How to Plan Your Visit to the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa

If you’re interested in Canadian military history, a visit to the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa is a must-see experience. This national museum offers a rich collection of artifacts, works of art, photographs, interactive presentations, and immersive environments that bring Canada’s military history to life.To make the most of your visit, it’s important to plan ahead. In this how-to guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your visit to the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.

Experience

When visiting the Canadian War Museum, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Canada’s military experiences and the impact of armed conflict on Canadian society from Confederation to the present day.

Highlights

Here are the highlights that you shouldn’t miss:

Explore the Permanent and Special Exhibitions

Visit the permanent exhibitions, which showcase Canada’s military history and the stories of the men and women who have served in the nation’s defence. You’ll also find an ever-changing array of special exhibitions that focus on specific themes or periods in Canadian military history.

Discover the Museum’s Fascinating Architectural Theme

Designed by Japanese–Canadian architect Raymond Moriyama, the Museum’s structure and surrounding grounds reflect the concept of regeneration. The windows spell out messages in Morse code, and uneven floors and rough concrete walls acknowledge the price of conflict while also showing hope for a more peaceful future.

Hear Compelling Stories from Canada’s Military History

Visitors can immerse themselves in collections that document and exhibit the experience of war at home and abroad through the use of interactive video displays, rare archival images, and voice recordings that tell personal stories.

Reflect and Pay Homage in the Memorial Hall

The Memorial Hall is a sacred space where you can pay your respects to the men and women who sacrificed their lives while serving Canada in the armed forces. The Hall is an architectural masterpiece, consisting of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and a variety of other features to honor Canada’s fallen.

Chat with a Veteran and Have History Come Alive

The Museum provides opportunities for visitors to interact with veterans and hear firsthand about their experiences in Canada’s military service. Personal stories like these can be a powerful way to understand the impact of war.

How to Get There

The Canadian War Museum is located at 1 Vimy Place Ottawa, about 20 minutes’ drive from downtown Ottawa. Public transport is also available.

When to Visit

The Canadian War Museum is open seven days a week from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Museum is closed on December 25th.

Admission Fees

Admission to the Canadian War Museum costs $17 for adults, $15 for seniors over 65 years, $13 for students aged 18 or over with a valid student ID, $10 for youth aged 3-17, and free of charge for children under 3 years.

How to Book

You can book admission to the Canadian War Museum here: book the tour here.

Conclusion

Plan your trip to the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa for a unique experience in Canadian military history. With these tips, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ottawa

If you’re planning a trip to Canada, Ottawa is a great place to start! As the capital city of Canada, it offers tourists a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. But before you go, you may have some questions about the city. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Ottawa to help you plan your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Ottawa?

The best time to visit Ottawa depends on what you want to do. If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking, the summer months (June to August) are the best time to visit. The city’s parks and waterways come to life during this time, and the weather is warm and sunny. If you’re interested in winter sports like skiing or skating, the winter months (December to February) are the best time to visit. The Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest skating rink, is open during this time and is a must-see attraction.

2. What are some must-see attractions in Ottawa?

Ottawa has plenty of attractions to keep you busy during your visit. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• The Parliament Hill: home to the Canadian government and iconic gothic buildings.
• The National Gallery of Canada: Canada’s premier art museum and home to over 65,000 works of art.
• The Rideau Canal: UNESCO World Heritage site that stretches over 200km and is perfect for hiking or cruising.
• The Canadian War Museum: a fascinating museum that tells the story of Canada’s military history.
• The ByWard Market: Ottawa’s oldest and largest public market with more than 600 unique shops, restaurants, and cafés

3. What is the local cuisine in Ottawa?

Ottawa has a thriving food scene with plenty of local specialties to try. Some of the most popular local dishes include:

• BeaverTails: a pastry shaped like a beaver’s tail that is usually topped with cinnamon and sugar.
• Poutine: French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
• Shawarma: Middle Eastern-style pita wraps with marinated meats, vegetables, and sauces.
• Maple Syrup: Canada’s signature syrup extracted from maple trees, used as a topping and ingredient in many dishes and desserts.
• Peameal Bacon: A staple breakfast item, made from cornmeal, rolled in a thin layer of curing or brining and traditionally served on a bun.

4. What is the local currency in Ottawa?

Like the rest of Canada, the local currency in Ottawa is the Canadian dollar (CAD). You can exchange your currency at banks, currency exchange offices, or at the airport. Many businesses in Ottawa also accept credit and debit cards, so you don’t need to carry around a lot of cash.

5. How do I get around Ottawa?

Ottawa has a reliable public transportation system consisting of buses and trains. The city also has a bike-sharing program, which is a great way to explore the city’s parks and waterways. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available if you prefer to ride.

