Best Things to Do in Ottawa With Kids (2026)
Planning a family getaway to Ottawa? Canada’s capital city is packed with hands-on museums, outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, and seasonal festivals that kids absolutely love. Even better — travelling by train makes the journey stress-free and exciting for the whole family.
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Ottawa with kids, plus smart ways to save on VIA Rail Deals, this complete guide has you covered.
Why Ottawa Is Perfect for Family Travel
Ottawa is clean, walkable, safe, and filled with interactive attractions. Whether your kids love dinosaurs, science experiments, skating, biking, or creative art spaces, there’s something here for every age.
Families especially love that many attractions are:
- Educational yet fun
- Budget-friendly
- Located close to each other
- Easy to access from downtown
And when you book VIA Rail Tickets, you avoid long drives and airport stress — making your family vacation smoother from the start.
Outdoor Activities Kids Will Love in Ottawa
Rideau Canal – Year-Round Family Fun
The iconic Rideau Canal is one of Ottawa’s most famous attractions.
In Summer:
- Rent bikes along scenic pathways
- Take a family boat cruise
- Enjoy waterside picnics
In Winter:
- Skate on the world’s largest natural skating rink
- Warm up with hot chocolate and BeaverTails
It’s free to visit and perfect for family photos.
Explore Nature at Gatineau Park
Just minutes from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park offers:
- Easy hiking trails
- Wildlife spotting
- Swimming spots in summer
- Snowshoeing in winter
It’s ideal for families who love outdoor adventures without extreme difficulty.
Best Museums in Ottawa for Kids
Ottawa is known for its incredible national museums. Many offer interactive exhibits designed specifically for children.
Canadian Museum of Nature
The Canadian Museum of Nature is a must-visit for families.
Kids can:
- See massive dinosaur skeletons
- Explore live insects and animals
- Participate in interactive science displays
Plan at least 2–3 hours here — it’s that good.
Canada Science and Technology Museum
At the Canada Science and Technology Museum, kids can touch, test, and explore.
Highlights include:
- Hands-on science zones
- Space exhibits
- Historic train displays
- Kid-friendly innovation labs
Perfect for curious young minds.
National Gallery of Canada
The National Gallery of Canada isn’t just for adults.
Families can enjoy:
- Creative art workshops
- Family programs
- The famous giant spider sculpture outside
Even young kids enjoy the interactive art activities.
Family-Friendly Festivals in Ottawa
Ottawa hosts exciting events year-round.
Winterlude
The famous winter festival features:
- Ice sculptures
- Snow playgrounds
- Skating activities
Ottawa International Children’s Festival
Ottawa International Children’s Festival offers:
- Theatre performances
- Music shows
- Creative workshops
Check festival dates before booking your VIA Rail Tickets for the best experience.
Where to Eat With Kids in Ottawa
Family dining is easy in Ottawa.
Try:
- ByWard Market for casual eats
- Pizza and burger spots near downtown
- Famous Canadian treat: BeaverTails
The historic ByWard Market is especially great for walking, snacks, and street entertainment.
2-Day Family Itinerary in Ottawa
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Rideau Canal Walk | Canadian Museum of Nature | Dinner at ByWard Market |
| Day 2 | Science Museum | Gatineau Park | Ice Cream & Downtown Stroll |
Why Travel to Ottawa by Train?
Travelling with kids can be stressful — but not on VIA Rail.
Benefits of booking VIA Rail Deals:
- Spacious seating
- No airport security lines
- Scenic countryside views
- Easy downtown-to-downtown access
Booking early helps you find the best VIA Rail Tickets and family fare discounts.
