Local Guides World

Best Local history museums in Canada

Top Rated Local history museums

Top Reviewed Local history museums

Reviews

Rick Braam
at 2024 May 06
Rick Braam
at 2024 May 06
I met our daughter in law and grand children here. It is a great place for children. The staff are very knowledgeable and so great to visitors, old or young.
Our grandchildren love visiting Exploration Place and learn so much. Its like a mini- science world.
As a grandparent, it's a must go place in PG to enjoy with your grandchildren.
The Tea on the Lawn (Three-tier Afternoon Tea) is totally worth it! It takes place outside (covered, so rain doesn’t affect it) in the lush backyard of the historic house. Make sure to visit the museum part as well!
Great historical site. Must visit
Megan
at 2024 Mar 19
Megan
at 2024 Mar 19
We went to the museum today, but only to check out the store. Lots of Mr PGs and that is what we went for. Greeted by all the staff who offered many amazing factoids even though we were only visiting the store. We also checked out the Cafe and had huge milkshakes that were delicious.
Geraldine Maclear
at 2024 Feb 06
Geraldine Maclear
at 2024 Feb 06
This little museum is well worth a visit. As newcomers to Nanaimo, we found it informative and nicely set up. It is family friendly and has a coffee shop right next door. You could easily spend a couple of hours here if you read all the exhibit info.
Briony
at 2024 Jan 31
Briony
at 2024 Jan 31
Went here with my family to see some history about Nanaimo. Very very cool!!! The mining exhibit was by far my favorite with the lanterns they provided aswell as the class room exhibit. Very well done. Took my 2 year old with us and he still found it very cool. Interactive buttons to press asweell. Definitely check this place out! :)
Admission is by donation :)
Great museum with interactive exhibits, film, and tours that demonstrate the Cannery's important role in the history of Canada's West Coast fishing industry, you hace to pay in the entrance the access to the museum and also buy things at their gift shop
This place is amazing. A total gem to Prince George. There are so many interacive and miltisensory displays keeping the kids happy, entertained, and learning. Employees like Konrad take this experience to the next level. I loved his joy and enthusiasm. He taught us so much. Thank you, Konrad! If you are thinking about going, do it, you will not be disappointed.
Very heart touching Orchestra with a nice team and place.
That was very blessed and impactful event, thanks to all who worked long time to get that success achieved.

Dr-Zakaria Helles
Janice Chau
at 2024 Jan 18
Janice Chau
at 2024 Jan 18
A one-room hyperlocal exhibit of Toronto's history. Free admission. It took me about 15-20 minutes to go through everything. I think it's worth a visit when also seeing the art galleries housed in the same building.
Wong Hau Yu
at 2024 Jan 10
Wong Hau Yu
at 2024 Jan 10
The museum showcased some of the living environment of the people living in Scarborough a few decades ago. The staff was super nice and she provided a free guided tour. However, the museums only consisted of a few houses and exhibitions. It's not worth coming from a far distance specifically for this, unless you happen to be passing by or have a strong interest in the topic.
Robert Mckay
at 2024 Jan 03
Robert Mckay
at 2024 Jan 03
We actually needed a bathroom (washroom) so snuck into the museum. But we discovered a little treasure of trove of local history. The saddest was the 132 miners who died in a methane explosion in the local mine. Chinese laborer's were registered by their number, not their name. Worth the visit and targeted at all ages. Even the teen in our family grunted that they were impressed.
Absolutely wonderful place for high tea. The setting and serving are all conducive to the atmosphere. Definitely a worthwhile visit, even if just to tour the grounds of this beautiful estate.
Raskuly
at 2023 Dec 31
Raskuly
at 2023 Dec 31
This is a museum about culture and humanity's interaction with the Earth. You will learn new insights about different cultures, and even if you belong to one of the cultures currently on display at the museum you may still learn something new.

You will see bigotry in the reviews because of various degrees of disrespect towards other people and cultures and a lack of understanding of how we humans impact our home.

