Ottawa & Montreal 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Travel to Ottawa

Embark on your family road trip from London, Ontario, to the capital city of Ottawa.

Enjoy the winter scenery along the way. Stop for a quick lunch and stretch breaks as needed for the little ones.

Hotel Check-in & Rest

Check into your family-friendly hotel in Ottawa.

Allow time for the kids to settle in and relax after the drive, perhaps with a short nap or some playtime in the room.

The hotel is centrally located, making it easy to access many attractions. Ensure you have snacks and comfort items readily available for the kids upon arrival.

Cozy Christmas Dinner

Enjoy a special Christmas dinner.

Many hotel restaurants or pre-booked family-friendly establishments may offer festive menus. Alternatively, a relaxed take-out dinner at the hotel can be a comfortable option with young children.

Many restaurants may be closed or require reservations on Christmas Day, so it's advisable to plan and book this in advance. Inquire about kids' menus.

Parliament Hill Holiday Lights

Take a short evening stroll to Parliament Hill to see the beautiful holiday illuminations and festive projections.

It's a magical sight for all ages, perfect for a gentle Christmas evening activity.

Dress warmly! The light show is free and enchanting for children. Keep it brief to avoid overtiring the little ones.

Canadian Museum of Nature

Explore the Canadian Museum of Nature, a fantastic spot for kids with engaging exhibits like the dinosaur gallery, mammal exhibits, and a variety of interactive displays.

The 'Mammal Gallery' with taxidermy animals and the 'Fossil Gallery' with real dinosaur skeletons are usually big hits.

Check for any special Boxing Day hours or family programming. The museum is very hands-on and great for curious young minds.

Lunch in ByWard Market

Head to the vibrant ByWard Market for a casual family-friendly lunch.

You can find a variety of eateries offering quick bites or sit-down meals suitable for children.

The market has many options from casual food stalls to restaurants. Look for places with high chairs and kid-friendly menus.

ByWard Market Exploration

Stroll through ByWard Market, known for its unique shops and festive atmosphere.

Look for local crafts, treats, and perhaps some post-Christmas sales. The festive decorations add to the appeal.

Keep an eye out for any street performers or unique displays that might capture the kids' attention.

Hotel Downtime & Play

Return to the hotel for some essential downtime.

Let the kids play, watch a cartoon, or have a quiet moment to recharge before the evening activities.

Dinner Downtown

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in downtown Ottawa, choosing a family-friendly spot that caters to children.

Many restaurants will have opened again after Christmas Day.

Canada Aviation & Space Museum

Visit the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, where kids can marvel at impressive airplanes, helicopters, and space artifacts.

It's a spacious museum allowing for easy movement and plenty of visual stimulation. They often have hands-on exhibits or play areas for children.

The large exhibits and open spaces are great for children who love to explore. Check their website for any specific kid-focused programs or tours.

Lunch at Museum Cafe

Grab a convenient lunch at the museum's café, which often offers child-friendly options.

This saves travel time and keeps the energy up for more activities.

Canadian Children's Museum

Head over to the Canadian Children's Museum, located within the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau (just across the bridge from Ottawa).

This interactive museum is specifically designed for young children, allowing them to travel the world through hands-on exhibits.

This museum is highly engaging for kids, offering opportunities to dress up, explore different cultures, and play. Ensure to check opening hours as it's a popular spot.

Dinner in Gatineau

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Gatineau after your museum visit.

There are several family-friendly options near the Canadian Museum of History.

Leisurely Morning & Pack Up

Enjoy a relaxed start to the day.

Have breakfast at the hotel or a local café, allowing the kids some playtime before packing up and checking out of your Ottawa accommodation.

Drive to Montreal

Begin your journey from Ottawa to Montreal.

This picturesque drive takes you along the Ottawa River and into the heart of Quebec. Plan for comfort stops as needed.

Hotel Check-in Montreal

Arrive in Montreal and check into your chosen family-friendly accommodation.

Take some time to unpack, settle in, and let the kids relax.

Old Montreal Exploration

Take a gentle walk through the historic cobblestone streets of Old Montreal.

