The 11 best science and space museums in Ottawa

We had a great experience here! The museum is all on one floor, which makes it easy to get around, and there’s plenty to see and do. There are tons of interesting historical facts, and the open layout means it never feels too crowded. Each exhibit has several items on display, which kept things engaging. There are also lots of interactive features that make it fun and exciting—especially for kids! The bathrooms were clean, the gift shop was lovely, and the café was nice, with a good selection of snacks and drinks and lots of open seating. The pricing was also very reasonable! Overall, a really enjoyable visit. I’d definitely recommend it!

Amazing day at this museum: plan to stay the day, bring a lunch (minimal options at cafeteria). The museum offers demos even on quiet weekdays - we attended 3 shows and they were very engaging, bilingual, and great learning opportunities! The train exhibit is captivating and there are some wooden trains to play with. Most of the exhibits have interactive activities, cycling through times allows you to ride and race on a bike, several microscope, height comparison, etc. A whole zone for under 8 years old allow kids to explore on their own - truly engaging. Parking with Indigo is 9,50$/day We will return. The membership (which allows you access to 2 other Ingenium museum) is a good deal.

Canada Science and Technology Museum — Family Visit Review We visited the Canada Science and Technology Museum last weekend with our family, and it was a fantastic experience. The kids had a great time exploring all the interactive exhibits and activities, and the adults enjoyed refreshing their own science and technology knowledge. The ticket prices were reasonable, and with the Strong Pass, you get additional discounts, which is a nice bonus. At the entrance, after check in, they provided us with maps, and each exhibit room was clearly labeled, making it easy to navigate from one gallery to the next. The museum layout is very intuitive, with rooms connected in a way that lets you flow naturally through the space. The amount of information and hands-on learning available is incredible — truly a brain gym for kids! There was so much to learn, from basic scientific principles to complex technology concepts, all explained through simple and engaging experiments. This interactive approach really makes science come alive. There were plenty of activities to keep the kids engaged, including hands-on stations, games, and even demonstrations. Adults will find it equally fascinating, with opportunities to revisit and reconnect with science and tech concepts they might have forgotten. The museum is quite large, so I would recommend planning for at least 4 to 6 hours, depending on how deeply you want to explore each area. We hadn’t fully planned our time and ended up having to skip the last block of exhibits, so be sure to allow enough time if you want to see everything. I didn’t notice a dedicated refreshment area or café, so if you have kids who might need a snack break, it’s best to check with the front desk about food and drink options before you start your tour. Parking was easy, and the staff at the entrance were friendly and patient Overall, this museum is absolutely worth your time. It’s educational, entertaining, and suitable for all ages. Highly recommend a visit!

This was a fun experience. We had not been to visit in years so it all seemed very new and exciting and a great learning experience. They also have a massive building adjacent that has a guided tour of the exhibits that are not on display.

Very fun to walk around and learn about the advancement of the technology we see everyday, the the technology we left behind. We loved the Sound section with the fun gadgets we could play around with. The Kitchen section felt the most informative and the steam power section was the most fun to walk around due to the absolute scale of the trains. The building also looks quite nice.

This is a pretty big museum. Great for children to explore and learn about technology and science. The museum has some science experiments to explain concepts to children. There is a big room close to the exit to play and booster the children imagination. Paid parking area. Big area for eating.

Fascinating museum housing a great array of exhibits. Everything from transportation to space is covered here. We spent 2 hours there and could have spent more if we read more of the info on the exhibits or did some of the more interactive activities.

Amazing experience. Was very interesting to realize the whole process from finding till exhibition.

I’ve been coming to the Museum of science and technology for almost 50 years. They still have the crazy kitchen however, the chicks hatching display is long gone.

The Ingenium was fun for a few hours of walking around and looking at the exhibits. It seemed more for kids than adults in some parts, but most of the displays had excellent explanations such as the steel making and train exhibits. There are many hands on displays and touchable objects for everyone to try out and enjoy. The parking lot is not free.

