Canadian War Museum
The Basics
Explore Canada’s extensive military history and the stories of its soldiers, told via photos, interactive displays, artifacts, personal tales, and special temporary exhibitions. Permanent collections include Early Wars in Canada, the Second World War, From the Cold War to the Present, Memorial Hall, and Regeneration Hall. Don’t miss the Royal Canadian Legion Hall of Honour to learn about burial practices throughout history or the Military Technology Collection, where artillery vehicles and fighter jets are on display.
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Things to Know Before You Go
The Canadian War Museum is a must-see for military and history buffs.
Book and print tickets in advance to save time at the admissions desk.
Admission is free on Thursdays from 4pm to 8pm.
The on-site café offers breakfast and lunch items in a lovely modern setting.
A museum guide is available online and on-site in English, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, and Spanish.
The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, both of which are available for hire at the information desk.
How to Get There
The Canadian War Museum is at 1 Vimy Place, a short distance from Parliament Hill. It's accessible from downtown by public transportation, taxi, foot, or bicycle—in fact, the museum offers easy access to walking and cycling paths along the Ottawa River that lead to other Ottawa attractions. Paid parking is available at the museum.
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When to Get There
The Canadian War Museum is typically open daily from 9:30am to 5pm, and until 8pm on Thursdays, when admission is free between 4pm and close. The museum hosts special events and traveling exhibits on an ongoing basis; check online for the current schedule. Note that summer festivals may disrupt museum access and hours.
The Canadian War Museum Building
Opened in 2005, the low-slung, angular concrete building—which was designed to capture the severe look of a bunker—blends seamlessly into a hillside and conveys solemnity. Its unique green roof is a self-sustaining ecosystem comprising 11,500 square feet (10,684 square meters) of tall grass.
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