10 things to do for March Break Staycation in Ottawa

It's a sad reality that we can't all be jetting off to sun and sand for March Break (and the way the Canadian dollar is going, that's probably a good thing!) But that doesn't mean you can't have a fun March Break with the kids here in Ottawa. Here's a round-up of ten ideas for things to do in Ottawa over March break:

Starr Gymnastics: Camp for a day

If you are off work for March Break, you might not want to pay for a full-week camp for your child. But the thought of 7 days straight with the kiddos is a little much, no? Why not throw them into camp for a day? Starr Gymnastics has a $50 option for one-day camps during March Break as well as full week options, with various locations around the city.

Visit Parc Omega in the winter!

Think those furry animals are only out in the summer? Think again! Beat the busy lines of traffic at this popular destination by visiting in the winter!  The new First Nations Trail, “the trail of the talking trees,” just opened in October and pays tribute to the  original inhabitants of the Petite-Nation and the rest of the province. Along the 1-km trail, each of Quebec’s 11 First Nations is represented by an animal totem carved by Denis Charette, an artist from Cantley.

Snow Tubing

Tube sliding with the family is always a great time—you’ve got to do it at least once every winter! Domaine de l’Ange-Gardien in Outaouais offers eight different slides, a chairlift, old-fashioned horse-drawn sleigh rides, and snowshoe trails. Fresh air, fun and lots of laughter—a perfect recipe for a great day out for March Break!

Canada Aviation and Space Museum

Let the kids run off their sillies in one of the biggest museums in Ottawa. There is so much space to roam, and many activities planned throughout the days!

Altitude Gym

Lara checked out the clip 'n climb with her kids this past summer, and they had a great time! Your child can participate for the day or for a whole week camp!

Check out the Nature Museum

A museum full of natural history, outstanding galleries and special March Break activities. You'll need to stay all day to see everything!

Go see a movie

For some reason I never think of this option when I'm trying to find things for the kids to do - Cine Starz in Orleans and Imagine Cinemas at St. Laurent are both affordable options for families!

Visit a Sugar Bush in the city

If you want a "low-key" kind of day, stay in the city and visit our very own Sugar Bush at Vanier Museopark! The area is beautiful and serene, and you wouldn't even know you were surrounded by a large city - a great way to discover our urban environment.

Host a gaming afternoon

Board games are a great way to connect as a family, and can provide hours of fun. We're lacking in board games at our house, though (it's on my to-do list to purchase some more,) so our go-to place is The Loft Board Game Lounge. Kids are more than welcome, and parents can sip on a local brew while checking out the 800 games available! 

The National Art Gallery: Artissimo

The Gallery is chock full of activities for youngsters - there are family-guided tours, audio tours, feely boxes, and mini-workshops where kids can create their own art. If you think the Art Gallery is just for parents, think again!

Are you staying in Ottawa for March Break?