Housed in Ottawa’s oldest stone building, the BYTOWN MUSEUM explores Ottawa’s history from the early years of Rideau Canal construction, through the rough and tumble days of Bytown, to its emergence as Canada’s capital and beyond.
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Once used as a storehouse during the construction of the Rideau Canal, this unique heritage building amassed an impressive collection of local artifacts through the work of the Women’s Canadian Historical Society of Ottawa. The Bytown Museum explores the early history of Canada’s capital when it was known as Bytown. The museum also pays homage to Lieutenant Colonel John By, who oversaw the construction of the Rideau Canal, and features a variety of exhibitions displaying local historical treasures.
The Bytown Museum is found alongside the UNESCO Heritage site Rideau Canal.
Postcards Scavenger Hunt
While you’re exploring the museum’s exhibit be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the seven mailboxes scattered around the second and third floors. Each box has a postcard in it that will tell you about important moments in Ottawa’s past. Find all seven and piece together Ottawa’s story from beginning to end.
Youth Activity Area
Visit the third floor of the museum to check out the Youth Activity Area, complete with Victorian toys, books to read, as well as interactive and historical app-based games! See what the lives of Ottawa’s young people were like in the 1800s.
Know Before You Go
1 Canal Ln, Ottawa, ON K1P 1L1
Tel: (613) 234-4570
Thurs – Mon: 11am – 4pm
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday
PRICING
Adult – $8.00
Senior – $6.00
Student – $5.00 (13 to 18 or with valid student ID)
Child – $4.00
Flex Family – $20 (2 adults and unlimited children under 18)
4 years & under – complimentary
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