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.
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.
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.

Julie
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
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
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
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
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...
Check the Gallery’s calendar for special Family Sunday themes and extra workshops during March and winter school breaks.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2 x 20) | CAD 40 |
| Café snacks | CAD 15 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 55 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada
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