20 #Outaouaisfun activities for spring break

Your children have probably been counting the days to spring break since they went back to school after the Christmas holidays. But to you, the week may look more like a mountain of organization than fun. Dear parents, this is where the Outaouais comes to your rescue.

You’re not dreaming! In the Outaouais, children leave the time-honoured refrain “I’m bored” at home. Here are 20 #Outaouaisfun activities to consider when you’re planning your next week off. There’s something for every taste and every member of the family!

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Parc Omega is a year-round family favourite in the Outaouais. Young and old alike will be charmed by the many different animals begging for carrots at your window. 

On your marks, get set, go … and that’s when moms start screaming as they slide down the slopes sitting comfortably in a tube. In the Outaouais region, families can experience a downhill thrill at the Centre de plein air du Lac-Beauchamp and the Domaine de l’Ange-Gardien. We challenge you to tackle the slopes of Sommet Edelweiss or the Parc des Montagnes Noires de Ripon. 

Have you ever gone ice fishing with your family? Well, spring break is the perfect time to try it. Pêche Blanche Gatineau is a real little “ice village” with 200 shacks that will impress your children. Who’ll land the biggest catch?

Our ski hills are ideal for families. Our slopes are just the right size to introduce your children to downhill skiing or snowboarding. 

Want to surprise your children? Dogsledding will be a sure hit. Several companies located throughout the region offer different packages. Choose the one that suits you best! 

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

In the game rooms at Pärlé – Bistro ludique, you and your family can spend hours playing more than 500 different board games! While you’re there, ask one of the hosts to explain how to play your chosen games. Hours of fun await you! 

Spring break is not only about having fun, but also about learning new things! Combine business and pleasure by visiting a museum. The Outaouais has the largest concentration of national museums in the country, so you’re spoiled for choice! 

FOR TEENS

Set your teenagers a lofty challenge: take them to Altitude Gym for a climbing or Clip ‘N Climb session. They’ll soon find out that this challenge isn’t all that easy! 

Arbraska Laflèche has created a custom package for you. Treat yourself to a unique underground journey in the Laflèche Cave, the largest visited cave in the Canadian Shield. The cave has many surprises and discoveries in store for you, and with ice stalactites and stalagmites in winter, geology is accessible to everyone. Afterwards, warm up with a hot chocolate by the fire to prepare yourself mentally for a breathtaking trip on a zip line. A full afternoon, rosy cheeks, happy adventurers … and happy parents! 

Need a shot of adrenaline? You’ll find it at Top Karting. Jump into a racing car and tackle the Grand Prix on the indoor track.

Do your teenagers like video games and virtual reality? You’re in luck: at the VR82 Virtual Reality Arcade, you can compete with friends in specially designed virtual reality arenas or play 25 different games in individual booths. The time will fly by!

WHEN THE MUNCHIES HIT

Every year, spring break coincides with maple syrup time. Take advantage of a nice warm day to indulge your sweet tooth at one of the region’s sugar shacks. 

Craving a little something sweet after a busy day of family activities? Head to Chocolats Favoris! Your kids will definitely love that idea! And in Gatineau, we’re lucky because the chocolate-dipped ice cream cones are available even in winter. 

For a friendly spot near Gatineau Park, the Chelsea Pub will please the whole family with its bistro-style menu. Even the fussiest eater is sure to find something to their liking!

FAMILY COTTAGES