Ottawa With Kids

Planning a Canada family holiday? Look no further than Ottawa! This vibrant city offers a delightful blend of history, museums, outdoor fun, and cultural experiences – perfect for keeping kids entertained. This comprehensive guide to Ottawa with kids explores must-do activities, kid-friendly attractions, family-perfect hotels, and the best times to visit for an unforgettable Ottawa adventure with your little ones.

Why Visit Ottawa With Kids?

• History Comes Alive: Immerse your kids in Canada’s rich history through interactive museums, captivating Parliament Hill tours, and exciting changing-of-the-guard ceremonies.
• Nature’s Playground: Ottawa boasts expansive green spaces, sparkling waterways perfect for boat rides, and scenic bike paths – ideal for adventurous families.
• Festival Fun: Throughout the year, Ottawa explodes with vibrant festivals celebrating everything from tulips to science.
• Museum Magic: Explore a world of wonder at Ottawa’s renowned museums, housing everything from dinosaurs to aviation exhibits, sparking curious minds.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Ottawa welcomes families with open arms. Most attractions offer kid-friendly amenities, spacious parks, and accessible transportation options.

Things to Do in Ottawa With Kids

• Explore Parliament Hill: Witness the seat of Canadian government and witness the iconic Changing of the Guard Ceremony (free!).
• Ride the Canadian History Express: Embark on a thrilling train journey through the scenic Rideau Canal, offering a unique perspective of Ottawa.
• Unleash Your Inner Scientist at the Canada Science and Technology Museum: Discover interactive exhibits like the iconic giant heart, space exploration displays, and fascinating demonstrations.
• Sail the Rideau Canal: Rent a paddleboat or join a canal cruise and explore Ottawa’s scenic waterway, offering breathtaking views of the city.
• Spend a Day at the Canadian War Museum: Learn about Canada’s role in various conflicts through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and captivating stories.

Best Places to Visit in Ottawa With Kids

• Canadian Museum of Nature: Encounter captivating dinosaur skeletons, explore various ecosystems, and participate in interactive exhibits perfect for budding paleontologists.
• Canadian Aviation and Space Museum: Take a flight into the world of aviation with impressive aircraft hangars, space exploration exhibits, and exciting flight simulators.
• Dow’s Lake Pavilion: This iconic landmark offers a variety of activities, from pedal boating on Dow’s Lake to exploring the surrounding park with playgrounds and a children’s farm.
• Dominion Arboretum and Arboretum Children’s Garden: Immerse yourselves in a botanical wonderland with themed gardens, unique plant life, and a dedicated Children’s Garden featuring interactive play structures.
• National Gallery of Canada: Introduce your children to the world of art through engaging family programs, scavenger hunts, and captivating art installations.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Ottawa With Kids

Choosing the perfect neighborhood can significantly enhance your Ottawa family vacation. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most family-friendly areas:

• Downtown Core:
  • Bustling with activity, steps away from Parliament Hill, major museums, and attractions.
  • Ideal for families who enjoy being in the heart of the action, with plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance.
  • Things to Consider: Can be noisy and crowded, especially during peak season. Hotels tend to be on the higher-priced side.
• ByWard Market:
  • A historic district brimming with charming shops, family-friendly restaurants, and a vibrant weekend market scene.
  • Offers a walkable and lively atmosphere with easy access to the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill.
  • Things to Consider: Limited green space for playtime. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends.
• Little Italy:
  • Immerse yourselves in Italian culture with authentic cafes, family-owned restaurants, and green spaces like Lansdowne Park with its sports facilities and children’s playgrounds.
  • Offers a more relaxed vibe compared to the ByWard Market but still boasts a good selection of shops and restaurants.
  • Things to Consider: Limited selection of hotels compared to other areas. Further from some major attractions.
• Glebe:
  • A trendy neighborhood with a relaxed vibe, independent shops, and close proximity to Dow’s Lake and the Canadian Museum of Nature.
  • Offers a mix of family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and parks, perfect for a local experience.
  • Things to Consider: Limited hotel options compared to downtown areas. May require more reliance on public transportation.
• Sandy Hill:
  • Known for its proximity to the University of Ottawa, this residential area offers spacious green spaces, affordable hotels, and a quiet atmosphere.
  • Ideal for families on a budget seeking a quieter experience with easy access to green spaces and playgrounds.
  • Things to Consider: Further from major attractions and requires more reliance on public transportation. Limited selection of restaurants and shops within walking distance.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Ottawa

Finding a hotel that caters to families is key to a smooth vacation. Here are some top picks for family-friendly stays:

• Fairmont Chateau Laurier: This iconic hotel boasts luxurious rooms with stunning views, an indoor pool, and children’s programs, offering a touch of elegance for your family getaway.
• Westin Ottawa: This hotel caters to families with spacious rooms, an indoor pool complex with a waterslide, and a convenient location near Parliament Hill.
• Le Germain Hotel Ottawa: This chic and modern hotel features family suites, a rooftop pool with stunning city views, and offers amenities like cribs and babysitting services upon request.
• The ARC The Hotel: Located in the heart of ByWard Market, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool terrace with a splash pad, and a family-friendly atmosphere with in-room amenities like board games.
• Alt Hotel Ottawa: This trendy hotel features unique loft-style rooms, a rooftop bar with incredible city views, and a relaxed atmosphere for families. They offer amenities like cribs and high chairs upon request.