Learning about people different than you and concepts you may not agree with is not being "woke", it is reality. Face it and don't cower away with a flurry of disregarding statements.

Also, yes, there is an explicit exhibit and there is a warning outside, so if you don't want your kids in an explicit exhibit don't let them go in. Another thing is that there are more than two exhibits at this museum, which from reading the reviews some people seem to believe. Look at the maps and you'll be able to find the others, though be prepared for lots of stairs and walking.
This place is fantastic! An absolute music when in Quebec. You can easily spend hours here.
Your opinion on what constitutes a museum exhibit on “civilization” will differ from mine. However, to me, the exhibits were more “popular cultural” and “progressive arts” than “civilization”. To me, the only interesting thing here about “civilization” was the boat you see for free when you enter for free. Beyond that it was an over priced experience I found to be exhibiting the history of local rap music, the rise of transgender culture, and some facts about the climate change crisis. It was nearly empty on the Friday before Christmas. I’d say stay away except for the boat. Stop in and take a photo of it for free and then leave. I’d give this place zero stars if I could.
Educational tourist attraction aimed at young families. Fun 10 minute train ride that sells out for Halloween and Christmas.
It had a fantastic experience with a highly professional and well-organized show, accompanied by exceptional music in an atmosphere that complemented the performance.
We went for the train and stayed for the kids' christmas crafts. I would recommend the mini doughnuts, popcorn, and hot chocolate if you want to top it off. Very magical evening even as an 'adult'.
Very educational place ,good for families and gain knowledge, we also see Santa Claus on Dec 3 they are very kind and friendly 😊
Someone took pictures of us by used our own phone 📱 we are happy and lucky 😊
John Kraus
at 2023 Dec 04
John Kraus
at 2023 Dec 04
Lovely community gem! Very informative with hands on displays for young explorers and seasoned history buffs. Easy access, lots of parking. Check out their website for coming events. Lots to do for all ages.
Highly recommend! It's a gem of a museum and historic site. I had no expectations as I didn't do any research on it. Was just in the area and wanted something to do. It is so immersive with the original machinery in place. Looks like they're in the middle of updating the exhibits. I appreciated the acknowledging of the racist past associated with the cannery, salmon fishing and BC's history in general, though I'm sure there's a lot more that can be said about it. We spent about an hour there. Highly recommend.
Bob Schwenger
at 2023 Nov 25
Bob Schwenger
at 2023 Nov 25
Excellent flavour of town history!
Used to visit here a lot with my family in the '90s and early 2000s. I traveled to the Island in 2018 and visited the BC Forest Discovery Centre for the first time in about eighteen years. The Train rides were as fun as I remember, and there are a lot of cool sites and amazing views like the Lookout Tower, Ranger Station, and bridge. After getting off the Train, I went for a walk and looked around for an hour or so. I'll return to the Island and visit here again someday.
Lots of really interesting history. Working model trains kept the attention of a pair of 3 year olds. Loved some of the detail on the trains of stained glass and inlaid wood. Excellent tour guide.
Lisa Vasilieva
at 2023 Oct 24
Lisa Vasilieva
at 2023 Oct 24
Despite the town is not the most touristic place in BC, Nanaimo Museum is a great touristic spot with welcoming atmosphere and easy-going staff.
There is a great section dedicated to the mine industry in the region.
The kids and I loved our visit! As a Winnipegger, the main attraction for me was the Royal Alexandra Hall. We all enjoyed the "Toddler Tour"(even in the rain) and the kids loved the model railway room. Great staff and tour guides.
Awesome exhibit about the history of children's television programming produced in Toronto for the last 42 years. The staff were very friendly and engaging. I cannot recommend it enough!
Fantastic museum focused on forestry through the ages and many other industries and ways of life in the days of yesteryear. Very cool spot for everyone all ages! Was a bit pricey but I would say worth it!
Michael Jones
at 2023 Aug 11
Michael Jones
at 2023 Aug 11
Visited today for a trivia night, and had a blast! A humble space but they packed it full of interesting exhibits: the space was presenting a history of local TV when I attended and they had a ton of little artifacts and a huge number of preserved media shown on screens. Between the fun exhibits, friendly staff, and pay-what-you-can entry, it's definitely worth a visit if you're in the area!
If you or your kids love trains or are interested in the history of trains in Canada this is the place for you! The staff was so friendly and welcoming. We did all three train tours and I can't say enough good things about them. The restored train cars were so interesting but the best part is the tour guides! The guide was so informative and could answer all the questions my 7 yr old son who loves trains could think of. I really enjoyed the history as well as learning about the process of restoration. The gift shop could be better but it was still pretty good. They have a huge model train set that my son loved, I think we spent at least 30-40 minutes there. The museum is in a very interesting building with some nice displays. We had a fantastic time and I recommend all the tours!
