The Lost Kingdom at Wesley Clover Parks

The Lost Kingdoms roars into the nation’s capital for its North American debut this summer.

A unique edutainment event for the entire family, The Lost Kingdoms features fifty life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and Ice Age beasts with robotic moving body parts including opening jaws and blinking eyes and the sounds of roaring, hissing and snarling coming from the bushes.

The Lost Kingdoms opened in Ottawa on June 23 and will run daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm until July 9.

We had a chance to send an Ottawa family to check it out and here’s what they thought! They brought their two kiddos along with them, who were 5 and 6 years old.

“It was a totally unique experience and fun for all ages!

I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of dinosaurs that were set up. The kids get up close which is really nice and some of the dinosaurs move and make noise, which is pretty neat. The enormous T-rex at the beginning is set to a timer and moves and makes noise. I had to remind my youngest that it wasn’t real ;)

Everyone left with a smile on their face and my youngest is ready to head back again any time!”

Tips:

• It’s a lot of walking. Bring a wagon or stroller for younger kids.

• It’s a fairly long walk without shade and entirely outdoors so dress accordingly. On a hot day you’ll definitely want to bring lots of water and a hat .

• Construction at Moodie makes it difficult to get there easily so take the March Road exit.

• For the little ones with unpredictable bathroom breaks, send them before the tour because there were no washrooms in sight.

• Staying for a picnic or snacks would be a great idea.

Tickets are $28 each or you can get a family bundle and tickets are $24.50 each.

Can you touch the dinosaurs?

Kids are encouraged to get up close and personal with the exhibits, but they should not try to climb, ride or poke them.Will there be food on site?

Food and beverage will be onsite, but it will vary from day to day based on local vendor availability.

You can check out the Lost Kingdoms in Ottawa until July 9th!

We were invited to attend the media preview at no cost. All thoughts are our own.

50+ things to do with kids in Ottawa

This is the most popular post we’ve ever had on this blog and if you’re landing here from Google we want you to know that we are currently working on updating this post-pandemic. Please check all attraction web sites to make sure information is still accurate.

Ottawa has so many amazing things to see and do with kids! We wanted to put together the ultimate list, so that you can grab loads of ideas from one spot.

From museums, indoor activities, outdoor activities and parks - there's always something to do in Ottawa, no matter the season!

A trip to the National Gallery is fun and FREE for kids aged 11 and under

MUSEUMS

Having lived in other cities in Canada, I think the best thing about Ottawa is our amazing museums. There are many options that will please young and old!

National gallery

Explore art and make your own creations at the National Gallery

You wouldn't think an art gallery, with really beautiful, expensive art, would be a great place for kids, but if you follow some tips, it can still be a fun outing. You can also take a walk around with your baby.

Billings estate

Visit the historic estate of one of Ottawa's founding families and spend the day enjoying one of their special events (including awesome themed teas!) or kid-friendly programs.  

Bytown museum

The Bytown Museum offers plenty of interactive activities for our young and young at heart visitors!

Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum

Snuggly animals, food demonstrations, and special events - the agriculture museum has it all!

Canadian Aviation and Space Museum

Aviation is the third museum, along with Agriculture and Science and Tech (which is currently being rebuilt!), that makes up a great 3-in-1 membership for families. This museum is perfect for the little ones that love planes, space and so much more. There are daily kids activities, camps and a special play area for the kiddos!

Canada Science and Technology Museum

We’re so excited to finally be adding this one back into our “50 things” post! Completely renovated, this museum offers SO much for all ages. The best part for little ones (under 8) is the new Zoom exhibit!!

Canadian War museum 

When you think "kids," you may not think the war museum - but the little ones still get a kick out of looking at all the exhibits. And if you have older children, you may all get lost in there reading and exploring!

Children's museum

My kiddos LOVE this museum, and we make it a special treat. Their main attraction changes every few months or so, but the regular exhibits are a huge hit. And don't forget to try to check out a movie at the Imax theatre!

