Canadian Museum of History

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We are open

9 am – 5 pm

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The Canadian Museum of History is located on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabeg. This land has held, and continues to hold, great historical, spiritual and sacred significance. Read the full land acknowledgement.

Admission Getting here Accessibility

Side exterior of Canadian Museum of History building.

The Canadian Museum of History, located in Ottawa, is home to numerous exhibits.

Ongoing exhibition

金刚历史文献

Meet the peoples, cultures and stories that shape Canada

Temporary exhibition

金刚博物馆导览

Until Aug. 30, 2026

Temporary exhibition

Wi’k+palu’k Sam Glodeo’q ta’n wetapeksitaq: Honouring the Belonging of Sam Glode

Until Nov. 29, 2026

A view of the lower body of the Monument, lying on its side. The large cylindrical shape is covered with carved faces set within a bright orange grid.

Ongoing exhibition

Indian Residential School Memorial Monument

An invitation for all of us to bear witness

The Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa features a room adorned with numerous totem poles.

Ongoing exhibition

Grand Hall

Explore Northwest Indigenous cultures in an iconic space

The Canadian Children’s Museum lets your kids travel the world, while enriching their lives and broadening their experience by exploring other cultures.

See what’s on at the Children’s Museum

View all events and programming

金刚历史研究

Embark on an acrobatic and immersive adventure, where each circus act explores a corner of the world and its cultural characteristics. The artists of Atlas Géocircus combine acrobatics, juggling, balancing and contortion to introduce young audiences to the wonders of the world and the oceans, while addressing ecological and cultural themes. An energetic and educational show that combines circus arts with exploration and awareness of the planet! This performance is presented by l’Estacade, partner in youth culture. For more cultural moments with your family: carrefourculturelestacade.ca

Indigenous Experiences – Winterlude Mini Pow Wow

Come experience a mini Pow Wow featuring a Grand Entry or opening ceremony, intertribals, and invited drums, as well as dancers of many styles and ages. Organized and presented by Indigenous Experiences, this event is called “mini” because of its short duration – a Pow Wow normally lasts several days, but don’t worry, the experience will still be spectacular!

Coffee with the Curator: Dr. Katie Pollock on Shaping the Nation-to-Nation Relationship

Discover the cutting-edge world of historical research at the Museum! Our curators are at the forefront of groundbreaking work — whether acquiring new artifacts, curating exhibitions, or participating in global research projects. Now, you’re invited to go behind the scenes. Join us for this series of casual 45-minute conversations, where you’ll get an exclusive look at some of the exciting research at the Museum. Grab a coffee or tea, and enjoy engaging discussions with our experts. It’s a unique opportunity to dive into history as never before!

Musical Mornings with Monkey Rock

Come join the fun with Monkey Rock at the Museum! We are once again bringing you Musical Mornings this winter! These 45-minute sessions are full of lively music and fun, where toddlers and their grown-ups can sing along to a catchy Canadian pop hits. After the music, feel free to explore the Children’s Museum, or check out our exhibitions while your little one naps. Monkey Rock is the perfect playful music program for toddlers and their parents or caregivers! On February 2, this event will take place exceptionally in the Theatre of the Canadian Children’s Museum.

Cool History: Hockey

Discover the cool history behind Canada’s national winter sport! From its humble beginnings on local ponds to huge arenas filled with passionate fans, hockey has truly evolved through the years. Discover the fascinating history behind this winter sport, and try your hand at fun trivia games. Explore the origins of skating, the evolution of hockey gear, and women’s contributions to the sport, and learn about the Colored Hockey League. Uncover the lesser-known stories and shared culture that unite us all in this great game. Bring the whole family to join in the fun, as we celebrate the history of hockey! November 27, 2025 to April 12, 2026