Top 10 Family Fun and Photo Ops in Ottawa

DID YOU KNOW? Ottawa is the seventh coldest capital in the world. Others that are colder include in order of coldest first are Ulaan-Baatar in Mongolia, Astana in Kazakhastan, Moscow, Russia, Helsinki in Finland, Reykjavik, Iceland and Tallin in Estonia.

Ottawa is one of the most well known city in Canada but with so much to do, it can be hard to decide. So we decided to break down some of the best spots for families which also have amazing photo potential. Visit one of these spots to have fun and snap a few pics for your children’s grandparents, and relatives who are dying to see the next cute photo of their grandchildren.

1.  Rideau Canal

Being Canada’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site is only one reason why you should check out this historic site. It is also holds the Guiness World Record for largest naturally frozen skating rink and received the title of North America’s Best Skating Rink in 2017. It also functions in the summer too as it is home to one of the oldest lock systems in the world, which still functions by hand crank.

2. National Gallery of Canada

This gallery aims to bring Canadian art to life in all of its exhibits. With several interactive child and family based programs, learning about and creating art has never been so easy.

3.  The Byward Market

This area is not only a world famous farmer’s market but also a quaint neighbourhood in the heart of Ottawa. Their public market features over 260 stands with 600 unique businesses selling everything from fresh vegetables to clothing. The neighbourhood is also home to the classic Ottawa sign so be sure to get a shot of that!

4. Rockcliffe Park and the Rockeries

Connected to several trails, parkways, and a secret pond, the Rockeries remains one of Ottawa’s few hidden gems. With relics in the park, a pavilion that is a famous wedding venue, and several fantastic lookout spaces, Rockcliffe is the perfect place for a picturesque hike.

5. ByTown Museum

Located right beside the Rideau Canal, this historic museum aims to tell the story of Ottawa through using residents’ stories, artefacts, and photographs. The museum itself is the oldest stone building in Ottawa.

6. Saunders Farm

What began as a humble family farm is now home to some of the world’s largest hedge mazes and Ottawa’s most popular haunted house. The farm offers hay bale rides, pumpkin picking, and several incredible play structures to keep your young ones entertained all day long.

7. Canadian Museum of History

Featuring one of the most interactive and fun children’s museums in Canada, this is the museum to go to. The museum is filled with incredible architecture such as the totem poles in the Grand Hall and it is also filled with real stories from some of the greatest Canadians who have ever lived.

8. Gatineau Park

This park is home to a very diverse landscape as it stretches over the Canadian Shield and the St. Lawrence Lowlands. With 2.7 million visitors anually, Gatineau Park is easily one of the most popular parks in Canada. It features beautiful views such as King Mountain, Lusk Cave, and former Prime Minister Mackenzie King’s Estate and ruins.

9. Canadian Argiculture and Food Museum

Operating as a demonstration farm in the middle of Ottawa, this museum allows a behind the scenes look at the science and upkeep behind argiculture. WIth several barns and exhibits on display, the argiculture museum is great for those curious about the farming industry.

10. Stony Swamp

As an Area of Natural and Scientific Interest, the Stony Swamp works to conserve its environment while alsom allowing the public to enjoy the beauty of the wetlands around them. The Swamp is home to various plant and animal species and even has a wild bird care centre where they look after injured birds. The Stony Swamp is a great place to check the wetland ecosystem and get the chance to feed some birds up close.