Cumberland Heritage Village Museum

My daughter's Sparks group recently spent the day at the Cumberland Museum, and we had SO much fun! What a fantastic way to teach our children about the past, with many activities and displays scheduled throughout the day. Also check out their special events, including the Village of Lights in the winter!

Diefenbunker

Check out Lara's trip to the Diefenbunker with her kids! This giant underground bunker was built during the cold war to house government officials in the event of nuclear war. It's sure to be a fun place for kids to explore.

Museum of Nature

The first time I visited the museum, I didn't allocate enough time. Floors of amazing exhibits, activities for kids young and old, and an Imax theatre. The special exhibits that arrive every six months or so are always a big hit!

Vanier museopark

What's better than a park and sugar bush smack in the middle of an urban neighbourhood? A great place to walk your dog too!

ATTRACTIONS

Governor General estate

Whatever season, Rideau Hall is a beautiful place for a visit. Special events are often held there, and winter is great for a skate or celebration!

High tea at the Chateau Laurier

Your kids will love you forever if you take them for high tea at the superb Chateau Laurier. Who doesn't love tiny sandwiches?

The Mint

Call ahead to book a tour at the Mint! Our experience has been that tours are great for children ages 5 and up, although most kids will get a kick out of the facility that produces Canada's investment and collector coins. 

Parliament Hill

The free sound and lights show on Parliament is SPECTACULAR, and a must-see if your kids are able to stay up until 10pm in July, 9:30pm in August and 9pm in September. Check out our blog post from the Mosaika show.

Changing of the guard

Not for the wee ones, the changing of the guard would be great for your tweens and teens who have the patience and interest to sit for the show. If you have little ones they may still enjoy watching a few minutes! 

SHOWS

NAC children's events

The National Arts Centre has some fantastic children's programming, and you can read about French Youth Theatre here! 

Broadway Across Canada is also really popular with the kids, teens and tweens.

Outerbridge Magic - Mysteries of the Keyhole House

Renowned illusionists and Magic Castle headliners, Ted and Marion Outerbridge, are touring their captivating new, Magic show, Mysteries of the Keyhole House, perfect for the entire family (ages 8-108)!  The show is inspired by the couple's home restoration of the historic Keyhole House in the Ottawa Valley, a journey that unearthed a trove of artifacts whispering tales of past lives, not to mention a friendly ghost!

FESTIVALS

Children’s Festival

Winterlude!

Award-winning programming from Canada and across the world! Check out one of our reader's past experience at the festival.

Ottawa International Buskerfest

The ultimate live performance event, Buskerfest is a huge crowd pleaser! 

PuppetsUp

Looking for a creative outing for your crafty kids? The brains behind Almonte's beloved Puppets Up! festival are hosting PuppetCon August 11-13 and they've got some amazing workshops for kids and families. Learn how to turn an umbrella into a dragon or make your very own puppet head out of foam or latex! Then relax and enjoy a hiliarious family-friendly puppet show about pirates! Check out www.puppetsup.com for more information!

Winterlude

This festival is an essential part of Ottawan life, even if you're not too fussy about snow and ice! Whether you're snow tubing, skating, or maybe just enjoying a beaver tail, there is much to see and do! Check out our tips for heading down to the festival.

The Tulip Festival

The Tulip Festival is one of many great things to enjoy about Spring in Ottawa. There's nothing better than seeing the tulip bulbs pop up when the snow has melted!

INDOOR PLAY

Cosmic Adventures

Flying squirrel trampoline park

Kids of all ages can have a blast at Cosmic, an indoor play place in Gloucester (east end of Ottawa.) There are slides, climbing structures, ball pits and a smaller area for the wee ones. A place to go on really cold, hot or rainy days!

Kids Kingdom

With locations in the West and East end of the cities, this indoor play place is a local favourite - they also have daycare for parents looking for a fun and active centre for their child. Birthday parties and laser tag are other faves!