6. Is Ottawa a safe city?

Ottawa is a very safe city with a low crime rate. However, like any city, there are certain areas that may be less safe at night. It’s always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re traveling alone.

7. What is the weather like in Ottawa?

Ottawa has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and sunny with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F). Winters can be very cold with temperatures dipping below -30°C (-22°F). Spring and fall are mild with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 18°C (41°F to 64°F).

8. Do I need a visa to visit Ottawa?

It depends on your country of origin. Citizens of the United States, European Union member countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea do not need a visa for stays up to six months. Citizens of other countries may need a visa, so it’s best to check with your local Canadian embassy or consulate before you book your trip.

9. What language do they speak in Ottawa?

Ottawa is a bilingual city, so both English and French are widely spoken. All street signs and government documents are in both languages.

10. What are some popular festivals and events in Ottawa?

Ottawa hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including:

• The Canadian Tulip Festival: A celebration of the tulip as a symbol of friendship between Canada and the Netherlands, happening every spring from May to June
• The Ottawa Jazz Festival: An annual jazz festival held in late June that attracts performers from around the world
• The Ottawa Bluesfest: One of the world’s top outdoor music festivals, held in July and featuring a range of blues, rock, and alternative acts.
• The Ottawa International Animation Festival: An annual festival held in September featuring animated films and workshops from around the world.

Conclusion

Ottawa is an incredible city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Ottawa has something to offer. We hope this post has answered some of your questions about the city and helps you plan your trip. Remember to pack for the weather, sample the local food, and be aware of your surroundings, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ottawa

Planning a visit to Ottawa can be exciting, but also intimidating with so much to see and do in this vibrant city. From world-renowned museums to historic landmarks, Ottawa has something to offer everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of your time in Ottawa as a tourist.

1. Explore the Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill is an iconic site and the heart of the Canadian government. The Parliament buildings are steeped in history and offer breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building, which includes a visit to the House of Commons and the Senate.

How to Visit Parliament Hill

To visit Parliament Hill, you can take a free guided tour of the buildings. Tickets can be picked up at the Visitor Welcome Centre, which is located at 90 Wellington Street. The tours run from early morning till late afternoon. Visitors may also watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place on the lawn in front of the Parliament building.

2. Visit the National Gallery of Canada

Located at 380 Sussex Drive, the National Gallery of Canada showcases an extensive collection of Canadian art. The museum also has a vast collection of international art on display. The gallery features artwork by renowned artists such as the Group of Seven, Emily Carr, and Tom Thomson.

How to Visit the National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery of Canada is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, and on Thursday has an extended opening time till 8 pm. The admission fee is $16, which includes access to all the exhibitions. However, on Thursdays after 5 pm, visitors get free admission to the permanent collection.

3. Visit the Canadian War Museum

Located at 1 Vimy Pl, Ottawa, the Canadian War Museum contains various exhibits and interactive displays, including tanks, weapons, and uniforms. Visitors can learn about Canadian military history dating back to the 16th century.

How to Visit the Canadian War Museum

The Canadian War Museum is open daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm, and admission is $19 for adults, $13 for students and seniors, and free for children under 8.

4. Tour the Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches for 126 miles between Kingston and Ottawa. Visitors can take boat cruises during the summer or ice skate on the canal in the winter. The canal is also an excellent area for picnics and bike rides.

How to Tour the Rideau Canal

Boat tours of the canal are available in the summer, starting from Dow’s Lake Pavilion. Visitors can also rent paddle boats or kayaks on the canal. In the winter, visitors can enjoy the Rideau Canal Skateway, which opens when the ice is thick enough to support skaters.

5. Visit ByWard Market

The ByWard Market, located at the heart of Ottawa’s downtown area, is a bustling public market that has been in operation since 1826. The market has a wide range of activities, including live music performances, street performers, and outdoor patios, and several food vendors.

How to Visit ByWard Market

The ByWard Market is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, and the shops and restaurants have varying opening hours. The market is easily accessible by public transportation, and there are several parking options within a five-block radius.

6. Visit the Canadian Museum of History

Located at 100 Rue Laurier in Gatineau, Quebec, just across the river from Ottawa, the Canadian Museum of History is one of the country’s most popular museums. It boasts of a vast collection of artifacts representing Canada’s various cultural groups and a range of interactive exhibits.

How to Visit the Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm and has an admission fee of $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $14 for students. The museum is easily accessible via public transit or by taking a short walk across the Alexandra Bridge from downtown Ottawa.

Conclusion

Ottawa is an exceptional tourist destination with a wide range of activities, museums, and landmarks that are perfect for different types of travellers. With our guide, you can make the most of your time in the city and ensure that you have an unforgettable experience. Remember to use the modes of transport that best suit you and always confirm opening and closing hours before visiting.