Ontario is home to a diverse collection of museums that highlight history, science, art, and culture. Whether you’re interested in ancient artifacts, immersive historical experiences, or cutting-edge science exhibits, Ontario’s museums provide something for everyone. From world-renowned institutions in major cities to hidden gems in smaller towns, these museums offer unforgettable experiences that educate and inspire.
Here are 11 must-visit museums in Ontario, each featuring unique exhibits that make them worth exploring.
1. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – Toronto
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is the largest and most visited museum in Canada, boasting an extensive collection of over 13 million artifacts and specimens. Located in downtown Toronto, the museum is instantly recognizable for its striking architecture, particularly the modern Michael Lee-Chin Crystal addition. The ROM covers a vast range of topics, from natural history and paleontology to ancient civilizations and world cultures. Visitors can walk among towering dinosaur skeletons, marvel at Egyptian mummies, and explore Indigenous artifacts, all under one roof.
As one of Canada’s premier cultural institutions, the ROM offers an interactive experience for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy hands-on learning in the Discovery Gallery, while history enthusiasts can admire intricate medieval armor and Asian sculptures. The museum frequently hosts rotating exhibitions that bring in rare and significant artifacts from around the world, making each visit a new experience for inviduals or families. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, the ROM offers a deep dive into humanity’s greatest stories.
Top Exhibits:
The Bat Cave – A lifelike recreation of a dark cave filled with animated bats and realistic sound effects.
Gordo the Barosaurus – One of the largest dinosaur skeletons in Canada, measuring 27 metres long.
Egyptian Mummies & Artifacts – A fascinating display of ancient sarcophagi, statues, and burial objects.
The Gallery of Minerals and Gems – Showcasing dazzling meteorites, rare minerals, and precious gemstones.
First Peoples Gallery – Featuring Indigenous art, tools, and historical narratives from Canada’s Indigenous communities.
2. Canadian War Museum – Ottawa
The Canadian War Museum in Ottawa offers a powerful and thought-provoking look at Canada’s military history. The museum explores Canada’s involvement in conflicts from pre-colonial times to the present day, using artifacts, personal stories, and large-scale exhibits. Visitors can gain insight into the experiences of soldiers and civilians during wartime, with exhibits that cover topics such as trench warfare, peacekeeping missions, and Cold War espionage. The museum’s striking modern design, which features angular walls resembling a battlefield, adds to the immersive experience.
With an impressive collection of military vehicles, uniforms, weapons, and war diaries, the museum provides a detailed account of Canada’s role in global conflicts. The Canadian Experience Galleries offer a chronological journey through history, while interactive exhibits allow visitors to step inside recreated battle trenches and tanks. The museum also places a strong emphasis on remembrance, ensuring that the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers are never forgotten.
Top Exhibits:
Regeneration Hall – A stunning architectural space honouring Canada’s fallen soldiers.
LeBreton Gallery – A collection of tanks, armoured vehicles, and fighter aircraft used in past wars.
The First World War Trench Experience – A lifelike recreation of a WWI battlefield trench.
Cold War Exhibit – Exploring Canada’s role in espionage, military strategy, and nuclear defence.
Memorial Hall – A quiet, reflective space that aligns with the sun at 11 a.m. on Remembrance Day.
3. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) – Toronto
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest art museums in North America, housing a world-class collection of over 90,000 artworks. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the building itself is a masterpiece, featuring sweeping wooden staircases and expansive glass walls. The AGO’s vast collection spans centuries and continents, including European masterpieces, Indigenous art, and contemporary installations. Visitors can admire paintings by the Group of Seven, explore thought-provoking modern works, or take part in interactive art-making activities.
In addition to its permanent collection, the AGO regularly hosts special exhibitions featuring famous artists from around the world. The museum also has a strong focus on Canadian art, highlighting the country’s artistic evolution from early Indigenous works to present-day contemporary pieces. Families, students, and art lovers alike will find something inspiring within its walls, making the AGO a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Top Exhibits:
The Group of Seven Collection – Celebrating Canada’s most iconic landscape painters.
The Thomson Collection of European Art – Featuring works by masters such as Rubens, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh.
Contemporary Art Galleries – Showcasing experimental and thought-provoking modern art.
The Henry Moore Sculpture Centre – The world’s largest public collection of sculptures by Henry Moore.
Indigenous Art Exhibit – Highlighting traditional and contemporary Indigenous artworks.
4. Science North – Sudbury
Science North is one of Canada’s most interactive and engaging science centres, making it a perfect destination for families and science lovers in Northern Ontario. Located in Sudbury, this museum is built inside two giant snowflake-shaped buildings connected by a tunnel. Unlike traditional museums, Science North encourages hands-on exploration, allowing visitors to conduct experiments, interact with live animals, and engage with digital simulations. The museum covers a variety of topics, including physics, biology, astronomy, and environmental science.
