Top Family-Friendly Summer Activities in Ottawa (2025 Edition)

From splash pads to stargazing: your go-to guide for making summer memories in the capital.

Ottawa comes alive in the summer — and it’s the perfect place for families to make lasting memories. Whether you’re planning weekend adventures with little ones or looking for activities that keep teens and adults entertained, there’s something for everyone.

At Evans Family Wealth, we’re a family-first business, so we know how special summer can be. That’s why we’ve put together a list of family-friendly summer activities in Ottawa for 2025 — with something for all ages, budgets, and weather forecasts.

Outdoor Adventures

1. Mooney’s Bay Beach (Free to Low Cost)

Pack a picnic and head to Mooney’s Bay for a classic summer day. There’s a large beach, volleyball courts, and one of the city’s best playgrounds. Bonus: it’s a supervised beach with lifeguards.

Best for: All ages

2. Calypso Waterpark (Splurge-Worthy)

Located just 30 minutes from Ottawa, Calypso is Canada’s biggest waterpark. With splash pads for toddlers and adrenaline-pumping slides for teens and adults, it’s a perfect full-day escape from the city.

Best for: Ages 5+
Source

3. Ottawa River Whitewater Rafting (Thrill Seekers Only!)

For families with older kids or adventurous adults, a whitewater rafting trip is unforgettable. Outfitters like OWL Rafting or Wilderness Tours offer beginner and advanced rides, plus post-ride BBQs and beach time.

Best for: Teens and adults
Bonus points if you can spot the Evans family — somewhere in this raft, making summer memories (and maybe screaming a little).

4. Dominion Arboretum & Experimental Farm (Nature Walks + Picnics)

For a quieter afternoon, wander through one of Ottawa’s most scenic green spaces. Great for unplugged time, photos, or a shady spot to relax with little ones.

Best for: All ages

Indoor Fun (Rain or Shine)

5. Canadian Museum of Nature

Cool off indoors with dinosaurs, ocean life, and a fascinating insectarium. The museum offers hands-on summer programming, and it’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids.

Best for: All ages

6. Altitude Gym or Clip ‘n Climb (Indoor Climbing Fun)

Rainy day? Let the kids (or teens) climb the walls — literally. These indoor climbing centres are a great way to burn off energy in a safe, exciting environment.

Best for: Ages 5+

Source

7. Ottawa Public Library Summer Reading Challenge

Encourage screen-free fun with the OPL’s summer reading challenge. Many branches host storytimes, scavenger hunts, and special events throughout July and August.

Best for: Ages 2–12

Special Events & Summer Magic

8. Sound of Light Fireworks Festival at Lac Leamy

Every August, Lac Leamy hosts a stunning international fireworks competition. It’s a personal favourite — in fact, it’s where Briana & Sam got engaged 💍. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a magical evening under the stars.

Best for: Ages 6+

Source

9. Capital Fair (Late August)

Wrap up the summer with Ottawa’s classic fair: midway rides, carnival games, live music, and all the cotton candy you can eat.

Best for: All ages

Source

Bonus: Just-for-Fun Ottawa Summer Bucket List

Summer isn’t just about big plans — sometimes it’s the simple things that create the best memories. Here are a few lighthearted, family-friendly ideas to make the most of the season:

✅ Try Different Ice Cream Spots

Make it a challenge! Some of our local favourites:

• The Merry Dairy – Classic charm and dairy-free options
• Stella Luna – Award-winning Italian gelato
• Jo-Jo’s Creameria – Fun and delicious themed cones for the whole family

• Carp Custom Creamery – Small-town gem, worth the drive
• Beachconers – Fun and family-friendly, right near the beach

✅ Find Ottawa’s Best Fry Truck

Taste-test your way through town:

• Crispy Chips – Glen & Anne’s favourite fry truck in town
• Wes’ Chips (Arnprior) – A must-stop on the way to rafting
• JP’s Fry Truck – Often spotted in Kanata and loved by locals
  Add a poutine rating system for extra fun!

✅ Campfire Nights

No cottage? No problem. Backyard firepits, beach bonfires in Gatineau Park (check regulations), or even s’mores in the oven can become your own family tradition. Add glow sticks, music, and maybe a spooky story or two for a full summer vibe.

✅ Start a Family Summer Tradition

In the Evans household, Friday nights mean charcuterie and bruschetta at Glen and Anne’s. Each family member brings an element for the board — cheeses, meats, crackers, fruits — and we all gather to unwind and reconnect. It’s simple, delicious, and one of the best parts of our summer rhythm.
Maybe your family tradition looks different — but setting aside one night a week to slow down and be together? That’s timeless.

Make the Most of Summer — and Your Finances

Whether you’re riding the waves at Calypso or relaxing at Mooney’s Bay, summer is about slowing down and spending time with the people who matter most.

As a family business serving families, we believe your financial plan should support the life you want to live — including the fun stuff. Our motto is “Our family, serving your family,” and that means helping you feel confident about your future.

➡️ Book your free mid-year review with Evans Family Wealth today
Let’s make the second half of 2025 your best yet.

Briana