Free Ottawa Activities - A Guide to have a good time on a budget
Can you believe it? Summer is here!! Which means parents need entertaining activities for their kids without breaking the bank! Family activities can add up fast, so I wanted to share some totally FREE ideas for you and the family to enjoy this summer! Afterall, summer is the perfect opportunity to explore our beautiful city with your family! As a mom with two young kids, I'm always on the lookout for fun and affordable activities that will keep everyone entertained. Luckily, Ottawa offers plenty of free attractions that are perfect for families. From immersive experiences to outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab the kids, and let's dive into some of the best free activities Ottawa has to offer this summer!
1 - Ottawa Art Gallery
Located at 10 Daly Ave, the Ottawa Art Gallery is a treasure trove of art and culture, showcasing pieces from Ottawa-Gatineau artists. It’s free to wander through the various floors, each offering different attractions and exhibits. My kids and I loved the vibrant, interactive displays, and I even managed to steal a few moments to appreciate the stunning artwork myself. Whether you're planning a date, a fun outing with friends, or a family adventure, the Ottawa Art Gallery is a must-visit. Open Tuesday through Sunday, it’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in creativity
2 - Parliament: The Immersive Experience
Right in the heart of @sparks_street, this 360-degree multimedia show is an absolute hit with both adults and kids. The Parliament: The Immersive Experience takes you on a journey through Canada’s iconic Parliament building, available in both French and English. My little ones were fascinated by the dynamic visuals and the engaging narrative, making history come alive in an unforgettable way. Best of all, it’s FREE! Just remember to book your tickets at visit.parl.ca to secure your spot.
3 - Ottawa’s Many Beaches
On hot summer days, there's nothing better than cooling off at one of Ottawa’s beautiful beaches. Our family's favorites include Mooney’s Bay, Britannia Beach, Petrie Island, Westboro Beach, and Burnstown Beach. These sandy shores offer a fantastic, free way to enjoy the warm weather and have some fun. Mooney’s Bay Beach, set on the Rideau River, is a popular spot with a large playground, picnic areas, and even a beach volleyball court. Britannia Beach, located along the Ottawa River, is perfect for a day of swimming and picnicking, with plenty of space for kids to play. Petrie Island offers a lovely natural setting with shallow waters ideal for young children, as well as nature trails to explore. Westboro Beach boasts stunning views of the river and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Lastly, Burnstown Beach, a bit of a drive from the city, provides a quiet, scenic retreat with clean waters and a relaxed vibe. With clean water, lifeguards on duty during peak times, and plenty of amenities like washrooms and snack bars, these beaches provide a safe and enjoyable environment for families to spend their summer days. So, pack your sunscreen, towels, and snacks, and head to one of these fantastic Ottawa beaches for a refreshing and free family outing!
4 - Bank of Canada Museum
If you think learning about money is boring, think again! The Bank of Canada Museum at 30 Bank Street offers a play-based exhibit where kids can explore interactive stations and discover the fascinating world of currency. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, this museum even offers Sensory Sundays with adjusted lighting and volume for sensory-sensitive visitors. My kids had a blast learning through play, and I appreciated the thoughtful design catering to all visitors.
5 - Ottawa Splash Pads
On hot summer days, there's nothing better than cooling off at one of Ottawa’s amazing splash pads. The Millennium Park Splash Pad, located at 100 Millennium Blvd in Orléans, is a pirate-themed adventure paradise for kids. With pirate flags, spraying serpents, tipping buckets, and a shaded area for parents, it's a guaranteed hit. The recent expansion, which includes more parking, sports fields, and a new splash pad, makes it a fantastic family destination. However, keep in mind that the splash pad sites are not supervised.
Another fantastic splash pad to visit is at Centrepointe Park. Featuring a spraying loop, tipping bucket, whale tail, and a bird that showers you, it's a thrilling water playground. The park also offers shady spots for families to relax and a wonderful play structure. With convenient amenities like a small building with washrooms and free parking, it’s a great place to spend the day.
Lastly, Brewer Park Splash Pad, situated on the northern edge of the Rideau River, offers a plethora of recreational activities. The splash pad features giant tipping buckets, water jets, fountains, and other fun water gizmos. With multiple soccer fields, baseball diamonds, biking paths, and play structures, there's something for everyone. The highlight is the two amazing levels connected by a blue water slide, providing a unique and exciting day out.
6 - Hike Ottawa’s Trails
For families who love the great outdoors, Ottawa’s trails are a paradise waiting to be explored. Gatineau Park boasts over 165 kilometres of trails, but if you’re looking for something closer to the city, try the Ottawa River Pathway, Pine Grove Trail, Mer Bleue Bog, McCarthy Woods, Hogs Back Park, Jack Pine Trail, or Stony Swamp. My family and I had an adventurous day exploring the lush landscapes, spotting wildlife, and enjoying the fresh air. Pack a picnic, grab your hiking boots, and hit the trails for a fantastic free day out!
7 - Free Museum Nights
Mark your calendars for Thursday nights! From 5 to 8 pm, admission to the National Gallery of Canada, Canadian Museum of History, Canadian Museum of Nature, and the Canadian War Museum is absolutely FREE. We made a mini-marathon out of it, hopping from one museum to the next. The kids loved the interactive exhibits at the Museum of Nature, and I was awestruck by the masterpieces at the National Gallery. It’s a perfect evening activity that combines education and fun without breaking the bank.
8 - Explore Parliament Hill
One of Canada’s most iconic sites, Parliament Hill is a fantastic spot for a family outing. Wander around the historic grounds, take in the breathtaking architecture, and don’t miss the Centennial Flame, lit in 1967 to celebrate Canada’s 100th anniversary of confederation. My kids enjoyed running around the spacious lawns and discovering the various statues and monuments. It's an ideal place for an afternoon picnic or a leisurely stroll, offering both historical insights and beautiful scenery.
9 - NCC River House
The NCC River House is a century-old heritage house located minutes away from the downtown core in Ottawa. It offers breathtaking views of the Ottawa River and has a large public dock accompanied with a lifeguard on duty. You can swim in the designated swimming area on a first-come, first-serve basis. I recommend arriving early as it does fill up on those hot summer days. You also can rent single or tandem kayaks, paddle boards, and bikes! The NCC River house offers new large fully accessible changing facilities with showers, changing tables, and lockers! Just remember to bring your own lock. They also have a delicious bistro with a variety of options from grab-and-go snacks to hot meals from a full kitchen. Enjoy ice cream and delicious pizza overlooking this outstanding dock.
Ottawa is a fantastic city with so much to offer families, especially when it comes to free activities. From exploring the vibrant art scene at the Ottawa Art Gallery to hiking through scenic trails, there's no shortage of fun and educational experiences to enjoy with your kids. So, whether you're a local or just visiting, make sure to take advantage of these wonderful free attractions. Which of these amazing free activities will you and your family be exploring this summer? Share your adventures and tips in the comments below!
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