- Published: March 28, 2024
Whether you’re looking to learn or amuse yourself, there are plenty of great museums in Ottawa waiting to be explored! These institutions offer world-class artworks, interesting historical facts about Canada and its people, interactive displays that kids will love, and so much more. And for more fun spots to visit in Ottawa, be sure to check out:
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It can be hard to decide which museum should top your list when visiting Ottawa – but don’t worry; our handy guide will help you make the right choice for your needs!
1) Canadian Museum of Nature
The Canadian Museum of Nature stands as a significant educational and scientific institution in downtown Ottawa, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Housed in a magnificent castle-like building, the museum boasts a rich history and serves as the national natural history museum of Canada. Comprising a team of world-renowned research scientists, collection specialists, and innovative museum professionals, it offers a vibrant and multi-layered experience to visitors.
Since its inception in 1912, the museum has been dedicated to expanding scientific knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world. For those looking to explore the wonders of nature and learn about Canada’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife, the Canadian Museum of Nature is an absolute must-visit among the array of fascinating museums in Ottawa.
Business Information:
Museum of Natural History
240 McLeod St, Ottawa, ON K2P 2R1
nature.ca
+18002634433
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2) Canadian War Museum
The Canadian War Museum stands as a proud symbol of Canada’s rich military history and serves as the country’s national museum of military heritage. Founded in 1880, the museum’s esteemed collection has grown over the years, making it one of the world’s most respected institutions for the study and understanding of armed conflict. Located on the historic LeBreton Flats site in downtown Ottawa, the museum offers a profound exploration of the human experience of war through its well-curated exhibition galleries and public programs.
From the Canadian Experience Galleries, which chronicle the nation’s military history from its inception to the present day, to the remarkable collections of rare vehicles, artillery, uniforms, and artwork, including the esteemed Beaverbrook Collection of War Art, the museum houses over 3 million artifacts that document Canada’s profound contributions to global conflicts.
Business Information:
1 Vimy Pl, Ottawa, ON K1A 0M8
warmuseum.ca
+18005555621
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3) Canada Aviation and Space Museum
The Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa is a captivating destination for aviation and space enthusiasts, offering a remarkable journey through Canada’s contributions to these fields from 1909 to the present day. Located on a former military air base near the Prime Minister’s residence, the museum boasts a collection of more than 130 aircraft and artifacts, showcasing both civil and military aviation history.
With a particular focus on Canadian achievements, visitors can marvel at iconic pieces such as the largest remaining fragments of the legendary Avro Arrow, the original Canadarm utilized on the Endeavour space shuttle, and the historic Lancaster bomber from World War II.
Moreover, the museum’s impressive “Life in Orbit: The International Space Station” exhibition provides a captivating glimpse into space exploration. As the most extensive aviation collection in Canada and renowned as one of the world’s finest aviation museums, this attraction is a must-visit for anyone interested in the remarkable history of aviation and space in Canada and beyond.
Business Information:
11 Aviation Pkwy, Ottawa, ON K1K 2X5
ingeniumcanada.org/casm
+16139913044
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4) Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum in Ottawa offers a delightful and educational experience for visitors, providing a unique opportunity to interact with a diverse array of farm animals that have been crucial to Canada’s agricultural history. From Holstein dairy cows and Angus beef cows to Canadienne and Milking Shorthorn dairy cows, Tamworth pigs, and more, the museum’s collection showcases the rich biodiversity of Canadian agriculture. Beyond the farm animals, the museum also offers exhibitions and programs focused on Canada’s agricultural heritage, promoting food literacy, and exploring the impact of agricultural science and technology on Canadians’ daily lives.
With a range of public programming, including school programs, summer day camps, interpretive tours, demonstrations, and collaborations with community groups, the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is a must-visit attraction in Ottawa for both families and individuals seeking a deeper understanding of Canada’s agricultural legacy.
Business Information:
901 Prince of Wales Dr, Ottawa, ON K2C 3K1
ingeniumcanada.org/cafm
+16139913044
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5) Canada Science and Technology Museum
The Canada Science and Technology Museum in Ottawa has recently marked a significant milestone in its history with a grand reopening after a three-year closure and an impressive $80.5-million renewal of its entire building, originally established in 1967. The new museum boasts over 7,400 square meters of completely redesigned space, featuring a temporary exhibition hall that hosts captivating displays from across the globe.
Blending beloved elements from its previous incarnation, such as locomotives and the Crazy Kitchen, with an array of new artifacts and interactive exhibits, the museum offers a captivating and immersive experience. Visitors are invited to delve into Canada’s innovation story, exploring how curiosity, observation, and creativity have shaped the nation’s past and continue to influence its future. With its engaging and educational approach, the Canada Science and Technology Museum promises to be an enthralling destination for all who wish to become a part of Canada’s remarkable journey of scientific discovery and technological advancement.
Business Information:
Scientique, 1867 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1G 5A3
ingeniumcanada.org/cstm
+16132357053
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6) Bank of Canada Museum / Musée de la Banque du Canada
The Bank of Canada Museum, also known as Musée de la Banque du Canada, offers a fascinating and interactive experience, focusing on bringing the economy to the forefront of visitors’ minds. Located at the heart of Canada’s central bank, the museum is on a mission to make the economy accessible and engaging for everyone. Through hands-on and immersive exhibits, visitors can delve into the intricacies of the economic system, exploring topics like how people’s expectations impact the economy and how inflation targeting functions (with the added excitement of flying a rocket ship!).
The museum cleverly blends high-tech interactives with informative videos and traditional displays showcasing centuries’ worth of economic artifacts, from historic forms of money like shells to bank notes made from tree bark. A visit to the Bank of Canada Museum promises to be stimulating, engaging, and above all, fun, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the Bank’s role in the economy and discover one’s own important place within it.
Business Information:
30 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0G9
bankofcanadamuseum.ca
+16137828914
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FAQs About Museums
A museum is an institution that collects, preserves, exhibits, and interprets historical, cultural, artistic, or scientific artifacts and exhibitions for the public to study, educate, and enjoy. Typically, museums aim to provide insights into various fields of human knowledge and heritage, making them accessible to people of all ages.
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto is often considered the largest museum in Canada in terms of its collection size and the diversity of its exhibits. The ROM is renowned for its extensive galleries of art, world culture, and natural history.
- The Louvre in Paris, France – Not only the most visited museum in the world but also one of the largest, The Louvre houses thousands of works, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
- The State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia – Featuring over three million works of art and cultural artifacts, this museum spans several historic buildings, including the Winter Palace.
- The National Museum of China in Beijing, China – This colossal museum showcases Chinese art and history and is one of the largest in the world in terms of floor space.
- The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., USA – The Smithsonian is a group of museums and research complexes, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History.
- The Vatican Museums in Vatican City – With a vast collection of artworks and historical pieces collected by the Roman Catholic Church over centuries, including the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
In terms of construction and operational costs, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is among the most expensive museums in Canada. It’s known for its striking architecture and focus on human rights, with an emphasis on education, awareness, and promoting positive change worldwide. The museum was a significant investment intended to have both cultural and architectural importance.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the best museums in Ottawa are highly diverse and offer something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, there’s sure to be a museum in Ottawa that will fit your needs. With world-renowned institutions like the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of Nature calling the city home, it’s no surprise that Ottawa boasts some of the best museums on the planet. So if you’re ever in town, be sure to check out one of these amazing establishments – you won’t regret it!