Best Time to Visit Ottawa With Kids

Ottawa offers a variety of experiences throughout the year, but some seasons cater better to families:

• Spring (May-June): Enjoy mild weather, witness the vibrant Canadian Tulip Festival, and partake in outdoor activities along the Rideau Canal, which often transforms into a skating rink in winter.
• Summer (July-August): Experience warm weather, perfect for exploring Ottawa’s many parks and green spaces. Enjoy festivals, outdoor concerts, and boat tours on the Rideau Canal.
• Fall (September-October): Witness the changing colors of the leaves, participate in fall festivals like Pumpkinfest, and enjoy comfortable temperatures for exploring the city.

How Long to Stay in Ottawa With Kids

The ideal length of your Ottawa family vacation depends on your interests and pace of travel. Here’s a general guideline:

• Short Getaway (2-3 days): Focus on exploring the downtown core, visiting Parliament Hill, and experiencing a few key museums.
• Extended Stay (4-7 days): In addition to the downtown core, venture out to explore neighborhoods like ByWard Market or Little Italy. Take day trips to nearby attractions like Saunders Farm or Calypso Waterpark.
• In-Depth Exploration (1 week or more): Immerse yourselves in Ottawa’s museums, explore all the neighborhoods, and participate in a wider variety of festivals and events. Consider day trips to Gatineau Park in Quebec for outdoor adventures.

Sample Ottawa Family Itinerary (4 Days)

This itinerary provides a framework for a fun-filled 4-day family adventure in Ottawa, with a mix of iconic landmarks, interactive museums, and outdoor activities. Remember to adjust the itinerary based on your children’s ages and interests.

Day 1: Parliamentary Prowess and Museum Marvels

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to Parliament Hill. Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard Ceremony (free!), and take a guided tour to learn about Canada’s government (tours are offered daily and cater to families).
• Afternoon: Head to the Canadian Museum of Nature. Explore dinosaur skeletons, delve into various ecosystems, and participate in interactive exhibits that will spark your children’s curiosity.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise on the Rideau Canal, offering stunning views of the city and historical landmarks.

Day 2: Festival Fun and ByWard Market Bustle

• Morning: Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of a seasonal festival. Ottawa explodes with festivals throughout the year, from Winterlude’s ice sculptures to the Canadian Tulip Festival’s blooming displays. Check the event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
• Afternoon: Explore the bustling ByWard Market. Sample delicious treats from bakeries and cafes, discover unique souvenirs in local shops, and soak up the lively market atmosphere. Let your children loose in the ByWard Market Park, featuring a splash pad and playground equipment.
• Evening: Catch a captivating show at the National Arts Centre. Choose from a variety of family-friendly options, from musicals to interactive children’s theatre productions.

Day 3: Science Exploration and Outdoor Adventures

• Morning: Embark on a thrilling journey through science at the Canada Science and Technology Museum. Engage with interactive exhibits, witness the iconic giant heart, and learn about space exploration through captivating displays.
• Afternoon: Head outdoors and rent paddleboats or join a canal cruise on the Rideau Canal. Enjoy scenic views of the city and Parliament Hill from a different perspective. For a more adventurous option, consider a family bike ride along the scenic paths that border the canal.
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a restaurant in the Glebe neighborhood. This trendy area offers a variety of family-friendly restaurants with outdoor patios (weather permitting) and a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 4: Family Fun and Cultural Delights

• Morning: Spend the morning at the Canadian Children’s Museum, a wonderland designed specifically for young minds. Interactive exhibits, play areas, and engaging programs will spark your children’s creativity and imagination.
• Afternoon: Explore the Royal Canadian Mint and witness the fascinating process of coin-making. Take a tour and even press your own souvenir penny – a unique and memorable experience for the whole family.
• Evening: Wrap up your Ottawa adventure with a farewell dinner at a restaurant in Little Italy. Savor delicious Italian cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere and reminisce about the highlights of your trip.

Getting Around Ottawa With Kids

Ottawa offers a variety of convenient and family-friendly transportation options:

• Public Transit (OC Transpo): Ottawa’s public transit system consists of buses, light rail (LRT), and ParaTranspo (accessible transportation). It’s a cost-effective way to navigate the city, with many routes servicing major attractions. Many buses and LRT vehicles offer designated stroller parking spaces.
  • Things to Consider: While generally reliable, wait times between buses and trains can vary. Public transit may not be the most efficient option for reaching all destinations, especially in outlying areas.
• Cycling: Ottawa boasts a network of designated bike paths, making it a great way to explore the city with older children. Bike rentals are readily available, and many attractions offer bike parking facilities.
  • Things to Consider: Cycling with young children can be challenging, especially on busy streets. Be sure to choose routes suitable for your child’s cycling skills and comfort level.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to get around, particularly for families with young children or a lot of luggage.
  • Things to Consider: These options can be more expensive compared to public transit. Surge pricing during peak hours may apply for ride-sharing services.
• Walking: Many areas in Ottawa, particularly downtown and ByWard Market, are pedestrian-friendly and easily explored on foot. Walking allows you to discover hidden gems and enjoy the city at your own pace.
  • Things to Consider: Walking can be tiring for young children, so factor in breaks and plan your walking routes accordingly. Be aware of weather conditions, especially during hot summer days or cold winter months.

Ottawa offers a captivating blend of history, culture, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for your next family vacation. This comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge to plan an unforgettable Ottawa adventure with your little ones. From exploring Parliament Hill to delving into interactive museums and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of ByWard Market, Ottawa promises an enriching and memorable experience for the whole family.