6 free activities to do in
ottawa
with kids
Are you brainstorming ideas to keep the little ones entertained with the weekend coming up? Struggling to find age-appropriate activities or blowing your budget on expensive outings can be very frustrating.
Forget the stress of endless searching! We’ve curated a fantastic list of options – memorable museums and other hidden gems in Ottawa. These activities are designed to spark curiosity, ignite imaginations, and keep everyone entertained for all age groups and interests.
TIP: If you want to save money visiting these places, you need to download Canoo.
Canoo is a mobile app for new Canadian citizens and new permanent residents in Canada. With Canoo, you get unlimited free access for you and up to 4 children to our partner venues, amazing deals from Canada’s most loved brands, and discounted tickets to Canadian entertainment.
- Canadian Museum of Nature
- Canada Aviation and Space Museum
- Canadian Children’s Museum (inside the Canadian Museum of History)
- National Gallery of Canada
- Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Canadian War Museum
1
Canadian Museum of Nature
Free entry with Canoo!
Discover the wonders of the natural world through engaging exhibits. Kids will come face-to-face with dinosaurs, learn about how animals adapt to their surroundings, and explore ecosystems from around the globe.
You can travel here by car and park at the Museum for a small fee. It will take at least 2-3 hours to go through the Canadian Museum of Nature. Allow for that much time when paying the parking meter. You can also get to the Museum by public transportation via the LeBreton Station (LRT).
2
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Free entry with Canoo!
Explore the history of aviation and space exploration through exciting displays. Kids can climb aboard a real airplane, test their skills in a flight simulator, and learn about the brave men and women who explored outer space.
You can plan to eat on site if you would prefer at the Museum’s café. And when planning your visit, you can travel by car or public transportation. But there is not any free parking at the Museum.
3
Canadian Children’s Museum (inside the Canadian Museum of History)
Free entry with Canoo!
Ignite imaginations with interactive exhibits designed for kids of all ages. Kids can climb through a giant heart, explore a grocery store replica, and even create their own masterpieces in the art studio.
Every few months, there is a new attraction. But, don’t worry! The permanent galleries are a huge hit with kids, too. So, your family won’t get bored with repeat visits. In your first year of membership with Canoo, you can visit as often as you want for free.
4
National Gallery of Canada
Free entry with Canoo!
Explore the world of art with family-friendly programs and exhibits. Kids can participate in interactive workshops, scavenger hunts, and storytelling sessions designed to inspire creativity and appreciation for art.
For adults, the cost of entry to the National Gallery of Canada is $20. But, with Canoo it’s free! And you will also get free entry for up to 4 children on your visit.
There is paid parking available nearby. Remember that you can take the train to avoid paying parking fees! Try travelling by public transportation via Parliament Station (O-Train).
5
Canada Science and Technology Museum
Free entry with Canoo!
Experience hands-on science exhibits and learn about innovation through interactive displays. Kids will be amazed by robots, space technology, and the wonders of the human body. Science and Technology Museums are focused on history, development, and application of scientific ideas that made a huge difference in our lives. Having opened in 1967, this Museum has worked hard to be an amazing spot for families, like yours. Bring the kids and introduce them to the world of science!
6
Canadian War Museum
Free entry with Canoo!
Kids can learn about Canada’s role in various wars through interactive exhibits and displays. Seeing real military vehicles and equipment helps them to understand the evolution of technology from the past.
The Museum does have an on-site cafe with light snacks and drinks, so if you do have fussy eaters, perhaps carrying snacks along is a good option. This will be a great place to take a break because it will take you and the kids about 3 hours to go through the Canadian War Museum.
member stories
“The Ontario Science Centre was a whirlwind of discovery for our family. The kids were mesmerized by the rainforest on Level 6 and even spotted a poison dart frog. The interactive displays were fantastic. It was a day well spent. And, thanks to Canoo’s unlimited free entries during the first year of our membership, we can’t wait to explore more of the Science Centre and other places in Toronto!”
“The Royal Ontario Museum was a treasure trove for our family! It’s like a journey through time and nature all at once. My son, a dino fanatic, was speechless seeing real dinosaur skeletons! We explored ancient artifacts, stunning artwork, and even marine creatures – all under one roof. We discovered this gem thanks to Canoo and can’t wait to explore more!”