Discover the Rich History at Bytown Museum
Explore Ottawa's captivating history at Bytown Museum, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and stunning views along the Rideau Canal.
Nestled in the heart of Ottawa, Bytown Museum invites tourists to explore the city's captivating history through engaging exhibits. This local history museum offers a unique glimpse into Ottawa's past, showcasing artifacts and stories that highlight its development from a small settlement to a bustling capital. Visitors can enjoy interactive displays that make history come alive, all set in a picturesque location along the Rideau Canal.
A brief summary to Bytown Museum
- 1 Canal Ln, Ottawa, Byward Market - Parliament Hill, Ontario, K1P 5P6, CA
- +1613-234-4570
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, allowing more time to interact with exhibits.
- Check the museum's schedule for special events or guided tours that enhance your visit.
- Don't miss the chance to enjoy a walk along the Rideau Canal after your museum visit for picturesque views.
- Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and history on display.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful architecture and exhibits throughout the museum.
Getting There
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Public Transit - Bus
If you are at the Ottawa City Hall, walk to the nearest bus stop and take the OC Transpo bus #14 or #6 heading towards the Rideau Centre. Get off at the stop 'Rideau Centre'. From there, walk towards the Ottawa River and head west on Rideau Street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Canal Lane. Turn left onto Canal Lane, and you will find Bytown Museum at 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P6.
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Public Transit - Light Rail
If you are near the Parliament Hill, walk to the Parliament station of the O-Train. Take the Confederation Line (Line 1) towards Blair Station. Get off at the 'Rideau' station. Once you exit the station, walk towards the Ottawa River, heading west on Rideau Street. Continue straight until you reach Canal Lane, then turn left. Bytown Museum will be on your left at 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P6.
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Walking
If you are in the Byward Market area, head south on Sussex Drive towards Rideau Street. Turn right onto Rideau Street and continue until you reach the intersection with Canal Lane. Turn left onto Canal Lane, and Bytown Museum will be located at 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P6.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a taxi or rideshare service, simply request a ride to 'Bytown Museum, 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P6'. The driver will take you directly to the museum entrance.
Discover more about Bytown Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
1 Canal Ln
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Discover Ottawa's past at the Bytown Museum, nestled on the historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Colonel John By Statue
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Visit the Colonel John By Statue in Major's Hill Park, a tribute to Ottawa's founder and the Rideau Canal's visionary engineer.
Statue of Sir George-Étienne Cartier
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A tribute to a Father of Confederation, the Statue of Sir George-Étienne Cartier stands as a reminder of Canada's historical foundations.
Rideau Canal Celtic Cross
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Sir Wilfrid Laurier Statue
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A dignified tribute to Canada's first French-Canadian Prime Minister, located on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, offering a glimpse into Canadian history.
Fairmont Château Laurier
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Peace Tower
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Statue of Sir John A. Macdonald
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The Connaught Building
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Parliament Hill Square
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York Steps
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Victoria Tower Bell Monument
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Confederation Table Map
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Jean E. Pigott Monument
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Rideau Canal Historic Plaque
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Unmissable attractions to see
Major's Hill Park
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The Memorial Chamber
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Rideau Canal, Locks 1 - 8 - Ottawa
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Centennial Flame
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Valiants Memorial
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Plaza Bridge
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The National War Memorial
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Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
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Lady Dive Tours
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Co-Premiers of the Province of Canada
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Famous Five Statue
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Terry Fox Statue
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Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals - Ottawa
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RentABike
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Former Geological Survey of Canada Building
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Essential places to dine
La Terrasse
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WILFRID'S
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Milestones
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Play Food & Wine
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Social Restaurant + Lounge
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Metropolitain Brasserie Restaurant
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Tavern On The Hill
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Riviera Ottawa
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Oz Kafe
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Restaurant e18hteen
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Sidedoor
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The Clarendon Tavern
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Fairouz Cafe
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Zak's Diner
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Luxe Bistro
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Galerie d'art Vincent
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STUNNING Women's Fashion + Accessories, ByWard Market, Ottawa
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Parliament Souvenier And News
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Schad - Women's Fashion Boutique
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Hudson's Bay
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Irving Rivers, ByWard Market
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The Hotel Gift Shop
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OXXO SILK AND GIFT
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Quichua World Market
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Canada In A Basket
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Eclection, ByWard Market
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Laras
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Milk Shop, ByWard Market
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Maple Leaf Souvenirs & Cigars
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CF Rideau Centre
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
D'Arcy McGee's
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The Hyde
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The Brig Pub
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Stolen Goods Cocktail Bar
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Dominion Tavern
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The Lookout Bar
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The Laff
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Speakeasy Tapas Lounge
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Heart & Crown - ByWard Market
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Apothecary Lounge
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The Snug Pub
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Nan's Parlour
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Clocktower Brew Pub - Rideau
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Pub 101
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Copper Spirits and Sights
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