea boxes, and green branded dispensers at Delta Hotels Ottawa breakfast area

Breakfast menu at Delta Hotels showing bakery, spreads, grains, cheese, dairy, fruits, meat, and beverage selections

Alternatively, breakfast is available at Prova Bar and Kitchen, located on the lobby floor.

Prova Bar and Kitchen at Delta Hotels Ottawa, featuring open kitchen counter with bar seating and modern geometric wood panel dividers. — The stylish Prova Bar and Kitchen restaurant at Delta Hotels Ottawa.

Or if you’re in a hurry, there’s a Tim Hortons conveniently in the building.

Tim Hortons Coffee House storefront with red signage on urban street corner — Tim Hortons location adjacent to the Delta Hotels Ottawa.

Amenities

Delta Hotels Ottawa City Centre offers a range of amenities including a gym, pool, sauna, squash court, and a kids’ playroom.

The setup feels more like a sports complex than a typical hotel!

Pool

The pool was quite large, ideal for avid swimmers wanting to do laps.

It also had basketball nets, adding a fun element for guests to enjoy water basketball.

This thoughtful touch makes the pool a great feature for families or groups of friends staying at the hotel.

Pool - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Indoor swimming pool at Delta Hotels Ottawa with skylight ceiling, lane dividers, and yellow and green flotation aids in foreground

Indoor swimming pool at Delta Hotels Ottawa with skylights, city views through floor-to-ceiling windows, yellow kickboards, and modern facility architecture.

Inside the change room, there were lockers, shower facility, and a dry sauna.

Change Room - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Wooden sauna room with tiered benches and tile floor at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Locker room with white individual lockers and wooden bench at Delta Hotels Ottawa

White subway tile shower with multiple showerheads and controls, black dispensers on left wall

Delta Hotels Ottawa change room with black tile walls, dual sinks, dark granite countertop, and wall-mounted soap/sanitizer dispensers.

Gym

The gym is fairly average, with cardio machines, cable machines, and free weights.

While it lacks a squat rack or bench press, it suffices for daily workouts.

Gym - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Modern fitness center with weight machines, dumbbells, and strength training equipment at Delta Hotels Ottawa

Hotel gym with treadmills, stationary bikes, elliptical machines, and dumbbells under fluorescent lighting

Exercise bikes and treadmill in hotel fitness center with wall clock and mirror

Wicker laundry basket, mini beverage cooler, white towels, and soap dispenser in a hotel gym corner.

From the gym, there are stairs that lead down to additional facilities.

Stairwell with Activity Zone bilingual sign at Delta Hotels Ottawa — Access to the Activity Zone recreation area at Delta Hotels Ottawa.

Squash Court

I was pleasantly surprised to find a squash court in the hotel.

You’ll need to book the court through the front desk,

though I’m not sure if they offer squash rackets and balls for rent.

Empty squash court with wooden floor, white walls, and burgundy lines at Delta Hotels Ottawa. — Delta Hotels Ottawa features a squash court for guests.

Kids’ Activity Zone

Opposite the squash court is a kids’ playroom.

Through the window, I could see a foosball table, Jenga, and a chess set.

While I’m unsure if they offer any sessions with an instructor,

this is a great added bonus for families staying at the hotel.

Bounce! Kids Activity Zone with foosball table, toys, and white folding chairs against blue wavy walls — Delta Hotels Ottawa offers a dedicated kids' activity space for young travelers.

Business Centre

Throughout the property, there were many areas where you can catch up some work, or have a quick meeting.

Business Centre - Delta Hotels Ottawa

Modern business centre lounge with bold red walls, white round table, red chairs, and wooden built-in bench seating.

Business centre with red chairs, wooden table, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking city skyline and street below.

Modern business centre with four tan upholstered chairs around a white side table, wooden partition screens, framed artwork, pendant light, and TV on wall.

Final Thoughts

Delta Hotels Ottawa City Centre exterior signage on the hotel facade in downtown Ottawa

Overall, I absolutely loved my stay at Delta Hotels Ottawa City Centre,

and I’d confidently rank this hotel as my top pick for accommodation in Ottawa.

From its prime location to extensive amenities to the exceptional club lounge,

this hotel is an excellent choice for all types of travelers.

If I lived in Ottawa, it would be my go-to staycation spot.

I would definitely stay here again on a future visit.

4.5

out of 5

The verdict

Written by

Jason

Jason is a Toronto-based points-and-miles writer who sleeps in hostels and redeems for suites — honest, frugal, lightly funny.

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