Beat the Boredom: 10 Exciting Indoor Activities in Ottawa

Ottawa might be known for its beautiful outdoor adventures, but what do you do when the weather doesn't cooperate? Fear not, there are countless fantastic indoor activities to enjoy year-round in Canada's capital city! Here's our top 10 list:


1. Immerse Yourself in History with Ottawa's Museums

  • Business types: Museums
  • Age target: All ages
  • Family-friendly: Yes
  • Best time to go: Weekdays to avoid crowds, or weekends for special events and programs.
  • Additional details: Ottawa boasts world-class museums. Explore Canadian history at the Canadian Museum of History or delve into science at the Canada Science and Technology Museum. The National Gallery of Canada offers stunning art, while the Canadian War Museum provides a somber but vital perspective. Kids will love exploring the Canadian Museum of Nature!

2. Release Your Inner Competitor at an Escape Room

  • Business types: Escape room companies (such as Jigsaw Escape Rooms, Escape Manor)
  • Age target: Older children, teenagers, and adults (age restrictions may apply)
  • Family-friendly: Can be great for families or friend groups
  • Best time to go: Weekends or evenings, book in advance
  • Additional details: Work as a team to solve puzzles and riddles before the timer runs out! Ottawa has a thriving escape room scene with various themes to suit all tastes.

3. Get Your Game On at a Board Game Cafe

  • Business types: Board game cafes
  • Age target: All ages
  • Family-friendly: Absolutely!
  • Best time to go: Evenings or weekends for a relaxed atmosphere
  • Additional details: Enjoy a massive library of board games with cozy drinks and snacks. Perfect for a low-key night with friends or family. Check out spots like The Loft or Monopolatte.

4. Unleash Your Inner Fury (or Fun) at a Rage Room

  • Business types: Rage Rooms (ex: Smash Room Ottawa)
  • Age target: Older teens and adults (age restrictions apply)
  • Family-friendly: Not typically, but check for group packages
  • Best time to go: Evenings or weekends
  • Additional details: Let loose and break things! Don protective gear and destroy objects for a stress-relieving experience.

5. Climb to New Heights at Rock Climbing Gyms

  • Business types: Indoor rock climbing gyms
  • Age target: Ages 4 and up
  • Family-friendly: Yes, most gyms offer family classes and open climbing
  • Best time to go: Weekday mornings or early afternoons for less crowding
  • Additional details: Get a physical workout while having fun. Gyms like Altitude Gym provide routes for all skill levels.

6. Axe Throwing – Surprisingly Fun!

  • Business types: Axe throwing venues (like BATL or LumberJaxe)
  • Age target: Typically adults, some venues may have specific age restrictions
  • Family-friendly: Not usually, but some offer family-oriented times
  • Best time to go: Weekends and evenings
  • Additional details: Learn to hurl axes at targets in a safe environment with coaching. Great for a unique and adrenaline-pumping experience.

7. Bounce Your Energy Out at a Trampoline Park

  • Business types: Trampoline parks
  • Age target: All ages
  • Family-friendly: Definitely!
  • Best time to go: Weekdays or weekends for special events like toddler-only time
  • Additional details: Jump, flip, and defy gravity! Places like SkyZone offer dodgeball courts, foam pits, and more.

8. Immerse Yourself in Art or a Show

  • Business types: Theatres, art galleries (like the Ottawa Art Gallery or National Arts Centre)
  • Age target: Varies depending on the show or exhibition
  • Family-friendly: Often, with family-specific shows
  • Best time to go: Depends on the specific events
  • Additional details: Catch an unforgettable performance or explore captivating art exhibits. Ottawa's arts scene always has something on offer.

9. Roll a Strike at a Bowling Alley

  • Business types: Bowling alleys
  • Age target: All ages
  • Family-friendly: Yes!
  • Best time to go: Weekends for special events like glow bowling.
  • Additional details: A timeless classic with arcades and snacks.

10. Explore Virtual Worlds at a VR Arcade

  • Business types: VR arcades
  • Age target: Older kids, teens, and adults
  • Family-friendly: Can be, depending on the game choices
  • Best time to go: Evenings or weekends, book in advance
  • Additional details: Dive into immersive virtual reality experiences for unmatched gaming.
Remember to check the specific business websites for updated hours, and admission fees. Enjoy your indoor adventures in Ottawa
Location: Ottawa, ON, Canada

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