Funhaven

Perfect for those in the West end (or even if you're willing to make the drive!) The number of things you can do indoors at Funhaven is astounding - games, jungle gym, toddler play, laser tag, mini bowling, and so much more!

Flying Squirrel

Another great indoor trampoline park in the East end!

Altitude climbing gym

Lara got a chance to check out Altitude gym a few summers, and her three kids really enjoyed the indoor climbing walls.  They now have several other locations to check out as well.

Public swimming / wave pools / wading pools

There is nothing better than heading out for a swim when you're stuck for something to do with the kids. In the summer it's great to check out the outdoor pools and wading pools, but in the winter, sometimes we just want to imagine we're on the beach, getting hit by a huge wave. Happy swimming! 

Public skates

There are some great outdoor skating rinks to enjoy in the winter (including the free one at Lansdowne,) but it can be a fun summer activity to cool off on a sweltering day. Check out the City of Ottawa for public skating schedules, or maybe you have a local pond to discover when everything freezes over!

OUTDOOR PLAY

Zip Lines and Bat Caves at Arbraska Labfleche

With zip lines and ropes courses for kids and adults alike, Arbraska Lafleche is a fun outing. And they have a bat cave too!

Parc omega

Calypso Water Park

We visited Parc Omega for the first time last summer, and I was really impressed by the experience. The property is SO huge, but there are options to take nature walks and picnics if you don't feel like sitting in your car.

Peak to Peak Zip Line and Coaster at Camp Fortune

There’s a peak to peak zip line and a coaster that goes down mountain at Camp Fortune. You must be at least 8 for the coaster and 100lbs for the zip line.

Interzip

If you’re interested in a slower paced zip line, check out the Interzip and zip from Ontario into Quebec with beautiful views of the Parliament buildings. You must be at least 70lbs and under 250lbs for this zip experience.

Mont cascades

A lovely, small water park, nestled in the Gatineau hills. And you really can't beat the price when taking the whole family!

Eco odysee

A water maze adventure in the Outaouais region!

Calypso

A water park that invented the saying "go big or go home." This is the ultimate water park experience for your family, and just a quick jaunt just outside Ottawa!

Gatineau Park

THE best place in the Ottawa region to see the Fall leaves, head out for a nighttime snowshoe (yup, kids would enjoy this too!) or spend a bit of time there with both winter and summer camping. There are also great hikes for the older kids, and a short walk around Pink Lake for the younger ones.

Rideau canal boating or skating

Boating in the summer, or skating in the winter - everyone can enjoy this beautiful heritage site in the heart of Ottawa! 

Rideau canal Locks

Don't want to boat OR skate on the canal? Just head down with the kids in the summer to see a boat make its' way through the locks!

Kayaking

Yup, kids can definitely kayak, and it's easier than you think! Check out Lara's post on kayaking and SUPing (Stand Up Paddle Boarding) with her kids.

Pirate adventures

Take an imaginary pirate adventure along the Rideau Canal, and have a barrel of laughs! Arrrrr! 

Feeding the ducks near billings 

There are so many activities in Ottawa that don't cost an arm and a leg, and kids will have so much fun - feeding cute ducks is definitely one of those activities to file away for the days when your kids are whining "I'm bored!!" (According to wildlife experts, bread is actually dangerous for ducks and other water birds (like the swans.) We suggest these alternatives: lettuce, peas and sweet corn!

Geo caching

Who knew there were secret treasures hiding all around this city? And people are on the hunt to find them! 

Saunders farm

Boasting one of the best mazes in the city, along with fantastic activities all summer long (and check out their spooky Halloween activities!) this is a place you'll want to visit again and again. 

Valleyview Little Animal farm

A farm with a tiny train to ride and animals to pet, located in Southwest Ottawa. A great alternative to the Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum if you feel like switching things up!

Proulx Farm

We love this farm out in the East end, with their horse-drawn wagon rides, pancake breakfasts, pumpkin patch, strawberry picking and so much more! Proulx Farm is also a staple at some of the farmer's markets around the city.

