Animal activities Ottawa

Wild About Wildlife: Exploring Animal Activities in Ottawa

Meet the Locals

• Ottawa Zoo: Get up close and personal with over 1,500 animals from around the world at this popular zoo. Highlights include a giraffe feeding platform, a polar bear exhibit, and a butterfly garden.
• Canada Agriculture and Food Museum: Learn about farm animals and get hands-on experience at this interactive museum featuring cows, pigs, sheep, and horses.

Outdoor Adventures

• Wildlife Viewing Cruises: Take a guided cruise on the Rideau Canal to spot beavers, otters, and other aquatic wildlife.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Explore Ottawa’s many parks and trails to see deer, birds, and other small animals in their natural habitats.

Animal Encounters

• Visit a Local Farm: Many farms around Ottawa offer tours and the opportunity to interact with farm animals like goats, sheep, and horses.
• Meet the Inhabitants of the Ottawa River: Take a guided kayak or canoe tour to see fish, beavers, and other river creatures up close.

Tips and Essentials

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) are ideal for outdoor animal activities. Fall (September-October) is great for spotting wildlife on the Rideau Canal.
• Getting Around: The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, or you can rent a bike or kayak to explore.
• Respect the Animals: Always follow guidelines and instructions from guides or farm staff when interacting with animals.

Special Events

• Canada Day Celebrations: Join in the festivities on July 1st to see live animal performances and demonstrations at various locations around the city.
• Winterlude: This winter festival (late January-early February) features ice sculptures, snow slides, and other fun activities for all ages.