What to do with kids in Gatineau when it's raining? 9 family outing ideas
A rainy day with the kids doesn't necessarily mean spending the day at home in front of a screen.
If you are looking for things to do with children in Gatineau when it rains , there are several activities that allow you to move, create, discover and even enjoy nature a little without the weather completely ruining the day.
From Gatineau to Aylmer, via Ottawa , here are some ideas for perfect family outings for a grey day.
1. Painting a ceramic tile in a mobile workshop bus in Aylmer
What if a rainy day became the perfect opportunity to try something completely different?
At Ferme Éco des Champs, in the Aylmer sector of Gatineau , our ceramic painting studio has been set up… in a real bus!
Children and adults alike can choose their piece from a wide variety of cups, bowls, figurines, animals and decorative items, then settle down to paint it in their own way.
No need to be an artist. Everyone chooses their colours, experiments and leaves with the satisfaction of having created something truly personal.
Once the piece is finished, we take care of the cooking and it can then be collected at the farm.
This is an indoor activity for children in Gatineau that is also very suitable for parents, grandparents, and even teenagers. Our studio currently offers more
about fifty different pieces to paint.
And if it doesn't rain too much?
Take this opportunity to transform your workshop into a little outing in the countryside.
The Eco Farm of the Fields also has an animal park, a playground, a farm shop and a large covered greenhouse where it is possible to take a break in the shelter.
Please note: the farm visit and the ceramics workshop are two separate activities. You can therefore simply come to paint or decide to extend your visit to the farm.
2. Explore the Canadian Children's Museum
For a full day indoors, the Canadian Children's Museum , located in the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, remains an excellent option.
It is specifically designed to allow young people to discover, manipulate, imagine, and explore rather than simply looking at objects behind a glass case. The Canadian Museum of History even presents it as a family destination focused on exploration and educational fun.
It's a good option when rain is forecast for the whole day.
3. Have a creative day instead of a screen day
Rainy days are also perfect for slowing down.
Painting, pottery, drawing, crafts or creating a small project allows children to stay focused much longer than one might think when they have the freedom to create something that belongs to them.
This is precisely what makes ceramic painting interesting: the activity does not end at the end of the outing.
A few days later, the child receives a real object that he or she can use or keep.
A mug for his hot chocolate, a bowl for lunch, a figurine for his room or even a handmade gift for someone he loves.
4. Go let off steam at an indoor amusement center in Gatineau
Some days, children especially don't need quiet.
They need to run!
Several amusement centers in Gatineau offer indoor play structures. Funtopia , for example, features slides, structures, a ball pit, tubes, a maze, and climbing walls.
Le Rond-Point is another local family option with modules, slides and indoor play areas.
A good solution when your priority is simply to allow children to expend their energy.
5. Go to the swimming pool
Another way to stop worrying about the rain?
To get wet voluntarily!
The City of Gatineau offers various indoor activities , including swimming and several sports activities offered in its municipal facilities.
For a family, a few hours at the pool can easily transform a rainy afternoon into a special outing.
Just remember to check the free swimming schedule before you leave.
6. Discover a museum in Ottawa
Living in Gatineau has one advantage: Ottawa is right next door.
The region has several museums that can easily fill half a day or a full day for a family.
Depending on your children's age and interests, you could look into museums dedicated to:
to nature;
to science and technology;
to aviation;
to agriculture;
to history;
to the fine arts.
Ottawa Tourism specifically recommends interactive museums as one of the top indoor family activities in Ottawa when it rains .
It is also a good option for families with children of different ages, since everyone can usually find something that interests them.
7. Indoor climbing
For children who like to climb all over the house, it's best to give them a more suitable place to do so!
Indoor climbing allows you to move while developing balance, coordination, confidence and problem-solving skills.
Gatineau has indoor climbing facilities, and these regularly appear among the recommended activities in the region on rainy days.
This is particularly interesting with slightly older children or teenagers.
8. Take a trip to the library
An outing doesn't have to be expensive to be successful.
Municipal libraries are an often overlooked option when looking for things to do with children in Gatineau on a rainy day .
Choose a few albums together, find a new series of novels, discover comic books or simply enjoy a quiet moment to read somewhere other than at home.
The City of Gatineau also offers various activities for children through its libraries and municipal programming.
Bonus tip: let each child choose a book to take home. The outing continues after you return.
9. Put on your boots and enjoy the rain anyway
And finally, who decided that we absolutely had to stay inside when it rains?
A light summer rain can become a particularly fun experience for children.
Rain boots, a raincoat, and a change of clothes can completely change the way you see the weather.
On the farm, a slightly rainy day can even have its charm: watching the animals, feeling the wet earth, jumping in a few puddles and then going to take shelter.
At Ferme Éco des Champs, our large greenhouse offers a covered space that can serve as a break during a visit.
Obviously, in case of a storm or severe weather conditions, it is best to choose a completely indoor activity.
So, what can you do in Gatineau with children when it rains?
It all depends on your family's energy level that day.
To create: try a ceramic painting workshop.
For exercise: swimming pool, climbing or amusement center.
To find out more: visit a museum in Gatineau or Ottawa.
To slow down: head to the library.
To go out despite the weather: put on your boots and turn the rain into an adventure.
And if you are looking for an original activity with children in Gatineau , come and discover the ceramic painting workshop bus at Ferme Éco des Champs in Aylmer .
A creative activity to do rain or shine — and a souvenir you can actually take home after it's baked.
Book a ceramic painting activity in Gatineau
📍 Éco des Champs Farm 482 Eardley Road Gatineau – Aylmer sector, Quebec
Our workshop bus welcomes children, parents, friends and families for ceramic painting sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do with children in Gatineau when it rains?
Possible activities include ceramic painting, museums, indoor amusement centers, swimming, rock climbing, and libraries. Many family activities are available in Gatineau, Aylmer, and Ottawa.
Are there any creative activities for children in Gatineau?
Yes. The Ferme Éco des Champs offers a ceramic painting workshop in a converted bus in Aylmer . Children choose a piece, paint it, and the farm then takes care of firing it.
Is it possible to paint on ceramics with young children?
Yes. Ceramic painting is accessible to children and requires no artistic experience. Younger children can choose simple shapes and a few colors, while older children can create more detailed designs.
What to do as a family in Gatineau and Ottawa when it rains?
Families can visit a museum, try a creative activity, go swimming, rock climbing, or spend a few hours at an indoor amusement center. It's also possible to combine an indoor activity with a short outdoor outing when the rain is light.
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