Science North is particularly famous for its immersive experiences, such as its IMAX theatre, planetarium, and underground mine tour. Visitors can hold live insects in the nature exchange area, learn about the Northern Lights, or try their hand at piloting a virtual spacecraft. With its engaging exhibits and family-friendly atmosphere, Science North makes learning fun and accessible for all ages.
Top Exhibits:
The F. Jean MacLeod Butterfly Gallery – A tropical greenhouse filled with live butterflies.
The Northern Ecosystems Exhibit – Featuring live reptiles, fish, and other native Canadian species.
Dynamic Earth – An underground mining experience exploring Sudbury’s geological history.
The Planetarium – Offering stunning shows about space, stars, and celestial phenomena.
IMAX Theatre – Screening breathtaking science and nature documentaries.
5. Canada Aviation and Space Museum – Ottawa
The Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa is the country’s premier destination for aviation enthusiasts. This museum showcases the evolution of flight, from early biplanes to modern fighter jets and space exploration. Located at the Ottawa-Rockcliffe Airport, it houses one of the most extensive aircraft collections in Canada, featuring over 130 historic planes and spacecraft. Visitors can get up close to vintage warplanes, commercial aircraft, and even satellites, gaining insight into the technology that has shaped human flight.
The museum goes beyond static displays by offering hands-on experiences such as flight simulators and guided tours of real aircraft. A highlight is the Canadarm exhibit, where visitors can learn about Canada’s contributions to space exploration. Families will love the interactive children’s area, while aviation buffs can take a ride in a vintage biplane for a truly immersive experience. Whether you’re interested in military history, commercial aviation, or outer space, this museum offers an exciting journey through the skies.
Top Exhibits:
Canadarm and Space Exploration Exhibit – Showcasing Canada’s role in NASA missions.
Avro Arrow CF-105 – A rare look at Canada’s most famous (and cancelled) jet fighter project.
WWI & WWII Aircraft Collection – Featuring legendary planes like the Spitfire and Lancaster bomber.
Bush Flying and Early Aviation – Exploring Canada’s remote air travel history.
Flight Simulators – Letting visitors test their piloting skills.
6. Hockey Hall of Fame – Toronto
The Hockey Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for sports fans, celebrating Canada’s rich hockey heritage. Located in downtown Toronto, this museum is dedicated to the history of the sport and the players who have shaped it. The Hall of Fame houses an extensive collection of hockey memorabilia, including game-worn jerseys, vintage equipment, and championship rings. The highlight for many visitors is the chance to see and take photos with the Stanley Cup, the most prestigious trophy in hockey.
Beyond artifacts, the museum offers interactive exhibits that let visitors test their skills. The NHLPA Game Time zone allows guests to take virtual shots on a digital goalie, while the broadcast booth lets fans call famous plays. Visitors can also explore the history of women’s hockey, international tournaments, and legendary players through immersive multimedia displays. Whether you're a lifelong hockey fan or new to the sport, the Hockey Hall of Fame delivers an exciting experience.
Top Exhibits:
The Stanley Cup Vault – A display of the iconic trophy and its history.
NHLPA Game Time – A virtual shooting and goaltending experience.
Legends of Hockey – A tribute to Hall of Fame players.
Dressing Room Displays – Featuring NHL jerseys, equipment, and memorabilia.
TSN Broadcast Zone – Letting visitors simulate calling a live game.
7. Canadian Museum of History – Gatineau
Located just across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, the Canadian Museum of History is the most-visited museum in Canada. It explores the country’s rich past, from Indigenous traditions to modern achievements. The museum’s stunning architecture is inspired by the natural landscapes of Canada, making it a visual marvel. Inside, visitors can journey through time, discovering artifacts from the First Nations, early European settlers, and significant historical events that shaped the nation.
One of the highlights of the museum is the Grand Hall, featuring towering totem poles and Indigenous art. The museum also houses the Canadian Children's Museum, an interactive space designed for younger visitors to learn through play. Temporary exhibitions often showcase global cultures, making each visit unique. With a mix of history, culture, and family-friendly activities, this museum offers something for everyone.
Top Exhibits:
The Grand Hall – Home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles.
Canadian History Hall – Covering 15,000 years of Canadian history.
First Peoples Hall – Exploring Indigenous heritage, traditions, and artifacts.
Canadian Children’s Museum – An interactive experience for young explorers.
The IMAX Theatre – Screening historical and cultural documentaries.
8. Aga Khan Museum – Toronto
The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto is dedicated to showcasing Islamic art, culture, and history. This architecturally stunning museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including rare manuscripts, intricate ceramics, and breathtaking textiles. Its mission is to foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for the artistic and intellectual traditions of Muslim civilizations from across the world.
