Top 15 Must-Visit Museums in Ottawa: Highlights and Insights

Ottawa is a city of Museums. Like the Smithsonian of Washington DC, Canada’s capital city houses many of the great museums of our nation. We have visited Ottawa several times, feeling like it’s a second home. During our most recent visit, we finally explored all the Ottawa museums and can confidently present this guide to help you choose which museums to visit when exploring the Capital of Canada.

Museums of Ottawa Canada

Ottawa is home to seven of Canada’s nine national museums, and several additional museums are waiting for you to discover. These are the most exciting museums in Ottawa that you cannot miss!

1. Diefenbunker

It took us at least six visits before we finally stepped into the Diefenbunker. Looking back, we wish we had done this sooner. However, if you’ve watched the series Chernobyl on HBO, it might resonate with you more now.

The Diefenbunker is a nuclear bunker constructed during the Cold War and named after Prime Minister John Diefenbaker. Built in 1959 at the height of the nuclear crisis, it served as a shelter for key government employees, with strict protocols in place. No family members were allowed, and those inside had to prepare to live underground for 30 days, not knowing the world above.

Walking through this bunker is an eerie journey through history, evoking the likeness of sets from Chernobyl. The old paneling, radios, computers, and stark meeting rooms create a chilling atmosphere.

• Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Location: 20 minutes from downtown Ottawa
• Cost: Self-guided or guided tours available; we recommend the guided tour for a deeper experience—$15.49.
• Timed entry tickets are available in advance.
• Parking: Free
• Website: Diefenbunker

2. Canada Aviation and Space Museum

Our favorite museum in Ottawa is undoubtedly the Aviation and Space Museum. We love it because each visit allows us to either book a helicopter or a biplane flight from there.

The museum is set within an enormous hangar, serving as a launchpad for scenic flights over Ottawa. However, the museum itself is a treasure trove of aviation history, showcasing aircraft from every era, alongside Canada’s contributions to space exploration. Notably, the Canadarm from the Endeavor Mission is on display, and they frequently update exhibits with new aircraft.

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
• Location: 11 Aviation Parkway
• Access: Drive easily, or rent city bikes, as the museum is located on the River Pathway.
• Transit: OC Transpo route 129
• Cost: Adult $15 / Student $13 / Child $11
• Parking: Paid meter parking
• Website: Canadian Aviation and Space Museum

3. Canadian Museum of Nature

This museum took us a few visits to finally explore, and now we’ve returned twice! Walking into the Canadian Museum of Nature is awe-inspiring due to its stunning architecture.

Designed as Canada’s first national museum building in 1905, its construction mirrored the Centre Block of Parliament. Upon entering, you are greeted by a grand facade with art displays hanging from the ceiling.

The modern design contrasts beautifully with the historic stone work, making it one of the top places to visit in all of Ontario. This museum showcases everything from dinosaurs to butterflies, but our favorite is the Canada Goose Arctic Gallery, highlighting life in the Canadian Arctic.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM / 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursdays
• Location: 240 McLeod Street
• Access: A 20-minute walk from downtown or nearby bus stops.
• General Admission: $15 adult/ $13 students / $11 children
• Parking: Paid meter parking is available.
• Website: Canadian Museum of Nature

4. Canadian Museum of History

Located across the river in Gatineau, the Canadian Museum of History is a premier natural history museum in Canada. It’s also a fantastic spot for postcard-perfect views of the Parliament buildings. This museum consistently ranks as the most visited museum in Canada!

Upon entering, the Grand Hall captivates with a display of totem poles and indigenous architecture from Canada’s West Coast.

Within the Canadian History Hall, an interactive floor engages visitors with stories of Canada’s past. Additionally, the museum offers Instagram-worthy spots both inside and out to capture its unique architectural beauty.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM / 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursdays
• Location: On the river in Gatineau.
• Access: Visitors can take a water taxi or enjoy a scenic 20-minute walk across the bridge from Ottawa.
• Cost: Adult $20 / Student $18 / Child $12
• Parking: Paid meter parking available in the underground lot.
• Website: History Museum

5. Canadian War Museum

This museum represents an authentic tribute to Canada’s military history. We noticed soldiers visiting alongside us, an indication of its relevance and accuracy!

At the Canadian War Museum, you can explore detailed exhibits about Canada’s military efforts, encompassing the Cold War, World War I, and World War II.