One of our favorite museums to visit! Getting the membership has meant we can revisit as often as we'd like and enjoy the space.

Really fun building full of history and artifacts. Staff are very knowledgeable!

3 Great museums offering loads of artefacts and great information as well as interactive displays. Fun for all ages. Great way to spend a morning or afternoon and perfect rainy day activity!

Geared to people who know the place and contents. Not for newcomers. Unwelcoming. Pretentious. Very disappointing.

This parking garage was an excellent choice for exploring downtown on foot. It’s conveniently located, very clean, and well-lit, which made it feel safe even in the evening. Plenty of available spots when we arrived, and clear signage made it easy to find our way in and out. Great option if you’re visiting nearby shops, museums, or restaurants. Would definitely use it again next time I’m in the area.

Worst customer service. If I could give a 0, I would. So it said complete but one row said 1. So I entered and pressed to talk to someone and I physically literally see a free Accessibilty parking but the agent kept saying at this point, I needed to wait til a car comes out. I asked for what? there is a handicap parking I am looking at. I even showed the accessibility permit regardless if there is a camera or not. He hung up on me. I moved to the other ticket machine, he said the same thing, yet I am still seeing the free Accessible parking. then I asked if I can just go through to exit considering there are now 3 cars behind me. Then I had to tell the others to reverse...whilst this happening, there is still a free Accessible parking. My poor disabled husband, we couldn't even get to see the fireworks and just went home. All this happening, and the handicap parking was still free.

Great location but as many reviews mentioned it not safe. My car was broken in and all contents was ransacked. Luckily nothing was stolen as they couldn't find anything worthwhile. No camera near the parking spot. Filed a report with security, but it seemed just a formality and the guard indicated it's very common occurrence there.

The WORST place to park in the Byward Market. The gates and the ticket/pay machines are often broken. You can find trash, fluids and junkies in the staircases (or hiding behind your car). Today, around 5 pm, more than 15 cars were stuck inside the parking due to faulty pay machines… Of note, there are plenty of other parking lots nearby, just Google « Ottawa Byward Market parking » ; )

On a Sunday (10th August), I entered Byward Market garage. Both on-line and at the pay sites it said $8.00 max between 6 am to 6 pm which is why I chose this garage for day (online stills show max as $8). I have ticket receipt which shows I entered 8:53 am and departed 17:46 but I was charged $10.00. This is unprofessional and unacceptable especially from a city garage at a major tourist site.

Would never recommend this parking garage. They’ve posted on their website and signage that the max. is $8 on Sundays and holidays but charged me $9.50. I parked there on Sunday 10:45am to 2pm. The machine did not print a receipt and the attendant did not help.

Lots of spots. The the Byward Market district. Easy to get in and out of even with a truck.

Got the beef birria tacos and it was tooooooo good 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 There was so much meat, the shells were crunchy and the pickled vegetables were a good addition. The service was friendly and welcoming. There are a good amount of seating and they seem to have a patio too. Will be coming back and bringing friends!

The chicken Parmesan pesto sandwich was out of the world. It had an entire piece of actual thick chicken breast inside, the picture just shows half the sandwich and all these for just $11 in this high inflation times

Looking at the pictures and reviews, I was very excited to try this place out. The meat was extremely dry and there was barely any taste. Like they forgot to add salt or seasoning to their food, was quite disappointed. Anyways, I always believe in giving restaurants a second chance, I'll try again in the next few months and do an update on my review.

Fast, fresh and tasty! Took advantage of the BOGO on Uber for pick up. We got 2 beef birria taco plates, 2 Cajun shrimp Mac and cheese and a Tandoori chicken loaded fried. The portions are generous and the Tandoori Chicken loaded fries is a MUST TRY item! It’s savory, it’s crunchy from the fries but soft from the chicken, oh man what an explosive of flavor! I had plenty of food leftover for lunch the next day! Highly recommend!