Mer Bleue Boardwalk

The perfect walk for little ones, with ample snow and ski trails in the winter. Don't forget to bring the bird seed to feed the chickadees!

Mooney's Bay

The perfect place to cool off in the summer, check out Ottawa's Dragonboat Festival, or take a picnic to the park!

Sunday bike days

Each year from mid-May to early September you can cycle along some car-free roads in Ottawa every Sunday. Don’t forget your yearly bike tune-up! 

Petrie Island

In the East end, this beach is great in many seasons, with summer fun and beautiful Fall colours. For the avid naturalist, it's also a great place to spot turtles and participate in Nature Camps!

Ottawa Farmers' Markets

My kids LOVE the Ottawa Farmer's Market. There are locations all over the city, and we usually visit the Orleans location or the big Landsdowne location. My girls enjoy the free samples, picking out fruit and vegetables, and the occasional special events like face painting or balloon animals. 

 SPORTS

Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) in Ottawa

Take in a PWHL game in Ottawa!

PARKS

Canada-Themed playground at Mooney’s Bay

We have so many awesome parks in the city, and when we surveyed YOU, our lovely readers, you told us that these four were your favourites:

Canada-themed playground at Mooney's Bay

Brewer Park

Walter Baker Park

Andrew Haydon Park

Millenium Park

And that's a wrap on our 50 things to do with kids in Ottawa - what's YOUR favourite things to do?

Peak to Peak Zipline Tour at Camp Fortune

I have always enjoyed all sorts of thrill seeking activities. Bungee jumping, ziplining and roller coasters are all appealing to me. I also love the outdoors and being in nature. Combine the two, and I have the perfect weekend activity. Camp Fortune’s new peak to peak ziplines and mountain coaster fit the bill.

For this excursion, I brought a friend with me. My parents opted to only ride the mountain coaster. As soon as we arrived, we were greeted by our guide who took us to the chairlift. There, we went on a five minute scenic ascent to the peak, getting an incredible view of Gatineau park along the way. 

Once we reached the summit of the mountain, our guides took us up the stairs of a short tower. There, we attached ourselves to the ziplines and were ready to go. Because there were two zip lines next to each other, my friend and I were able to go at the same time. 

As soon as the guides let us go, we glided 150 feet above the forest at high speed. My friend had been somewhat nervous at first, but once we got going, he was ecstatic. From the zipline, I was able to see stunning sights all around me while flying through the air. When we arrived at the second tower, we were excited to do it again.

We waited for a few minutes for our guides to return and do the safety checks, and we were once again ready to go. Before going on the second zipline, our guides had told us that it would be a good idea to spin on this one. They were right. I let go of my harness and spun around, learning what it's like to zipline backwards. I made sure to get into my brace position in time.

After the second, we went on the third and final zipline. This one was a bit smaller, but it was still fun. At the end, there was an optional 50 foot free fall. I stood at the edge of the platform, staring straight down before going against my natural instincts and walking off of it. I plummeted for two meters before the cord slowly lowered me to the ground for a not-so-graceful landing. In total, I ziplined the distance of 4,478 feet in about an hour. 

Following lunch, we went back up the relaxing chairlift for one last activity- the mountain coaster. The mountain coaster consisted of one seat that rolled down a winding metal track through the trees. I used the lever to go at the maximum speed of 40 km/h, holding on tight as it made sharp drops and turns. It was a great adrenaline rush.

If you are interested in either of these activities, arrive 30 min ahead of schedule and check in at new customer service, lower level of the main lodge. Remember to dress for the weather, active clothing and running shoes. The ziplines have a minimum weight of 100 lbs and a max weight of 240 lbs. Pricing is $55 for youth 14 and under and $65 for those 15 and older. The coaster is $20 per ride and you have to be 8 years old or older to ride alone.  Safety equipment and instructional sessions are provided. For more information please visit https://campfortune.com. 

David is a fifteen-year-old aspiring adventure and travel writer living in Ottawa.  Skydiving is on his bucket list.