Expect to see full-sized tanks, artillery, and planes, as well as uniforms spanning numerous eras. The Memorial Hall is a place of reflection and homes the grave of the Unknown Soldier.

• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM / Thursdays: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM.
• Location: 1 Vimy Place Ottawa
• Free Admission: Available for military personnel.
• General Admission: Adult $17 / Student $13 / Child $11 / Senior $15
• Parking: Paid meter parking is available both on the street and in the lot.
• Website: Canadian War Museum

6. National Gallery of Canada

I have a strong affinity for the National Gallery. Each time we visit Ottawa, we stop to admire Maman, the iconic spider sculpture. Even without entering, this piece always captivates our attention.

The gallery rotates numerous exhibits, but our favorite space is the Chapel of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, where you feel enveloped in a cathedral-like atmosphere, complemented by harmonious sounds emanating from speakers.

Featuring a gorgeous glass ceiling in the foyer, roaming through the museum is as much about experiencing exquisite art as it is about appreciating its stunning architecture.

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Location: 380 Sussex Drive
• Cost: Adults $16 / Students and Youth (under 24) $8 / Seniors $14
• Parking: Available underground for a fee; it’s also easily walkable from many parts of Ottawa.
• Website: National Gallery

7. Bytown Museum

This small museum is often overlooked by visitors. Nestled right on the canal, it presents a lovely showcase of Ottawa’s history, formerly known as Bytown.

Walking through its three stories provides insights into the construction of the Ottawa Canal, local war efforts, and the indigenous history of the region. Be sure to stroll through the café and check out the vault in the back.

• Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (with limited winter hours)
• Location: 1 Canal Lane at the foot of the Rideau Canal
• Cost: $2, possibly the best deal in the city!
• Parking: Paid meter parking available on the street.
• Website: Bytown Museum

8. Fairmont Chateau Laurier Historic Display

No matter the season—summer, winter, spring, or fall—ducking into the Chateau Laurier is worthwhile to escape the temperature extremes. While there, make sure to head to the back of the hotel to view photographs on display that showcase Ottawa’s history.

Learn about the Titanic’s connections with the city and see how Winston Churchill spent his time there. The photographs from the early 20th century are particularly impressive.

• Opening Hours: Anytime
• Location: Inside Chateau Laurier Hotel
• Cost: Free
• Parking: Valet parking at the hotel; street parking is also a good option.
• Website: Chateau Laurier

9. Laurier House National Historic Site

Laurier House stands as a National Historic Site that was home to two Prime Ministers of Canada: Sir Wilfrid Laurier and William Lyon Mackenzie. This site is steeped in the history of Canadian politics from the late 1800s to the mid-1950s.

Visitors can tour the historic home to get insights into the lives of former prime ministers. Alternatively, you can join a ghost tour, exploring Laurier House’s spooky reputation. Stories of seances held and lives lost make for an eerie nighttime experience.

• Opening Hours: May-Sept 10 AM – 5 PM (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
• Location: 335 Laurier Ave East, about a 20-minute walk from downtown.
• Cost: Adult $3.90 / Senior $3.40 / Youth Free
• Parking: Paid meter parking available on the street.
• Website: Laurier House

10. Rideau Hall

As a national historic site, Rideau Hall serves as the residence for one of Canada’s most significant political figures— the Governor-General. Group and private tours are conducted daily, offering insight into the quarters of our Governor-General, who performs duties similar to those of the Queen of England.

The current Governor-General resides at Rideau Hall, granting visitors a chance to explore specific sections of this residence, including the official halls used for ceremonies and meetings. This site undoubtedly stands out as one of the most intriguing places to visit in Ottawa.

• Opening Hours: Tours by appointment from 10 AM – 4 PM
• Grounds: Open year-round from 8 AM until sunset.
• Location: 1 Sussex Drive
• Cost: Free
• Website: Rideau Hall

11. Canada Science and Technology Museum

This destination is both fun and educational for kids and families alike. Similar to the Science Centre in Toronto, this museum guides visitors through the history of science and technology along with celebrated Canadian innovations.

A highlight is the “Crazy Kitchen,” a slanted kitchen that entices children as they experience the pull of gravity while exploring optical illusions. We particularly enjoyed the antique computers and TVs that prompt nostalgia for a not-so-distant past. The museum is interactive and even features a sizable train display—who doesn’t love trains?

• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM daily (closed Mondays during the off-season)
• Location: 1867 St Laurent BLVD
• Cost: Adult $17 / Senior $13 / Student $11
• Parking: Paid meter parking available in the lot.
• Website: Museum of Science and Technology

12. Women of Canada History

Although it may not be a traditional museum, this display is essential to visit. Located directly outside the Senate, across from Chateau Laurier, it honors the contributions of Canadian women throughout history.

This remarkable display celebrates women who broke barriers, made impactful changes, and achieved historical significance. From Kim Campbell, Canada’s first (and only) female Prime Minister, to Viola Desmond, an activist featured on our $10 bill, their stories deserve recognition.

• Opening Hours: Anytime
• Location: In front of The Senate, across from Chateau Laurier
• Cost: Free
• Parking: Paid meter parking on the street.

13. Canada Agriculture and Food Museum

Growing up in rural Ontario has exposed me to numerous farms and livestock. However, for those keen on understanding how our food is cultivated, raised, and produced, this museum is fascinating.

Foreign visitors would likely find this exhibit memorable. It’s the only functioning farm within a capital city across the globe. I grew up surrounded by Holstein cows in Ontario’s Dairy Capital, and here, you can see numerous prominent cattle breeds alongside other farm animals like horses, goats, alpacas, and chickens.

Kids will enjoy watching sheep shearing and learning how honey is harvested from beehives.

• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM daily (closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
• Location: 901 Princes of Wales Drive
• Cost: Adult $12 / Senior, Student, and Youth $10
• Parking: Paid meter parking in the lot.
• Website: Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum

14. Upper Canada Village

While it’s a bit of a drive from Ottawa, Upper Canada Village provides a remarkable opportunity to learn about Canada’s history and culture. Walk through exhibits and buildings dating back to 1860 and gain insights into Upper Canada’s past.

This location features traditional displays and demonstrations across more than 40 preserved buildings relocated from the Saint Lawrence before the development of the Saint Lawrence Seaway project, set on the Battle of Crysler Farm site from the War of 1812.

• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5 PM (limited hours during the autumn season)
• Location: 11km east of Morrisburg. Visit the Website for directions.
• Cost: Adult $22 / Student $16 / Youth $13
• Parking: Free
• Website: Upper Canada Village

15. Mackenzie King Estate

Mackenzie King Estate offers a combination of museum experiences and outdoor enjoyment. Located in Gatineau Park, this site was once the rural retreat of Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie.

He bequeathed the beautiful 231-hectare estate to Canada for the enjoyment of nature and culture, allowing visitors to tour the cottages that have been transformed into museums. Our favorite aspect of the estate was exploring the Abbey Ruins and the enchanting gardens adorned with pillars and an Arch du Triomphe.

• Opening Hours: Weekdays 10 AM – 5 PM, Weekends 11 AM – 6 PM (closed Tuesdays)
• Location: Gatineau Park
• Cost: Free
• Parking: Paid meter parking in the lot.
• Website: Mackenzie King Estate

16. Royal Canadian Mint

A visit to the Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa is an excellent experience for anyone interested in the art and craftsmanship of coin-making and the economic history of Canada. The mint’s facility in Ottawa produces Canada’s circulation coins as well as various commemorative coins and medals.

Upon arrival, you can explore the magnificent historical building, rich in grandeur and tradition. Guided tours provided here are both educational and engaging, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the minting process.

During the tour, you’ll learn about the precision and artistry involved in coin design and production. Witness the transformation of metal strips into shiny coins, and perhaps hold a solid gold bar, marveling at its weight and value. Additionally, discover currency evolution through various displays detailing the history and significance of distinct coins.

• Opening Hours: Weekdays 10 AM – 5 PM, Weekends 11 AM – 6 PM (closed Tuesdays)
• Location: Gatineau Park
• Cost: Free
• Parking: Paid meter parking available in the lot.
• Website: Mackenzie King Estate

In summary, these are our favorite museums to explore in Ottawa. Have you visited Ottawa? What do you believe are the best attractions in this vibrant city?

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Our trip to Ottawa was made possible by Tourism Ottawa, and all opinions presented are our own. Visit their website for more information on travel to Ottawa.