Birthday party places in ottawa
Your child’s birthday is coming soon and you are desperate to find THE PERFECT PLACE to commemorate this special day? Fortunately for you, we simplified your life listing the best venues* to celebrate your child! See for yourself and choose THE PLACE that will make his or her day memorable! If you opted not to have an at-home birthday party, I invite you to read on!
Are you planning a birthday party for yourself or someone dear to you? It could get frustrating when you run out of ideas for a fun and unique celebration.
Luckily, we have gathered here for you the top birthday party venues in Ottawa.
How Much Do Birthday Party Venues Cost in Ottawa
Birthday party venues charge for the use of amenities and their services. They also take into consideration the number of guests and the length of time of the celebration.
Some venues offer food as part of their packages. Others allow for food and drinks to be brought in from other sources.
There are important things that you need to know aside from the costs themselves. Always ask for the deposit terms and if a refund, cancellation, or rebooking is possible.
The table below shows, in a nutshell, the rates of the venues included in our list.
| BIRTHDAY PARTY VENUE | ESTIMATED PRICE |
|---|---|
| Escape ManorEscape Manor Junior | $27 to $34 plus tax/ person$ 199 for 4 kids 1 adultAdditional $22 for each additional person |
| Art Haven | Kids: $268 to $299 for 8 paintersAdults: $ 68 to $299 (for 8 painters depending on the package chosen) |
| GlowSport | Gun Battle party: $ 150 to $400 (6 to 20 people)* Food upgrade: $100 to $200Paint and Battle party: $250 to $450 (10 to 20 people)* Food upgrade: $100 to $200 |
| LumberJaxe Axe Throwing Hall | Per person:$ 25 plus HST- 1 hour$ 35 plus HST- 90 minutes$ 42 plus HST- 2 hours |
| Orleans Bowling Centre | For kids:$156 to $210/ 6 childrenExtra child: $ 8 to $ 17*prices inclusive of shoes, tax, and some food For adults: (per game)$6.75/ per person$ 3.75 shoes rental Group rates: (inclusive of shoes)2 games: $ 14/player3 games: $ 19/player* rates start with 15 players and above Team pack (2 hrs bowling with food included)$ 22 to $34/ player (15 players and above |
While these are the rates posted on their websites, it is still best to get in touch with them for a more comprehensive quote. Some rates also go up during weekends due to demand.
The Top Birthday Party Venues in Ottawa
Are you excited to see where you could go for a fun-filled celebration? These unique birthday party venues in Ottawa guarantee you, your family, and your friends some good and unforgettable moments.
Aside from having fun, here are some factors we considered for the venues to make it on our list. They are not the best birthday party venues in Ottawa for nothing.
Age Specification – Birthday parties or celebrations are not for the young ones only (as others come to think in default). We looked for places that can accommodate people of almost all ages.
Reasonable Rates – A birthday party can get costly. The venues on our list may not offer the most affordable fees, but they are sure to be a good value for your money.
Time Allotment – It would be a bummer if a birthday celebration is too short. It is important to look at a reasonable time range for everyone to enjoy.
Number of Guests Allowed – Some people prefer parties to be intimate, while others like it big. The venues on our list accept a decent number of guests to help you celebrate your special day.
Customer Service – Even without an occasion, receiving good customer service makes people feel good. This is even more so when one is celebrating their birthday.
Now, let’s dive in and read some important details and customer reviews of the top birthday party venues in Ottawa.
1. Escape Manor
| SERVICES | Birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, night out, family events, team bonding, team building, class trips, graduations, club outings, alternative learning |
| WEBSITE | https://www.escapemanor.com/ottawa |
| ADDRESS | 201 Queen St – 4th Floor Ottawa, ON, K1P 5C9 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 613-695-1655 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday, Wednesday 4:00 PM to 9:00 PMFriday 4:00 PM to 9:15 PMSaturday 3:00 PM to 9:15 PMSunday 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM |
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Age Specification | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Reasonable Rates | ★★★★✩ (4/5) |
| Time Allotment | ★★★★✩(4/5) |
| Number of Guests Allowed | ★★★✩✩(3/5) |
| Customer Service | ★★★★✩(4/5) |
If you and your friends are the types who love challenges, Escape Manor is the perfect venue to celebrate your special day. With 4 locations and various rooms in each location, you will never run out of a puzzle to solve.
For Downtown and Hintonburg locations, each room is designed to be played by a maximum of 6 players for 45 minutes. Diefenbunker is on a different difficulty level and could be played by a maximum of 12 players for 60 minutes.
