Ottawa Senators Overview

Fast facts

League: Eastern Conference Atlantic Division

Head Coach: D. J. Smith

Team Mascot: Spartacat

Year Opened: 1996

Capacity: 19347

City / State: Ottawa / Ontario

Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Battle of Ontario

Rival Team: Toronto Maple Leafs

The Battle of Ontario between the Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs has all the makings of a great rivalry. The two teams have been in the same division since the Senators entered the league in 1992 and have met in the playoffs several times. The Leafs may have won all four playoff series, but the Sens hold an edge the all-time series of this in this tightly contested series. There are always plenty of fans from both sides in the arena for these contests, so be in attendance for Sens-Leafs games if you want to see one of the best matchups of the season.

Senators vs Canadiens

Rival Team: Montreal Canadiens

The Senators and Canadiens rivalry dates back to the original Ottawa Senators franchise that existed from 1917 to 1934. The rivalry was dormant for several decades, however, in 1992 the Sens were reborn and so was the fierce rivalry between these two. The Habs and reincarnated Sens squared off in their first postseason series in 2013, which was won by the underdog Sens four games to one. A couple of years later, the Habs got their revenge beating the Sens four games to two in the first round of the 2015 playoffs. These two always put on a show when they meet, so don’t miss your chance to see a Sens-Habs game.

Senators vs Sabres

Rival Team: Buffalo Sabres

The Senators and Sabres have been in the same division since the Sens entered the League in 1992-93. However, things didn’t really heat up between these two until after the 2004-05 NHL Lockout. The two teams came out strong after the lockout and met in the playoffs several times in the years immediately following with the tempers boiling over during a regular season game on February 22, 2007, when a full team brawl broke out. If you want to see an intense game of hockey, make sure to be attendance when the Sabres are in town.

Ottawa Senators Stadium Guide

In Game

Upon stepping into the Canadian Tire Centre, you’ll be greeted by the history and tradition of hockey in Ottawa. Throughout the arena, you’ll see several tributes to former Senators players and teams. The team even does an excellent job showing off the history of the former Ottawa Senators franchise that played from 1883 to 1934.

The Senators also put on a good in game production, and the sightlines are excellent as well. No matter where you’re sitting, you’ll have a good view of all the action on the ice. The in-game experience also features pretty much everything you would expect from an NHL game including good video production and a lovable furry mascot.

The fans at Canadian Tire Center are also a big part of what makes attending a Senators game an enjoyable experience. The Sens Army located in section 312 live and die with this team and aren’t afraid to show their support no matter what the team’s record. This group of super fans can be seen at games clad in Roman-style attire and make lots of noise with their drums and noise makers. If you’re looking to get into the full Senators game day spirit, then try to snag tickets in this section.

The concessions and restaurants at Canadian Tire Center also aid in you having a good time at a Senators game. The 212 Deli & Pub, Farm Boy Fresh Zone, and Fat Boys all feature delicious and unique cuisine that will fill you up no matter what you’re craving. As for the restaurants, Chek Point’s after party on Friday and Saturday nights goes a long way in making attending a Sens game a fun night out.

An Ottawa Senators game is an excellent way to spend a night thanks to the franchise’s devotion to Ottawa’s hockey history and putting on a good production.

Things to check out

Senators Murals

Throughout the concourses of the Canadian Tire Centre, you’ll see several murals paying tributes to the franchise’s history. There are murals of various Senators greats including Daniel Alfredsson, so check them all out.

Stanley Cup and Retired Number Banners

Check out the banners hanging from the rafters honoring the Stanley Cups won by the former Ottawa Senators franchise and the current Senators retired numbers. These banners do a fantastic job of showcasing Ottawa’s pro hockey history and are a must-see for any hockey fan.

Sens Store

Those of you looking to pick up a souvenir to commemorate your trip to Ottawa will find whatever you’re looking for at the Sens Store. The Sens Store has everything from jerseys to hats to t-shirts and much more, so stop by during your visit.

play Watch video

Bert’s

Located near section 102, Bert’s is a great place to keep up with the action going on around the league. Bert’s features 23 TVs, stone-fired pizza, and burgers, so stop on by and take it all in.

Chek Point

Chek Point, located near section 120, is the perfect place to hang out after a Friday or Saturday night game. It’s home to the New Country 94 After Party meaning you won’t have to go home when the game is over.

Alumni Lounge

Reserve your spot at the Alumni Lounge for your chance to meet former Senators players. The Alumni Lounge offers a casual dining experience and self-serve food making it a great place to eat before the game.

Sens Army Section

The Sens Army Section is the most raucous section in the Canadian Tire Centre. Located in section 312, the Sens Army are encouraged to wear red and black, bang drums, and play noise makers. If you want to cheer on the Sens as hard as possible, then get tickets in the Sens Army Section.

play Watch video

Lyndon Slewidge

Former Ontario Provincial Police Constable Lyndon Slewidge sings the national anthem before every game. Get to your seat in time for the national anthem to hear Slewidge before the game.

play Watch video

Spartacat

Spartacat has been the official mascot of the Ottawa Senators since the franchise’s inception in 1992. At games you’ll see him entertaining the crowd with a variety of antics and promotions, so keep an eye out for him.

play Watch video

Live Music

At Sens games you’ll always hear live music, which sometimes includes traditional Scottish music from the ‘Sons of Scotland Pipe Band.” Highland dancers typically accompany these Scottish musicians, so don’t miss them during your trip to Ottawa.

