Summer Activities in Ottawa

I‘m always so happy when the nice weather arrives because it means that Fitmama Strong Ottawa classes can be outdoors again! Even though the weather is sometimes an issue to deal with, I know that we all enjoy being in the sunshine and warmth for a change after the seemingly never-ending cold and rainy months.

The summer also means that as parents, we're often looking to keep busy with our kids. Schools across Ottawa are wrapping up their year and while camps and family vacation time will soon fill some of our summer days, they won’t necessarily cover them all. Fortunately, Ottawa has lots of of great summer activities to build memories with our kids that aren't necessarily expensive. Hopefully, they'll keep everyone active and engaged and will keep those two little words ‘I’m bored’ to a minimum.

Do you have a favourite summer activity to do in Ottawa? Drop it in the comments below for other parents who might be looking to add to their own lists!

Here are a few of our recommendations for summer fun with Babies, Toddlers or Kids:

1. Visit the splash pads and wading pools

Ottawa has so much green space, we should consider ourselves lucky. Right in our suburban and urban neighbourhoods are splash pads and wading pools. You can visit a different one every day of the summer and you might not see them all! Pick one that is nearby to you, or venture out across the city for some exploring. Savvy Mom has compiled a great list to get you started!

2. Treat yourself to some frozen treats

Can we really call it summer without a popsicle or ice cream? If your neighbourhood has an ice cream truck, keep some change near your front door for when you hear the tell-tale song. Or, check out local places like The Merry Dairy truck or Moo Shu Ice Cream & Kitchen for some delicious ice cream. Try out Farinella for delicious gelato - bonus - they have a location in Little Italy and in Kanata!

3. Take a Neighbourhood walk

Maybe your family is already quite familiar with your neighbourhood, but if not, the summer is the perfect time to find a new walking route to explore. I’m sure all of our neighbourhoods have something interesting to offer (I know mind does!) and you never know when you might stumble on a new park or shop.

4. Visit your local Library

The Ottawa Public Library is a great place where kids can browse their favourite book section, toddlers can explore and everyone can find a new summer read. Take some books home to enjoy them for even longer!

5. Head out to an Outdoor Movie Night

All across the city during this summer are outdoor movie nights. Most often, they are held at local parks, and there’s a definite old-school drive-in feel to them. All you need to bring are some lawn chairs and blankets, plus admission if required. Check out the Capital Pop Up Cinema, if you're in the city. You’ll also find outdoor movies at Lansdowne this summer!

6. Stay cool at an OTTAWA MUSEUM

Ottawa has some exceptional museums to visit on those hot days! If you prefer to stay outdoors, the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is a great choice. The Canada Museum of History has an amazing Children’s Museum that kids of all ages love to visit. And the Canadian Museum of Nature has all sorts of interesting floors and displays for all ages (it’s always been a favourite of mine!). Some Ottawa museums even have special times where you can visit free of charge!

Whatever you choose, I hope you have a terrific summer!

Originally posted June 2017, Updated July 2023.