Canadian Children's Museum
100 Laurier St., Gatineau, QC, QC K1A 0M8
Visit a bedouin tent and ride in a decorated Pakistani bus at the Canadian Children's Museum, where activities bring the cultures, art, and history of countries across the globe to life. The interactive exhibits encourage kids to visit a variety of recreated countries and gather stamps on a passport booklet issued at the entrance.
The Basics
This innovative, hands-on museum inside the Canadian Museum of History gives children an educational, travel-like experience and lets them learn about countries around the world without leaving Canada’s capital city. Admission to the children’s museum is included with entry to the Canadian Museum of History, making it a great stop for the entire family. Both museums are also included in the Canada’s National Museums Passport, which grants admission to any three of Ottawa’s seven participating national museums.
Things to Know Before You Go
Families and museum lovers should not miss the chance to visit this interactive museum.
Allow time to visit each area of the museum so kids can fill their booklet with passport stamps.
The museum hosts a variety of events, from opportunities to dress up and build castles to art classes where you can create a family portrait; see the museum’s schedule to time your visit to one of these events.
The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Bring a camera for the many postcard-worthy photo opportunities.
How to Get There
The Canadian Children’s Museum is located within the Canadian Museum of History, which is set on the banks of the Ottawa River across from Parliament Hill. Just 1.5 mile (2.5 kilometers) from downtown Ottawa, the museum is accessible by car, bicycle, and public transportation. In the summer, you can take a water taxi across the river to reach the museum.
When to Get There
The Canadian Children’s Museum is open every day except for major holidays; opening and closing hours vary by the day of the week. The museum is ideal for an indoor adventure on a cold or rainy day. To skip the crowds, avoid visiting on school holidays or weekends.
The Canadian Museum of History
When visiting the Canadian Children’s Museum, take time to explore the surrounding Canadian Museum of History. While not specifically designed for children, the museum has many exhibits that entertain and educate kids and adults alike. Attractions include the First People’s Hall, the Canadian History Hall, and the Canadian Stamp Collection.
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