A MUST VISIT FOR ALL AGES! Underground parking upon arrival, there is no street level parking, parking was $13 for the 2.5 hours I was there, I thought it was a little pricey to be honest, but the money goes back into the museum, so it's all good! I did not purchase my ticket online, you can purchase it at the entrance in the lobby. Other reviewers were spot on! This place is a MUST VISIT FOR ALL, I recommend age 10 years and up is good, from the time of European settlers to modern day, everything is explained and a lot of artifacts and war/conflict items are on display...it's very educational, and you find the facts in a lot of things that you always wondered about, it's like a journey through time, there are arrows on the ground telling you which way to go, it's HUGE inside...THE RIGHTS AND FREEDOM WE ENJOY TODAY ARE FOUGHT FOR BY CANADIANS IN WARS AND CONFLICTS, DO NOT TAKE THIS FOR GRANTED! I wish I had came here when I was younger, every single Canadian should visit here at least once, some exhibits can be a bit emotional. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! And thank you to all Canadians who serve and served to defend our country and also on peace keeping missions! I learned a lot today.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Many fascinating displays and artifacts. While there might be gestapo artifacts, thankfully they don’t have gestapo staff trying to take away your drink container like the Museum of History. Happy there are opportunities to go for free as the cost can be quite prohibitive for many (which is a crying shame considering the taxes of those who can’t afford it support this). But even if they don’t pick your pocket at the admissions counter, they’ll do so for parking, even if you park on the street. While there are ample emergency exit signs, there is a crying lack of signs in this maze to point people back to the museum entrance, washroom etc (I’m not saying they’re not there, it’s just that finding the signs themselves are almost as difficult as finding the things they point to). It’s not clear to me if one exists, but it would be nice if there was a coffee bar to take a break in the place.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

There is alot of history to be learned here. I may be from the U.S.A. but it was a pleasant visit to this museum. There was a gentlemen There who showed and explained how they used the medical kit back in the 1800's. That will be a memory I will never forget and I have actually told all of my friends about the details of how each of those tools worked. Granted it was gruesome, but being American I am all about the details. The place was very well layed out very clean and provided lots of details. I have been to 2 separate big war museums and this one was probably the better of the 2 primarily because of the medical kit explanation. I would highly recommend visiting this museum if you are ever in the area. It was the first time my buddy had ever been there (he grew up in Gastineau) and he actually appreciated the visit also because there is alot to be learned and you should always know your history. And you gotta see the tanks, there's like 30 of them there. Can't miss them.

Beautiful historical museum on the wars of the past, elaborate displays, unique artifacts, and a large collection of military vehicles. This museum is a must visit in Ottawa, especially for those facinated by history. From bullet ridden war vehicles, to recovered suits of armor, there is a little bit for everyone here. It is kid friendly, but definitely on the heavy side in terms of reading. The only recommendation I would make to push this museum to an even higher level would be to open up some of the tanks or vehicles for entering, it would be amazing to sit inside a WW2 German Car. Staff was friendly and knowledgeable, gift shop was clean and organized. We went on the free Thursday nights so the price is certainly affordable hahaha. Highly recommend visiting at least once if you'd like to learn more about the world's war history.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

An all around fantastic museum. The layout, architecture, items on display, infographics and staff are absolutely ace. A well-balanced account of war and military prowess that discusses alla spectacular of armed conflict including the enemy’s perspective, whoever that may have been in any given conflict. The exhibits are very accessible and displayed in a way that encourages photography. The vehicle collection contains a few real gets such as Viscount Alexander’s staff car and one of a dozen Churchill Great Eastern Ramp AFVs along with Hitler’s parade car and a unique collection of nose art salvaged from Halifaxes and Lancs at the end of the war. The museum is easily accessible by tram/subway and can be reached quite easily from Montreal on ViaRail plus tram as well. Absolutely recommended.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Exploring the Canadian National Museum of War was a delightful experience. As a tourist, plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits. However, if you have a keen interest in history, particularly as a student or learner, you might find yourself interestingly occupied in each pavilion, requiring even more time to explore thoroughly. The museum features several pavilions dedicated to specific periods or wars, such as the Canada-USA War, Early Colonial Wars and World Wars. Each pavilion offers an intriguing and fascinating experience. The museum is well-connected with the public transport and enjoys a beautiful backdrop as well. Facilities like washrooms, seating areas and a collectibles shop are available on-site to assist your overall visit.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

