How to Plan Your Experience at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Canadian culture, history, and art, then you can’t miss a visit to the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau. With more than 4 million items, the Museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about Canada’s history from its Indigenous roots to its modern-day diversity. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan an unforgettable tour at the Canadian Museum of History.

Highlights

When planning your visit, these are some of the highlights you don’t want to miss:

1. Learn about more than 15000 years of Canada’s rich history.
2. Discover permanent and special exhibitions in galleries spread over four floors.
3. Marvel at the world’s largest indoor collection of totem poles.

Getting There

The Canadian Museum of History is located in Gatineau, Quebec, across the river from Ottawa’s Parliament Hill. If you’re driving, you can find parking on-site, or if you’re taking public transit, several bus routes stop at the Museum. If you’re visiting from out of town, there are several nearby hotels that offer shuttle services to the Museum.

Admission

You can purchase tickets to the Canadian Museum of History through the official website or through a third-party vendor like GetYourGuide. General admission tickets start at $20, which gives you access to the Museum’s permanent exhibitions. Special exhibitions may have a separate admission fee.

Guided Tours

If you want an in-depth guided experience, the Canadian Museum of History offers several tours. You can choose from a selection of theme tours like the Indigenous Perspectives Tour or the Canadian History Hall Tour. The Museum also offers a range of language options, including French, English, Spanish, and Mandarin.

What to See

The Canadian Museum of History houses several permanent and temporary exhibitions that showcase Canada’s rich history and culture. The following are a few of the must-see exhibitions:

1. The Canadian History Hall: This exhibition is a journey through Canada’s history, from the First Peoples to present-day Canada. The Hall has several interactive displays and immersive experiences that let you explore Canada’s past.

2. The Grand Hall: The Grand Hall is home to one of the most impressive collections of totem poles in the world. The Hall also features several Indigenous artifacts and artwork.

3. CINÉ+ : If you want to learn about Canada’s history through film, then CINÉ+ is a must-see. The theatre screens several Canadian documentaries and movies throughout the day.

When to Visit

The Canadian Museum of History is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, except for Christmas Day. If you’re visiting during peak season, like the summer months or holidays, be prepared for larger crowds. To avoid crowds, consider visiting during weekdays or in the evening when the Museum has extended hours.

Conclusion

Visiting the Canadian Museum of History is an excellent way to learn about Canada’s rich history and culture. By following this guide, you can plan a memorable tour that includes all the highlights of the Museum. Book your tickets in advance and consider taking a guided tour for an even more immersive experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture all the beautiful exhibits!

The Ultimate Guide to the Canadian Museum of History

If you’re planning to visit the Canadian Museum of History, it’s natural to have some questions about the exhibits, ticket prices, and other logistical details. To help you plan your visit, we’ve put together a list of the most frequently asked questions about the museum.

What is the Canadian Museum of History?

The Canadian Museum of History is located in Gatineau, Quebec, just across the Ottawa River from Canada’s capital city, Ottawa. It is Canada’s largest and most popular museum, attracting over 1.2 million visitors every year. The museum houses over 4 million artifacts, documents, and specimens that showcase Canada’s history, culture, and achievements.

What are the museum’s hours of operation?

The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The museum may close early or open later on certain holidays, so it’s always a good idea to check the museum’s website or call ahead before planning your visit.

How much does it cost to visit the museum?

General admission to the Canadian Museum of History costs $20 for adults, $18 for seniors (65+), $16 for students (with ID), and $12 for youth (ages 3-12). Children under 3 are admitted for free. The museum also offers discounted group rates for groups of 15 or more people.

What exhibits can I see at the museum?

The Canadian Museum of History features several permanent and temporary exhibits that offer a glimpse into Canada’s natural wonders, archaeology, history, and cultural traditions. Some of the most popular exhibits include:

Canadian History Hall

The Canadian History Hall is a permanent exhibit that traces Canada’s history from the dawn of human habitation to the present day. It features over 1,500 artifacts and interactive displays that showcase the major events, people, and ideas that have shaped Canada’s identity.

First Peoples Hall

The First Peoples Hall is another permanent exhibit that celebrates the rich and diverse cultures of Canada’s First Peoples. It features over 7,000 artifacts and displays that showcase traditional practices, languages, spirituality, and contemporary issues facing Indigenous communities today.

Canadian Children’s Museum

The Canadian Children’s Museum is an interactive exhibit designed for children ages 14 and under. It features hands-on activities, games, and costumes that allow children to explore the culture, traditions, and daily life of children in different countries around the world.

Special Exhibitions

The Canadian Museum of History also hosts several temporary exhibits throughout the year that showcase specific themes, events, or artists. Some past exhibits have included “Napoleon”, “Vikings”, and “From Time Immemorial: Tsimshian Prehistory”. Check the museum’s website to see what exhibits are currently on display.

How long does it take to visit the museum?

Plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the Canadian Museum of History. With over 4 million artifacts and displays, there’s plenty to see and learn about. If you have a specific interest or exhibit you want to explore, consider spending more time at the museum or coming back for a second visit.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

You can buy tickets to the Canadian Museum of History in advance online or in person at the museum’s box office. Buying tickets in advance can help you avoid long lines at the box office and ensure that you get the day and time that you prefer. However, you can also buy tickets at the museum’s box office on the day of your visit if you prefer.

Is the museum accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the Canadian Museum of History is accessible for people with disabilities. The museum offers wheelchairs and strollers for rent, as well as sign language interpretation and assistive listening devices for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing. The museum also has accessible parking spaces, elevators, and washrooms.

Can I bring food and drinks into the museum?

No, food and drinks are not allowed inside the Canadian Museum of History galleries or theaters. However, there are several dining options available within the museum, including a cafeteria, a bistro, and a self-serve coffee bar. You can also bring your own food and have a picnic on the lawn outside the museum on a nice day.

Can I take pictures in the museum?

Yes, you are allowed to take pictures with handheld cameras or smartphones in most areas of the Canadian Museum of History, as long as the flash is turned off and you’re not using tripods or selfie sticks. However, photography may be restricted in some temporary exhibits or special events, so be sure to check with museum staff before taking pictures.

Is there parking available at the museum?

Yes, the Canadian Museum of History has a large parking lot that can accommodate over 600 vehicles. The parking fee is $10 per vehicle per day. If the museum’s parking lot is full, there are several other parking options available nearby, including street parking and other public parking lots.

Conclusion

The Canadian Museum of History is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Canada’s history, culture, and natural treasures. With its diverse exhibits, interactive displays, and stunning architecture, the museum offers something for visitors of all ages and interests. By following these frequently asked questions, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this world-class museum.