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A Week in Ottawa, Ontario & Niagara Falls: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Travel Dates: January 1-7, 2024

Monday, January 1: Arrival in Ottawa

Morning: Start your Ottawa adventure by exploring Parliament Hill, the seat of Canada's government. Take a guided tour of the historic buildings and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area.

Afternoon: Visit the Canadian Museum of History, where you can learn about Canada's rich history and culture through engaging exhibits.

Evening: Experience Winterlude at Confederation Park, where you and your family can enjoy ice sculptures, ice skating, and live entertainment.

  • Parliament Hill: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Canadian Museum of History: CAD 20 per adult, CAD 12 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Winterlude at Confederation Park: Free, evening event
Tuesday, January 2: Exploring Ottawa

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the ByWard Market. Explore the stalls filled with fresh produce, local products, and unique crafts. Don't forget to grab a delicious beaver tail pastry, a Canadian treat!

Afternoon: Discover the wonders of nature at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum. Learn about farming practices, meet farm animals, and enjoy interactive exhibits.

Evening: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If weather permits, try ice skating on the frozen canal.

  • ByWard Market: Free (costs vary for purchases), 2-3 hours
  • Canada Agriculture and Food Museum: CAD 13 per adult, CAD 9 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Rideau Canal: Free, evening activity
Wednesday, January 3: Journey to Niagara Falls

Morning: Depart Ottawa and make your way to Niagara Falls. Arrive in the afternoon.

Afternoon: Get up close and personal with the magnificent Niagara Falls on the Hornblower Niagara Cruises. Feel the mist on your face as you cruise to the base of the falls.

Evening: Explore Clifton Hill, a lively street filled with attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options for the whole family.

  • Niagara Falls: CAD 30 per adult, CAD 20 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Clifton Hill: Costs vary for attractions, evening activity
Thursday, January 4: Discovering Niagara Falls

Morning: Visit the Butterfly Conservatory, where you can walk among thousands of colorful butterflies in a tropical rainforest setting.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the interactive exhibits at the Niagara Falls History Museum, which showcases the fascinating history of the falls and the surrounding area.

Evening: Enjoy a scenic drive along the Niagara Parkway, stopping at viewpoints to admire the falls illuminated by colorful lights.

  • Butterfly Conservatory: CAD 16 per adult, CAD 10 per child, 1-2 hours
  • Niagara Falls History Museum: CAD 8 per adult, CAD 5 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Niagara Parkway: Free, evening activity
Friday, January 5: Ottawa's Cultural Gems

Morning: Visit the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, where you can explore interactive exhibits, historic aircraft, and even step aboard the original Canadarm.

Afternoon: Take a trip to the Canadian Museum of Nature, which houses impressive displays of natural history and a fascinating dinosaur exhibit.

Evening: Enjoy a performance at the National Arts Centre, which showcases a variety of cultural performances including music, dance, and theater.

  • Canada Aviation and Space Museum: CAD 24 per adult, CAD 16 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Canadian Museum of Nature: CAD 17 per adult, CAD 7 per child, 2-3 hours
  • National Arts Centre: Ticket prices vary, evening activity
Saturday, January 6: Ottawa's Outdoor Beauty

Morning: Explore Gatineau Park, located just outside Ottawa. Enjoy hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and if conditions allow, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

Afternoon: Visit the Canada Science and Technology Museum, where interactive exhibits allow you to learn about science and innovation in a fun and engaging way.

Evening: Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant ByWard Market and enjoy dinner at one of its many restaurants.

  • Gatineau Park: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Canada Science and Technology Museum: CAD 17 per adult, CAD 11 per child, 2-3 hours
  • ByWard Market: Costs vary for dining, evening activity
Sunday, January 7: Farewell to Ottawa

Morning: Before departing Ottawa, visit the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography to admire striking works of modern photography.

Afternoon: Take a relaxing walk along the Rideau Canal and bid farewell to the beautiful sights of Ottawa.

Evening: Depart for your next destination.

  • Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography: CAD 12 per adult, CAD 6 per child, 1-2 hours
  • Rideau Canal: Free, afternoon activity

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly off the beaten path attraction, consider visiting the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum in Ottawa. This living history museum showcases rural life in the 19th and early 20th centuries, providing a hands-on experience for visitors of all ages.

Locals in Ottawa love exploring the Ottawa River Pathway, a scenic trail that follows the river's edge. Rent bicycles or simply take a leisurely walk to enjoy the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

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