Middle Grade Fantasy Favourites: Mystery, Magic and More

The power of a novel to transport one to another world, filled with excitement and thrills, is incredible.  The magic in new middle grade fantasy stories is no exception! As Popp (2021) points out:

“Middle grade books with magical themes are literal magic, in a way. They transport readers to places real or imagined. Their lore is wholly concocted by the author or inspired by mythologies from around the world.”

Further, as Popp (2021) references, these types of novels can help readers feel empowered; magic can help one to achieve their goals—and find courage, and strength and to remember than they have these abilities within them.

This blog will focus on some of my newer fantasy favorites—with strong characters, new adventures and a focus on doing what is right....

CeCe Rios and the  Desert of Souls by Kaela Rivera

When CeCe was 7, she was wandering in the desert and met Tzizimitl, the criatura of stars and devouring.   Five years later she encounters a dark criatura  called El Sombrerón when he captures her sister Juana and takes her back to Devil's Alley to make her his bride. Cece is determined to get her sister back and is willing to do whatever it takes to get to Devil’s Alley to save her... even if it means training to be a bruja and practicing dark magic...

 Kirkus describes CeCe as a “...culturally rich adventure weaves Spanish and Nahuatl throughout the text. With strong ties to Mesoamerican lore and culture, the story hits the sweet spot between dark and light.”

This is a story of inner strength, magic, spirits, and adventure and is to keep readers of all ages captivated until the very end! 

Amari and the Night Brothers- B.B. Alston

Quinton Peters, Amari's brother, is missing. She misses him greatly and is determined to find him. One day a mysterious package appears in Quinton's closet containing a magic suit, and a nomination to join a summer camp with the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. It also contains magic glasses that allow her to see a whole other world...

As Amari discovers her inner power, and strength, she also discovers that she is a magician, and unfortunately, magicians are not looked upon with favor in this new world.

This novel has some great lessons about privilege and prejudice, as well as magic, mythical creatures, humor, and adventure (and the best part—it's part of a trilogy!).

Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy by Angie Thomas

For Nic’s 12th birthday her father gets her a pet hellhound (Cocoa)...but refuses to share with her how to use her ‘gift’ and what makes her a ‘remarkable.’ When Nic gets grounded the same night that her favorite author TJ Retro is in town for a signing, she sneaks out... and that night her world changes forever. She learns that her favorite book series is actually a fictionalized version of her father (and friends) childhoods fighting evil AND that TJ is actually a manifestor!  She learns her dad has been accused of stealing something very powerful and they are in danger.

It is up to Nic to navigate this new world to try to save him, with the help of her Cocoa, her long lost twin, and ‘unremarkable’ best friend as they embark upon the journey of a lifetime.

Kirkus describes as “A story of African American folklore and mythology, and an examination of Black American’s history and trauma in a fantastical world.”  

An excellent novel sure to be devoured!

Charlie Hernandez and the League of Shadows- Ryan Calejo

Charlie grew up listening to his abuela’s stories about the supernatural, but he soon discovers that they may not be just stories...

When Charlie’s parents mysteriously go missing he is determined to find out what happened to them, and why he has started growing feathers (and horns).  When he discovers a map in his mother’s old locket he embarks upon the adventure of a lifetime, where La Llorona, La Cuca and El Sombrerón are awaiting (and are no longer just names from his abuela’s stories).

Chupacarter – George Lopez and Ryan Calejo

A humourous story involving 12 –year-old Jorge, and his new best friend, a 7 foot tall chupacabra! 

When Jorge is sent away to live with his grandparents  he is not pleased.  They live in a remote area of New Mexico, and he doesn’t know anyone there.  When he meets a monster in the woods, he is initially terrified, but he soon learns that the monster Carter is not dangerous, and is just a lonely chupacabra that has been separated from his family.  He soon discovers that they share a love of video games, junk food and shoes, and they become fast friends.

When livestock start showing up dead Jorge becomes worried for Carter’s safety, as the townspeople want to know who (or what) is responsible are looking for creatures in the woods. Jorge knows Carter is innocent, and with the help of his new friends he embarks upon a quest to save him...  