Didn't realize it closed at 4pm. When I looked at the website I saw that it was free on Thursdays between 5 and 7pm and thought it was usually open until 7pm. I was wrong. Parking is $2.75 per 1/2 hour underground. There was lots of parking available. The exhibits are thought provoking and it is the first national war museum I have visited that doesn't gloss over the horrific details. There is no glorification of violence or obvious patriotic propaganda. Leaving the war museum, you should feel more anit-war than when you entered. Thoughtful design and architecture, and many details will be missed by the casual visitor. The best museum in Ottawa for the thinking person.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The Canadian War Museum in Ottawa is an absolute gem for history enthusiasts. From its impressive architecture to its thoughtfully curated exhibits, this museum provides a captivating journey through Canada's military history. The collection of artifacts, artwork, and multimedia displays is extensive and offers a comprehensive understanding of the nation's involvement in various conflicts. The museum's location by the Ottawa River adds to its serene ambiance, while the knowledgeable and passionate staff members enhance the overall experience. A visit to the Canadian War Museum is a must for anyone seeking a profound appreciation for Canada's military heritage.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

The Canadian war museum is a must see attraction. I recommend you wear comfortable shoes and dedicate about two hours to check out all of the interesting exhibits and information presented at this museum. The fact is, the whole thing is a bit overwhelming. It is all very well presented and informative. The upstairs exhibits are mostly informational, but also have very interesting examples and artifacts from Canada’s history. The bottom floor is filled with machines that illustrate Canada's wartime history. Overall, the war museum is an informative experience for the family and well worth your time.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

First impressions shape a visit and on a not busy, off-season day the well-staffed ticket counter folks were more into chatting with each other than taking my $20. Inside, the displays were compelling but sometimes felt apologetic for victory. I'm not sure how I feel about Hitler's car being on display, but a bullet-riddled UN jeep and vehicle destroyed by an IED in Afghanistan were emotionally moving to see. Downstairs, a display of military hardware - tanks, guns - was too crowded with vehicles, many with seemingly no link to Canada. It could benefit with more tech-driven displays. And customer-first staff training.
Visited on
Weekday
Reservation recommended
No

I recently visited the Canadian War Museum and was blown away by the quality of the displays and the depth of information they provided. The museum is well-designed and well-curated, with a wide variety of exhibits covering different periods of Canadian military history. I was particularly impressed by the interactive displays, which provided a hands-on way to learn about the different wars and conflicts that Canada has been involved in. The museum also has a great collection of artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and other military equipment. Overall, I had a wonderful experience at the Canadian War Museum and would highly recommend it to others.

This is a fantastic museum. Main exhibition hall is split up into different periods and area is extremely well-designed and informative. Lots to see and do for the kids as there are many interactive areas. For example, in the War Games exhibit, they were taught by an extremely patient and knowledgeable member of the museum (Benoit) to play a game where they had to protect and get their supply ships across the ocean - they loved it. One of the highlights was the incredible display of tanks and military vehicles. Glad we visited it and we’ll definitely be back again.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Time well spent here. This is a fantastic and very educative museum. The exhibition hall is split up into different periods and the area is extremely well-designed with numbers to guide you and informative. Lots to see and learn about the history of Canada especially with reference to Britain and france. For example, in the War I loved the simulation of the fight scene with the submarine . One of the highlights was the incredible display of tanks and military vehicles. Happy I visited it and i'll definitely be back again someday
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Amazing experience, the place is vast so better pace yourself based on the period you are interested in, otherwise allocate a good 5 to 6 hours to cover everything in detail. An excellent cafeteria is also available with a treats menu appealing to both kids and adults. There are a few interactive exhibits as well as a lot of artifact's including an original copy of the "treaty of Versailles", a document crucial to the fomentation of the 2nd world war, Hitler's Mercedes amongst a few others. A great experience overall.
Visited on
Weekday

Awesome museum and pieces but giving 1 star to the organization. We got a group of young soldiers visiting the museum with us. It's really sad seeing these kids going faster through the museum than my kids (7-12 years old). No guides for them explaining the horrors of war. Then we will complain that history repeats itself... Really sad seeing kids with the courage of wearing the uniform but no brain to take the time to read the stickers in a museum... A guide would have helped with it.

