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Your Guide to Visiting the Canadian Museum of History

Plan Your Day

Make the most of your time at the Canadian Museum of History by planning ahead. From opening hours to transport, dining, and accessible facilities, organize a smooth and enjoyable visit. Whether you are coming with family, friends, or solo, planning your day ensures you can explore the museum’s major exhibitions, temporary shows, and family-friendly spaces at your own pace.

Make the Most of Your Visit

Getting There Made Simple

Address

100 Rue Laurier, Gatineau, QC K1A 0M8, Canada

Plan Your Route

By Car
By public transport
By Taxi
By Bike
On Foot

Driving is one of the easiest options if you want a direct trip and more flexibility with your schedule. It can be especially convenient for families, visitors travelling from outside the downtown core, or anyone planning to combine the museum with other stops in the area.

Public transit is a practical choice from downtown Ottawa and nearby neighbourhoods. The museum is well placed for visitors coming from the city centre, making transit a good option if you want to avoid driving and parking.

This is a simple door-to-door option if convenience matters most. It works well for visitors arriving from hotels in central Ottawa, from the train station, or from other attractions in the capital area.

In warmer months, cycling can be a great way to reach the museum, especially if you are already exploring the Ottawa-Gatineau waterfront or nearby paths. It is a good fit for visitors who want a more active and scenic route.

If you are staying or sightseeing in central Ottawa, walking to the museum can be a pleasant option. It works best if you want to enjoy the riverfront area and include the museum as part of a broader day of exploring.

Dining

The museum has on-site food service at the Panorama Café on the lower level, making it easy to take a break without leaving the building. Seating is available there, so it works well for a lunch stop, a coffee break, or a lighter pause between exhibitions. Visitors may also bring outside food, but it must be eaten in designated areas rather than inside the galleries.

Accessible Facilities

The Canadian Museum of History is designed to support a wide range of visitors and offers several accessibility features across the site.

-Family-friendly amenities: Changing tables are available in all public washrooms, and a nursing room is available on site.
-Wheelchair-accessible spaces: All public levels are connected by elevators, with ramps where needed.
-Accessible washrooms: Accessible washrooms are available on all levels.
-Private all-gender washrooms: Available in select areas and can accommodate an attendant if needed.
-Accessible parking and drop-off: Reserved accessible parking spaces are available in the indoor garage, and vehicles can stop at the main entrance for pick-up and drop-off.
-Mobility support: A limited number of wheelchairs and walkers are available at no charge.
-Sensory support: Ear defenders are available, and the museum also identifies quieter spaces for visitors who may prefer a calmer environment.
-Service animals welcome: Service animals are permitted inside the museum.

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Skip-the-line access to the Canadian Museum of History

Highlights

Avoid waiting in queues with priority admission.

Explore all the museum’s permanent galleries and special exhibitions.

Visit the Canadian Children’s Museum included with your ticket.

Enjoy access to the CINE+ Theatre showcasing engaging films.

Utilize the museum app for interactive maps, exhibition summaries, images, and virtual tours in multiple languages.

Benefit from complimentary coat check services.

Visitor Guidelines

Tickets required for entry: All visitors must have a valid ticket or membership for entry.

Food and drink: Outside food is allowed only in designated areas; eat and drink within the Panorama Café or other designated spaces.

Photography: Personal photography is allowed in most areas, but flash photography may be restricted in some exhibitions.

Accessibility support: Elevators, ramps, and mobility aids are available for visitors who need them.

Behavior in galleries: Please respect exhibits by avoiding touching artifacts unless indicated and supervising children closely.

Service animals: Service animals are welcome throughout the museum.

Bag check and security: All visitors may be subject to security screening and are encouraged to carry manageable bags.

FAQs

What are the museum’s opening hours?

The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on Thursdays until 7 p.m.

Where is the museum located?

It is at 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, Quebec, just across the river from downtown Ottawa.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Booking ahead is recommended, especially for peak periods or for visiting the Canadian Children’s Museum.

What dining options are on-site?

The Panorama Café offers snacks, sandwiches, salads, and hot meals, all conveniently located within the museum.

Is the museum accessible for all visitors?

Yes, the museum provides elevators, ramps, accessible washrooms, mobility aids, and family-friendly facilities.

Can I bring children to the museum?

Yes. The Canadian Children’s Museum is designed for younger visitors, making the museum a family-friendly destination with hands-on exhibits and interactive spaces.