All these great books are available to borrow from the Ottawa Public Library! Really enjoyed one of the titles and want to find something similar? Check out NoveList K-8 for read-alikes, recommendations, and more!

Don’t have a library card yet? No problem, you can register for free online!

This month’s blog is written by Charmaine Atrooshi, Children and Teen Librarian at the Hazeldean Branch of the Ottawa Public Library.

Meeting the social and emotional needs of young children - Ottawa Public Library Recommendations

Tough topics can be difficult to talk about with young children. These books, recommended by the Ottawa Public Library, offer a helping hand in a variety of situations to engage and spark reflective conversation.

Grief

All From a Walnut by Ammi-Joan Paquette

Following a family tradition, Grandpa gives Emilia a walnut and together they plant and care for it, but as her little nut grows into a tree, Grandpa begins to slow down until one sad day Emilia has to say goodbye.

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst

When Liza and Jeremy run to their mother during a scary storm, she comforts them by telling them about the invisible string, which connects people who love each other no matter where they are and means that they are never alone.

Maybe Tomorrow? By Charlotte Agell

Elba carries the black block of grief and sadness wherever she goes--until Norris comes along and helps her to let go of the block and enjoy life again.

Dementia

Hundred Years of Happiness by Thanhha Lai

An's grandmother Bà sometimes gets trapped in her cloudy memories. An and her grandfather Ông come up with a plan to bring her back to a happy moment: growing gấc fruits so they can make xôi gấc, Bà's favorite dish from her wedding in Vietnam many years ago. 

Never Forget Eleanor by Jason June

Elijah loves spending time with his grandma Eleanor. She knows all the best words to answer tricky crossword puzzles and to tell the most beautiful stories to her family and friends. Everyone calls her 'Never Forget Eleanor' because she remembers every word she reads and person she meets. Lately though, Elijah has started to notice grandma Eleanor forgetting little things.

The Day Abuelo Got Lost by Diane De Anda

Luis and his grandfather enjoy spending every afternoon together but when Abuelo becomes forgetful, Luis must find new ways to share time and show love.

Depression

A Blue Kind of Day by Rachel Tomlinson

Coen is having a sniffling, sighing, sobbing kind of day. His family thinks they know how to cheer him up. His dad wants to go outside and play, Mom tells her funniest joke, and his little sister shares her favorite teddy. Nothing helps. But one by one, they get quiet and begin to listen. After some time, space, and reassurance, Coen is able to show them what he needs.

Balloons for Papa by Elizabeth Gilbert Bedia

Arthur's father rushes him through the park every morning, through gray and rainy weather. Arthur just wants a bright balloon from the park's vendor, but Papa always says no. One morning, the balloons magically appear at their doorstep, and Arthur figures out the perfect way to bring the sunshine out--and Papa's smile back--even if only for a few moments.

Divorce and Separation

Here and There by Tamara Ellis Smith

After Ivan's parents separate, he has trouble finding joy at either of their homes until he discovers that the birds and music that he loves may be found in both places.

Mila has Two Beds by Judith Koppens

Mila has two homes: some days she lives with Mommy and some days she lives with Daddy. Today she is going to her Mommy's house. Everything is a little different at Mommy's than at Daddy's. But Mommy and Daddy both think Mila is the sweetest girl in the whole world.

 Resilience

Sometimes All I Need is Me by Juliana Perdomo

A young girl finds comfort and confidence within as she makes the best of any situation, in a text that highlights the themes of resiliency, mindfulness, and self-care.

The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld

When Taylor's block castle is destroyed, all the animals think they know just what to do, but only the rabbit quietly listens to how Taylor is feeling.

In Every Life by Marla Frazee

A picture book celebrating both the highs and lows that everyone experiences over the course of a life.

Amanda Spargo, Children's Services Librarian at the Ottawa Public Library - Ruth E. Dickinson Branch