Family-Friendly Adventures in Toronto, ON!

Preston Street (Little Italy)

Why Visit?

Welcome to Preston Street, the vibrant heart of Little Italy in Ottawa! Here’s a fun-packed, family-friendly itinerary that makes the most of this culturally rich neighborhood.

### Morning

Start at the Plant Recreation Centre (930 Somerset St W)

- Activity: Begin your day with a splash in the indoor pool or a casual family skate depending on the season.

- Getting There: Easily accessible by bus (routes 14 or 11) or by driving (parking available onsite).

- Interesting Fact: The center is named after Britannia"s Plant Bath, Ottawa"s first indoor pool!

Brunch at Pub Italia (434 ½ Preston St)

- Activity: Enjoy a hearty brunch in this quirky pub that blends Irish hospitality with Italian charm.

- Getting Here: It’s a short walk from the recreation center, heading north on Preston Street.

- Interesting Fact: Pub Italia has an extensive beer bible featuring over 200 types of beer!

### Afternoon

Tour of the Canadian Museum of Nature (240 McLeod St)

- Activity: Explore the museum’s fascinating galleries, including the dinosaur exhibit and the interactive Nature Live gallery where kids can touch and learn about various rocks and fossils.

- Getting Here: Take bus 14 or 11 back towards downtown, and get off at McLeod street.

- Interesting Fact: The museum is housed in a stunning castle-like building, originally built as the Victoria Memorial Museum in 1912.

### Evening

Dinner at La Roma Restaurant (430 Preston St)

- Activity: Wind down your day with delicious Italian cuisine at this family-owned restaurant that has been a local favorite since 1962.

- Getting Here: A short stroll south along Preston Street.

- Interesting Fact: La Roma has a beautiful terrace that overlooks the Italian Walk of Fame, celebrating notable Italian-Canadians.

Gelato at Stella Luna Gelato Café (1103 Bank Street)

- Activity: Treat the family to award-winning gelato in a cozy, welcoming environment.

- Getting Here: Catch bus 7 or drive south, and savor the sweet end to your day!

- Interesting Fact: Stella Luna is run by a trained master gelatiera from Rome.

This itinerary promises a delightful blend of activities that capture the essence of Little Italy while keeping everyone entertained and engaged! Enjoy your family trip to Preston Street!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Ottawa Parliament Hill

Why Visit?

Discover the heart of Canadian democracy with a family-friendly visit to Ottawa"s iconic Parliament Hill. Begin your exploration at the grandioeducts. Visitor parking is available on nearby streets, and the site is a short walk from several major bus routes.

Start your visit with a *free guided tour* of the Centre Block, home to the Senate, House of Commons, and the famous Library of Parliament. Be sure to book your tour in advance online, especially during busy tourist seasons. Each tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Canada"s legislative process and stunning architecture.

After the tour, step outside to explore the expansive grounds of Parliament Hill. The front lawn is perfect for a family picnic with unbeatable views of the Ottawa River. Don"t miss the *Centennial Flame*, where you can teach the kids about the provinces and territories of Canada.

Plan your visit to coincide with the *Changing of the Guard* ceremony, which takes place each morning during the summer months at 10:00 AM. This colorful spectacle is a delight for kids and adults alike, featuring the march of guards, pipers, and drummers in traditional uniforms.

Next, head to the Peace Tower, where you can ride an elevator up to the observation deck for panoramic views of Ottawa. The Tower also houses the *Memorial Chamber*, which honors Canadians who have lost their lives in military service.

If time allows, participate in one of the many family-friendly events and festivals held on Parliament Hill throughout the year, from the magical Christmas Lights Across Canada to summer yoga sessions on the lawn.

Finish your day by wandering down to the nearby ByWard Market to grab a bite to eat or explore local shops, making your visit to Parliament Hill both educational and unforgettable.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Rideau Canal

Why Visit?

Immerse your family in the charm and beauty of the historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with this fun-filled itinerary:

Morning: Arrive at Downtown Ottawa

Start your day in Ottawa’s vibrant downtown. Park near Parliament Hill and stroll to the Rideau Canal, just a few minutes away. Begin at the Ottawa Locks, right beside the Bytown Museum—a perfect spot for an educational glimpse into Canada’s canal history. Take a guided tour (available during summer months) to see the locks in operation and learn about their engineering.

Fun Fact: The Rideau Canal is the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America!

