All war museums to visit in Canada

Explore the history and impact of conflicts at 55 war museums in Canada. These museums offer insights into military history, strategies, and the human experiences of war.

Are you interested in military history? These are the must-visit war museums in Canada:

  1. Fort Battleford National Historic Site1

    Fort Battleford National Historic Site

     Battleford
    Fort Battleford, the sixth North-West Mounted Police fort in the North-West Territories of Canada, played a significant role in the events of the North-West Rebellion of 1885. This historical significance makes it an interesting site for those interested in Canadian history, particularly the history of the North-West Rebellion.
  2. Fort York National Historic Site2

    Fort York National Historic Site

     Toronto
    Fort York is a historic site located in the west of downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is known for its military fortifications and associated buildings. The fort was built by the British Army and Canadian militias in the late 17th and early 18th centuries to defend the settlement of York and protect the new capital of the British colony of Upper Canada from the threat of military attack, especially from the newly independent United States.
  3. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site3

    Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

     Halifax
    The Halifax Citadel, a large British fortification, is located in Halifax, Nova Scotia. It was constructed between the years 1828 and 1856. This historic site served as a protective measure for one of the four most important naval bases of the British Empire. Today, it stands as a testament to the strategic importance of Halifax during this period.
  4. Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père4

    Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père

     Rimouski
    The Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père, located in Rimouski, Quebec, Canada, is a maritime museum that showcases 200 years of maritime history. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the maritime past, making it an ideal destination for those interested in learning about the history of seafaring in Canada.
  5. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic5

    Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

     Halifax
    The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, situated in downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia, holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest maritime museum in Canada. It boasts a vast collection of over 30,000 artifacts, providing a comprehensive insight into the maritime history of the region.
  6. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 216

    Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

     Halifax
    The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, also known as Pier 21, is one of the nine national museums in Canada and is recognized as a national historic site. Located in Halifax, it holds a significant place in the country's history and culture. The museum offers a comprehensive insight into the immigration history of Canada, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in understanding the country's diverse cultural heritage.
  7. The Plains of Abraham Museum7

    The Plains of Abraham Museum

     Quebec City
    The Plains of Abraham is a significant geographical feature located to the southwest of Quebec City in Canada. This plateau offers a unique landscape and is an integral part of the city's history and identity.
  8. Fort Calgary8

    Fort Calgary

     Calgary
    Fort Calgary, located at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers in present-day Calgary, Alberta, Canada, was originally an outpost for the North West Mounted Police. Initially named Fort Brisebois after its first commander, the outpost was renamed Fort Calgary in June 1876.
  9. The Military Museums9

    The Military Museums

     Calgary
    The Military Museums in Calgary, Alberta, is a restructured version of the former Museum of the Regiments. This transformation was announced by Sophie, Countess of Wessex, on June 3, 2006. The museum now includes the former Museum of the Regiments, the relocated Naval Museum of Alberta, and an Air Force Wing.
  10. Diefenbunker - Canada's Cold War Museum10

    Diefenbunker - Canada's Cold War Museum

     Ottawa
    The Diefenbunker is a significant historical site in Canada, built as a nuclear fallout shelter between 1959 and 1961. Located in Carp, just outside of Ottawa, the bunker was constructed to protect Canadian government officials in the event of a nuclear attack. The construction of this shelter was a secret operation, reflecting the tense political climate of the Cold War era.
  11. Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum11

    Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

     Hamilton
    The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is situated at the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport in Mount Hope, Ontario, Canada. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists, especially those who are flying into the country. The museum's location at an active airport also adds to the authenticity of the experience, as visitors can see modern aircraft in operation alongside the historical planes on display.
  12. HMCS12

    HMCS

     Halifax
    The HMCS Sackville (K181) is a significant piece of Canadian naval history. It served as a Flower-class corvette in the Royal Canadian Navy and later as a civilian research vessel. Today, it stands as a museum ship in Halifax, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.
  13. Canadian Museum For Human Rights13

    Canadian Museum For Human Rights

     Winnipeg
    The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a cultural history museum situated in Winnipeg, the capital city of the Canadian province of Manitoba. It is the only national museum of Canada located outside of the capital, Ottawa. The museum was built between 2008 and 2012 and officially opened on September 19, 2014.
  14. The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada14

    The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada

     Montreal
    Small museum offering collection of military memorabilia including medals, insignia, small arms and munitions.
  15. Les Fusiliers Mont-Royal15

    Les Fusiliers Mont-Royal

     Montreal
    This small fortificated manor offers interesting collection of old military equipment and uniforms.
  16. Alberta Aviation Museum16

