With the blizzards, the ice rain, the freezing temperatures, the cancelled buses and the non-stop grey skies that have all characterized this winter, it may come as a complete surprise for most of us to glance at our calendars and realize that March Break (March 12-16) is literally around the corner.
March Break in Ontario is a sign of two sure things: one, that spring will soon be bursting out all over; and two, that travel prices to anywhere, except possibly Brinston, will automatically skyrocket ensuring that you can’t go on an out-of-country trip anyway.
That is why it is wonderful to realize that there are actually a number of splendid March Break opportunities (that won’t bankrupt the family) available right here.
Quite aside from strapping on boots and shoes and taking in some family outdoor exercise, one of the first places to discover exciting things to do is through our local public libraries.
Many people are not aware that museum family passes are readily available at our libraries.
These passes allow families to visit all the museums in this area, including those in the city of Ottawa. Best of all, they’re absolutely free.
Here’s just a sampling of the museums that might interest your family. How about some hours spent at the Science and Technology Museum? What about a journey through the exhibits and interactive experiences at the Canadian War Museum and the Canadian Museum of History? Perhaps it’s time to take a look at the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum? There are amazing works of art in the elegant rooms of the National Gallery of Canada: the family pass gives you the chance to see some of these national treasures. Or perhaps you’d rather marvel at the wonders of the Aquatarium in Brockville? March Break might be the ideal time to explore the mysteries of the Diefenbunker and the Bytown Museum. And what about a trip to the old Cornwall Jail to see what used to happen to those convicted of law breaking?
When actually travelling from home is not possible, our local libraries also loan fascinating books and movies that families might spend a great evening enjoying together.
If you can’t travel to islands in the sun for March Break, so what? There are dozens of exciting activities to amuse, educate, challenge and amaze right in our own backyard.