Canada’s capital offers plenty of exciting options for active and engaging family time with children. iottawa.net explores Ottawa’s playgrounds, helping you discover the best outdoor and indoor play areas to enjoy with your little ones.
Outdoor Playgrounds in Ottawa
Ottawa boasts numerous outdoor playgrounds, perfect for sunny weather. Here are some of the most popular spots:
- Westboro Kiwanis Park (formerly Cole Park). This playground features climbing obstacles, slides, swings for toddlers and older kids, and activities for children with special needs. In the summer, a themed splash pad is a favourite. Parents can enjoy snacks from vending machines, visit the on-site café (open 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM), and access restrooms and water fountains. Parking is free, and the park operates year-round.
Location: 411 Dovercourt Ave. | Contact: 613-798-8950 - Brewer Park. This charming, simple playground is ideal for younger children. Highlights include a play fire truck and engaging equipment designed for toddlers.
Location: 100 Brewer Way | Contact: 613-247-4938 - Andrew Haydon Park. This wooden playground is a hit with kids, featuring an automatic water sprayer and sandbox. Parents should bring a change of clothes for post-puddle jumping adventures. The park also offers various play structures, including a whimsical boat.
Location: 3127 Carling Ave. - Regatta Park. This playground features a rope network, natural elements, and a cooling-off zone. It’s a favourite among children looking for an active and refreshing day outdoors.
Location: 150 Pennant Ave. - Millennium Sports Park. Known for its impressive wooden pirate ship and a replica of Parliament Hill, this park combines fun with learning about Canada’s history. Children love the gradual climbs and the sense of achievement upon reaching the top.
Location: 100 Millennium Blvd., Orleans - Lansdowne Park. This European-style park offers modern play structures, a rope-climbing tower, and ample space for picnics and imaginative play. With shops nearby, it’s a family-friendly destination for a day out.
Location: 1015 Bank St. | Contact: 613-580-2595
These free playgrounds provide families with an excellent opportunity to bond, play, and enjoy the outdoors. Parents can ensure their children burn off energy in a healthy way while creating cherished memories.
Tips for Spending More Time Outdoors with Kids
Research highlights the benefits of fresh air for people of all ages. Here are some tips to encourage families to spend more time outside:
- Pack Snacks: Bring along food and drinks to enjoy during your playground visit, especially on sunny days.
- Walk Instead of Drive: Walking to the playground can extend quality family time and allow everyone to enjoy the scenery.
- Nature Hunts: Organize a “trash hunt” along the way to teach kids about environmental care while exploring.
- Garden Activities: Encourage older children to plant trees or help with gardening, fostering a connection with nature.
Indoor Playgrounds in Ottawa
For rainy days or winter weather, Ottawa offers several indoor playgrounds to keep children entertained:
- Cosmic Adventures. This multi-level indoor play structure includes obstacle courses, spiral slides, swings, and separated play zones for added comfort. Spanning 20,000 square feet, it caters to kids up to 12 years old.
Location: 1373 Ogilvie Rd. | Contact: 613-742-8989 - Kids Kingdom. Designed like a castle, this centre features slides, suspension bridges, tunnels, and inflatable obstacles. The facility serves food, including pizza and fruit platters.
Location: 66 Hearst Way | Contact: 613-599-5437 - Funhaven. This family-friendly entertainment centre offers a jungle-themed play area with spiral slides, climbing tunnels, boxing bags, and foam ball cannons. It also includes designated zones for toddlers, who can enter free of charge.
Location: 1050 Baxter Rd. | Contact: 613-828-4386 - Starr Gymnastics & Fitness. This facility features obstacle courses for children aged 1 to 5, including trampolines, climbing walls, and foam pits. Instructors are available to guide and assist.
Location: Starr Gymnastics locations vary—contact for details.
Creating a Backyard Playground
If you have outdoor space at home, consider building a personal playground. Install slides, swings, climbing walls, and sandboxes to create a safe, enjoyable play area. Ensure the equipment meets safety standards and use soft flooring materials like rubber tiles or sand. Consult local regulations for guidance before construction.
