A Family Getaway to Gatineau-Ottawa
There are tons of accommodation and activity options to choose from in the Outaouais so you can have fun as a family! To make things easier, we’ve included some of them in this blog. Just choose one educational activity, one leisure activity and one hotel from our list, and voilà! Your next family trip will be easier than ever—and even more fun!
Where to learn
Combining education and fun is a great way to keep little ones busy and older kids interested. We love that these activities are mainly indoors, so you can plan ahead and stick to your plans, no matter the weather. Choose one of the options below to start planning your next family getaway!
With interactive workshops, immersive spaces, and captivating exhibits, the Canada Science and Technology Museum will capture everyone’s attention. Discover the fundamental role innovation plays in our lives and how science helps us better understand the world around us.
Looking for an educational activity that’s out of the ordinary? Visit the Royal Canadian Mint and learn how coins are made. Daily guided tours in French and English allow you to learn more about innovative advances in gold refining for modern coin production.
Located just steps from downtown Gatineau, the Canadian Museum of History is a must-see for curious families. Step inside this grand venue and marvel at the majestic Grand Gallery, its totem poles, and the fascinating stories of the First Peoples. Explore the permanent and temporary exhibitions, and immerse yourself in the defining moments of our collective past.
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Canadian Children’s Museum, where curiosity reigns supreme and imagination comes to life with every step. Let your children explore houses from around the world, observe hieroglyphics in the pyramid, shop at the outdoor market, and go on an adventure aboard a Pakistani bus.
Immerse your family in the cultural magic of the Estacade. This cultural hub offers an exceptional youth program featuring 15 captivating shows for children aged three to 17 throughout the year. In the summer, enjoy free outdoor screenings of family-friendly films. The Estacade makes culture accessible. The venue is accessible by public transportation and offers free parking and food service. You’ll always find a show that will make your children’s eyes light up, whether they love music, theater, the circus, puppets, or magic.
To enjoy more cultural events in the region, explore the Tout Culture platform. A true hub of cultural life in the Outaouais region, the platform offers a rich and diverse calendar of shows, festivals, exhibitions, family activities, and much more. Filter by date, location, or event type to easily plan your cultural outing according to your interests. Whether you’re passionate about music, theater, visual arts, or are simply curious, Tout Culture opens the doors to a world of expression and discovery. Immerse yourself in the region’s cultural effervescence at your own pace.
Where to have fun
Now that the kids have learned a lot during the first activity of the day, it’s time to choose one that gets them moving! Here are two options that are sure to please young and old alike.
It’s recess time at Rond-point milieu de jeux! With giant structures, slides, building blocks, and a space for toddlers, everything is designed for children’s enjoyment. Parents can enjoy a well-deserved break in the dining room. Creative activities and video games await!
Virtual reality has grown in popularity in recent years. At VR82 Virtual Reality Arcade, you can discover over 50 virtual games solo, in a group, or cooperatively. Your teens or children aged 10 and up will get an adrenaline rush from the multiplayer games. There are over 1,200 square feet of free-roaming virtual reality, with room for up to 20 players at a time. Want to challenge your family? Embark on a virtual reality escape game or try axe throwing on a wooden target.
Discover all of our suggestions for indoor activities in the area to keep young and old alike busy!
Where to sleep
Choose the Discover Two Cities package at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Conference Centre Gatineau-Ottawa for comfort and convenience. Available until September 1, 2025, the package includes free parking for one vehicle and a late check-out at 2 p.m.—perfect for making the most of your family getaway! Dine at L’Ardoise restaurant and enjoy a 20% discount on your meal. The hotel is located across from the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian Children’s Museum, and within walking distance of two other national museums. It combines urban elegance with direct access to the wonders of Gatineau and Ottawa. Book now and enjoy a hassle-free, stylish getaway!
For a summer getaway that appeals to all ages, stay at the Best Western PLUS Gatineau-Ottawa Hotel and Conference Centre. Located across from the Ottawa River and just steps from downtown, the hotel offers a refreshing promotional package. Thanks to their partnership with Parc aquatique Mont Cascades, hotel guests can purchase discounted tickets.
The Motel Adam is an excellent choice for families looking for comfort and convenience. With 105 cozy rooms, this hotel is located just minutes from downtown and many attractions and offers excellent value for money. Enjoy the heated outdoor pool after a day of family exploration and adventure. You’ll also find easy access to bike paths, a wide variety of restaurants, and several shopping centers nearby to satisfy the desires of young and old alike.
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For more suggestions, visit La Maison du Tourisme or consult the official Outaouais 2025–2026 tourist guide. Discover all the activities the region has to offer, and plan your itinerary based on the area you want to explore.