Clients love how well-thought-of the themes and the clues of each room are. The themes are even updated after 9-12 months to make sure there are fresh challenges for repeat players.
Another noteworthy thing to mention with Escape Manor is the cozy waiting room with a bar set-up. They offer light snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and even some beer, wine, and select spirits.
Guests stay in the waiting room either before or after their schedule. They either prepare themselves mentally or relax after a nerve-wracking and mind-bending lockdown experience.
The Nepean location is dedicated to younger clients as young as 6 years old. A party package is offered at this location.
The birthday boy or girl along with his friends has a 45-minute immersive escape experience. Then, they can hold a party in a private room for 45 minutes along with other guests.
Each escape room can only hold a maximum of 7 kids plus 1 accompanying adult. You can book another escape room if the kids in your party exceed 7.
For all the escape rooms, you don’t have to worry that you would be left to your own devices. Some staff would assist you as you crack clues.
If you’re the type who does not want to leave your home, their online escape rooms will delight you. Once you purchase it, you can have fun together with your friends at one or even different locations.
One downside, though, is that slots easily fill up. So, be sure to book early to enjoy a lockdown experience you would be talking about long after it’s done.
Pros
- Has four locations
- Has cozy waiting room
- Accommodates all age levels
- Offers online escape rooms
- Escape rooms can be played in French
- Allows guests to bring in foods and drinks (Nepean branch)
Cons
- Slots easily fill up
- Limited people in one room
- Some client complaints about customer service and time restraint
Customer Reviews
Do you think it’s enjoyable to get locked up with only a few clues to help you break out? Read what those who have experienced it have to say.
Challenging, age-appropriate, fun
“We just had our child’s birthday party at Escape Manor Junior and it was a great time for all! The staff were so responsive and communicative and really helped to ensure that the day went smoothly. From first contact, Jordan and Becca were wonderful as well as the rest of the staff. The escape rooms were very age-appropriate while allowing for some challenging fun. The party room is well-equipped and stocked with the essentials (candles, lighter, plates, cups, napkins, etc.). We are looking forward to going back as a family to a different escape room (they have several!) together again soon!” — Randa S.
Worth coming back to
“Nice venue, with a bar and comfy lounge area to hang out in before and after your escape room. Staff are very helpful and friendly. Everyone in my party had a great time and I would definitely come back to try another room.” —Chris Dupont
2. Art Haven
| SERVICES | Birthday parties, after-school clubs, workshops, private parties, team building, fundraisers |
| WEBSITE | https://www.arthaven.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 200 Kennevale Drive Unit 102 Ottawa, ON K2J 6B6 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 613-823-6822info@arthaven.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Tuesday to Thursday 11:00 AM to 7:00 PMFriday to Saturday 11:00 AM to 9:00 PMSunday 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM |
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Age Specification | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Reasonable Rates | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
| Time Allotment | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Number of Guests Allowed | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer Service | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
Calling on all the artistic souls out there—Art Haven lives up to its name.
If you want a private party that has some art activities involved in it, then Art Haven is for you. You have the Barrhaven and Kanata locations to choose from.
For both adults and kids, you can choose ceramics or canvas as your medium. Package prices start with 8 painters and have an additional charge for each person after.
For the ceramics party, an additional fee is required for the ceramics of your choice. The session runs for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
For those who wish to paint on canvas, the kids can have a step-by-step guide from an instructor or do it freestyle. Adults can choose from some designs for them to copy or request for a custom one (with an additional fee).
People also flock to Art Haven for their bubble tea. They have other offerings such as slushies, smoothies, soft drinks, some hot drinks, beer, and wine.
One thing that can discourage people from trying out Art Haven is that deposits are non-refundable. They can only be used as store credits, instead.
If your birthday is on a Monday, you may also be out of luck. Art Haven does not operate on that day.
Pros
- Can accommodate up to 50 guests
- Long time given to paint and can even add more hours
- Two locations
- Allows guests to bring in foods and drinks
Cons
- Closed on Mondays
- Some client complaints about bad customer service and taste of bubble tea
- Deposit is non-refundable and can only be used for store credits
- Steep prices especially the ceramic pieces
Customer Reviews
Color your way to a vibrant party! Here are some reviews that might inspire you.
