Canadian Museum of History

Canadian Museum of History featuring skyline and modern architecture
Canadian Museum of History
Canadian Museum of History featuring interior views
Canadian Museum of History
Canadian Museum of History


At this museum, one of the most visited in Canada, discover the events, experiences, people and objects that have shaped the nation’s history.

The Canadian Museum of History is one of Ottawa’s architectural and cultural jewels. See its magnificent Grand Hall and impressive collection of Canadian cultural treasures.

From a prime spot along the Ottawa River, the museum offers breathtaking views. Study the museum’s exterior design representing four natural features of the region: the Canadian Shield, glaciers, streams formed by melting glacial ice and the Great Plains.

Visit the spectacular Grand Hall with a six-story curved wall of windows overlooking Parliament Hill and an equally impressive interior space. Get familiar with the history, cultures and beliefs of the First Peoples of Canada’s Pacific Coast. In the First Peoples Hall, celebrate the history, diversity, creativity, resourcefulness and endurance of Canada’s First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.View engaging and interactive exhibits in the new Canadian History Hall. Discover Canada’s story, from the end of the last Ice Age to the present. Displays highlight important events, experiences, people and artifacts. The opening on July 1, 2017 marks the 150th anniversary of Canadian Confederation.Send youngsters with their museum passports to the Canadian Children’s Museum to discover incredible destinations. Visit theInternational Village, trek to a desert pyramid, jaunt to the Port of Entry to help unload a cargo ship or stroll through the bustling Market Bazaar.

See a stunning film in the IMAX® Theatre which features an IMAX® 3-D screen and a unique dome theater. Learn about history,culture, adventure and nature.

Allow up to a full day to explore the 1-million-square-foot (100,000-square-meter) space. Between 1 and 3 percent of the museum’s more than 4.2 million artifacts are displayed in numerous exhibits. Past guests have included U.S. Presidents G.W. Bush and Bill Clinton, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke andDuchess of Cambridge.The Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau is open daily, with hours varying between the seasons. Pay one admission to access all permanent and special exhibits. The IMAX Theatre is an additional charge. Check the website to determine what events are scheduled during your visit. Use free on-site parking. Cross the river to visit the Canadian War Museum as well.

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