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Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21: A Gateway to New Beginnings

Discover Canada's immigration story at Pier 21: an immersive journey through history, resilience, and the shaping of a nation. Open daily!

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The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a national museum located at a National Historic Site that tells the stories of nearly one million immigrants who arrived in Canada between 1928 and 1971. Often compared to Ellis Island, it is Canada's last remaining ocean immigration shed, offering a poignant look at the immigrant experience and its impact on the nation's identity.

A brief summary to Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for current ticket prices, special promotions, and temporary exhibition schedules before your visit.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and allow for a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
  • Take advantage of the guided tours offered in English and French to gain deeper insights into the stories and historical context of Pier 21.
  • Allocate ample time to explore the Scotiabank Family History Centre and research your own family's immigration history with the help of expert staff.
  • Explore the Halifax Seaport area, where the museum is located, to discover other attractions, restaurants, and shopping options.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, head south towards the Halifax Seaport. The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is located within the Seaport, a short walk from popular attractions like the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market and the Cunard Centre. Follow the signs within the Seaport to reach the museum entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Several Halifax Transit bus routes serve the Halifax Seaport area. Check the Halifax Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. Disembark at a stop near the Seaport and follow the signs to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. A single fare is around $2.50 CAD.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Halifax. Simply request a ride to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, located at 1055 Marginal Road. A short taxi ride from downtown Halifax will typically cost between $7 and $10 CAD.

  • Driving

    If driving, take Marginal Road to the Halifax Seaport. Paid parking is available on-site at the Halifax Port Authority lots. Rates typically range from $2.00 to $4.00 CAD per hour, with daily maximums between $10.00 and $15.00 CAD.

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Discover more about Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Step into the past at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, a national museum situated on the Halifax waterfront. From 1928 to 1971, Pier 21 served as a gateway for nearly one million immigrants arriving in Canada, as well as the departure point for approximately 400,000 Canadian military personnel during the Second World War. Today, the museum preserves and shares the stories of these newcomers, offering visitors an immersive experience into their courage, hopes, and challenges. The museum features interactive exhibits suitable for all ages, including the 'Pier 21 Story' which highlights what it was like to immigrate to Canada between 1928 and 1971. Visitors can explore replica colonist train cars, open replica children's trunks to discover what young immigrants brought with them, and even dress up as Pier 21 staff. The 'Canadian Immigration Story' exhibition dives into over 400 years of history, showcasing the contributions of remarkable Canadian immigrants through a multimedia presentation. In addition to its exhibitions, the museum also houses the Scotiabank Family History Centre, a valuable resource for those looking to trace their own family's immigration journey. Knowledgeable staff are available to guide visitors through genealogy databases and research tools, helping them uncover personal connections to Canada's diverse immigrant experience. The museum also offers a variety of facilities and services, including guided tours in English and French, and paid parking on-site. The fully bilingual experience ensures accessibility for all visitors, and the museum's location on the Halifax Seaport places it close to other attractions, restaurants, and shopping. Don't miss the museum's unique gift shop, offering Canadian treasures and handcrafted items.

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