Mid-Morning: Rent Bikes

Next, rent bikes from a nearby shop (or Rideau Canal Cruises during summer) and pedal along the scenic pathways lining the canal. Head south towards Dow’s Lake. This ride offers beautiful water views and plenty of green spaces for a quick snack or impromptu picnic.

Lunch: Dow’s Lake Pavilion

Arrive at Dow’s Lake Pavilion for lunch. Enjoy a meal at one of the family-friendly restaurants with a view of the lake. In winter, this area transforms into a massive skating rink, part of the world-famous Rideau Canal Skateway.

Afternoon: Explore Hartwells Locks

Cycle or drive to Hartwells Locks, located near Carleton University. Watch boats navigate the locks and explore the surrounding areas, which are great for bird-watching and leisurely walks.

Late Afternoon: Mooney"s Bay

Finish your day at Mooney’s Bay, a great spot for relaxation and recreation. Kids can play at the large pirate-themed playground, and the whole family can enjoy the beach.

Interesting Fact: The Rideau Canal Skateway is the largest naturally frozen ice skating rink in the world, as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.

This itinerary offers a blend of education, activity, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family along the historic Rideau Canal.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Canadian Museum of Nature

Why Visit?

Embark on an exciting journey through the natural world at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, a must-visit destination for families interested in science and nature!

### Getting There

Located at 240 McLeod Street, the museum is easily accessible by public transport (bus routes 5 and 14) or by car with onsite parking available. It"s just a few minutes from downtown, making it a convenient stop on your city tour.

### Start Your Tour

Lobby and Moon

Begin your visit in the grand entrance and marvel at the moon sculpture hanging above. It"s a great spot for a family photo!

### Fossil Gallery

Next, delve into prehistoric times in the Talisman Energy Fossil Gallery. Kids can see the majestic skeletons of dinosaurs and learn how these creatures lived millions of years ago. Don"t miss the interactive zone where you can touch a real fossil!

### Water Gallery

Continue to the Water Gallery where you can explore Canada’s aquatic ecosystems. Watch the mesmerizing jellyfish and learn about the importance of water conservation. The live animal exhibits here are a hit with children of all ages.

### Bird Gallery

Fly over to the Bird Gallery next. Here, you"ll learn about the diversity of Canadian birds through beautiful displays and sounds. It"s a sensory treat and a chance to compare wingspans with a life-sized eagle spread.

### Earth Gallery

Wrap up your visit in the Vale Earth Gallery, where glowing minerals and interactive displays explain the dynamic processes of our planet. Kids can experience an earthquake and uncover the secrets of rocks and minerals.

### Dining and Souvenirs

The Nature Café offers kid-friendly meals and snacks, perfect for a break. Before heading out, stop by the Nature Boutique to pick up educational toys and souvenirs as a memory of your visit.

### Tip

Check out the museum’s calendar for special exhibitions and family-oriented workshops that may be scheduled during your visit. These programs are designed to engage children in learning through hands-on activities and fun!

Capture the wonder of the natural world in this iconic, castle-like museum, creating memories that will last a lifetime for your family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Royal Canadian Mint

Why Visit?

Family Day at the Royal Canadian Mint

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure at the Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa. Easily accessible by car or public transit, it’s located at 320 Sussex Drive. Parking can be found nearby, and the OC Transpo buses have stops close to the Mint. Arrive early to enjoy the serene morning ambiance of the surrounding area.

Tour Beginnings (10:00 AM)

Begin with a guided tour, which starts every hour. Dive into the fascinating world of coin production where the kids can learn about the meticulous art and science behind currency manufacturing. The tour is both educational and entertaining, making it perfect for all ages. Remember to check for the special coin strikes and collector items!

Interactive Fun (11:00 AM)

After the guided tour, head to the interactive coin museum. Here, children can engage in hands-on activities, like designing their own virtual coin. It’s a unique blend of history and technology that keeps the learning fun and interactive.

Lunch Break (12:00 PM)

Take a lunch break at one of the local eateries or pack a picnic to enjoy in Major’s Hill Park, offering great views and a chance to relax before you continue your day.

Souvenir Shopping (1:00 PM)

Return to the Mint for some souvenir shopping. The boutique offers exclusive coins and Mint-themed memorabilia that can serve as a precious memento of your visit.

Afternoon Exploration (2:00 PM)

Conclude your visit with a leisurely stroll around the exterior of the Mint. The building itself is an architectural marvel, standing since the early 20th century and boasting a castle-like facade.

Departure (3:00 PM)

As your day ends, take home not just souvenirs but also cherished memories of a day well spent exploring one of Canada’s most iconic institutions. Safe travels!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.