CityBuddy
Canadian Museum of History
Best time to visit
Weekdays in the early morning are the quietest, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The afternoon light then falls spectacularly through the huge glass front in the Grand Hall.
Budget tips
Admission costs about 20 CAD for adults, children under 12 get in free. On Thursday evenings from 5 p.m., admission is free, perfect for a relaxed visit.
Recommended for
History enthusiasts, Families with children, Photography lovers, Indigenous art fans
Plan your visit
2-3 hours
About
Quick facts: The collection includes over 1.25 million objects, among them the largest indoor canoe ride in the world with 25-meter-high cedar trees. More than 1.2 million visitors stream through the glass-covered Grand Hall with a view of the Ottawa River each year.
Highlights: In the Grand Hall hangs a 19-meter-tall totem pole of the Haida Nation, carved from a single 500-year-old red cedar. Under the dome of the Grand Salon, visitors can walk on a 3,500-square-meter mosaic floor made of Canadian marble that depicts the country's geological diversity.
Insider tips
- Sit on the wooden benches in the Grand Hall and enjoy the view of the Ottawa River, which looks especially magical at sunset.
- The totem poles on the first floor are breathtaking up close, take your time to appreciate the detailed carvings.
- The museum cafe has a terrace with a direct view of Parliament Hill, perfect for a break.
- Don't miss the 3D film in the cinema, which brings Canadian history to life in a powerful way.
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