Great history information and had a great time learning new things. Went during the day and it wasn't too busy which was really nice. Only downfall was a group of students came and I found them to be quite disruptive and loud and they were running around which made me and my friend actually leave the museum earlier than we had planned on. Other than that I hope to be back soon as it's a wonderful Museum and it's well taken care of and the staff are very friendly

Staff were friendly and helpful. The cost for entry was very reasonable. The exhibits filled us with emotion for all our forefathers and their families had to go through. Provided us with the opportunity to remember why we get to live with the freedoms we do. The food in the cafeteria was delicious and there was a good choice variety of beverages. We did not visit the gift shop.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Deeply thought provoking and sad. Nothing overtly gory and scary for children passing through, but adding up the death tolls going from room to room had me in tears. All the personal stories of mothers losing their sons, and children never seeing their fathers again. If you want to avoid the feels, just visit the downstairs equipment wing. Lots of cool tanks and vehicles to look at without existential dread. Entrance is free for veterans.

Went here for a school trip thinking it would be another boring, unfun, classic school trip but how I was surprised! It was an awesome experience! Filled with fun and cool exhibits! Many cool things to learn and see! The tank collection is nice and I love the fun collection as well. Very cool to just stroll around and chill. Very fun 10/10 experience
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Sort of a disappointment but that might be my own fault as I had grossly high expectations. Objectively it wasn’t a bad place though with some great exhibits showing the war history of Canada from the first wars (French and Indian war) to Afghanistan. LOTS of tanks, armoured vehicles, etc. My one complaint is that the lady at the ticket booth was quite unpleasant and didn’t answer my questions about the layout of the museum.

The Canadian War Museum stands tall and proud in downtown Ottawa. It’s conveniently located near public transit. Moving from exhibit to exhibit was easy. Make sure you visit the LeBreton display of wartime vehicles on the lower level. I enjoyed the opportunity to learn about Canada’s role in wars from before Confederation to current time.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Make sure you give yourself lots of time to visit. The museum closes at 4pm on Saturdays so we only had an hour to peruse one part of one area of the museum. There are 3 separate areas, and the website says approx time for the while museum is 3 hours. We will be back to see the rest of the museum soon. Beautiful building.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Great collection of artifacts and well-curated exhibits. The way the exhibits are layed out can be quite confusing, so make sure to take a picture of the detailed exhibit map beforehand. If you want a chance to see everything, put aside at least 5 hours. Overall, this museum is a must visit if you're in the area. 7.75/10
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Amazing experience. Great information regarding our War History. Very Interactive and fun way to explain. Absolutely loved their tanks, submarine, war ships collection. I would recommend buying tickets in advance to avoid any wait time. They also have Thursday night 5-7pm free of cost timed ticket. Must visit place!!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

So much information and visual displays to take in! Several interactive areas as well, and that tank gallery with the jet suspended from the ceiling?! Can't be beat. We have to go again because we couldn't fit it all in with one visit! Also, the underground parking is like driving into a bunker - so cool!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Great museum. One of the best I have been to. Very educative, and fun. I am a nerd. And I want a museum to be fun and educative. This is fun to walk through. But I suggest taking the time to read everything carefully for the best experience, I made the mistake of going through things a little fast. Could not recommend this place more.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min

Very Good , and huge area to visit. People should read little history of wars before coming to this museum, in order to make it more interesting. Well maintained museum. I believe that it require more than a day to fully enjoy this museum. But it depends on the taste/ interest of the person visiting
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