Admire the beautiful architecture, browse local shops, and soak in the charming Parisian flair. This area often has festive decorations during the holidays.

Keep an eye out for street artists or festive window displays. This is a beautiful area for families to wander.

Dinner in Old Montreal

Enjoy an early dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Old Montreal.

Many establishments cater to families.

Montreal Biodome Adventure

Immerse yourselves in the Montreal Biodome, a unique facility that recreates five different ecosystems of the Americas.

Kids will love seeing penguins, monkeys, various birds, and aquatic life up close in their recreated natural habitats.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during the holiday season. The Biodome is perfect for engaging young children with diverse wildlife.

Lunch at Olympic Park

Have lunch at one of the cafes or casual eateries located within the Olympic Park complex, conveniently close to the Biodome.

Montreal Botanical Garden

Explore parts of the Montreal Botanical Garden.

Even in winter, the conservatories offer a lush, warm escape with beautiful plant collections. Depending on winter programming, there might be specific indoor displays or themed children's activities.

The Japanese and Chinese Gardens' indoor sections are beautiful. Check if they have any remaining holiday-themed lights or displays (though their 'Gardens of Light' is usually in autumn).

Dinner in Le Plateau

Head to Le Plateau Mont-Royal for dinner, a vibrant neighborhood known for its diverse culinary scene and charming atmosphere.

Find a family-friendly restaurant offering a taste of Montreal.

Montreal Botanical Garden

Explore one of the world's leading botanical gardens.

In winter, the impressive greenhouses offer a warm escape, showcasing diverse plant collections from around the globe, which can be fascinating for children.

Check their website for special winter programming or kid-focused activities. The warmth of the greenhouses is a welcome break from the winter chill. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g155032-d240016-Reviews-Montreal_Botanical_Garden-Montreal_Quebec.html?m=66827

Family Lunch

Enjoy a casual, kid-friendly lunch near the Botanical Garden or as you transition towards Old Montreal.

Look for restaurants with high chairs and kid-friendly menus.

Stroll Old Montreal

Wander through the enchanting cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, admiring the historic architecture and festive holiday decorations. The charming atmosphere and unique shops can captivate young imaginations. Consider a short public transport ride for an added adventure.

Bundle up! The area is very walkable but can be chilly. Look for interesting window displays or street performers. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g155032-d155253-Reviews-Old_Montreal-Montreal_Quebec.html?m=66827

Dinner in Old Montreal

Dine at a family-friendly restaurant offering a taste of Montreal's diverse cuisine, ensuring options for even the pickiest eaters.

Indoor Play Centre

Let the kids burn off some energy at a local indoor play area.

These centres typically feature climbing structures, slides, and ball pits, perfect for 2 and 4-year-olds.

Search for 'indoor play Montreal' for the most current options and opening hours. A great way to keep kids active and entertained, especially in winter.

Casual Family Lunch

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a cafe or restaurant near the indoor play centre.

Relax & New Year's Prep

Enjoy some downtime back at the hotel, allowing the children to rest or play quietly.

Use this time to prepare for an early New Year's Eve celebration.

Family New Year's Eve

Head to the Old Port of Montreal or another festive area to experience some early New Year's Eve atmosphere.

You might find light displays, street performers, or special events designed for families before the late-night crowds.

Public transit might be easier than driving during New Year's Eve. Check local listings for family-friendly events and early firework shows if available. Dress warmly!

New Year's Eve Dinner

Enjoy a special, celebratory family dinner at a restaurant, or order in to relax and celebrate a bit earlier with the kids before their bedtime.

New Year's Day Brunch

Start the New Year with a leisurely family brunch, either at your hotel or a local cafe that's open and family-friendly.

Hotel Check-out & Depart

Check out from your hotel and make final preparations for your drive back to London, Ontario.

Ensure all belongings are packed.

Drive to London, Ontario

Embark on your comfortable drive back to London, Ontario.

Plan for several stops for the children to stretch their legs and for meals.

The drive is approximately 6-7 hours without stops, so plan for at least 8 hours with young children. Pack snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the car.

Dinner En Route

Stop for a family dinner at a roadside restaurant during your journey home.