Free Museums in Ottawa

"Located within the ByWard Market precinct is Canada’s impressive National Gallery, where you can spend hours exploring Canadian, American, Europea and Asian art. Head for the Canadian Gallery for artworks from the New France era during the 18th century, works by pioneering women artists such as Emily Carr and abstract paintings by groups of artists. Famous Canadian artist groups include the Automatistes in Montreal, Painters Eleven in Toronto and Regina Five in Saskatchewan."

"Perhaps the most famous museum in Ottawa Canada, the Canadian War Museum* is known for being Canada’s national museum of military history museum, and one of the most respected museums in the world when it comes to understanding armed conflict. Galleries and exhibitions in the Canada War Museum showcase the military history of the country in personal, national, and international dimensions. This museum is a great place to visit in Ottawa to get a feel for very personal, inspiring, and touching stories."

"Location: 240 McLeod Street, OttawaArchitects: David Ewart (1910) Padolsky, Kuwabara, Gagnon Joint Venture Architects (PKG): Barry Padolsky Associates Inc. Architects, KPMB Architects, and Gagnon Letellier Cyr Ricard Mathieu Architectes (2010). Officially named the Victoria Memorial Museum Building (VMMB), this grand, castle-like structure was designed by chief architect David Ewart in the Scottish Baronial style."

"If prehistoric and iconic Canadian animals are what you’re looking for, the Canadian Museum of Nature is definitely worth a visit!. Located at 240 McLeod Street in Ottawa’s downtown core, this castle-like museum offers everything from gigantic dinosaurs, to insects and spiders, to Canadian bird species and much more. Visit the Mammal Gallery to see impressive specimens such as bears, cougars and bison."

"Once a month, The Canadian Museum of Nature opens its doors at night to live music, dancing and the chance to see all the exhibits. Each month has a new theme and the event runs from 8:00 PM-Midnight."

"The Canada Science and Technology Museum examines technology and science from a distinctly Canadian lens—from medical developments to wearable technology. The museum also plays home to a children’s innovation zone with various kid-friendly activities as well as practical resources for parents (like a bottle-warming station and diaper-changing area)."

"The recently refurbished Canada Science and Technology Museum is a favourite for children to visit. It’s a popular spot during the summer months due to all the school groups, and the train ride outside is a particular favourite. The Crazy Kitchen is another favourite, and is one of the original experiences from when the museum first opened in 1967."

"Canada's Cold War Museum is located outside of Ottawa in a large underground facility that was constructed in the early 1960s to protect important functions of the Canadian government in the event of a nuclear war. This was one of several self-sufficient, shock-resistant, radiation-proof underground shelters built across Canada during the Cold War, as part of Project EASE (Experimental Army Signals Establishments). Political critics coined the nickname "Diefenbunker" in reference to Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, who promoted their construction."

"The Diefenbunker was originally built in 1959 as a response to the escalation of the Cold War and was commissioned to act as a safe house for key parliament members in Canada. It was left empty until 1997 when it was turned into a public museum—and it’s well-worth the visit for anyone interested in military history or general survivalism. While the bunker itself is interesting to walk through and explore, the museum is also home to a rotating artist in residence and various visiting exhibitions on the Cold War."

"The Canadian War Museum is Canada’s national museum of military history and one of the world’s most respected museums for the study and understanding of armed conflict. The Museum opened at its new location on the LeBreton Flats site in downtown Ottawa on May 8, 2005. And since it’s opening, this amazing Museum has welcomed approximately over 500,000 visitors every year!"

"Bytown Museum has an intriguing collection of eclectic items, such as a plaster-cast death hand of murdered Father of Confederation, Thomas D’Arcy McGee. Housed in Ottawa’s oldest stone building, the museum takes you on a deep delve of Bytown (Ottawa’s first name), which was a rowdy place where Irish, French, Scots and English engaged in brawls."

"Located directly on the canal, it is a lovely display of the history of Ottawa (formerly known as Bytown). Take a walk through its three stories to view the making of the Ottawa Canal, the war efforts by the people of Ottawa and the indigenous history of the area. Don’t forget to walk through the cafe to see the vault in the back."

"Ingredients, recipes and wines from Italy’s many regions are showcased at this Little Italy restaurant. Homemade pasta, sauces and dips are complemented by fresh ingredients sourced from local farms. Enjoy mouthwatering primi like zucchini fritters, or a delicious, rarely seen dish: deep-fried lake smelt with oregano, black olives and spicy crushed chilies."

"Normally open for take out on Wednesday to Saturday, La Roma is open on Mother’s Day, offering their Italian menu to celebrate. An a la carte menu will be available too. They have dinner for two and for four available."

"Instead of visiting Diefenbunker Cold War Museum, you may rent a bike and explore Ottawa – Gatineau region. If you were not able to get tickets for Parliament building tour, go on a self guided tour of Parliament hill. Take a stroll along Trans Canada Trail (behind Parliament) to Supreme Court of Canada, and get acquainted with Canada’s highest court."

"Served in the historic hotel’s Zoé’s Lounge – named one of the best bars in Canada by enRoute magazine – Afternoon Tea features Canadian delicacies from across the country. Sit by the solarium-style windows, select your tea with help from the tea sommelier, and nosh on sweet and savoury treats like mini sandwiches and scones. Reservations recommended."

"Fairmont Château Laurier Mother’s Day offering include Zoe’s Afternoon Tea that features unique pastries, open-faced sandwiches, famous English scones, and a selection of Fairmont curated Lot 35 Teas. They also have dinner kits and heat and serve with individually packed premade meals."

"The Chateau Laurier’s in-house cocktail bar is possibly the classiest spot in town — come for classics like a dark and stormy or new creations featuring everything from maple whisky to mezcal. It’s relatively pricey, but the quality is on point. View this post on Instagram"

"An array of fresh fruits, baked goods, flowers and woodwork, Almonte’s Farmers Market is a family favourite. Opening May 22, this market every Saturday of the season.PHOTO: Almonte Farmers Market via Facebook"