Canadian Museum of History Tours

Canadian Museum of History which includes skyline and modern architecture
Canadian Museum of History featuring interior views
Canadian Museum of History which includes interior views
Canadian Museum of History featuring interior views and indigenous culture
Canadian Museum of History showing a garden

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.
Arc The Hotel

Arc The Hotel

4 out of 5
Downtown Ottawa
per person
Oct 2 - Oct 6
found 18 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
Newark Liberty Intl. Airport (EWR) to Ottawa (YOW)
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
The staff is extremely helpful, and enhances the value of this hotel in addition to its central location and cleanliness.

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

Sheraton Ottawa Hotel

Sheraton Ottawa Hotel

4 out of 5
Downtown Ottawa
per person
Oct 2 - Oct 6
found 18 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
Newark Liberty Intl. Airport (EWR) to Ottawa (YOW)
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,099 reviews)
Nice clean room, great location.

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Cartier Place Suite Hotel

Cartier Place Suite Hotel

3 out of 5
Centretown
per person
Oct 2 - Oct 6
found 18 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
Newark Liberty Intl. Airport (EWR) to Ottawa (YOW)
8.2/10 Very Good! (3,750 reviews)
its very nice place

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

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Bytown Museum showing signage

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Best Lodging Options Near Canadian Museum of History

Fairmont Chateau Laurier

Fairmont Chateau Laurier

4.5 out of 5
1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Hôtel Chateauneuf Gatineau—Ottawa

Hôtel Chateauneuf Gatineau—Ottawa

3.5 out of 5
2 Montcalm Street, Gatineau, QC
Hôtel Chateauneuf Gatineau—Ottawa
The Business Inn

The Business Inn

2.5 out of 5
180 MacLaren Street, Ottawa, ON
The Business Inn
Lord Elgin Hotel

Lord Elgin Hotel

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

Les Suites Hotel Ottawa

4 out of 5
130 Besserer St, Ottawa, ON
Les Suites Hotel Ottawa
University of Ottawa Residence

University of Ottawa Residence

2 out of 5
90 University Private, Ottawa, ON
University of Ottawa Residence
Arc The Hotel

Arc The Hotel

4 out of 5
140 Slater St, Ottawa, ON
Arc The Hotel
Ottawa Marriott Hotel

Ottawa Marriott Hotel

4 out of 5
100 Kent St, Ottawa, ON
Ottawa Marriott Hotel
See all 593 properties in Canadian Museum of History
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

When visiting the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, explore nearby attractions such as a children's museum and enjoy outdoor activities for enthusiasts. The area offers exciting options like running, sports, and shopping. Don't miss the chance to participate in city tours for a deeper understanding of the local culture and history.

Food and drinks

Indulge in local flavors at KIN Vineyard, a charming winery 17 miles away, perfect for a romantic outing. Alternatively, visit Vignoble Clos du Vully, 18 miles from the museum, offering outdoor experiences amidst breathtaking scenery. Both places promise delightful food and drink options.

Shopping

The nearest shopping areas include Byward Market Square, only 0.8 miles away, offering a public market vibe, and Sparks Street at 0.7 miles, perfect for family and city experiences. Rideau Centre is 0.9 miles away, featuring a shopping mall atmosphere ideal for family entertainment.

Recreation

The Canadian Tire Centre, 14 miles away, offers vibrant sports experiences. For ultimate relaxation, visit Nordik Spa-Nature, 7 miles from the museum, where tranquility reigns. The Ottawa River Parkway, only 0.5 miles away, provides a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and rejuvenating outdoor activities.

Adventure

Experience thrilling adventures at Camp Fortune, a premier ski field located 9 miles from the Canadian Museum of History, where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. Nearby, the Pineault Ski Lift offers exhilarating rides up the slopes, while Parc Pee Wee Park provides additional opportunities for skiing and outdoor sports.

Nightlife

Experience the excitement at Casino du Lac Leamy, just a mile from the museum, offering romance and city vibes. For family fun, explore Tag Zone's indoor paintless paintball, located 2 miles away. Enjoy a cultural evening at the Great Canadian Theatre Company, also 2 miles from the museum.

Find the best attractions near Canadian Museum of History

When visiting the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Quebec, you'll discover a variety of attractions that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Explore nearby urban parks and historic civic government buildings, or delve into the rich history showcased at the museum. Don't miss the chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies while enjoying family-friendly activities and historic sites in the area.

  • Parliament Hill: Explore the heart of Canadian democracy at Parliament Hill, where stunning Gothic architecture meets vibrant cultural events. Take a guided tour to learn about Canada’s political history and witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony.
  • University of Ottawa: Discover the largest bilingual university in the world. Wander through its historic campus, featuring beautiful architecture and lush green spaces, while enjoying local art exhibitions and cultural events that reflect its diverse community.
  • Shaw Centre: Attend a conference or event at this modern facility, which boasts impressive design and views of the Ottawa River. Its spacious rooms and state-of-the-art technology make it a hub for business and innovation, perfect for networking opportunities.

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 CloudyAverageAverage
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 HighSlightly High
September60.4°F (15.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October48.2°F (9.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November35.4°F (1.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December24.6°F (-4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Canadian Museum of History

To save money on your visit to the Canadian Museum of History, consider taking advantage of nearby free attractions like the University of Ottawa, Rideau Canal, and Carleton University. Plan your trip between November and January for lower accommodation rates. Use Expedia to compare prices and book package deals that combine flights and hotels for added savings. Joining the One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and cash back on future stays. Don't forget to check reviews and compare room rates for the best value!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Canadian Museum of History are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Canadian Museum of History with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.