Creative way to celebrate a birthday
“Great place to inspire creativity! My son really enjoyed his birthday celebration here and his friends are still talking about all the fun they had.” —Irina Fortey
Staff knows how to handle kids well
“I really recommend the Art Haven for kids parties because the team is super prepared and they really know what to do to keep 8 kids focused on what they need to do. My daughter loved her birthday party and I want to say thank for Shelby that really did a fantastic job.” —Diego de Fabio
3. GlowSport
| SERVICES | Nerf gun battle or laser tag birthdays, glowing paint/craft parties, corporate events, glowing sports, glowing fitness |
| WEBSITE | https://glowsport.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 2437 Kaladar Ave.Ottawa, ON, K1V 8B9 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | (613) 878-8793info@glowsport.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Age Specification | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Reasonable Rates | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Time Allotment | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Number of Guests Allowed | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer Service | ★★★★✩(4/5) |
Tired of the same old parties and want a birthday that’s full of action? Well, GlowSport may be the birthday venue you’re looking for.
GlowSport offers Nerf Gun Battle parties where everything glows. You can even add a body paint or canvas paint activity to your event.
Children as young as 6 years old can join in the fun. Don’t worry because there would be staff that would help you run your event.
Everything you need is part of the packages. These include guns, ammunition, safety goggles, glow paint, and glowing rental jerseys.
All you have to do is pick between their Ottawa West or Ottawa East location and reserve for your event. The GlowSport team also caters to mobile battle parties where they come and set up at your preferred location.
Your whole team can enjoy 90 minutes of intense battle. Then, you can come together and relax for 30 minutes in their party room.
Bringing outside food and drinks is allowed. You can also have a food upgrade in your package and enjoy pizza, chips, popcorn, unlimited juice, and water.
Clients can’t help but gush that it is indeed a fun and unique experience. One downside though is that rates are higher during weekends.
Pros
- Has two locations to choose from
- Packages has lots of inclusions
- Can accommodate up to 20 people or more in mobile parties
- Outside food and drinks are allowed
- Parties supervised by a GlowSport staff
- Operates every day
Cons
- Higher prices on weekends
- Some client complaints on customer service
Customer Reviews
Below are some glowing reviews of satisfied clients. GlowSport really lives up to its name of providing a glowing and fun event.
Fun & engaging activity for teens
“Top notch service! I never give anybody 5 star reviews but these guys EARNED IT!!! Huge thanks for dealing with and managing a group of teens for my daughter’s birthday. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for a fun engaging adventure out.” —Kevin Pollock
It’s everything you could ask for
“1. It’s COOL — whatever birthday party, teambuilder, or special event you are planning this year, imagine if it was GLOW-in-the-DARK?!
2. It’s DIFFERENT — chances are, you haven’t done this yet. Our family has either hosted or attended 100’s of birthday parties over the years, but we had never done Glow Sport.
3. It’s for ALL AGES — from young kids to parents, everyone in our family was able to safely play our chosen activity, which was Nerf Wars. It’s very gratifying to be able to shoot family members, to be quite honest. Head shots were allowed and abundant (wearing safety goggles, of course).
4. It’s VERSATILE — you choose what you want to do in the darK: Nerf Gun Battles, martial arts, soccer, fitness class, prom, bachelor(ette) party, etc. so your imagination is the limit. You choose where you want to do it— at their location or at your own facility, home, school gym, business, etc. as they are mobile.
5. It’s EXHILARATING — it’s super fun as you run around in the dark, pump up music blasting, playing different games and challenges. It’s an experience that our family and friends were raving about for hours after the event. And it was a good workout as well.” -Phil Nguyen
4. LumberJaxe Axe Throwing Hall
| SERVICES | Birthday parties, staff events, bachelor/ bachelorette parties |
| WEBSITE | https://lumberjaxe.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 250 City Centre Avenue Suite 232-230 Ottawa, ON K1R 1C7 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 613-702-8133 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Thursday 5:00 to 9:00 PMFriday 4:00 to 10:00 PMSaturday 12:00 NN to 10:00 PMSunday 12:00 NN to 8:00 PM |
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Age Specification | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
| Reasonable Rates | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Time Allotment | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Number of Guests Allowed | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer Service | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Have you ever tried throwing axes before? Your birthday may be the perfect day to do so.
What’s nice with LumberJaxe Axe is that you do not have to be a pro at throwing axes. You are in there to have fun.
There would be an axe coach to guide you. They can teach you some techniques to help you swing that axe and hit the target.
Rates are on a per person and by hour basis. But, you must take note that each lane can accommodate 2 to 6 people only.
It does not matter how big your crew is. However, be sure to book early to get the correct number of lanes.