Michele G
at 2023 Aug 02
Michele G
at 2023 Aug 02
My family and I recently rented The Gallery event space in the North Bay Museum to hold my Mother's Celebration of Life. We were so pleased with the space and with Sarah and her team. The Gallery was bright with lots of windows and hardwood floors, and being able to rent it for 1/2 day made it very affordable. It came with tables, chairs, projector, screen, speaker and mike, which really helped with our rental cost. We had almost 50 guests for lunch and there was plenty of space. Sarah and her team were extremely helpful and attentive to our needs. In the end, we couldn't have been happier and we had a truly wonderful celebration for our Mother. The Gallery is a a gem in North Bay and I highly recommend it if you need a venue for any occasion.
Was a great experience even for the kids! They have a little scavenger hunt for them as you are going through. And the staff are amazing and super friendly and knowledgeable! Would suggest calling a head for the train tours.
Evan
at 2023 Jul 30
Evan
at 2023 Jul 30
A wonderful place to take the family for a few hours. I brought my wife and my son, we all had a great time. The steam train was a blast, lots of local history and interesting information, concession, first shop and much more, I was impressed at the sheer size of the place.
They even had a really cool collection of antique machines and vehicles, I bought a family pass as we live local. A must see for anyone interested in the history of the valley or just a relaxing afternoon
This place is so beautiful!!! Our guide Falyne was super knowledgeable and kind. Not to mention she was a super engaging orator. Keep up the good work guys :)
Doug W
at 2023 Jul 22
Doug W
at 2023 Jul 22
Interesting for people who grew up in the 1970's to 1990's.....but this is a rather quick stop. What I would suggest is to set the 401 RICHMOND as a COMPLETE destination and NOT just this museum.
Check the opening hours as this place is (strangely during the summer tourist season) closed on the weekends
A great effort for nostalgia with some great artifacts....but a lot of written history to read. Many things parts of the exhibit are available to listen to with headphones and some hands-on materials and games for the young people ...but I am still somewhat hesitant in this post-COVID era with all this accessible material. Parents might want o bring sterile wipes with them.
There are some terrific stores on the main floor and interesting art galleries on the floors above.
Monica Kelly
at 2023 Jul 22
Monica Kelly
at 2023 Jul 22
From the moment I stepped foot into this space I was thrown right back into my childhood.
Talk about nostalgia.
It made this 50 year old feel 5 for a few hours.
We sat and made a puppet for like 2 hours and shared lots of laughs and just being in the moment.
I enjoyed it so much.
Such a great place.
Do yourself a favor and visit!!
Pascal Bédard
at 2023 Jul 21
Pascal Bédard
at 2023 Jul 21
Cool little museum about the history of the region. Perfect for a little one hour break while passing through.
A must see while you are visiting Steveston. One of the best museums with knowledgable tour guides who walk you through the Salmon and Herring canning lines.
You can go on 3 different tours. They explain what each car was for and the handmanship of restoring each car.
Chris Chartrand
at 2023 Jul 02
Chris Chartrand
at 2023 Jul 02
Located in downtown North Bay at the historic North Bay railway building, this small but interesting museum is worth checking out when you're in the area. The staff does a great job changing up some of the exhibits while other mainstays speak in detail of the founders and roots of the city of North Bay and the surrounding area. While in the museum, check out the gift shop and enjoy this historic building.
You would think there wouldn't be much to see, but there is. Well laid-out, lots of content and a very helpful staff. Definitely worth visiting if you have some time.
Visit there at 3-4 pm on May 31st, 2023. Great place. Exciting exhibits in mint condition with a group of knowledgeable on-site tour guides. We had a good time when walking around.
The gift shop is lovely but I can’t find too many of this cannery's own souvenir.
A big down for me is I was there for the tourism challenge. I used my phone to mark down the answers because there is no pen & paper. Not a problem at all until the staff suspected I got the answers from someone else by text. Even though I explained, the staff still asked me another question out of the challenge trying to prove I was cheating. Which is so disrespectful to a peer in the tourism field. (I am glad I know the answer because I enjoyed the visit, I read everything carefully)
Review of Tea on the Lawn @ Billing’s Estate
Visited on Fri, May 26, 2023
Loved everything about this quaint high tea setting. It was our first time visiting since prior to the pandemic. Staff were great, so friendly and attentive. Food is delicious and love that you can swap tea for another beverage choice. Looking forward to more visits.
Hanzhang Li
at 2023 May 30
Hanzhang Li
at 2023 May 30
I recently had the opportunity to visit the Myseum of Toronto, and I must say, the name itself is intriguing and captivating. Upon arriving at the location, I discovered that this museum is actually a digital experience rather than a physical one. It operates in temporary spaces, such as its current location in the 401 building, hosting special exhibitions for a limited period of time.

