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Top 10 Museums in Canada
Looking to inject a bit of art, history, and just overall awesomeness into your next Canada trip? Well, you’re in luck since Canada is chock-full of world-class museums!
And I’m not just talking about a handful—I mean a veritable treasure trove of places that will make your inner culture absolutely delighted.
Whether you’re into sprawling art galleries, painstakingly curated historical collections, or massive natural history exhibits, there’s a world of discovery waiting for you.
In this article, we’re presenting our favourite museums in Canada so you’ll know where to start your journey. Read on!
Royal Ontario Museum
Website: https://www.rom.on.ca/en/whats-on/rom-after-dark
Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6
Contact details: +1 416-586-8000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5:30 PM
Located in the heart of Toronto, the ROM is Canada’s largest museum of world cultures and natural history. And boy, does it live up to that title.
With six million artefacts spread over 40 galleries, you’re treated to an astonishingly diverse range of exhibits.
From dinosaur fossils and Egyptian mummies to gems, minerals, and impressive collections of European and Asian arts, it’s like having the world at your fingertips.
Oh, and the building itself—with its unique blend of historic architecture and modern boldness, it’s a perfect symbol of what the museum embodies: a fusion of the past, present, and future.
Local tip: Be sure to check out the Bat Cave; it’s a crowd favourite! |
Royal Tyrrell Museum
Website: http://www.tyrrellmuseum.com/
Address: 1500 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, Alberta
Contact details: +1 403-823-7707
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10AM to 5PM
Prices:
- Adult – $21
- Senior – $14
- Youth – $10
- Family/Group – $50
- Child (6 yrs old and below) – Free
If you’re at all fascinated by the age of dinosaurs, the Royal Tyrrell Museum will pretty much blow your socks off.
Housing one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs, you’ll come face-to-face with colossal dinosaur skeletons, stroll through ancient landscapes, and get to see palaeontologists in action in the working laboratory.
Not to put too fine a point on it, but it’s like stepping onto the set of Jurassic Park, minus the T-rex chase scenes, of course.
Local tip: The Dinosaur Hall, with over 40 mounted dinosaur skeletons, is also a must-see. |
Canadian Museum of History
Website: https://www.historymuseum.ca/
Address: 100 Laurier St, Gatineau, Quebec
Contact details: +1 819-776-7000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Now, my friend, we’ll hop on over to the delightful city of Gatineau, Quebec, where the Canadian Museum of History resides. This place is as grand as it gets, being the country’s most-visited museum.
With exhibits spotlighting Canada’s 20,000 years of human history, it’s a treasure trove of rich stories, ancient artefacts, and vibrant art. The museum’s architectural design is a marvel in itself, echoing the country’s landscape.
And let’s not forget the breathtaking view of Ottawa’s Parliament Buildings across the river.
Local tip: For the best view, visit the museum’s outdoor terraces. |
Canadian War Museum
Website: https://www.warmuseum.ca/
Address: 1 Vimy Pl, Ottawa, ON
Contact details: +1 800-555-5621
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
The Canadian War Museum does an extraordinary job of bringing Canada’s military past to life.
Showcasing the stories and artefacts of Canada’s military history from the earliest times to the contemporary period of peacekeeping, it offers a thoughtful look at the country’s past.
The museum pays tribute to the sacrifice of Canadians in conflict, casting a light on the evennts that shaped Canada. It’s an emotionally moving, enriching experience that doesn’t shy away from the solemnity of its subject matter.
Local tip: Don’t miss Regeneration Hall, with its striking architecture and inspiring view. |
National Gallery of Canada
Website: http://www.gallery.ca/
Address: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON
Contact details: +1 613-990-1985
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 10 AM to 8 PM
The National Gallery of Canada goes well beyond your average gallery with a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and graphic arts from artists worldwide.
The crowning glory of the gallery has to be the extensive collection of Canadian Art, including indigenous works and modern pieces.
Plus, the gallery’s structure is worth mentioning: a stunning glass building designed by Moshe Safdie that truly embodies the beauty and creativity within.
Local tip: The iconic giant spider sculpture, Maman, in front of the gallery is a must-visit. |
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Website: https://www.mbam.qc.ca/fr/
Address: 1380 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1J5, Canada
Contact details: +1 514-285-2000
Operating Hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Let me tell you, Montreal’s got an exceptional gem in the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. With a history dating back to 1860, this place is the spot for art aficionados visiting La Belle Province.
Spanning five pavilions, the museum features a seriously impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, graphic arts, and decorative art objects from around the globe.
I mean, we’re talking about everything from European masters to contemporary Canadian artists. Plus, they host temporary exhibits throughout the year, making each visit a unique experience!
Local tip: Check their website for “Wednesdays at the Museum” discounts—it’s often half-price for the collection galleries. |
Vancouver Art Gallery
Website: http://www.vanartgallery.bc.ca/
Address: 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC
Contact details: +1 604-662-4700
Operating hours:
- Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Tuesday – Closed
- Thursday and Friday – 10 AM to 8 PM
The Vancouver Art Gallery is a true showstopper found right in the heart of downtown. Internationally acclaimed for showcasing innovative contemporary art, it’s a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for boundary-pushing creativity.
In between marvelling at works by prominent Canadian and international artists, take some time to savour the gallery’s significant collection of works by the iconic Canadian painter Emily Carr.
Trust me, the stunning landscapes and haunting imagery of British Columbia’s wild coast will leave a lasting impression.
Local tip: Take a break at the Gallery Café—those mouthwatering desserts are to die for. |
The Rooms
Website: http://www.therooms.ca/
Address: 9 Bonaventure Ave, St. John’s, NL
Contact details: +1 709-757-8000
Operating hours:
- Wednesday and Friday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 5 PM
The Rooms in St. John is a striking, modern building that houses a museum, an art gallery, and the provincial archives—talk about a one-stop cultural shop!
Expect to delve into the rich history, art, and culture of Newfoundland and Labrador, from wildlife and natural landscapes to the history of the indigenous peoples and European settlers. The stunning view of St. John’s Harbour alone is worth the visit.
Local tip: Visit The Rooms Café on the 3rd floor for coffee and a snack, paired with a panoramic harbour view. |
Art Gallery of Ontario
Website: https://ago.ca/
Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4
Contact details: +1 416-979-6648
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 10:30 AM to 5 PM
- Wednesday and Friday – 10:30 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Monday – Closed
Tucked in downtown Toronto, the AGO houses more than 90,000 works of art—yep, that’s right, over 90,000! Expect pieces from legendary artists like the Group of Seven, Tom Thomson, and European icons like Van Gogh and Picasso.
Oh, and the architecture? With renovations done by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, it’s a total visual feast both inside and out.
Local tip: If you’re 25 or under, the gallery offers free admission! |
Musée de la Civilisation
Website: https://www.mcq.org/
Address: 85 Rue Dalhousie, Québec, QC
Contact details: +1 418-643-2158
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Nestled in the heart of Old Quebec, the Musée de la Civilisation is where history, culture, and innovation collide. Boasting an eclectic mix of permanent and temporary exhibits, this museum delves deep into Quebec’s history and culture.
From the indigenous peoples to the European settlers, it’s all there, bringing the past to life. And the interactive, immersive exhibits make this place a standout, promising an amazing experience for kids and adults alike.
Local tip: Take a leisurely stroll in nearby Petit Champlain, the charming historic district, after your museum visit. |