Ottawa: Canadian Museum of Nature Admission

The Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the natural world. With general admission tickets starting at just £10.93, it’s a budget-friendly way to discover the museum’s impressive collection of geology, ecology, and paleontology exhibits. From the awe-inspiring blue whale skeleton to the towering dinosaur fossils, there’s something to captivate visitors of all ages. But the true gem lies hidden within the museum’s historic castle-like building, waiting to be uncovered.

About Your Stay

• General admission tickets for the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa start at £10.93 per person.
• Visitors can cancel their tickets up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The museum offers a reserve now, pay later option to secure a spot without immediate payment.
• The museum is wheelchair accessible and features a variety of permanent galleries and exhibits.
• Advance tickets are recommended for the limited-capacity Butterflies in Flight exhibition.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Admission Details

The Canadian Museum of Nature offers general admission tickets starting from £10.93 per person.

Visitors can take advantage of the museum’s free cancellation policy – they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The museum also provides a reserve now, pay later option, allowing guests to secure their spot without paying today.

Tickets are valid for 1 day, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

For an additional cost, visitors can purchase limited tickets to the special Butterflies in Flight exhibition.

Museum Overview

Located a 20-minute walk from Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of Nature is accessible by public transport or car.

The museum features a historic "castle" building and world-class galleries showcasing geology, ecology, and paleontology across 4 floors.

Highlights include a complete blue whale skeleton, giant dinosaurs, Canadian mammals, live insects, and Pacific tide pool creatures.

The museum provides a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the wonders of the natural world through its diverse collection and interactive exhibits.

Exhibits and Experiences

Permanent galleries included with admission allow visitors to access a wide range of exhibits showcasing the museum’s extensive collections.

Guests can enjoy Canada’s Arctic through hands-on displays, or marvel at the live butterflies fluttering in the warm, humid Solarium.

Key highlights include:

• Complete blue whale skeleton

• Giant dinosaurs

• Canadian mammals

• Live insects

• Pacific tide pool creatures

Capacity for the Butterflies in Flight special exhibit is limited, and visitors may need to wait to access this popular experience.

With so much to see and do, the Canadian Museum of Nature offers an engaging and educational day out.

Visitor Information

Museum hours vary seasonally, with the facility remaining open Thursdays until 8:00 PM. Entry after 5:00 PM is complimentary on those evenings.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and all visitors are expected to follow the museum’s code of conduct. Paid parking is available on-site, and a coat check is provided for visitors’ convenience.

The museum recommends allotting 3-4 hours for a thorough visit to explore the diverse permanent galleries and temporary exhibitions. Capacity is limited for the Butterflies in Flight special exhibit, so advance tickets are advised to avoid potential waiting times.

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Customer Reviews

The Canadian Museum of Nature has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 164 customer reviews.

Visitors consistently praise the hands-on activities, unique dinosaur and whale fossils, and the interactive exhibits that are enjoyed by families, especially children aged 9 and 11.

Some key highlights from the reviews include:

• Captivating live insect displays

• Engaging Pacific tide pool creature exhibits

• Immersive Canadian Arctic experience

• Efficient layout for a thorough 3-4 hour visit

• Reasonable admission prices and flexible cancellation policy

Special Exhibition: Butterflies in Flight

A special exhibition, Butterflies in Flight, allows visitors to enjoy a warm, humid solarium filled with vibrant, free-flying butterflies.

This limited-capacity experience is an additional cost beyond the museum’s general admission. Guests can witness the grace and beauty of these delicate creatures up close as they flutter among the tropical plants.

However, capacity is restricted, so visitors may need to wait for entry.

The Butterflies in Flight exhibit offers a unique and captivating complement to the museum’s permanent galleries showcasing Canada’s diverse flora and fauna.

Accessibility and Mobility

Visitors with accessibility needs will find the museum well-equipped to accommodate them.

The museum is well-equipped to accommodate visitors with accessibility needs.

The museum features:

• Wheelchair accessibility throughout the building

• Elevators to access all four floors of exhibits

• Large-print labels and audio guides available

• Designated accessible parking spots near the main entrance

• Trained staff on hand to assist visitors with special requirements

The museum’s commitment to inclusivity ensures all guests can fully enjoy the fascinating exhibits, from the towering dinosaurs to the intricate marine displays.

Getting to the Museum

The Canadian Museum of Nature is conveniently located just a 20-minute walk from Parliament Hill, making it easily accessible by public transportation or private vehicle.

The museum is well-connected to the city’s public transit system, with nearby bus and train stations. Visitors can also take advantage of the paid on-site parking facilities if arriving by car.

The museum’s location and transportation options ensure that it’s easily reached from various parts of Ottawa, catering to the needs of both local and visiting guests.

With its central position, the museum is an ideal destination for a day of exploration and discovery.

Questions About Your Stay

What Are the Museum’s Dining Options?

The museum doesn’t have any dining options on-site. However, there are several cafes and restaurants within walking distance of the museum that visitors can enjoy during their visit.

Does the Museum Offer Any Educational Programs?

The museum offers educational programs for students of all ages, including guided tours, hands-on activities, and interactive workshops that explore the museum’s extensive collections and exhibits on geology, paleontology, and ecology.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available?

The museum offers several discounts and promotions. Students, seniors, and children under 3 get reduced admission. The museum also has free entry after 5 PM on Thursdays and free admission on select national holidays.

Can Visitors Take Photographs Inside the Galleries?

Visitors are generally permitted to take photographs throughout the museum’s galleries, except where specifically prohibited. However, the use of flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect sensitive exhibits.

How Accessible Are the Museum’s Restroom Facilities?

The museum’s restroom facilities are fully accessible, with wheelchair-friendly stalls and sinks. Visitors can easily navigate the restrooms, which are well-maintained and conveniently located throughout the museum’s different floors and wings.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. With its impressive exhibits, focus on accessibility, and flexible ticketing options, it’s no wonder the museum receives glowing reviews. Whether you’re interested in geology, paleontology, or simply taking in the beauty of the historic castle, the Canadian Museum of Nature is a must-visit destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: