Welcome to the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, where the wonders of flight and space exploration come to life. This comprehensive guide will lead you through the museum's exhibitions, highlights, and amenities, ensuring an inspiring and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Step 1: Find Your Suitable Transport Option
Whether you're arriving by car, bus, or bicycle, there are several convenient options for reaching the Canada Aviation and Space Museum.
By Car:
- From downtown Ottawa: Take Sussex Drive east, which becomes the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway. Exit at Aviation Parkway.
- From Ottawa west: Take Highway 417 east, then exit at 115 for St Laurent Blvd north. Turn right on Ogilvie Road, then left on Aviation Parkway.
- From Ottawa east: Follow Highway 174 west, exit at 115 for St Laurent Blvd north. Turn right on Ogilvie Road, then left on Aviation Parkway.
- From Montreal: Take Highway 417 west, then exit at 113B for Aviation Parkway.
By Bike:
- The museum is conveniently located on the Ottawa River Pathway.
- Find out more about the capital’s cycling paths on the National Capital Commission website.
By Bus:
- OC Transpo route 25 brings you to the museum. Please check the route schedule and map carefully, as not all 25 buses bring you directly to the museum’s doorstep.
- Alternatively, OC Transpo route 7 takes you to the intersection of St Laurent Boulevard and Hemlock Road. From there, you can walk to the museum by following Hemlock Road eastwards to the Aviation Parkway. (Approximate distance to the museum is 1.4 kilometres.)
Step 2: Arrive at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Upon arriving at the museum, you'll be greeted by its impressive collection of aircraft and spacecraft, setting the stage for an exciting exploration of aviation and space history.
Tips:
- Check the Moovit App for real-time transit options and schedules.
- Consider purchasing tickets in advance online to expedite your entry process upon arrival.
Explore the Canada Aviation and Space Museum
The Canada Aviation and Space Museum offers a captivating journey through the history of flight and space exploration. Here are some of the main attractions and features to explore:
Permanent Exhibitions:
Delve into the museum's permanent exhibitions, which showcase the evolution of aviation and space technology through interactive displays, artifacts, and aircraft.
Special Exhibitions:
Be sure to visit the museum's rotating special exhibitions, which highlight specific themes, events, or innovations in aviation and space exploration.
Flight Simulators:
Experience the thrill of flight firsthand with the museum's flight simulators, allowing visitors to pilot aircraft in realistic virtual environments.
Guided Tours:
Consider joining a guided tour led by knowledgeable museum staff or volunteers. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the museum's collections and offer behind-the-scenes access to aircraft and artifacts.
How to Explore the Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Embark on an exhilarating journey through the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, starting at the main entrance. Here's how to make the most of your visit, section by section:
Ground Level:
Entrance and Facilities
- Start your exploration at the entrance, where you'll find the Multi-Purpose Room, Classrooms, and Admission.
Early Aviation
- Discover the pioneering days of aviation with highlights like the A.E.A. Silver Dart, Canada's first powered airplane.
First World War
- Explore the aviation advancements during the First World War, featuring aircraft like the Curtiss JN-4 Canuck.
Northern and Bush Flight
- Learn about the unique challenges of northern and bush flight with highlights including the Curtiss HS-2L and De Havilland Canada Beaver.
Canada in Space
- Marvel at Canada's contributions to space exploration, including the iconic Canadarm.
Life in Orbit: The International Space Station
- Experience life aboard the International Space Station.
Early Travel and Transport
- Discover the evolution of early travel and transport, featuring aircraft like the Lockheed Electra.
Commercial Flight
- Explore the history of commercial aviation, with highlights such as the Douglas DC-3.
Eyes on the Skies
- Learn about aircraft used during the Second World War, including the iconic Avro Lancaster.
Vertical Flight
- Explore the capabilities of vertical flight with aircraft like the Boeing Vertol CH-113 Labrador.
Cold War
- Discover aviation developments during the Cold War, featuring aircraft like the Avro Arrow and McDonnell Douglas CF-18.
Temporary Exhibitions Area
- Don't miss the special displays and rotating exhibits in this dynamic space.
Upper Level (Mezzanine):
Birthday Parties and Multi-Purpose Area
- Host your events and celebrations in this versatile space.
The Canadian Human Space Flight Program
- Learn about Canada's involvement in human space exploration.
Health in Space: Daring to Explore
- Explore the challenges and innovations of maintaining health in space environments.
Additional Things to Explore:
Food and Drink:
The Collective | Le Collectif Café:
- Experience an urban dining experience at The Collective | Le Collectif, the museum's new café. Enjoy a selection of delicious snacks, meals, and beverages.
Bottle-Filler Fountains:
- Stay hydrated during your visit with convenient bottle-filler fountains available on-site. Guests are encouraged to bring their own water bottles to refill.
Picnic Area:
- Take advantage of temperate weather by enjoying a picnic at the adjacent outdoor picnic tables. Please note that food and drink are not permitted on the museum floor.
Boutique:
Aeronautica Boutique:
- Make your visit memorable by browsing through the Aeronautica Boutique for unique souvenirs and gifts. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or looking for the perfect present, you'll find a wide selection of "flight-flavored" items to choose from:
- Airplane and space shuttle toys
- Collectibles and executive gifts
- Apparel for adults and children
- Aviation books and DVDs
- Lapel pins and key chains
- Model kits
Getting Back:
After exploring the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, simply retrace your steps back to the nearest transit station, parking lot, or bicycle rack to continue your journey.
Alternatively, take some time to explore other attractions and landmarks in Ottawa, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Ottawa River Pathway before concluding your visit.