    Alberta Aviation Museum

     Edmonton
    The Alberta Aviation Museum is a unique aviation museum situated in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is located on the grounds of the former Edmonton City Centre (Blatchford Field) Airport, adding a layer of historical significance to the site. The museum is easily accessible and offers a deep dive into the history of aviation in the region.
  17. Bomber Command Museum of Canada17

    Bomber Command Museum of Canada

     Nanton
    The primary purpose of the museum's establishment was to safeguard and restore the Avro Lancaster FM159, one of the only 17 remaining globally. Over the years, the museum has expanded its collection to include a wide range of aircraft used during the War by the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.
  18. Dundurn National Historic Site18

    Dundurn National Historic Site

     Hamilton
    Dundurn Castle is a historical mansion of neoclassical style situated on York Boulevard in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. This architectural gem is a significant part of the city's heritage and offers a glimpse into the past. The mansion's location provides easy access for tourists and is a notable landmark in the city.
  19. Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site19

    Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site

     Saint John
    The Carleton Martello Tower, located in Saint John, New Brunswick, is a significant historical site in Canada. It is one of the nine remaining Martello Towers in the country. These towers were built as defensive structures during the 19th century and have since become important landmarks.
  20. Vintage Wings of Canada20

    Vintage Wings of Canada

     Gatineau
    Vintage Wings of Canada is an aviation museum that is situated at the Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport in Quebec. Founded in 2006 by former Cognos CEO and philanthropist Michael U. Potter, the museum is a private non-profit foundation. It houses a collection of vintage aircraft that are still in flying condition and regularly participate in air shows.
  21. National Air Force Museum of Canada21

    National Air Force Museum of Canada

     Quinte West
    The National Air Force Museum of Canada, located on the west side of CFB Trenton in Trenton, Ontario, is an aviation museum dedicated to preserving the history of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). The museum serves as a permanent archive, collecting, preserving, and displaying RCAF memorabilia, photographs, paintings, and documents as a lasting tribute to the men and women who served in the RCAF and its predecessor organizations.
  22. Shearwater Aviation Museum22

    Shearwater Aviation Museum

     Shearwater
    The Shearwater Aviation Museum is situated at CFB Shearwater in Shearwater, Nova Scotia. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique insight into the history of Canadian maritime military aviation. The museum is dedicated to acquiring, conserving, organizing, researching, and interpreting artifacts and documents that exemplify this rich history, making it a fascinating destination for both Canadian Forces personnel and the general public.
  23. Billy Bishop Museum23

    Billy Bishop Museum

     Owen Sound
    The Billy Bishop Home & Museum, located in Owen Sound, Ontario, is a National Historic Site of Canada. It is dedicated to commemorating the life and achievements of World War I flying ace and Victoria Cross winner Air Marshall William Avery "Billy" Bishop. The museum is situated in Bishop's birthplace and childhood home, providing a unique insight into the early life of this decorated serviceman.
  24. The Fort Garry Horse24

    The Fort Garry Horse

     Winnipeg
    The Fort Garry Horse Museum & Archives, located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, is a regimental museum that showcases the history of The Fort Garry Horse. This regiment of the Canadian Forces Army has a rich history that is displayed through a variety of artefacts, photographs, and archival material. Visitors can gain a comprehensive understanding of the regiment's journey from its inception to the present day.
  25. POMO Museum25

    POMO Museum

     Port Moody
    The PoMo Museum, previously known as the Port Moody Station Museum, is a significant cultural institution in Port Moody, British Columbia. It is managed by the Port Moody Heritage Society, an organization dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of the region's rich heritage and history. The museum serves as a platform for visitors to explore the past and gain insights into the cultural evolution of Port Moody.
  26. Thunder Bay Museum26

    Thunder Bay Museum

     Thunder Bay
    The Thunder Bay Museum, situated in Thunder Bay, Ontario, is managed by the Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society. This society was incorporated in 1972 as the successor to the Thunder Bay Historical Society. The museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a wealth of historical and cultural exhibits for visitors to explore.
  27. Military Communications and Electronics Museum27

    Military Communications and Electronics Museum

     Kingston
    The Military Communications and Electronics Museum is situated in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, along Ontario Highway 2 at CFB Kingston. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the history and development of military communications and electronics.
  28. Laura Secord Homestead28

    Laura Secord Homestead

     Niagara-on-the-Lake
    Visit a nicely restored mansion of a woman who was one of the most important figures in the War of 1812. You can learn more about her here.
  29. Fort Whoop-up29