Scotiabank Skaters

Before every Sens game, youth hockey players carry team flags onto the ice. The skating of the flags brings everyone in the arena to their feet and is an excellent way for young fans to get up close to their heroes, so be in attendance for this fun tradition.

play Watch video

Fight Songs

  1. Ottawa Senators Theme Song

    Played as the team takes the ice.

    *Instrumental*

  2. Song 2

    Senators regular goal song

    I got my head checked
    By a jumbo jet
    It wasn’t easy
    But nothing is
    No[chorus]
    Woo-hoo
    When I feel heavy-metal
    And I’m pins and I’m needles
    Well, I lie and I’m easy
    All the time but I am never sure
    Why I need you
    Pleased to meet you

    I got my head down
    When I was young
    It’s not my problem
    It’s not my problem

    [repeat chorus]

    Yeah yeah
    Yeah yeah
    Yeah yeah
    Oh yeah

Ottawa Senators Bars & Restaurants

  1. Zak’s Diner

    Zaks Diner

    An extensive menu with all-day breakfast, burgers & poutine is at this 24-hour Canadian diner.

    14 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 7A1, Canada

    613-241-2401

    Bar website

    american - $$

  2. Milestones Restaurants

    Milestones Restaurants

    Fresh ingredients and recipes made in-house is how it's done.

    435 Kanata Ave, Kanata, ON K2T 1K5, Canada

    613-595-1968

    Bar website

    american - steakhouse - $$

  3. Graffiti’s Italian Eatery & Saloon

    Graffitis Italian Eatery Saloon

    Modern, easygoing trattoria offering simple Italian dishes such as lasagna & chicken parmigiana.

    101 Kanata Ave, Kanata, ON K2T 1E6, Canada

    613-271-0921

    Bar website

    italian - $$

  4. Montana’s BBQ & Bar

    Montanas BBQ Bar

    Family-friendly BBQ restaurant that serves the most tender and juiciest meat ever.

    140 Earl Grey Dr, Kanata, ON K2T 1B6, Canada

    613-270-0518

    Bar website

    bbq - $$

  5. Fratelli

    Fratelli

    Their vision's to create a neighborhood restaurant with good Italian food, good wine, and friendly service in an unpretentious atmosphere.

    499 Terry Fox Dr, Kanata, ON K2T 1H7, Canada

    613-592-0225

    Bar website

    italian - $$$

  6. Via Cibo

    Via Cibo

    Inspired by real food the way our nonna always made it --- with love and welcoming to all.

    120 Earl Grey Dr #100a, Kanata, ON K2T, Canada

    613-599-9979

    Bar website

    italian - $$

  7. Boston Pizza

    Boston Pizza Pizza

    With over 100 menu items, we have something for everyone.

    1640 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON K2A 1C5, Canada

    613-722-2222

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $$

  8. Aperitivo

    Aperitivo

    Globally inspired small plates & craft cocktails are the draw at this intimate, stylish gastropub.

    655 Kanata Ave, Kanata, ON K2T 1H6, Canada

    613-592-0004

    Bar website

    european - $$

  9. Kelsey’s Original Roadhouse

    Kelseys Original Roadhouse

    Large portions of American fare & specialty cocktails in a casual setting with comfy booths & TVs.

    130 Earl Grey Dr, Kanata, ON K2T 1G7, Canada

    416-940-5633

    Bar website

    american - $$

  10. Moxie’s Grill & Bar

    Moxies Grill and Bar

    Moxie’s celebrates fresh ingredients in each dish and drink they bring to your table.

    601 Earl Grey Dr, Kanata, ON K2T 1K4, Canada

    613-599-5000

    Bar website

    american - $$

  11. The 3 Brewers

    The three Brewers

    English-pub setting for casual eating, trivia/karaoke nights, happy hours & regular DJ sets.

    240 Sparks St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0X8, Canada

    613-380-8140

    Bar website

    european - $$

  12. Jack Astor’s Bar & Grill

    Jack Astors Bar and Grill

    A bar that specializes in delicious food and great times.

    125 Roland Michener Dr, Kanata, ON K2T 1K4, Canada

    613-271-1041

    Bar website

    american - $$

  13. Crazy Horse

    Crazy Horse

    Lively hangout with a Western vibe serving steaks & hearty bar fare, with live music some nights.

    115 Roland Michener Dr, Kanata, ON K2T 1G7, Canada

    613-591-8884

    Bar website

    american - $$

  14. D’arcy McGee’s Irish Pub

    Darcy McGees Irish Pub

    Chain of festive Irish pubs featuring traditional comfort food, local & imported brews & live music.

    44 Sparks St, Ottawa, ON K1P, Canada

    613-230-4433

    Bar website

    american - $$

  15. Minnesota’s

    Minnesotas

    Minnesota's Billiards Pub Pool and Darts for All

    442 Hazeldean Rd, Kanata, ON K2L 1V2, Canada

    613-831-0031

    Bar website

    american - $

  16. Mucho Burrito

    Mucho Burrito Burrito

    You'll fall in love as soon as you take the first bite.

    160 Earl Grey Dr, Kanata, ON K2T 1B6, Canada

    613-595-0007

    Bar website

    mexican - $

  17. Bâton Rouge Steakhouse & Bar

    Baton Rouge Sandwich

    Juicy ribs and steaks paired with the perfect beer is served in this beautiful spot.

    360 Albert St, Ottawa, ON K1R, Canada

    613-216-1110

    Bar website

    bbq - steakhouse - $$$

  18. Pizza Pizza

    Pizza Pizza Pizza

    Big pizza with amazing combos for those craving for something more than just pizza!

    1338 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K2B 8L4, Canada

    613-737-1111

    Bar website

    pizza - $