From picturesque parks to captivating cultural events, Ottawa offers an exceptional array of activities to delight families. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly lodgings or luxurious family accommodations, our guide will ensure you find the perfect place to stay and assist you in planning the ideal family holiday in Canada's vibrant capital city.
With famous parks, lush beaches, and an exciting blend of outdoor and cultural activities, Ottawa is truly a family-friendly destination. Read on to explore the best options that Ottawa has to offer for families of all tastes and budgets.
Things to do
Ottawa is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities, blending parkland serenity with cultural enrichment. Join us as we explore the city's top attractions, catering to the diverse interests of family members of all ages.
Major's Hill Park, located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, is a must-visit destination. Overlooking the picturesque Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River, the park is surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the parliament buildings and the National Gallery of Canada. With its historical significance and array of events such as Canada Day celebrations and Glengarry Highland Games pre-event 'B In The Park', the park will surely delight the whole family.
Mooney's Bay Park and Beach is an outstanding choice for a family day out. Boasting a sandy beach, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities, this public park offers year-round activities such as swimming, biking, and skiing. Lifeguards supervise the beach during summer, ensuring children's safety while they splash in the water, and volleyball nets and paddleboards can be rented for added fun.
For families seeking a peaceful green space within the city, Dundonald Park is an excellent option. Nestled in Centretown, the park offers beautiful landscaping and crushed gravel pathways, as well as a striking red concrete fountain in the center. Its intriguing history, controversial namesake, and past complaints about its design make it a fascinating place to explore with older children.
Ottawa's vibrant cultural scene ensures that there is always something thrilling to see and do, from family-friendly festivals and events to captivating museums and galleries. Immerse yourselves in Ottawa's rich heritage and delight in its natural beauty, creating cherished memories for your entire family to treasure for years to come.
When to visit
The ideal time to visit Ottawa with your family is from March to May, when the weather is pleasant and tourist footfall is more manageable. Summer tends to be the busiest season, with increased tourist traffic and higher prices, but that doesn't mean it's a poor time to visit – just be prepared for busier streets and attractions.
If you're seeking a more affordable trip, consider visiting in the winter, when temperatures dip below freezing but a plethora of activities still awaits. Autumn is another comfortable time to visit, offering various festivals and events for families to enjoy together. Remember, it's always best to plan family holidays during school breaks to avoid disruption to your children's education.
Things you'll love...
- Discover Major's Hill Park, visit significant landmarks and partake in cultural events perfect for the whole family
- Relax at Mooney's Bay Park and Beach, enjoy picnic areas, and take part in thrilling outdoor activities
- Stroll through Dundonald Park, explore the tranquil surroundings, and learn about its historic namesake
- Visit during spring and autumn to take advantage of comfortable weather and family-friendly festivals
- Experience Ottawa's rich cultural scene with year-round activities and events for families to enjoy
Main airport
- Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport