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Canada/Things to Do in Ottawa, with kids

National Gallery of Canada (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is National Gallery of Canada?

86%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 86% Kids-Friendly: Kids enter free and can join Artissimo, Open Studio, scavenger hunts, and Family Sundays, but fragile exhibits require supervision and some activities run only weekends or school breaks.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 10,068 reviews)
Why Ottawa's National Gallery is Worth the Trip
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Why Ottawa's National Gallery is Worth the Trip
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Positives:

  • Child-friendly free admission: Kids 11 and under enter free any day.
  • Stroller and facilities: Borrow a free stroller and use diaper-changing tables in all restrooms.

Challenges:

  • Weekend crowd: Galleries and studios get busy on weekends, limiting workspace in Open Studio.
  • Limited daily programs: Hands-on activities like Artissimo and Mystery are only on weekends or select Sundays.
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🏖️ Explore National Gallery of Canada with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around National Gallery of Canada. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is National Gallery of Canada?

  • A national art museum in downtown Ottawa that houses Canadian, Indigenous and international artworks
  • A collection of over 40,000 paintings, sculptures and prints ranging from European Old Masters to contemporary Canadian art
  • An architectural landmark by Moshe Safdie featuring a glass-and-limestone facade overlooking the Ottawa River

What is so special about National Gallery of Canada for with kids?

  1. Interactive art stations and workshops for children aged 3+.
  2. Scavenger hunts and bingo games engage kids in the galleries.
  3. Kids 11 and under enter free any day.
  4. Family-focused activities on weekends and holiday breaks.
  5. Plaza’s Maman sculpture provides a unique outdoor photo opportunity.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for interactive workshops, a scavenger hunt, and a snack break without rushing.

(View National Gallery of Canada on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in National Gallery of Canada

Artissimo Kiosk:

Hands-on discovery station in the Scotiabank Great Hall for kids aged 3+.

Tip: Visit on weekends or holiday Mondays between 10 am and 4 pm when staff guide activities.

Open Studio Workshops:

Drop-in art-making sessions with supplies and interpreters, free for kids under 11.

Tip: Arrive early on weekend mornings to grab a table before it fills up.

Mystery at the Art Gallery:

Scavenger-hunt game with hidden clues and fingerprint art during Family Sundays.

Tip: Pick up clue sheets at the Information Desk and team up to solve puzzles.

Art Bingo:

Gallery-wide bingo to spot artworks matching card images.

Tip: Collect cards at the ticket counter and enter to win small prizes.

Maman Sculpture Photo Spot:

Giant bronze spider outside on the plaza.

Tip: Stop here before or after your visit for a quick outdoor break and family photo.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Gallery of Canada

  1. Use free stroller: Pick up a Gallery stroller at the main entrance to ease moving between exhibits.
  2. Plan snack break: Schedule a mid-visit café stop around 11:30 am to recharge before afternoon activities.
🏖️ Tour National Gallery of Canada like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in National Gallery of Canada. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of National Gallery of Canada

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Julie

Julie

Oct 2025

A beautiful building with convenient parking on site and small coffee shop in the building. 2 floors of art mainly contemporary, indigenous and European art. You will need at least 2-3.5 hours to finish. Very spacious. Clean bathrooms and nice staff.

Faria Jerin

Faria Jerin

Oct 2025

The National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa is definitely worth a visit. The architecture is stunning, and the atmosphere feels calm and welcoming. You can find everything from famous Canadian artists to thought-provoking modern art, plus the amazing Indigenous art collection. It’s a place where you can spend hours exploring and always discover something new. I have been there two times but still fee...

Sascha P

Sascha P

Sep 2025

I love how the buildings architecture makes the overall art experience even more incredible. Experiencing art is one thing but have it mixed with another form of art (architecture) and colored walls made me really enjoy this visit even more. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves art and architecture.

Michael Zawerbny

Michael Zawerbny

Aug 2025

Interesting place. The building is a work of art itself. This place has something for everyone. Some of the modern art is total nonsense but there is historical art that is amazing. The best display was the Rideau Cathedral. What an amazing and beautiful piece of audible art. I could have sat and listened all day. Hats off to the people who thought of that.

Sam Jaroudi

Sam Jaroudi

Aug 2025

The National Gallery of Canada is one of the gems that Ottawa has to offer. It's a world class gallery that should be on your list of places top visit when in the Nation's Capital. The facility is modern, spacious, well-staffed and has all the amenities you'd expect from one of the largest art museums in North America. With more than 93,000 works of art, as a permanent collection, you're in fo...

When is the best time to visit National Gallery of Canada (Ottawa, Canada)?

Check the Gallery’s calendar for special Family Sunday themes and extra workshops during March and winter school breaks.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Ottawa on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Adult admission (2 x 20)CAD 40
Café snacksCAD 15
Total EstimatedCAD 55

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of National Gallery of Canada

Address: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada

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About National Gallery of Canada

Opening Hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 613-990-1985

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