I ordered in restaurant to go, and the food came cold. I was starving so I ate some in my car - it was a hard cold congealed mass. I ordered Korean fries, bulgogi was burnt, tough and chewy. The burnt sauce made everything else taste burnt. There was only a few pieces of kimchi, almost no green onions, and a slight drizzle of spicy mayo that seemed more for show than flavour. It was honestly the worst meal I've had in a long time - which was disappointing because I was STARVING, which is when food usually tastes incredible. The guy who handed it to me said I was really going to enjoy it, so maybe he tried his best?

I’ve only been here a few times but after each visit I left content, full and immediately craving more! If you’re craving the best birria tacos in Ottawa, After Hours is the spot! Their tacos are unreal – juicy, flavorful, and made with fresh ingredients. The vibe is laid-back, and the staff is super friendly. The birria tacos are the best I’ve had and I won’t be going anywhere else. I’m excited to try everything on the menu! Highly recommend!

Absolutely amazing! The restaurant was so clean, the staff were kind, and the food was delicious. And it’s halal!! big win, i’ll definitely be coming back for more

I have been a patient of this clinic since 2019 and have been taking my young children to Dr. Chen since their very first check-ups. In that time, our family has always received kind, expert and comprehensive care. Dr. Haney and Dr. Chen always make sure that our exams are thorough, and they’re especially good at explaining our family’s eye health in a way that’s helpful both for ourselves, and to us as parents. The clinic staff are especially professional and helpful as well. You can tell that everyone here really cares about their patients, and that’s why I recommend them to my friends and colleagues.

I had an eye exam with Dr Haney. I went for a regular eye exam. He was super attentive and very detail oriented. He explained exactly what was going in with my eye situation. He understood my eye issues perfectly and provided me with all the available options. He was super patient and spent a great deal of time with me. Cannot recommend him enough.

I saw Dr Molly Lin for a routine eye exam and had a fantastic experience. I was greeted immediately by Shae who did the initial work up, then saw Elizabeth for the initial exams before I was directed to Dr Lin. At the end of the appointment I settled up with Riley who made sure I had digital and physical copies of my prescription and receipt. Everyone was so professional and friendly, it made a usually routine bi-annual check up that much more pleasant! The lack of wait time was also great! I was in and out in record time, while feeling heard and not feeling at all rushed. Dr Lin even noticed that my glasses were over correcting my vision and set me up with a prescription that is much better suited to my needs.

I had a very positive experience during my appointment with Dr. Haney. He was attentive, patient, and took the time to address all of my concerns thoroughly despite my limited knowledge of biology, LOL! He also offered some solid suggestions that were both practical and helpful. I really appreciated his approach and the patience.

Wow! I am absolutely blown away by the staff at this location. I was looking for an eye doctor that was based closer to home and more attentative to my needs, so I scheduled my 2 year exam here. Dr. Haney is incredibly kind and caring, listened to me ramble on with no judgement, and provided extensive knowledge and information on every topic I brought up. You can tell he's well educated and loves what he does. He has this very calm energy that immediately put me at ease. I honestly wish more doctors were like him! I felt cared for and listened to, which I think is so important with any appointment you have in the medical sector. The receptionist is so kind and pleasant, and the woman who checked my eyes before I saw the doctor was super funny and nice. From start to finish it was an excellent experience, and I'm so grateful I made the switch to this office! I highly recommend them :)

I had a bad eye irritation caused by using a disinfecting solution on my contact lenses. After washing and handling that situation myself at hotel, I felt better but the burning feeling and sensitivity to light still existed. It was even hard for me to open my eyes fully outdoors. While walking around dt alone as a traveler, I found this eye clinic and thought I’d better to have my eyes checked. The lady from the contact lenses department came out and tried her best to deal with my situation so thoughtfully, attentively and empathically. Also, she kept consoling me after hearing my challenging situation(alone, traveler, forgot to bring my glasses, had to head back to Toronto late afternoon etc.). I felt so much relieved after her help, and she also gave me some very helpful things and instructions (shown in the picture) to help me have a speedy recovery. Now, my eyes are much better. That day was indeed the worst and after that things are gradually getting better. I would like to say a big THANK YOU to that lady in this clinic. Really appreciate your KINDNESS

I would highly recommend Downtown Eye Care! My appointment was with Optometrist, Dr. Connie Chen. She was very thorough and took time to answer questions. The office staff was so friendly and very informative, especially the office manager. I will definitely be going back for another appointment my eyes are in great care.

worst service very slow and rude people they dont care about helping and try finding a solution to your problem

Very helpful staff

Very good services!!

