Ottawa: Canadian War Museum Ticket & Permanent Exhibits

Summary

Personal stories, rare artifacts and quiet moments in Ottawa’s War Museum

You’ll walk into the Canadian War Museum expecting exhibits but find real stories—letters, uniforms, even laughter from school kids echoing off the tanks. A local guide or volunteer might share details you’d never notice alone. Quiet spaces like Memorial Hall invite reflection before you step back out into Ottawa’s noise.

What’s the experience like?

We hadn’t even made it through the entrance of the Canadian War Museum when a volunteer—Jim, I think—caught us lingering by that huge, angular wall outside. He told us how the building’s shape was meant to echo a bunker, or maybe a ship—I’m still not sure which. He shrugged and said, “It depends who you ask.” We laughed and followed him in, already feeling like we’d stumbled into something more personal than just another museum in Ottawa.

The first gallery hit me harder than I expected. There’s this faint scent of old paper and metal that reminds me of my grandfather’s basement, but heavier. Our local guide pointed out a battered helmet from Vimy Ridge and told us about the kid who wore it—barely 19. I caught myself staring at his photo longer than I meant to. The whole place is full of these micro-moments: a letter home, a faded uniform sleeve, voices from an old radio crackling in French and English. It’s not all solemn though; there were school kids giggling at a tank display nearby, which honestly felt good.

I wandered into Memorial Hall almost by accident—it was so quiet you could hear your own shoes on the floor. Sunlight came through this tiny window and landed right on a single headstone. I didn’t expect to feel much (I mean, museums are usually just facts and plaques), but I stood there for ages thinking about all the names you never hear in history class. So yeah, if you’re looking for something in Ottawa that actually sticks with you after you leave… this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Canadian War Museum exhibits

• Visit Canadian War Museum
• Tour permanent exhibitions
• View personal stories and artwork
• Discover museum architecture
• Rest in Memorial Hall
• Chat with a veteran

Top questions

Is the Canadian War Museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible throughout the museum.

Are strollers allowed inside the museum?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers within the museum.

Does my admission ticket include special exhibitions?

Yes, your ticket includes access to both permanent and special exhibitions.

Can I bring my service animal?

Yes, service animals are allowed inside the Canadian War Museum.

How do I get to the museum using public transportation?

The Canadian War Museum is easily accessible by public transportation options nearby.

What’s included

Your ticket covers entry to all permanent galleries as well as special exhibitions at the Canadian War Museum—so you can take your time exploring everything from personal artifacts to large military vehicles without worrying about extra fees or missing out on any displays.