1. Upper Canada Village - fun for all ages. I went many times growing up, and have been twice with the boys. Plan to spend 3-5 hours at the village to see everything and immerse yourself in what life was like in the 19th century. Pack a picnic and enjoy their picnic area, or purchase food from the cafeteria, cafe or restaurant.
2. Parc Omega - we haven't had the chance to visit, but everyone raves about it. (You can read what Becky from A Little Bit Of Momsense thought and if you want to read in french, you can check out Entre 2 Escales for their thoughts) Stock up on carrots (costco is a good place to go) and feed some of the animals as you drive along.
3. Saunders Farm - outdoor family fun! Splash pad, jumping pillows, mazes, tractor ride and play structure. Pack a picnic (or purchase food onsite - cash only) and spend the day. Remember to reapply sunscreen or you may come home with a burn. We always have a blast when we visit.
4. Mill of Kintail - I haven't been here since I was in elementary school, it's a popular place for field trips. Hike the trails or visit the museum and see works of art from Canadian artists. Just a short drive West from Ottawa.
5. Go hiking - Gatineau park is a great place to put on your hiking shoes and get out in nature. A short drive from Ottawa. In addition to hiking, you can bike, camp or check out the Mackenzie King Estate.
Thanks for these great ideas for a visit to Ottawa Ashley. We have yet to take my children, but I would love to and these places offer a nice variety of things to do and see. I will keep this list handy for sure!
ReplyDeleteI am sure they would love it if they had the chance!
DeleteWe were in Ottawa in winter and we absolutely loved it. I want to go back one summer or fall, so I will keep these places in mind. I love that they are all options for a day trip and not too far for tourists who may have a rented vehicle for a day.
ReplyDeleteWinter is so much fun with winterlude (if I remember correctly, you were at city hall?) and all the outdoor festivities it brings!
DeleteI wish we'd had the time to explore Ottawa when we lived in Montreal! I drove there once for a conference, but that's it!
ReplyDeleteOh, so close by! I haven't been to Montreal (other than driving through heading to Halifax). I know there is plenty to see/do, just hasn't happened
DeleteAbsolutely loved exploring Ottawa last year when I was able to visit for a few days. Hoping to travel there again this summer, and am eager to hike in Gatineau Park! Thanks for the inspiration! :)
ReplyDeleteI hope you enjoy it, the fall is lovely with all the changing leaves
DeleteGatineau Park is close to us, so I think a hike is in order for our family. They need to get our adn see nature up close.
ReplyDeleteI have it listed, but still haven't brought my kids over there yet
DeleteThese are great. We actually plan on coming with the boys to Ottawa this summer, so I am bookmarking this post as we speak!
ReplyDeleteHave fun! I hope you enjoy the visit
DeleteI've never heard of Mill of Kintail! I will definitely look into taking the boys there over the summer. Thanks for mentioning it.
ReplyDeleteThese places look like a lot of fun. I have never been to Ottawa but I have always wanted to go.
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