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Ottawa
Capital of Canada, Ottawa is famous for its cultural dynamism symbolised by its numerous national museums and for the quality of life that the city offers its inhabitants and visitors. With its charming atmosphere that captures the intimacy of a small city, Ottawa is at heart a natural region of exceptional beauty. Skiing, walking, fishing, boat trips, bicycle rides, ice skating…numerous activities await you on the rivers and the hundreds of lakes and green spaces located a few minutes from the city centre. A visit to Parliament Hill to see the changing of the guard on nice days or a chance to enjoy the sweet taste of freshly made maple syrup in spring will be unforgettable memories for the whole family!
To discover, to understand, to wonder, and enjoy oneself, to marvel…So many entertaining opportunities to be enjoyed by the WHOLE FAMILY and which can be reached from your hotel in Ottawa!
Novotel Ottawa
1857
In 1857, Queen Victoria designated Ottawa as the capital of Canada. Ottawa is today the 4th largest city in the country.
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Measuring 202 km, the Rideau Canal becomes a real ice rink in winter and at over 8km, it becomes the longest ice rink in the world!
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With over 2 m of snow on average per year, Ottawa is the snowiest capital in the world.
Museums & Exhibitions
Canadian Museum of Civilization
This is the perfect starting point to explore and understand the history of Canada from its first occupants to today. The museum’s Grand Hall houses the most significant collection of totems in the world and the First People Hall takes the whole family on a journey of 1000 years to the heart of Canadian history. Ideally located on the banks of the Ottawa River, the museum also has one of the nicest views of the historical district of Ottawa.
100 Laurier Street, Gatineau – Tel.: (+1) 819 776 7000
Every day from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm (Thursday until 9.00 pm). Closed on Monday from 14 October to 30 April. Call for further information.
Canadian Museum of Nature
Explore the world of giant animals such as dinosaurs or even the smallest ones such as insects and then discover the evolution of our planet…an enjoyable and educational journey awaits at the Canadian Museum of Nature. The impressive old castle that houses the museum also provides a dream environment that inspires the fertile imagination of children.
240 McLeod Street, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 613 566 4700
From 4 September to 30 April from Tuesday to Sunday from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (8.00 pm on Thursday). From 1st May to 1st September every day from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm (8.00 pm on Wednesday and Thursday).
Canada Science and Technology Museum
Learn by touching, seeing, experimenting…this is the highlight of this museum that children love. The museum explores the theme of how humans transform natural elements to create a mechanical and technological world and gives you the chance to go aboard a real locomotive, With so many activities, it’s a perfect occasion for the family to learn together.
1867 Saint Laurent Boulevard, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 613 990 6302
Every day from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (except Monday in winter).
Zoos, aquariums, parks and gardens
Parc Gatineau
The parks around the cities of Ottawa and Gatineau are numerous and vast. Whether to go cycling, walking, ice skating, skiing or for the most adventurous to admire the panoramic views, all the family will be happy in Gatineau park. Located 15 minutes from Parliament Hill, the park has 50 tree species, thousands of wild animals and a typical clear lake of the region. It serves to remind you that the environment and nature are one of the primary concerns of the Canadians.
40 Elgin Sreet, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 819 239 5000
Every day from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm (5.00 pm in winter).
Rideau Canal
A UNESCO world heritage site, the Rideau Canal is an essential part of the city of Ottawa in winter and summer. It is however in winter that the canal becomes the longest ice rink in the world: For experienced ice skaters and beginners, it is an extremely pleasant family activity. The atmosphere is friendly and it is possible to eat Ottawa specialities directly on the ice such as the Beaver tail − which is a cake!
Canal Rideau, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 613 239 5234
Every day.
Canada Agriculture Museum
Ottawa is the only capital in the world to have a farm in the city centre. The Agriculture Museum provides an opportunity to discover modern and traditional Canadian farming methods. On the farm it is possible to see animals such as pigs and horses, to have a picnic in designated areas, and to have fun in the children’s game area. Every season provides many activities in the farm and new discoveries for the whole family. Ottawa deserves its nickname of “Green Capital”!
Promenade Prince of Wales, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 613 991 3044
Every day from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.
Kids’voyage’s special treats
Childrens Museum
The Children’s Museum is a learning and discovery place for children ages 14 and under. To ensure the success of its cultural experiences, the museum insists that parents participate. The various themed areas in the museum are designed to enable families to explore the world around us in a tactile and interactive way. The family can take a long journey together going from the desert and its pyramids to the port and its embarkation pier, passing through Japan, Mexico, or even India.
100 Laurier Street, Gatineau – Tel.: (+1) 819 776 8294
Every day from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm (some days until 9.00 pm). Call the museum for opening times.
Canada Aviation Museum
Relive the history of Canadian aviation by going along the route of the Walkway of Time or by admiring the 120 devices exhibited in the museum. Children and parents will be awed by these fabulous flying machines. Interactive exhibitions, workshops and demonstrations make this museum a sure family success!
11 Aviation Parkway, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 613 993 2010
Every day from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (except Monday and Tuesday in winter).
Carrousel de la Gendarmerie Royale du Canada
The mounted police are part of the history of Canada and it is a privilege to be able to visit the Carrousel. Approach the magnificent horses, discover the stables where training begins, visit the riding school where the choreographies of the Carrousel are repeated, visit the saddlery or the shoeing workshop and finish by admiring the majestic cars used by her majesty the Queen! In a word, dive into Canadian heritage.
1 Sandridge Street, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 613 998 8199
From May to August every day from 9.00 am to 3.30, in September from Monday to Friday from 9.00 am to 3.30, from October to April from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.
Good places for a family meal
Elgin Street Freehouse
This restaurant will enthral food lovers with its international cuisine, which is sometimes experimental. Children will also be thrilled with a menu that is specially designed for them.
296 Elgin Street, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 613 233 5525
From Tuesday to Sunday.
Sweetgrass Aboriginal Bistro
The restaurant is based on aboriginal culture and in keeping with nature, the menu changes with every season. Eat caribou or bison… Children’s menu available.
108 Murray Street, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 613 562 3683
From Monday to Friday from 11.30 am to 2.00 pm and from 5.30 pm to 10.00 pm. Saturday and Sunday from 5.30 pm to 10.00 pm.
Moe’s World Famous Newport Restaurant
The whole family will appreciate this restaurant for its pizzas and the children’s menu. A must for fans of Elvis Presley!,
334 Richmond Road, Ottawa – Tel.: (+1) 613 722 9322
Every day from 5.30 pm to 10.00 pm.
KIDS' VOYAGE travel guides and NOVOTEL hotels wish you an excellent stay in Ottawa.


