To all the Ironman athletes coming from near and far. Welcome to our city. We really hope you enjoy your visit. If you are bringing your family here are a few ideas about fun things to do with them while you are here. They are all open race day, but some may be much easier to get to before or after the race.
Canada Strong Pass- The government of Canada introduced the Canada Strong Pass for this summer. It makes admission to many museums in Ottawa Free for children 17 and under and ½ price for youth aged 18-24. You do not need a “pass” you just need to meet the age requirement. We have some great museums for kids in town. All the museums listed here are included in the program.
The Canadian Museum of History
Open daily from 9-6 it’s on the bike course, right across the Alexandra bridge by the finish line and it contains the Canadian Children’s Museum which is one big interactive exhibit for the younger set. A great way to spend a few hours in the air conditioning. Ottawa parents know it well.
The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Open daily from 9-5. Located right along the run course so you can cheer on Mom after you go and visit the animals. Check the road closures, you may be able to get there by car if you come in via Baseline and Prince of Wales. There is a parking lot off Prince of Wales.
Open 9:30- 5. Located a few blocks from the run course in the downtown area. Lots of exhibits about iconic Canadian animals and some live bugs and sea creatures.
The Canada Science and Technology Museum
Open 9-5. Not on the course but this is also a favorite with Ottawa parents. Lots of interactive exhibits.
These museums are also included in the pass. Great for slightly older kids or kids with an interest in the topic. In general, they are less interactive.
Open 9-6. It’s on the bike course and may be a challenge to get to on race day. Easy to get to on public transit train line 1.
Open 9:30-5. It’s right at the finish line. The only way to get there race day will be on foot but depending on the exact finish set up you may be able to get there using the pedestrian bridge.
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Open 9-5. Right on the bike course so you can cheer Mom or Dad. You can probably get there race day via the Aviation parkway but check the road closures first.
Ottawa Beaches
We have serveal beaches along the Ottawa and Rideau Rivers. You can find more information about all the beaches here
Mooney’s Bay.
Just past the Colonel by bike turn around. It has a HUGE kids playground!
Westboro Beach
On the bike course but there is a pedestrian underpass so you should be able to get there on race day.
Britannia Beach
The swim start is on the point but there is a public beach in the bay. There will be NO parking here on race day.
Run K2J 