Although the museum may be small in size and digital in nature, it offers a wealth of interactive and informative exhibitions that are sure to captivate visitors. I was pleasantly surprised by the range of experiences they provide. From exploring the history of TV shows to engaging with videos, audio installations, and hands-on art and craft activities, the Myseum of Toronto offers a unique and engaging way to delve into various aspects of Toronto's culture and heritage.

If you find yourself in downtown Toronto, I highly recommend paying a visit to this museum. Despite its digital format, it provides a rich and immersive experience that showcases the city's vibrant history and cultural significance. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to assist and provide insights into the exhibits.

While the Myseum of Toronto may not have a permanent physical location, its temporary presence and ever-changing exhibitions make each visit a fresh and exciting experience. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the city, this museum offers a unique perspective on Toronto's cultural heritage that is not to be missed.
Thanuja V
at 2023 May 26
Thanuja V
at 2023 May 26
This spot is so unique and unlike any other museum in the city. It shared local histories of Toronto and has unique exhibits throughout the year. This season they have a Canadian pop culture exhibit called
Mr. Dress Up to Degrassi. It features a tribute to popular kids television shows aired from the 1950s to 1990s. The exhibit will have extended hours for Doors Open.

It’s pretty centrally located downtown with plenty of parking and transit nearby.
Make sure to check it out!
INHYEOK YUN
at 2023 Apr 09
INHYEOK YUN
at 2023 Apr 09
Donate and enter. A good place to take a look at the history of Nanaimo's forest industry, sports, mining, etc.. It's nice to have a mission-type program for children.
Ashley Dee
at 2023 Mar 23
Ashley Dee
at 2023 Mar 23
We saw the Ten of Toronto exhibition here (on until May 2023). It was incredible! We’re tourists in the city, and we’ve been searching for a social history of the people of the city, who lives and lived here and what they got up to. This was exactly what we were looking for. It was so informative, and I loved the layout of the exhibit. I wish it was a permanent exhibition, as we haven’t found anything like this in the city.

My only request would be a laminated map that visitors could look at as they go around the exhibit to visualise how the spaces overlap - as tourists we don’t the neighbourhoods well enough!

