Ottawa's March Break runs from March 14 to 22, and the city has packed the week with programming for kids and families across every neighbourhood and interest. Whether you're looking for science experiments, outdoor adventure, or world-class museum exhibits, the capital delivers.
Museums and Indoor Attractions
The Canadian Museum of Nature is running special March Break programming all week, including behind-the-scenes tours, science workshops, and their always-popular fossil exhibit. Tickets sell out fast, so book online in advance.
The Canada Science and Technology Museum has expanded hours during the break and is running daily demos for kids of all ages. Their Space Exploration and Innovation galleries are particularly popular with elementary-age visitors.
The National Museum of History across the river in Gatineau is offering free admission for children under 12 during March Break week, making it one of the best value outings in the region.
Outdoor Options
Gatineau Park's trails are transitioning from skiing to hiking conditions during this window, some groomed trails remain open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the higher elevations, while lower paths are clearing out for early spring walks.
The Ottawa Senators Foundation's community skating programs are running through the break at several outdoor rinks across the city. Check the city's rink status page before heading out, as conditions vary day to day.
Camps and Programs
The Ottawa Public Library system is running free programming at branches across the city all week, story times, craft workshops, and STEM activities that don't require any registration. It's a fantastic option for parents looking to fill an afternoon without spending money.
Several local recreational centres including Plant Bath, Nepean Sportsplex, and the Richcraft Recreation Complex are running day camps and drop-in swim sessions throughout the week.
Pro Tips
Book museum tickets in advance, the most popular venues sell out by Tuesday of break week every year. Pack layers: March in Ottawa means anything from spring sunshine to another ice storm, sometimes on the same day. And don't overlook the smaller neighbourhood options; Westboro, the Glebe, and Hintonburg all have local programming that's less crowded than the big institutions.
Source: Ottawa Tourism / To Do Canada