If you’re a dan of the history of war, you’ll love it. This museum retraces Canada’s history through the war aspect and it’s very interesting. The nicest place in the museum is the exhibition of war vehicles (plane, tanks, jeeps …) and the atmosphere in general really gives you a great experience !
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Loved this museum. I learned a lot. Part of our Canadian culture. Allow 2 to 3 hrs for a visit and great giftshop that includes souvenirs for all budgets. The best part are the tanks and other artillery located on the 1st floor. Kids friendly, and there's a café if you are hungry.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

The Canadian war museum has been conceived and built by one of the top architects to reflect the Canadian history and the war times. I highly recommend visiting this museum in family or with friends. Thanks to the teams of management taking care of this amazing monument and the historic artifacts inside of it. Reviewed by Tarek Belghith from RZ Network Inc Canada

Although I have been here many times before this museum instills my enthusiasm for our country’s military and war history. The staff were super friendly and knowledgeable. Wonderful to see so many school classes attending. The meal in the restaurant was excellent
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Wow, I love it, it's a really cool place you must go, recommendation there are lots of renovation works outside so there's only one way for the moment the get accès to the parking it's 13cad per car, or if you're lucky you could fin a place outside on the road.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Very much enjoyed the history of Canada @ war from the War of 1812 to Afghanistan 2014. Very well laid out. Go to the bottom floor & check out all the tanks, cannons, field guns etc, super impressive. Give yourself a solid two to three hours to take it all in.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Was in town from the states and wanted to do some sightseeing. Stayed 2 hours walking around. Had a lower floor with alot of old Canadian military equipment as well as a few contemporary ones. Was really cool. All the workers were nice and helpful.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

This place is MASSIVE! It's definitely an all-day affair if you want to see the whole thing. I imagine you'll learn something new every time you visit. It's also extremely high quality in the presentation, and almost everything was in working order (only one exhibit was out of order). So very worth it! 10/10, HIGHLY recommend!

Amazing museum, when I entered I expected only world war one and two, but there are also details and expo's about the first colonial wars, the cold war and many more. Really interesting musuem! Even Hitlers parade car is stationed there!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Excellent and well laid out Museum. Great for teaching young and old about the past. My great uncle was a tail gunner in a Halifax bomber in the 2nd world war, the pilot was Canadian. They were shot down on their 5th operation and are buried in Germany. I loved the collection of Victoria crosses what brave men they were.

A very well done museum. There is a lot of information here, so you are going to want to take your time. Adults can expect to spend quite a few hours here reading all the information. Kids, not as long. The exhibits are fascinating. We loved War Games! And don't forget to check out all the vehicles in the basement! More

A wonderful museum with many elaborate exhibits covering every facet of Canada's military history. There are many dioramas depicting various battles Canadian troops participated in and a plethora of activities for all ages. The staff was friendly and very helpful. Many are also bilingual.
Visited on
Weekday

Love this museum! It's been a while since I visited, but I still always love coming when i have the chance. Always clean and very well staff, wasn't very busy and it's always a very peaceful walk through with no loud people.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

This is an excellent museum. I enjoyed seeing how exhaustive they are in their displays. The passion for this museum is evident. The special exhibit looked so cool, but I came for the free hour, so I didn't have much time and we had to go. But it was a very good experience and I want to go back soon.

I have been taking my children to this museum since they were toddlers so they can realize how many Canadians paid the ultimate price in a chaotic violent world so they can be free. The exhibits accurately portray Canada's leadership role in upholding freedom and democratic values. It is a must see.

This place is cool! Lots of war stuff! I highly recommend the lower level with the tanks, submarine, torpedoes, armored personnel carriers, motorcycles, cannons, guns and plane! The rest of the place is very well laid out, but has a LOT of text boards and not so many artifacts. Worth the trip!

Lots and lots of real war items to see and explore here , big space that stores a lot of history of war from old times and recent times. It is very interesting and provides a lot of information , I will definitely recommend checking it out
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

This was my husband’s pick, but it turned out to be one of my favourite stops while in Ottawa. Excellent displays, easy flow, interesting and educational. Every Canadian should spend some time here.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Absolutely a must see in Ottawa. Couldn't finish on the Thursday free evening. Definitely deserves 2 plus hours for the enthusiast. Wonderfully done with a new exhibit of war games. Remember the Atari!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I have enjoyed coming to the War Museum for multiple reasons. Whether it's seeing the exhibits in the museum itself, or attending events that are hosted here like the International Children's Festival or music concerts, this space is very well used.
Reservation recommended
No

Great War Games Exhibit with nice board game examples - though the modern era of war games isn’t as complete as some would wish. The main part of the museum is wonderfully constructed with a maze of exploration where you enter a different time period / theme in each section.