Thank you so much for finally giving some Torontonian social history!!
Really cool museum about the local history of the area and trains in Canada. I do recommend calling ahead to check when tours of the facility are available. We were able to tour the train yard, but missed some of the other elements. Generally, a cool experience and definitely worth the stop.
Tausif Ahmed
at 2023 Feb 19
Tausif Ahmed
at 2023 Feb 19
Nice place to visit for all ages. Pretty inexpensive and fun.
We stopped here as a small fun weekend trip and it was tons of fun! Our ticket ended up being on the wrong day but they still managed to squeeze us in! We went here for the Christmas train ride and it was a lot of fun. They said there was over half a million lights total spread around the track. There was even a part where the train went over the nearby lake and it was a great view of the town. There was lots to do other than go on the train such as multiple campfires, crafts, and concession. We will definitely be going here again!
Chaitanya Wagh
at 2022 Nov 29
Chaitanya Wagh
at 2022 Nov 29
A cute little museum located on Fallowfield and Stittsville Main Street intersection. The museum showcases history of the Goulbourn community, has staff dressed in the historic era. They also have few goats in the back where kids can play and have fun.
Attended their annual Christmas craft sale. This sale is one of my favorites as Goulbourn goes the extra mile to create a nostalgic setting complete with wood fire, staff dressed in period costumes, and area crafters.
V Partridge
at 2022 Nov 23
V Partridge
at 2022 Nov 23
Really enjoyed their Christmas market. Santa was top notch and the vendors were kind.
ME GG
at 2022 Nov 21
ME GG
at 2022 Nov 21
This is a museum with staff and volunteers that truly care about being a part of the community, teaching with various methods and being vibrant. They're amazing, from wearing beautiful costumes to having goats during Christmas sales and vegetable gardens in the summer. It's a place you keep wanting to return to.
I was there with my daughters today. The renovations are so excellent. The bee exhibit is super informative. The staff members are awesome too. Very friendly. And one staff member in particular went above and beyond helping me with my screaming toddler in the shop. Was a very good experience can't wait to come back!
Such an awesome experience! We came to visit a little too late and didn't give ourselves enough time! There was so much to see and so much more to learn. Best part of this visit was that they are pet friendly! We took our adventure cats and both enjoyed themselves. Exposed them to the train ride and did amazingly well! Definitely a must visit and give yourself tons of time! Thank you! 😊
Frank Wu
at 2022 Aug 05
Frank Wu
at 2022 Aug 05
Nice little museum about early fur trade and railway and the important role that North Bay played.
Also touched its Algonquin Regiment and big battles they fought in Normandy Campaign.
Very small and brief. Be sure to check out lakefront garden, well maintained by a dedicated and beautiful you lady.
Adventure Dad
at 2022 Jun 18
Adventure Dad
at 2022 Jun 18
This is a fantastic inexpensive museum for all ages. It really does offer a little something for everyone. The museum showcases history of North Bay, locomotives, airplanes and more. If your a parent of a toddler. Here is a little tip. The carousels/ heritage railway train ride is open at 10 am on Saturdays. Go there first and it is $2 a ticket. ( keep your tickets) on the back of the ticket it gives you $2 off at the North Bay museum. Adult admission at the North Bay Museum is $4 so basically purchase two Tickets at the waterfront carousels and you get in for free. Kids under 4 get in free. Great way to spend a few hours. Staff were awesome 👌

Highly recommend. Also Recommend going on Saturday morning the farmers market is right beside it. There is free parking on the right side of the museum on the weekends as well.
Love this place! My toddler had a blast. They have games to play outside with the family, a beautiful playground that's well kept and looks pretty new. Wasn't overly expensive and I love that you don't have a time frame of how long you can stay. Perfect place to go spend the day, bring a picnic and let the kids run around.
Alex Fox
at 2022 May 22
Alex Fox
at 2022 May 22
We had a wonderful time here. Learned so much about the railroad and North Bay. Very impressed with the small scale shops etc on the upper floor.
So much to see here! Not just about the 125+ years and the various lives this facility has taken on, but also information on fishing, industry, immigrant workers at the turn of the 20th century, and more. The guided school tour was very informative and interactive. The facility itself is very well maintained, loads to look at and interact with. Well stocked gift shop too!
D Y
at 2022 Feb 28
D Y
at 2022 Feb 28
Very centrally located. You cannot really miss it.

