Things to do over the holidays
Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow! The Holidays are finally here, mass-produced meat pies and family activities. During the Holidays, take advantage of your (sometimes limited!) spare time to try some of these activities in good company.
AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE AT THE PARLIAMENT
Take part in one of the three guided tours of the Parliament of Canada with family or friends. With a guide, visit the Senate or the House of Commons. During the Senate tour, learn more about the work of a senator. While touring the House of Commons, you will discover Parliament’s art and architecture.
You can also take a self-paced tour with Parliament: The Immersive Experience. This 360° multimedia show pushes the limits of the imagination. With breathtaking images, dazzling light effects and engaging sound effects, watch history come to life before your very eyes. Learn more about the milestones in Canadian history, and the traditions and personalities that have shaped the country.
Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast or simply curious about an original activity, this tour is a must. Reserve your place now for a unique adventure and stop by the boutique to take home a souvenir of your visit!
211 Sparks Street, Ottawa
Free
The Immersive Experience consists in a self-guided tour of about 45 minutes, booking in advance is required. It is recommended to arrive at least 5 to 10 minutes before the beginning of the presentation. Please note that the event is closed on December 25, 2024 and January 1st, 2025.
THE URBAN OUTDOORS
No need to drive miles and miles to have fun in the heart of a snowy Outaouais! Several urban outdoor centers allow you to hike, snowshoe, cross-country ski, skate, fat bike and even slide. After a day of winter fun at the Centre de plein air du Lac-Leamy, the Centre plein air du Lac-Beauchamp, or the Relais Plein Air du parc de la Gatineau, and the Sentiers les Renards Blancs, your hot chocolate will be well-deserved!
Equipment rental is available at some centers. Some establishments offer the first hour of rental for free to Access Gatineau + cardholders.
The Centre de plein air du Lac-Leamy is friendly to dogs, when on a leash.
WINTER ACTIVITIES AT PARC OMEGA
Parc Omega suggests several winter activities for the whole family. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of wildlife by spending a night at the unique accommodation, explore the snowy trails on snowshoes or try dog sledding. Discover the aerial course and enjoy breathtaking views of the winter landscape before laughing out loud as you go down the slopes on a snow tube.
Relax in the warmed-up areas with a hot chocolate and observe the parc’s iconic wildlife, such as deer, moose and buffalo in their natural habitat. If hungry, enjoy one of the most scrumptious cheese fondue at the OmegaBon Restaurant.
Parc Omega is a must-see destination for a magical and memorable winter in the great outdoors!
399 Route 323 North, Montebello
Open daily. Some activities are weather dependent.
ENTERTAINMENT GALORE
Unwind during the Holidays! Plan a fun-filled day for your kids at the Rond-point milieu de jeu. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a complete peace of mind while your little ones play freely on our colourful structures and slides. Craft workshops are offered during weekends, and video games are always available. Who knows, you might want to join in the fun and share your childhood memories. One thing’s for sure, it’ll be fun!
170 Deveault Street, Gatineau
0-11 Months– Free | 1-2 years old – $18,99 | 3-17 – $25,99 | Adult – $9,99 | 60+ – Free
Opens at 9 a.m. daily.
VIRTUAL REALITY ENTERTAINMENT
During the Holidays, it’s time to have some fun! Are you interested in virtual reality games and experiences? That’s what VR82, Gatineau’s first state-of-the-art virtual reality arcade, is all about. With family of friends, physically move around an arena through a virtual video game, either in cooperative or competitive 1:1 mode. Several scenarios available: are you more zombie apocalypse or space shooter?
You can also book an individual gaming station and enjoy over 60 different games. So many hours of fun ahead!
79 De la Gappe Blvd., Gatineau
Reservations required.
+
With all these suggestions, there’s no excuse for having “nothing to do” over the holidays. If you’re more inclined to want to escape the snow and cold, here are some ideas for indoor #OutaouaisFun activities.
