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Ottawa Family-friendly activities

Our most recommended Ottawa Family-friendly activities

Ottawa: Bilingual Guided City Tour by Amphibious Bus

1. Ottawa: Bilingual Guided City Tour by Amphibious Bus

Climb aboard a unique vehicle that can travel on land and water and discover the historical attractions of Ottawa and the Ottawa River from different perspectives. Spend 40 minutes on land and 20 minutes on the water. Admire landmark monuments and attractions such as Lake Dow, Landsdowne Park, and Byward Market. Get a magnificent view of the city as you cruise along the river aboard the amphibious vehicle. See all the important sights of Ottawa and the city of Gatineau, located just across the water. Avail of an activity that is both fun and educational for the entire family, and ideal for those who are short of time but want to see it all.

Gatineau: Canadian Museum of History Admission

2. Gatineau: Canadian Museum of History Admission

The Canadian Museum of History is Canada’s national museum of human history. Located in Gatineau, Quebec, along the scenic riverfront across from Parliament Hill, the Museum is housed in an iconic building designed by Indigenous architect Douglas Cardinal. The Museum is one of Canada’s most popular cultural institutions, with a collection of more than 4 million items — including archaeological material, cultural objects, works of art, documents, and audiovisual material. In collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, the Museum shares the stories of the resilience and diversity of Indigenous cultures and histories across Canada. The Museum has the world’s largest indoor display of monumental poles, six traditional Native house fronts arranged in the shape of a 19th-century Northwest Coast village, contemporary works of Indigenous art, and a gallery dedicated to the achievements and traditions of Indigenous Peoples. The Museum is also home to the popular Canadian History Hall — a stunning showcase that provides access to 15,000 years of social history through personal stories and 1,500 authentic artifacts, many of which are national treasures. The Museum’s exhibitions examine the events, personalities and cultures that have shaped Canada. Sharing stories through multiple perspectives and voices, the Museum celebrates Canadian achievements while also exploring some of the country’s darker chapters. The Museum is also a destination of choice for major international exhibitions, which are often produced in partnership with the world’s most renowned institutions. In addition, you can explore the world through play with your children at the Canadian Children’s Museum and watch an inspiring, larger-than-life documentary films at Ciné+.

Ottawa: Canadian Museum of Nature Admission

3. Ottawa: Canadian Museum of Nature Admission

Discover Canada’s diverse nature under one roof when you visit the Canadian Museum of Nature. Located a 20-minute walk from Parliament Hill and easily accessible by public transportation or car, the museum offers world-class galleries housed in a striking historic “castle” that once served as Canada’s Parliament. Explore 4 floors full of galleries showcasing the geology, ecology, and paleontology of Canada as live exhibits. Your admission includes access to all permanent galleries as well as the special exhibition, “Rendez-vous hiboux”. Encounter giant dinosaurs, iconic Canadian mammals, a complete blue whale skeleton, dazzling gems and minerals, Canadian birds, live insects, Pacific tide pool creatures, and more. Discover the mysteries of water and Earth, as well as the creatures that inhabit our planet now and in the past. Touch real ice and immerse yourself in Canada’s Arctic in the spectacular "Canada Goose Arctic Gallery", an Ontario Signature Experience. Explore Canada's mysterious, vulnerable and unique Arctic through immersive hands-on and interactive displays.

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What people are saying about Ottawa

Very emotional experience in learning the dark history of Canada's indigenous population being persecuted and oppressed, which still is ongoing today. But the overall, museum experience was fantastic in every way and suitable for all ages, also very good value for money.

The museum and staff was amazing Allow yourself a full day to really experience this fabulous journey thru history Thank you all for all your expertise in making this possible

Fun experience. It gives you an opportunity to see most interesting places that you can visit later and spend more time. Informative, fun and friendly guide.

The guide is kind, fun and loves his audience. The route is made up of key parts of the city. We greatly appreciated!

The explanations were clear, the remarks were interesting and humorous. thank you!