Canadian Museum of History

About the Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History sits on the banks of the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, directly across from Parliament Hill. Designed by Indigenous architect Douglas Cardinal, the building's distinctive curving limestone forms are meant to evoke the Canadian landscape shaped by wind, water, and glaciers.

It's Canada's most-visited museum, and its location — a short walk across the Alexandra Bridge from downtown Ottawa — makes it easy to include in any Ottawa visit.

What to See

• Canadian History Hall — The museum's centrepiece. A 4,000-square-metre exhibition spanning 15,000 years of Canadian history, from Indigenous civilizations through European contact to the present day
• Grand Hall — A dramatic hall with floor-to-ceiling windows facing Parliament Hill, housing the world's largest indoor collection of totem poles and six reconstructed Indigenous houses from the Pacific Northwest Coast
• Canadian Children's Museum — One of Ottawa's best destinations for kids. An immersive, hands-on space where children explore cultures from around the world through role-play and interactive exhibits. First-come, first-served access — arrive early on busy days
• Canadian Stamp Collection — A collection of rare Canadian and international postage stamps

Admission

Timed tickets are required for all visitors. Book ahead at historymuseum.ca.

Getting There

• On Foot: A 15-minute walk from Parliament Hill across the Alexandra Bridge
• By Transit: STO buses from downtown Ottawa cross into Gatineau. OC Transpo routes also serve the area
• By Car: Paid parking available at the museum