You can bring full meals from outside without having to worry about the plating fee. For snacks and alcoholic drinks, though, you have to purchase from their selections.
If you think that the space is not enough for your event, LumberJaxe Axe offers offsite axe throwing. The team brings the fun, the materials, and 2 axe throwing coaches to the location of your choice.
People who have been here had wonderful feedback about the staff. Also, most of them say that the ambiance is great even with limited space.
One downside is that it is only for 13 and above patrons. This age restriction is for safety precautions.
Also, if you don’t want to walk in and go home disappointed, just make sure to book beforehand. Walk-ins do not have any guarantee that they can go axe throwing at their preferred time.
Pros
- Reasonable rates
- Large groups are allowed (with proper reservation)
- Full meals from outside allowed without plating fees
- Clients will be assisted by axe coaches
- Offers off-site throwing events
Cons
- Walk-ins allowed but not guaranteed
- Only for 13 years old and above
- 18 below must have adult supervision
- Closed on Thursdays
- Snacks and drinks can only be bought inside
Customer Reviews
Throwing birthday parties couldn’t be more fun than when you throw axes at LumberJaxe. Here are some testimonials.
Staff went above and beyond for us to enjoy
“We just went this evening for a friend’s birthday and had a wonderful time. Rarely do I go home and immediately review a business, but I truly felt as though this was a place worth sharing. The staff are passionate about what they do while they get to know each member of your party. They are always circulating to show you new techniques, tricks and games you can play. We felt as though they went above and beyond while staying engaged with their customers. My husband can’t stop talking about the friends and family members he would like to bring here. We will certainly be back and will be just as excited to axe throw again!” — Danica Green
Big space to have fun
“Brought my teenage daughter and a few friends to LumberJaxe for her birthday. Had a great experience. Both staff members who were there were fantastic. Dave was a great coach and got everyone throwing in no time. He was super attentive without being overbearing and made sure we had everything we needed every step of the way, including organizing tournaments and competitions for the girls. We had an entire area to ourselves, which included 4 throwing lanes and a lounge area, so plenty of space. Proper safety and masking protocols were in place. Would love if they could expand their food menu. They allowed us to bring in food, which was great, but I would have preferred to be able to support them even more. Drinks at the bar were very creative, love the high end sodas! Will definitely be back, these guys are great, thank you!.” —Denise Ludington
5. Orleans Bowling Centre
| SERVICES | Birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, milestone celebrations, photoshoots, sports teams, fundraisers, corporate events |
| WEBSITE | https://www.orleansbowling.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 885 Taylor Creek Drive Ottawa Ontario K4A-0Z9 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 613-837-7000info@orleansbowling.com |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Wednesday 9:00 AM to 10:00 PMThursday 9:00 AM to 11:00 PMFriday to Saturday 9:00 AM to 1:00 AM (of the next day)Sunday 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM |
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Age Specification | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Reasonable Rates | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Time Allotment | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
| Number of Guests Allowed | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Customer Service | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
Your birthday could be the best day for you to get a strike! That is if you celebrate it at Orleans Bowling Centre.
OBC operates long hours and is open every day. This makes it a very viable option for family nights and after-work gatherings with friends and colleagues.
Bowling has been a staple for groups to enjoy time together. This place is the perfect place to do that with the addition of billiards and darts.
For the children’s party, kids are given an hour to bowl. Team packs (a mix of adults and children) are better because they have two hours of play.
It could be a nice inclusion to kids’ birthday packages to have a bowling coach of some sort. OBC makes sure that kids don’t get disheartened, though, by putting up the gutter guards during their play.
Unfortunately, bringing outside foods and drinks is not allowed in OBC. The only exception is the birthday cake and food for a guest that has allergens.
There’s a split review with regards to the ambiance of the place. Some find it nice, while others find it outdated, flashy, and loud.
Customer service is on the same boat as the ambiance. Other clients are all out in praising the staff, while others say that the people who work here are rude.
Pros
- Open every day and operates on long hours
- Has billiard tables and darts aside from bowling lanes
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Quite restricted with the playtime
- Some client complaints on ambiance, food, and customer service
- Outside foods and drinks not allowed
Customer Reviews
Orleans Bowling Centre continues to make a clean strike to the heart of satisfied clients. Here are some of them.
Great way to celebrate a birthday
“Great experience at a bowling birthday party. Employees ensured all kids had their shoes and instructed on proper use of lanes. Party room was clean and well decorated; plenty of room for kids to run around.” —Kate Lou Thom