Satisfaction

Got all my questions answered

Too long to wait and staff are not helpful

Lots of staff present to help you find where you are going.

My he’s in emergency and would like send money to my family so I can help The guy refused letting me send money for the only reason he’s busy Asked me to wait but after a few minutes I asked him to help because I in emergency but he refused letting send money so I can help my dad far from even I told the reason he refused so

Worst customer's service ever . One would think their employees are paid to be rude ! I was there on Wednesday October 30th around 7pm and was served ( should I say unserved ) by two awful women . One from African background and the other's seems Asian . I cannot describe how disrespectful ,unprofessional and awful these too were . That experience is definitely going to deter me from dealing with them anymore or recommend them to any of my family members ,friends or even acquaintances ! Too bad there is no zero star to rate them because that's what they really deserve 🤮

Today this morning I went there to send money because I do that every month so the African lady who is there in charge was rude with me and the service was very poor more than that the people who were before me left the store upset she was aggressive with everyone so she should be out of this position.

I want to thank Miss Crystal with all of my heart. She ticks all the boxes when it comes to great customer service. She greeted me warmly, she was attentive, kind and went above and beyond. Although I was not able to complete my transaction at her store, she called a few places that she believed might have. Through a suggestion she made, I went to a place close by that was able to help. It's rare that people try so hard to help without wanting something else in return. Crystal you made my day!!! Keep up the good work.

Was served by Pepsy, very sweet woman was patient with me and very quick with the service as well as very attentive to her job. My second time coming to this location and both times had quick and easy service.

I’ve had a Really great experience there with Pepsy. She has a really great sense of communication and making the customers or Western Union feel welcomed!

ABSOLUTELY THE WORST SERVICE YOU COULD EVER IMAGINE !!!! I DON'T THINK THEY KNOW WHAT COSTUMER SERVICE MEANS !! WE WERE 5 PEOPLE WAITING AND THEY DECIDED TO TELL US " WE'LL BE BACK, WE ARE DOING SOMETHING " THEY MADE US WAIT 30 MINUTES TO GET SERVED

Come to this store! The name - adorable . The owner - honest, fun and awesome. We met at a wedding, talked - I went there and have been back several times from just a plain black T - a gorgeous orange shirt that I get comments on consistently, and last time a pair of funky pants. I wear these items continuously. Have to still look closer at the local jewelry. Missed out on a lime green I should have bought! Enjoy looking with a NO PRESSURE to buy attitude! :)

I am obsessed with this boutique! The fashion finds are so unique, fun, versatile, and reasonably priced. The owner is super personable and wonderful to chat with. She knows her stuff and can help you style any piece. What a fantastic addition to Ottawa’s fashion scene!

Came in here with my friend. The owner is SO lovely & funny. It has a great collection of things, as well as newer items from local designers.

The owner Suzanne takes absolute pride in her store and the items she procures. This is my go to place - she will outfit me with a few items that can work for many different looks! Cute pieces that work for everyone and all body types.

Love this lovely boutique! Super cool options for different occasions and events. Really friendly staff (owner) who is always happy to help. New clothes in almost every week so go often!! It’s a clean, cozy and curated shopping experience ❤️❤️

Suzanne is a style icon with a great selection of products!

Love this boutique! You’ll find trendy pieces at affordable prices not found anywhere in town. Suzanne is also extremely helpful if you need advice on fashion and styling!