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Canada/Things to Do in Ottawa, with kids

Canadian War Museum (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Canadian War Museum?

77%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: Older children can enjoy tank demos, giant floor games, and activity sheets, but some graphic wartime photos may disturb sensitive kids, so parental guidance and breaks are needed.

Google
Reviews4.8/ 5
(from 9,971 reviews)

Positives:

  • Interactive displays: Kids can touch tanks, planes and play floor games in LeBreton Gallery
  • Stroller-friendly: Museum loans strollers and offers elevators for easy movement
  • On-site amenities: Café and terrace provide meals and rest with river views

Challenges:

  • Sensitive content: Some exhibits include graphic wartime images that may upset younger children
  • Large building: Galleries are spacious and involve walking; plan breaks to avoid fatigue
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🏖️ Explore Canadian War Museum with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Canadian War Museum. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Canadian War Museum?

  • A national museum dedicated to preserving and interpreting Canada’s military history
  • Home to an extensive collection of artifacts spanning weapons, vehicles, uniforms and war art
  • Architecture that evokes a ship’s prow, with angular concrete and glass forms rising above the Ottawa River

What is so special about Canadian War Museum for with kids?

  1. Real tanks and planes in LeBreton Gallery excite kids and adults
  2. Hands-on Play & Strategy programs and art workshops keep children engaged
  3. Short CWM Theatre films offer rest and visual learning
  4. Activity sheets help families explore at their own pace
  5. Family pass saves on admission for two adults and two kids

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives enough time to see main galleries and join interactive activities without tiring the kids

(View Canadian War Museum on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Canadian War Museum

LeBreton Gallery machines:

See real tanks, planes and artillery up close

Tip: Start here to grab kids’ attention and take photos before the crowds arrive

Play & Strategy zone:

Giant floor games and tactical board games for families

Tip: Available July–Sept; check the events calendar and arrive early to join free activities

CWM Theatre films:

Short documentaries on Canada’s role in conflicts

Tip: Use film breaks to rest and keep kids engaged in a dark, quiet space

Activity sheets & art station:

Hands-on sheets and drop-in art workshops in the Lobby

Tip: Ask at Information Desk for free or low-cost sheets and time your visit for weekend workshops

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Canadian War Museum

  1. Buy tickets online: Secure a family pass in advance to skip the line and save money
  2. Start in LeBreton Gallery: Engage kids early with tanks and planes before they tire
  3. Pick up activity sheets: Ask at Information Desk to give kids focused tasks in each gallery
  4. Schedule snack breaks: Use the Lobby seating or café mid-visit to recharge energy levels
🏖️ Tour Canadian War Museum like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Canadian War Museum. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Canadian War Museum

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Yodaman Solo

Yodaman Solo

Oct 2025

After so many years living in the Ottawa Gatineau area I finally decided to visit this museum. I was very much surprised and impressed because I thought it might be a stale atmosphere because of the theme of the museum. I can honestly say it’s very well set up and very nicely organized. If you’re interested in the history of war, this is the place to come. 👍😎

Kerri Martin

Kerri Martin

Oct 2025

$5 tour is worth doing if you have a short time to visit but definitely could spend a whole day here! The cafe is affordable and the outside patio is a good break from the intense subject matter. The veteran's exhibit is a quiet place to contemplate in between learning about war as well. The building itself is a work of art along with the many pieces inside. Go downstairs to see the Viny Ridge pla...

Erick Cabeza Figueroa (Kurdox)

Erick Cabeza Figueroa (Kurdox)

Sep 2025

The Canadian War Museum in Ottawa is truly a must-visit if you’re in the city. It’s a place filled with so much history and information, offering a deep and meaningful look into Canada’s past. The museum is very well-organized and presents our great Canadian history in an engaging way, with exhibits that are both educational and moving. What makes it even better is that it’s enjoyable for the whol...

Patsy Stoned

Patsy Stoned

Aug 2025

I would have loved to given this museam a 5 star but the whole family, ages 66, 51, 16 and 7 years old found it cold and dark. I get that maybe that was to get the feel of being at war but it was hard to see and read at times. That being said we LOVED it. Very emotional and inspirational. Huge layout. Not too confusing. Stunning displays. This museam is a MUST if you are visiting Ottawa!! There's ...

Joe Desourdie

Joe Desourdie

Aug 2025

Absolutely incredible museum from an information and visual perspective. It starts with four separate rooms explaining each era of Canadian war history with incredible artifacts and detailed descriptions of what occurred. Each area is very well down and then as you move to the end there is a whole floor filled with tanks and other military vehicles throughout the years of both Canadian and interna...

When is the best time to visit Canadian War Museum (Ottawa, Canada)?

Summer (July–Sept) hosts Play & Strategy and War Machines demos. Midweek mornings in off-season are quieter and easier for young visitors.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Ottawa on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Family admission passCAD 60
Lunch at caféCAD 50
Souvenir toys & stickersCAD 20
Activity sheets (2)CAD 2
Total EstimatedCAD 132

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Canadian War Museum

Address: 1 Vimy Pl, Ottawa, ON K1A 0M8, Canada

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Canadian War Museum (Ottawa)?

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About Canadian War Museum

Opening Hours

Monday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 800-555-5621

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