Ottawa isn’t just the capital of Canada; it’s also one of the top destinations for family vacations in the country. With so many activities for kids, the toughest part of planning your trip will be deciding what to include in your itinerary! Home to an impressive array of national museums, galleries, and educational opportunities, Ottawa is a city that welcomes families with open arms. It’s the perfect getaway if you have active children but don’t want to break the bank on an expensive holiday. In Ottawa, prices are affordable, and there are plenty of free activities to enjoy.
The Rideau Canal
A UNESCO World Heritage site and a National Historic Site of Canada, the 200 km canal system, fed by rivers and lakes, connects Ottawa to Lake Ontario. There’s never a bad time to visit the Rideau Canal, as there are plenty of activities year-round. One of the most popular things to do is skate the Rideau Canal Skateway. This 7.8 km stretch is the world’s largest naturally frozen rink and is free to visit. If you don’t have ice skates, there’s a reasonably priced rental shop.
In summer, it’s a fantastic trail for walking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, or even having a picnic. If you have young ones, there are boat tours that offer beautiful views of the city.
Mer Bleue Bog
One of the lesser-known activities in Ottawa for families, the Mer Bleue Bog boardwalk is a favorite among locals.
This wetland is an important protected site in the city and is perfect for spending time in nature. There are walkable paths and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the marshes.
Canadian Children’s Museum
Situated within the Canadian Museum of History, this museum is one of the best attractions in Ottawa for kids aged 5 to 12, as it’s designed to educate while entertaining.
Upon entering, kids receive a passport to travel the world. They learn about diversity and immigration in Canada while collecting stamps in each country they visit. Each stop offers something fun for kids to learn about and interact with. They might try on a kimono in Japan or visit a European market.
Good to know: on Thursday evenings from 4 to 8 p.m., admission is free.
Parliament Hill
No visit to Ottawa is complete without a trip to Parliament Hill. While it might not seem like a government building would be the go-to spot for a fun family holiday, there are activities for kids of all ages, like the changing of the guard at 10 a.m. It’s a full production with nearly 100 guards marching to bagpipes and drummers. Be sure to get there 20 minutes early for a good spot!
To add a bit of an educational spark, you can take a free, 30-minute guided tour of the Parliament to learn about how the government works.
In the summer evenings, Parliament Hill hosts a sound and light show, projecting images onto the building while sharing the story of Canada. It starts at 9:30 p.m., so it’s best suited for children who can stay up a bit later.
Parc Omega
Nestled in Montebello, Quebec, just a 45-minute drive from downtown Ottawa, Parc Omega is a captivating destination where you can encounter Canadian wildlife like moose, elk, bison, wolves, and bears in their natural habitats. During your self-drive safari through the park, you’ll have the chance to observe wild animals and even feed some friendly ones along the way! Parc Omega also features programs that delve into Canadian history, early pioneer life, and Indigenous culture.
Royal Canadian Mint
The 45-minute tour at the Royal Canadian Mint is perfect for school-aged kids to learn how Canada’s coins are made. Tours must be booked in advance to explore the facility, which is located in a castle-like historic building. At the end of the tour, you can even hold a solid gold bar worth over $750,000!
ByWard Market
Ottawa was once known as “ByTown,” and while that’s now history, the market remains. It’s one of the oldest farmers’ markets in Canada and now includes restaurants, galleries, and souvenir shops. A must-visit spot is the original BeaverTail shop, home to one of Canada’s most famous pastries. Although there are many flavors today, the original with cinnamon sugar is a classic. These sweet pastries are large and perfect for sharing.
Gatineau Park
Although technically in another city, Gatineau Park is one of the most popular things to do in Ottawa with kids. Locals love escaping the city to explore the trails, caves, take a quick swim, or have a picnic. There are trails of varying lengths and difficulties, including the Sugarbush Trail, which is stroller-friendly. You can camp here all year round. In the winter, it’s a hotspot for skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, especially at night.
Saunders Farm
Located just a short drive from Ottawa, Saunders Farm is the perfect spot for a family day out. There are corn mazes, wagon rides, playgrounds, and even special events like Halloween festivals. It’s an ideal place for outdoor fun.