A grand display of Canada's war history (albeit a one-sided one). Filled with many fun interactive exhibits and galleries filled with old war equipment that you can see up close.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Definitivamente los Casios Para la ocacion ...No, war is funny for all the lives we lost (thanks to our STUPID governments) but, history ALWAYS its interesting. And this museum is something that you can't miss in your trip to Ottawa. I really enjoyed it.

A wonderful place to visit. It covers the history of Canadian warfare throughout many centuries. Includes a great collection of military artifacts, including planes and tanks.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Excellent Museum for anyone to understand the Canadian war history. The Ground Floor also has a huge collection of war-time tanks, artilleries and other vehicles.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

There is so much history here to learn about & explore in the galleries. Don't forget to visit the LeBreton Gallery before you leave the building to see all the tanks, field guns and associated hardware. 4 to 5 hrs is required to go through

The Canadian War Museum offers a captivating and informative experience for visitors interested in Canada's military history. The well-curated exhibits provide a deep insight into the nation's contributions to various conflicts, showcasing

The Canadian War Museum is a truly captivating and informative institution. Its extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia presentations offer a deep insight into Canada's military history and the sacrifices made by its

I had a great time visiting the museum, particularly if you're interested in military history. There's an abundance of information, so plan on spending at least half a day if you want a comprehensive experience and aim to absorb all the

I went in to the museum to eat at the cafeteria. Good food at higher than average prices. Museum seems to be nice and spacious and clean.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

A very educational and historical place about Canada's role in all wars. Plan to spend a few hours here, there is a lot to see and learn :-).
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Yes

So many exhibits to explore! I've never seen so many tanks in one place before. My sons and I could've spent easily 6 hours at this museum.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Very inspiring and informative museum. We saw all exhibitions and even got lucky to see live rides of some of the museum’s vehicles outside.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

History help us to build a new future without all the violence. Those people gave us their lives to bring peace. It’s on us keep it
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Amazing place and full of knowledge if anyone is interested in past war history. Fun and family place, must visit when in Ottawa
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

One of the best national museums in Canada close to downtown.dwell I'm o th Canadian history including indigenous wars.Great to see how they have set it up in different layers/sections with original warcrafts and guns

You must visit when in Ottawa, master piece of history and information, I think you need a full day to discover everything!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Amazing museum full of Canada’s war history. Covers all major and pre 1900 wars as well which is super interesting. Loved the big room with all the tanks, planes, and military vehicle
Wait time
No wait

This is a must go place if you have interest in military equipments and also want to know Canada's involvement in WWI WWII and Cold war. Place is fully packed with interactive media and remains of war.

Great place to learn Canadian history with a breathtaking lake view. Astounding architecture of the museum.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Amazing place to visit - regardless of where you are from. Well worth the stop - even multiple times
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Amazing collection. Very inspiring and highly educational. Clean bathrooms and very good parking options.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

If you need to know the history of Canada, visit this place. Take time to visit all the corners.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Its nice to see the technology and the machinery at that time . I enjoyed visiting the place
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Didn't get time to see the entire display, they should have mentioned it closed at 4pm.. we missed the last part. otherwise was good..

Very cool place to visit it for a 2 - 3 hours
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

It's always a fantastic museum to check out if you have a few hours. So much interesting history and wonderful displays. More

Beautiful museum, very informative of Canadian military history.
Visited on…
More

Only did a small section but amazing collection and presentation. Well worth the time.

So much to see that it definitely needed more than the couple hours I was here for.

Very good exhibits. I found the second world war exhibits to be profoundly moving.

Nice place cool a lot of walking but really a cool place to visit

Amazing place one of the best museums we've been to.