When we showed up, entry-fees were by donation only, so it can be free if you’re on a budget. The recommended donation is also only $2 per person which is probably unheard-of for any kind of exhibit these days.

We enjoyed learning a bit of history before further exploring the rest of Nanaimo. It definitely had some quality / well-maintained exhibits.

I would say this is a must-go for anyone visiting nanaimo for the first time if they have 45-60min to spare. Or even 30min if you want to quickly skim thru.
A great place to explore. Wear a sweater or jacket as it's quite cool inside. They have a very comprehensive display of the history of canning on the west coast, and in this plant in particular. Lots of unique equipment and tools and a very comprehensive history with pictures and signage. 30 to 45 minutes with a nice attached gift shop and knowledgeable and very friendly staff.
Lovely place to visit. Nice grounds to roam around.
The Estate has set up a Halloween Mystery on the grounds. Lots of fun activities to do as you tour around.
J C
at 2021 Sep 15
J C
at 2021 Sep 15
Definitely a good place to go especially on the raining day. Really interesting to know the Nanaimo Chinese’s history, in the early years when the mine exploded, all the Chinese labour who died in it , doesn’t even have a name in the history record list. ..Know the history and Know your rights!
Near Pleasant Park and Riverside road (2100 Cabot st) you will find the oldest standing wood frame houses in Ottawa, the Billings Estate. It was built in 1829 by the Billings family and has been their residence for over 150 years. This historical landmark provides a glimpse of the past, with Victorian tea on their gardens, wedding ceremonies and you can visit one of Ottawa's oldest cemeteries. During Halloween they hold special haunted tours where maybe you will see the ghost of Braddish Billings himself on the prowl. I recommend that you take a tour, if you dare....

If you like my reviews, photos or videos please give it a thunbs up.
Great looking old house. So much history on this ground. One of the oldest house still standing in Ottawa.
Brianna Heeney
at 2020 Jan 03
Brianna Heeney
at 2020 Jan 03
I've never actually been "inside" the museum but it is one of my favourite places to take pictures! They put out the most beautiful seasonal displays on their property that result in pure photo magic! 📸
A great little hidden gem of a museum! Picture perfect spot to get married or host any kind of outdoor event. The grounds are stunning and the staff are incredibly helpful.
Six adults and four children (under 8) took the short 20 minute train tour. Our guide was very interesting and knowledgeable, he was able to keep the kids interest even though the tour was designed for adults. The trains are in the process of being restored but you can still see the designs and imagine what it was like to ride trains 100 years ago.

The museum itself was small but fascinating. The little ones loved the model train, spending 20 minutes starting and watching the trains circle. I liked the quilt with its escaped elephant story, as well as the medical cabinet with its old equipment.
Karen Weir
at 2019 Mar 07
Karen Weir
at 2019 Mar 07
Great new exhibit of a general store. Interactive for kids. Monthly craft activities are a great way to spend the afternoon.
The museum has permanent displays of railway history with some hands on experiences and videos on the ground floor, and recently made over the upper floor reminiscent of old Main Street. It has smaller versions of store fronts with original articles in them, and write ups about each one, including the theatre, where a couple of folks can sit and watch a video of a parade. It's very well done, and you get a real sense of the history and people that built North Bay.
Sonya Haffner
at 2018 Jul 01
Sonya Haffner
at 2018 Jul 01
Absolutely amazing. I loved each exhibit. My 10-year-old daughter was blown away by how far we've come as a people. We could see the indigenous peoples' canoes; the early settlers' fun competitions (the bathtub boats), school rooms, stores, and even wedding gowns. We got to see a mine that gave us chills, and so much more. We will definitely be back!