    Fort Whoop-up

     Lethbridge
    Today, Fort Whoop-Up is also the name of a replica site and interpretive centre located in Indian Battle Park. This site offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the original fort and the activities that took place there. The replica fort was built based on new photographic evidence and is designed to resemble the original fort as closely as possible.
  30. The Ontario Regiment RCAC Museum30

    The Ontario Regiment RCAC Museum

     Oshawa
    The Ontario Regiment (RCAC) Museum is a military museum situated in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. It is conveniently located on the South Field of the Oshawa Municipal Airport, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum is a significant landmark in the region, offering a deep dive into the history of the Ontario Regiment and the Canadian Armed Forces.
  31. The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum31

    The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum

     Edmonton
    The Loyal Edmonton Regiment (LER) is an integral part of Canada's military history. As an infantry regiment of the Canadian Army's Primary Reserve, it has played a significant role in various military operations. The regiment is part of the 41 Canadian Brigade Group within the 3rd Canadian Division and is stationed in Edmonton, Alberta. Visitors to the museum can learn about the regiment's history, its role in the military, and its contributions to Canada's defense.
  32. Base Borden Military Museum32

    Base Borden Military Museum

     Borden
    The Base Borden Military Museum is a significant military museum situated on the grounds of CFB Borden in Ontario, Canada. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Canada's military history in a setting that has been an integral part of that history.
  33. North Atlantic Aviation Museum33

    North Atlantic Aviation Museum

     Gander
    The North Atlantic Aviation Museum, situated in the town of Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a significant destination for aviation enthusiasts. The initiative to establish this museum was taken in 1985, and it was officially opened to the public in 1996. This museum offers a deep dive into the history and development of aviation in the region.
  34. Battlefield House Museum & Park34

    Battlefield House Museum & Park

     Hamilton
    The Battlefield House, situated near King Street East and Centennial Parkway in Stoney Creek, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, serves as a living history museum. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience history firsthand. The museum is set in a house built in 1796 and is a significant site of the historic Battle of Stoney Creek, which took place on June 6, 1813, during the War of 1812.
  35. Canadian Museum of Flight35

    Canadian Museum of Flight

     Surrey
    The Canadian Museum of Flight boasts a collection of over 25 civilian and military jets, piston engine aircraft, gliders, and helicopters. Visitors can marvel at these impressive machines, six of which have been meticulously restored to flying condition. This diverse collection provides a unique insight into the evolution and advancements of aviation technology.
  36. 36

    Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver

     Vancouver
    The Chinese Cultural Centre is a multifaceted institution located in Vancouver's Chinatown. It serves as a community centre, a museum, and a municipal archives facility. This makes it a unique destination for tourists interested in Chinese culture and history, as well as the history of Vancouver itself.
  37. Lieu historique national de Coteau-du-Lac37

    Lieu historique national de Coteau-du-Lac

     Coteau-du-Lac
    The Coteau-du-Lac Canal is a significant historical site in Canada, dating back to the 18th century. It is situated at the confluence of the Delisle and Saint Lawrence Rivers in Quebec. As a military canal, it played a crucial role in the transportation and defense systems of the time. Today, it stands as a testament to the engineering and strategic planning of the era.
  38. Battle of Restigouche National Historic Site38

    Battle of Restigouche National Historic Site

     Listuguj
    The Battle of Restigouche holds a unique place in history as it was the last battle between British and French warships in North America during the French and Indian War. This fact adds to the historical significance of the Battle of Restigouche National Historic Site.
  39. Fort Point Museum39

    Fort Point Museum

     LaHave
    Fort Sainte-Marie-de-Grâce, once the capital of Acadia from 1632 to 1636, is now a national historic site located in LaHave, Nova Scotia, Canada. This site is a testament to the rich history of the region and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The fort's strategic location and historical significance make it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and culture.
  40. Airforce Heritage Museum and Air Park40

    Airforce Heritage Museum and Air Park

     Winnipeg
    The Air Force Heritage Museum and Air Park, located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is a significant site that showcases a variety of aircraft and artifacts that trace the history of the Canadian Air Force. Visitors can explore the rich heritage of the Canadian Air Force through these exhibits, gaining a deeper understanding of its evolution and contributions.
  41. Greenwood Aviation Museum41

    Greenwood Aviation Museum

     Greenwood
    The Greenwood Military Aviation Museum is situated in Greenwood, Nova Scotia. This museum is dedicated to the preservation and display of military aviation history and artifacts. It provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history of aviation in a unique and engaging environment.
  42. Fort Anne National Historic Site42

