Take advantage of Gatineau Park, known as the green lung of the Outaouais, to escape into the woods and enjoy the birdsong (which might even put your baby to sleep)! The Sugar Bush Trail, which starts at the park’s Visitor Centre, is suitable for strollers and is within walking distance of several good food stops.  Afterwards, take a lunch break at one of the many nearby restaurants, such as the Biscotti & cie and the Chelsea Pub, or enjoy an ice cream at La Cigale.  Jacques-Cartier Park, Moussette Park and the Voyageurs Pathway are great places to take a stroll(er) along the Ottawa River. Lined with playgrounds and picnic areas, they’re perfect for a family day out. With their easy-access trails and beautiful lake views, the Centre de plein air du Lac-Leamy and the Centre de plein air du Lac-Beauchamp will make you feel like you’re truly getting away from it all! A little further into the countryside, go for a relaxing walk with your baby along the Sentier du Lièvre, a beginner-level trail along the Lièvre River. Leashed dogs are welcome here too.

Parc Omega is a must for children! Visitors of all ages can observe wild animals from the car and take part in special family activities. For the more adventurous, navigate the water maze at Eco-Odyssée Nature Park and learn about the local flora and fauna.  Have you ever admired the natural beauty of Champboisé in L’Ange-Gardien? This beautiful municipal site regularly organizes children’s activities, including inflatable games, face painting and fun workshops. What’s more, access to the site is free!   Just a few minutes from Gatineau, visit Éco des champs Farm. Feed the chickens, stroll through the gardens and have a picnic in the outdoor vegetarian cafeteria. Your little ones will love it!   In the Pontiac, ramble around a 50-hectare farm and meet the Willow Lane Alpacas! They’re adorable, and children can even cuddle them. If you’re passing through Chelsea, there’s also Chelsea Alpacas. Learn more about the unique quality of their fleece, “the fibre of the gods,” as the Incas called it.  A stone’s throw from Wakefield, in the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, visit L’eau du ruisseau Farm to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. During your visit, pick fruit in the orchard and meet some chickens!  On warmer days, Mont Cascades Water Park has several slides, including six for toddlers, and a large activity area with waterfalls, pools, a picnic area and a full-service restaurant.

Le Rond-point milieu de jeux is much more than an entertainment centre: it’s also a unique learning zone where children can develop their skills through play. Adrenaline+ is another great place for family fun, with slides, obstacles, mazes, arcades, a ninja race, laser games and much more.  The Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian Children’s Museum are home to interactive and educational exhibits that will capture the imagination of the youngest visitors, with special areas for toddlers. The National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of Nature host creative workshops where children can express themselves artistically while discovering fascinating works of art.  Did you know that La Sporthèque offers pre- and post-natal programs? They include aquafit classes with baby, the stroller circuit, and several workshops to help you ease into the challenges of motherhood. Get moving safely, in a fun atmosphere!  Attend an annual mother-baby yoga retreat at the Centre de Vie in Ripon. Overnight packages are also available. Treat yourself to a moment of rejuvenation with your child (1–12 months), reconnect with yourself in harmony with baby, and breathe deeply. Namaste!

The Outaouais also has many inns and B&Bs that are ideal for a family getaway, and are conveniently close to several attractions!

As new parents, you deserve to treat yourselves once in awhile! Did you know that some microbreweries have special areas where babies are allowed while you enjoy a drink? Two of them are Chelsea & Co Craft Brewery and the 5e Baron microbrewery.

This summer, enjoy a 360 degree immersive experience at the Salle Odyssée de la Maison de la culture de Gatineau. For the first time, a unique show awaits you under an outdoor dome from June 1 to August 31. Discover Bébé symphonique, a musical and sensory immersion for babies to the rhythm of captivating choreography designed to awaken the sight and hearing of young children in a playful way. Every Monday, you’re invited to the National Arts Centre for Les lundis des tout-petits and French storytime with Luana. You’ll have a magical time with your little ones. There will also be themed crafts and fun games!  On May 24, the Mamatinées are coming to Gatineau! This informal event is a great opportunity to get together with other mothers, chat while you feed your little ones, and discover local businesses. Professional photographers will be on hand to take pictures of your family. Of course, dads and grandparents are welcome too. And admission is free!  May 15 is Heroes’ Day in Chénéville. Have your photo taken with superheroes such as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Spider-Man, as well as the famous DeLorean DMC-12 from the popular Back to the Future trilogy! Admission to this municipal event is free.  You can also visit our Events and Festivals section to plan a family day out. There’s lots to discover. It’s a big world out there, and it’s infinitely more wonderful when you’re with your little ones. Make the most of it!  + Like many families over the years, the #OutaouaisFun collection is growing! Our crewneck sweatshirts, designed and made entirely in Quebec, will soon be available in children’s sizes. Stay tuned!