Many people don’t know that Ottawa is the capital city of Canada. Situated a few hours drive north of Toronto and Montreal, straddling the provinces of Ontario and Quebec– Ottawa being on the Ontario side; Gatineau on the Quebec side — Canada’s capital makes for a great weekend getaway destination (or a longer vacation for that matter). It’s compact, easy to explore, has lots of great museums and a wonderful market. I’ve written about this city before on the website (click here to read this).
Today I’d like to share with you a photo tour of my favorite museum in that town, the Canadian Museum of History (formerly Civilization), a spacious venue (25,000 square m. 270,000 sq. ft.). The museum has a mix of permanent and changing exhibits, by far the best of these being Grand Hall whose displays relate to Canada’s First Nations Peoples (“American Indians”), including many aspects of their culture and art. Most impressive are the displays of historic totem poles (many more than 100 years old) and several remarkable carvings by noted native artist, the late Bill Reid. Other permanent exhibits include a nice Children’s Museum, Canada Hall (historic displays) and an IMAX theatre. The Museum of Civilization used to house the Canada Postal Museum, which is now closed (a new facility for it is being built).
Another highlight of a visit to this museum is a stop at the back of the property, on the banks of the Ottawa River, From here you’ll enjoy the best views anywhere of the Houses of Parliament, its Peace Tower and Library.
So here are some of my favorite photos from the Museum of Civilization, mostly from it’s amazing Grand Hall. For photo legends, click on the thumbnails at the bottom of the post for a slide show (the photos there are labeled):
It makes me want to go back to visit my relatives near Ottawa. But maybe not this month.
Ottawa is a perfect spring and fall getaway destination, PortMoresby. Like many things Canadian it’s pleasant and understated. You don’t really get the impression when here that one of the world’s most successful economies is governed in this peaceful small city.
Summers can be hot and humid, but May and late Sept/Oct are special. I’d probably head there late Sept/early Oct to enjoy the colorful tree displays.
The museum contacted TG and informed us the name has been changed to the Canadian Museum of History.
How dare they change human Civilization to “History”!
But so noted and post edited accordingly
The museum contacted TG and informed us the name has been changed to the Canadian Museum of History.