Pocket-Change Pursuits

Already blown your summer amusement budget on holidays, camps, museums, zoos and swimming lessons? That’s why we thought we’d share a few of our secrets (they’re free) for kid-friendly activities around Ottawa.

First is our simple strategy of “making ordinary fun more fun”. That is, think of the free things you already do that are fun, and do them somewhere else—just for the novelty. If your kids like to spend a whole morning at the playground, check out a different playground in the next neighbourhood. If they like wading pools, try a different one, or a splash pad.

Visit your local branch of the Ottawa Public Library and check out the library programs to find out what free events, workshops or story hours may be taking place at your branch this week.

Head downtown to Parliament Hill to watch the ceremonial parade and changing of the guard every morning at 10 am. You can explore the grounds, meet a Mountie, tour Parliament Hill with help from site interpreters, and check out the view from the Peace Tower.

Visit the Museum of Nature. Admission is free on Saturday mornings, and kids up to age three are free at all times. Also free on weekdays from 4 to 5 pm: the Museum of Science and Technology, the Aviation Museum, and the animal barns at the Experimental Farm.

Go for a hike and picnic at Hogs Back Falls. The moniker is unfortunate but the waterfall will delight kids, and the nearby trails are just right for families.

Visit the RCMP Musical Ride Centre, where you can meet the horses, tour their stables, visit the Farrier Station, walk through the Tack Room, and see the stately carriages once used in royal escorts of the Queen.

Finally, we have an activity that’s a sport, a game and just plain fun to make and eat too! It’s called “kick the can” ice cream.

So no more counting the days until school starts again! As soon as September arrives, you’ll wish it was August again. So make the most of your summer and create some memorable moments while it lasts!

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