Museums & galleries
Canadian War Museum
About the Museum
The Canadian War Museum is Canada's national museum of military history, located along the Ottawa River. It displays military artifacts, vehicles, records, and memorial spaces documenting the country's military past.
Getting There
The site sits roughly 2 kilometers west of central Ottawa. Walking from downtown takes 20 to 25 minutes. Taking the light rail (O-Train to Pimisi Station) or a local bus takes about 10 to 15 minutes, while a taxi or drive takes under 10 minutes.
Time to Spend
Allow 2 to 3 hours to tour the main exhibition halls, vehicle displays, and memorial space. Visitors exploring every section in detail may require up to 4 hours.
When to Visit
Weekday mornings are typically the least crowded. Expect heavier crowds on weekends, summer days, and around Remembrance Day in November. School groups often visit on weekday mornings during term time.
What to Combine It With
Several nearby attractions can be reached on foot:
- LeBreton Flats (0.1km): Surrounding parkland and pathways.
- National Holocaust Monument (0.2km): Memorial located directly across the street.
- Chaudière Bridge (0.4km): River crossing connecting Ottawa and Gatineau.
- Chaudière Falls (0.5km): Natural waterfall viewpoint along the river.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
GetYourGuide
Klook
Tiqets
KKday
WeGoTrip
Booking.com
Hotels.com
