Canadian Museum of History Tours and Activities

Canadian Museum of History showing modern architecture and skyline
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.

Plan a trip to see Canadian Museum of History

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hotel V
Cartier Place Suite Hotel
Arc The Hotel

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Canadian Museum of History

Hôtel Chateauneuf Gatineau—Ottawa

Hôtel Chateauneuf Gatineau—Ottawa

3.5 out of 5
2 Montcalm Street, Gatineau, QC
Hôtel Chateauneuf Gatineau—Ottawa
Fairmont Chateau Laurier

Fairmont Chateau Laurier

4.5 out of 5
1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Lord Elgin Hotel

Lord Elgin Hotel

4 out of 5
100 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON
Lord Elgin Hotel
Les Suites Hotel Ottawa

Les Suites Hotel Ottawa

4 out of 5
130 Besserer St, Ottawa, ON
Les Suites Hotel Ottawa
Arc The Hotel

Arc The Hotel

4 out of 5
140 Slater St, Ottawa, ON
Arc The Hotel
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG

2.5 out of 5
235 KING EDWARD AVENUE, Ottawa, ON
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG
The Business Inn

The Business Inn

2.5 out of 5
180 MacLaren Street, Ottawa, ON
The Business Inn
AC Hotel BY Marriott Ottawa Dwtn

AC Hotel BY Marriott Ottawa Dwtn

4 out of 5
201 RIDEAU STREET, OTTAWA, ON
AC Hotel BY Marriott Ottawa Dwtn
ANDAZ OTTAWA BYWARD MARKET, BY HYATT

ANDAZ OTTAWA BYWARD MARKET, BY HYATT

4 out of 5
325 Dalhousie Street, Ottawa, ON
ANDAZ OTTAWA BYWARD MARKET, BY HYATT
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau offers a variety of engaging activities, including immersive exhibits and thorough tours that delve into the nation's rich history. Visitors can explore favourite museums nearby, enjoy sports and running in the area, and take advantage of convenient bus services to reach the museum. With its captivating history exhibitions, the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Canada's cultural heritage.

Shopping

The closest shopping option is Sparks Street, only 1.1km away, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Rideau Centre is 1.4km away, perfect for family outings. If you're up for a drive, check out Byward Market Square, located 1.3km away, for unique souvenirs and local goods.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at TD Place Stadium, located 4.8km away, where you can catch a thrilling sports event. For a serene escape, visit Nordik Spa-Nature, 11.3km away, offering rejuvenating treatments. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Ottawa River Parkway, just 805m away, surrounded by nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Camp Fortune, a ski field located 14.5km from the museum, where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding amidst the stunning scenery. At Clifford Ski Lift, also 14.5km away, you’ll find exhilarating ski adventures. Alternatively, Parc Pee Wee Park offers exciting outdoor activities for all ages.

Nightlife

The nightlife around the Canadian Museum of History is vibrant. At Casino du Lac Leamy, enjoy romance and excitement 1.6km away, while the Great Canadian Theatre Company offers cultural entertainment just two miles away. For family fun, Cosmic Adventures, located four miles away, promises an adventurous atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near Canadian Museum of History

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or planning a family outing, the area around the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau offers a variety of attractions. Explore historic civic buildings, enjoy the serenity of urban parks, or visit nearby colleges and universities. Don't miss the Canadian History Hall and other exhibits within the museum, ensuring a rich experience that celebrates Canada's heritage.

  • Parliament Hill: Located 966m from the Canadian Museum of History, Parliament Hill is the heart of Canadian democracy. Experience the stunning Gothic architecture and explore the beautiful grounds, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony during summer months. The site is steeped in culture and history, offering guided tours that showcase Canada’s political heritage.
  • University of Ottawa: Situated 1.6km away, the University of Ottawa is Canada’s largest bilingual university. Its historic campus boasts impressive architecture and vibrant cultural events. Explore the galleries, attend lectures, or simply enjoy the lush surroundings, making it a lively hub for students and visitors alike.
  • Rogers Centre Ottawa: Just 1.4km from the museum, Rogers Centre is a premier event venue hosting a variety of conferences and entertainment events. Experience the dynamic atmosphere of business activities and cultural events, making it a key destination for locals and tourists wanting to engage with Ottawa's vibrant scene.

Best time to go to Canadian Museum of History

Visitor numbers around Canadian Museum of History is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Canadian Museum of History can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Canadian Museum of History falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Canadian Museum of History falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January15.3°F (-9.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February17.2°F (-8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March27.9°F (-2.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August67.5°F (19.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October48.2°F (9.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November35.4°F (1.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December24.6°F (-4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Canadian Museum of History

To save money while visiting the Canadian Museum of History, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Byward Market Square and the University of Ottawa. Plan your trip during off-peak months such as March or December to January for lower accommodation rates, and aim for a Monday stay to save further, as Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to find eco-certified hotels that fit your budget and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to look for special offers and refundable booking options to ensure flexibility in your travel plans.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Canadian Museum of History are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Canadian Museum of History is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Canadian Museum of History is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your selections based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, by selecting the "Eco-certified" filter, you’ll uncover a range of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Canadian Museum of History with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.