Bytown Museum

The Bytown Museum, located in Ottawa’s oldest stone building on the Unceded Territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Peoples, offers a comprehensive look at the city’s history. Housed in the former commissariat for the construction of the Rideau Canal, the museum explores Ottawa’s evolution from its First Peoples roots to its early days as Bytown and its present-day identity. The facility features a permanent exhibition and temporary shows, such as "What's in a Frame?," which highlights community portraits.

Visitors can explore period rooms and artifacts from the late 19th century, often enhanced by free audio guides. The museum is situated on Canal Lane, overlooking the Rideau Canal locks, providing a scenic backdrop to the historical experience. It is recommended to allow one to two hours for a visit.

The museum is open daily during the summer from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In the winter, it is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Extended hours are available on Thursdays until 8:00 PM, with free entry starting at 5:00 PM. Admission is CA$6.50 for adults and CA$3 for children.

On-site amenities include a cafe and a boutique for souvenirs. The museum also offers school programs focused on experiential learning and venue rentals for events. An online digital collection of artifacts and images is available for remote access. The Bytown Museum serves as a key cultural institution, preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Ottawa.