Visitors can explore beautifully curated exhibits featuring calligraphy, illuminated manuscripts, and historical artifacts from the Middle East, South Asia, and North Africa. The museum frequently hosts performances, lectures, and workshops, making it a dynamic cultural hub. The surrounding Aga Khan Park provides a peaceful setting for reflection, and the on-site restaurant, Diwan, serves exquisite Middle Eastern cuisine.
Top Exhibits:
Persian and Mughal Miniature Paintings – Showcasing intricate historical art.
Calligraphy and Manuscripts – Featuring centuries-old Qur'ans and religious texts.
Islamic Ceramics and Metalwork – Highlighting craftsmanship from the 9th-19th centuries.
Temporary Exhibitions – Rotating displays of Islamic art and culture.
Performing Arts Program – Hosting live music and storytelling events.
9. Bata Shoe Museum – Toronto
The Bata Shoe Museum is one of the most unique museums in Ontario, offering a fascinating look at footwear from different cultures and historical periods. Located in downtown Toronto, this museum houses a collection of over 13,000 shoes, ranging from ancient sandals to contemporary designer heels. The exhibits explore how footwear reflects social status, fashion trends, and technological advancements throughout history.
Visitors can see shoes worn by famous figures, including Elvis Presley and Queen Victoria, alongside indigenous moccasins and medieval footwear. Interactive displays allow guests to learn about shoe-making techniques and try on historical replicas. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or just curious about how footwear has evolved, this museum offers a truly unique experience.
Top Exhibits:
All About Shoes: Footwear Through the Ages – Covering 4,500 years of shoe history.
Celebrity Shoe Collection – Featuring footwear from icons like Marilyn Monroe and Shaquille O'Neal.
Fashion Victims: Shoes in the Victorian Era – Showcasing extravagant and painful footwear trends.
Indigenous Footwear Collection – Highlighting traditional shoes from First Nations communities.
Temporary Fashion Exhibitions – Featuring rotating designer shoe collections.
10. Textile Museum of Canada – Toronto
The Textile Museum of Canada is a hidden gem that celebrates the art and history of textiles from around the world. Located in downtown Toronto, this museum houses a collection of over 13,000 fabrics, garments, and weaving tools, spanning over 2,000 years of history. Exhibits explore how textiles have played a crucial role in different cultures, from ceremonial robes to everyday clothing.
The museum frequently rotates its exhibits, showcasing textiles from regions such as Africa, Asia, and South America. Hands-on workshops allow visitors to try their hand at weaving and embroidery, offering an interactive way to appreciate textile craftsmanship. This museum is perfect for art lovers, fashion enthusiasts, and anyone interested in cultural history.
Top Exhibits:
Global Textiles Collection – Featuring fabrics from over 200 countries.
Weaving Demonstrations – Live displays of traditional weaving techniques.
Indigenous Textile Traditions – Exploring patterns and materials used by First Nations.
Modern Fashion Installations – Showcasing contemporary textile art.
Hands-On Textile Workshops – Letting visitors try embroidery and fabric dyeing.
11. Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre – Sault Ste. Marie
The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre is a must-visit museum for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers. Located in Sault Ste. Marie, this unique museum is dedicated to preserving Canada’s rich history of bush flying and aerial firefighting. Housed in a spacious hangar, the centre showcases a fascinating collection of vintage bushplanes, interactive exhibits, and hands-on displays that highlight the crucial role of aviation in Canada’s northern and remote regions.
Visitors can climb aboard historic aircraft, try their hand at flight simulators, and learn about the pilots who braved rugged landscapes to deliver supplies, rescue stranded travelers, and combat wildfires. The museum also features exhibits on aerial firefighting, including Canada’s first water bomber. Whether you're a plane enthusiast or just curious about Canada’s aviation history, the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre offers a one-of-a-kind experience that brings the past to life.
Top Exhibits:
Water Bombers & Aerial Firefighting – Showcasing Canada’s firefighting aircraft and techniques.
Bushplane Walkthroughs – Allowing visitors to explore the interiors of historic planes.
Flight Simulator – Giving guests a chance to experience piloting a bushplane.
Wildfires! A Firefighting Adventure – An interactive exhibit on the science of wildfires.
The Kids’ Flight Centre – Hands-on activities and games for young visitors.
Final Thoughts
Ontario is home to an incredible array of museums that cater to history lovers, science enthusiasts, and art admirers alike. From world-renowned institutions like the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario to unique specialty museums such as the Bata Shoe Museum and the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, each destination offers a fascinating glimpse into different aspects of history, culture, and innovation.
Whether you're looking to explore ancient civilizations, marvel at scientific discoveries, or step into the world of aviation, these 11 museums provide unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. No matter your interests, Ontario’s museums offer something new to learn, discover, and appreciate. So, next time you're planning a trip, be sure to add these remarkable museums to your itinerary for an enriching and educational adventure.
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