Every time a PE Day falls on my schedule, I’m faced with the same question: what do I do to occupy their time before the creatures start trying to kill each other—or worse yet, try to kill me?
For me, especially if I’m working from home, the answer is simple: visit one of the many kid‑friendly museums in Ottawa. It keeps them busy, they might even learn something, and it gives me a chance to catch up on emails when they’re not looking.
Ottawa is blessed with some of the best museums in Canada, covering almost every interest. Over the years, the kids have developed clear favourites—places they’ll happily return to again and again. If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Ottawa, especially on PE Days, weekends, or rainy days, here are our top picks.
1. Canada Science and Technology Museum
Best Ottawa museum for hands‑on learning and STEM activities
Without question, this is their go‑to choice. It’s the one museum they always agree on when I ask, “Which museum do you want to go to?”
The Canada Science and Technology Museum is packed with interactive exhibits, STEM workshops, and hands‑on learning experiences that are perfect for kids of all ages. Mine have been going for years and have graduated from the giant little‑kids play area to the more advanced activities—but the full‑sized steam locomotives and the legendary Crazy Kitchen remain favourites.
2. The Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum
One of Ottawa’s most unique family attractions
Located in Ottawa’s west end, the Diefenbunker is one of the city’s hidden gems. Originally commissioned by Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, this underground bunker was designed to house the government during a nuclear attack.
Today, it’s one of the most immersive museums in Ottawa, preserved exactly as it was—right down to the rotary dial phones. Kids are fascinated by the tunnels, vaults, and Cold War history.
They also offer Escape Room experiences, though they may be a bit intense for younger kids.
3. Canadian Museum of Nature
Best Ottawa museum for dinosaur lovers and animal enthusiasts
It’s not the Royal Ontario Museum—but it does have dinosaurs.
Located near downtown Ottawa in the iconic Victoria Memorial Museum Building (which kids inevitably call “the castle”), this museum has a wide range of exhibits. From towering dinosaur skeletons to Nature Live, which features live spiders and insects, there’s something for everyone.
It’s a big museum, so if your kids are younger, don’t plan on doing the whole thing in one visit.
4. Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Best outdoor museum experience for kids in Ottawa
If the weather’s good and your kid has ever wondered what life on a farm is like, this is a great choice. The museum is a working farm right in the middle of Ottawa, complete with barns, cows, goats, and cooking demonstrations.
It’s surrounded by hiking trails and sits near Dow’s Lake, making it a perfect family day trip.
Dress warm in winter—there’s a lot of outdoor walking.
Honourable Mentions
More Ottawa museums for families
The Children’s Museum (Gatineau) – Fun but often very busy, especially at the interactive stations.
Canada Aviation and Space Museum – Great for airplane lovers, but less interactive than the others.
Thinking about Ottawa for a romantic getaway, check out A weekend in Ottawa (Fall Romance Edition)