Canada is celebrating 150 years in 2017!
Our beautiful Canadian capital being only hours away, we decided to visit and experience the 10 best things to do in Ottawa for all of our family!
Click here to download this stunning Ottawa itinerary!
1. Calypso Waterpark
If you want fun with the little ones, the tweens, the teens and the grownups all together, then the Calypso Waterpark is the best place to spend the day.
There are so many different slides, games, and pools for all ages, you should plan your day ahead and arrive early.
Even little Emma-Kate at 4-years old, and only 39-inches tall could try lots of different fun slides, enough for a whole afternoon of fun!
2. Capital Cruises
The see Canada’s Capital from the Ottawa River with Capital Cruises is an amazing experience all family will love!
You’ll have the chance to see breathtaking views of the Parliament Buildings, the Canadian Museum of History, the Rideau Falls, and even the Prime Minister’s residence, among others.
And maybe you will even have the chance to let your kid navigate the vessel, the Empress of Ottawa!
3. Parliament Hill
Located in Downtown Ottawa and next to the Ottawa River, is the very impressive political and cultural heart of the city: the Parliament.
You can visit the different Official Buildings for free, but opening hours vary throughout the days and weeks, so check in advance the Parliament visit schedule.
4. Kontinuum
Another free activity to do in Ottawa with the whole family is the immersive multimedia production that is Kontinuum.
This is a very fun thing to do in Ottawa with the kids: you descend deep underground into the future Lyon Light Rail Transit station and see with your own eyes the invisible frequencies!
5. MosaiCanada 150
Located right across the Ottawa River, in Gatineau, is the MosaiCanada 150, a magnificent horticultural celebration of Canada’s 150 years of history.
Schedule your visit fast, before winter comes!
6. The Marshes Golf Course
The best way to enjoy a sunny morning: playing at The Marshes Golf Course!
You all know that my husband is a golf addict, and he couldn’t resist booking an early tee time at one of the nation’s finest golf clubs. This championship style golf course has a stunning design, its cobalt lakes are gorgeous and challenging, and the Gatineau Hills in the background make it the best scenic experience you’ll ever have on a golf course.
7. Rideau Center
So while daddy is playing golf, why not shop a little bit at the Rideau Center? There is a lot of nice stores and boutiques to discover, and of course, you cannot miss the Disney Store if you are spending the day there with your young little ones.
8. ByWard Market
The place to be to eat local and specialty food made with love! The buildings are gorgeous, the people are friendly and the boutiques are trendy and hip.
You’ll want to spend hours strolling through the streets!
9. Major’s Hill Park and the Tavern On the Hill
After walking for hours discovering the ByWard Market, head to the Major’s Hill Park, and stop at the Tavern on the Hill for a delicious snack and a cold brew.
Couches, shade, and music available to all!
10. Canadian Museum of History and Children’s Museum
The last but not the least, we spent hours at the Canadian Museum of History and the Children’s Museum (they are both in the same building). All family members will enjoy changing exhibits.
The Children’s Museum is perfect for young kids: it offers them a lot of different learning activities.
Please take note that the Canadian Museum of History and the Children’s Museum offer free entrance every Thursday from 5 to 8 PM, every Canada Day (July 1) and Remembrance Day (November 11).
Have you ever visited Ottawa? What was your favorite attraction or sight?
Click here to download this stunning Ottawa itinerary!