    Fort Anne National Historic Site

     Annapolis Royal
    Fort Anne, situated in the town of Annapolis Royal in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, holds a significant place in history. The first fort was constructed in 1636, marking the beginning of a long and eventful history that has shaped the region.
  43. Sault Ste. Marie Museum43

    Sault Ste. Marie Museum

     Sault Sainte Marie
  44. Castle Hill44

    Castle Hill

     Placentia
    Castle Hill, located in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is an area that houses the remnants of both French and British fortifications. These historical structures overlook the town of Placentia, providing a glimpse into the region's past. The site was initially established to safeguard French fishing interests and the approaches to the French colony of Canada.
  45. Fort Beauséjour – Fort Cumberland National Historic Site45

    Fort Beauséjour – Fort Cumberland National Historic Site

     Aulac
    Fort Beauséjour, also known as Fort Cumberland, is a historic site located in the hamlet of Aulac, Pont-à-Buot, in the Canadian province of New Brunswick. It is situated just north of the Mésagouèche River, which forms the border with the neighboring province of Nova Scotia. This fort has been a national historic site since 1920 and is a testament to the contested history between the French and the British in this region.
  46. CFB Esquimalt Naval & Military Museum46

    CFB Esquimalt Naval & Military Museum

     Esquimalt
    CFB Esquimalt is a comprehensive facility with a range of different areas. These include Naden (formerly HMCS Naden), His Majesty's Canadian (HMC) Dockyard Esquimalt, the Fleet Maintenance Facility – Cape Breton (FMF CB), a Fire Fighting and Damage Control School, and the Naval Officer Training Centre (NOTC) Venture. The base also provides extensive housing, including 716 married quarters for personnel, spread across nine sites such as Belmont Park, WorkPoint, and Royal Roads.
  47. Greenwood Museum,  Archives & Visitor Centre47

    Greenwood Museum, Archives & Visitor Centre

     Greenwood
  48. The Craigleith Heritage Depot48

    The Craigleith Heritage Depot

     The Blue Mountains
    The Craigleith Heritage Depot is a multifaceted institution located in The Blue Mountains, Ontario. It serves as a museum, library, tourism and community hub. This unique combination of roles makes it a significant destination for tourists interested in learning about the local history, culture, and community.
  49. Garrison Petawawa Museum Collection49

    Garrison Petawawa Museum Collection

     Petawawa
    The Canadian Forces Base Petawawa, also known as Garrison Petawawa or CFB Petawawa, is a military base located near Petawawa. It is operated by the Canadian Army and has a rich history dating back to 1905 when it was established as the Petawawa Military Camp by the Department of Militia and Defence. The base was named after the Petawawa River that runs through the area.
  50. 50

    Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment Museum

     Belleville
    The Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment Museum is situated in the Belleville Armoury in Belleville, Ontario. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique setting for the museum, which is dedicated to preserving the history of the Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment.
  51. Westbank Museum51

    Westbank Museum

     West Kelowna
    The Westbank Museum is dedicated to sharing the historical stories and artifacts of the settler population. Learn about the importance of the Okanagan Fur Brigade trail to the area's earliest European exploration. Visit our fur trader's cabin and see what settler life was like. Kids can come dig in
  52. Fort Saint-Jean Museum52

    Fort Saint-Jean Museum

     Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
    Fort Saint-Jean is a historical site located in the province of Quebec, Canada. It is situated on the banks of the Richelieu River, offering visitors a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape. The fort's location has played a significant role in its history and development, making it an interesting destination for those interested in Canadian history.
  53. Mackenzie King Estate53

    Mackenzie King Estate

     Chelsea
    William Lyon Mackenzie King was a significant figure in Canadian politics, serving as the country's Prime Minister for three separate terms between 1921 and 1948. His leadership spanned from the third to the fifth decade of the 20th century, marking a significant period in Canada's history.
  54. 54

    Fredericton Region Museum

     Fredericton
    The Fredericton Region Museum, which was previously known as the York Sunbury Museum, is a small, non-profit institution that was established in 1934 by the York Sunbury Historical Society. This museum is a testament to the rich history of the region and serves as a repository of its cultural heritage.
  55. 55

    North Lanark Regional Museum

     Mississippi Mills
    The North Lanark Regional Museum, located in Ontario, Canada, was established and is managed by the North Lanark Historical Society. The museum's primary mission is to collect, preserve, and display the history of Mississippi Mills, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the area's past.