Top 100 best museums in Ontario

The Royal Ontario Museum, also known as ROM, is located in Toronto, the capital city of the Canadian province of Ontario. It is a museum dedicated to culture, art, and natural history. This museum is a significant cultural institution in Canada and offers a wide range of exhibits and collections that cater to various interests.

The aquarium boasts 5.7 million litres of marine and freshwater habitats from across the globe. These habitats are home to more than 20,000 exotic sea and freshwater specimens from over 450 species. This diverse collection offers visitors a chance to explore the rich biodiversity of our planet's aquatic ecosystems.

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is a prominent art museum situated in the heart of downtown Toronto. Specifically, it is nestled in the Grange Park district, on Dundas Street West, between McCaul Street and Beverley. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike, offering a convenient spot for art enthusiasts to explore.

The Bata Shoe Museum, located in Toronto, Canada, is a unique institution dedicated to the history of footwear. The museum was officially opened to the public on May 6, 1995, and since then, it has been a significant cultural landmark in the city.

At the time of its completion, Casa Loma was the largest private residence in North America, boasting 98 rooms. The mansion was equipped with modern amenities such as an elevator, a large oven capable of roasting an ox, two vertical passages for pipe organs, central heating, and two secret passages leading to Pellatt's ground floor office. Additionally, the mansion housed three bowling alleys, which were later converted into a souvenir shop.

Harbourfront Centre is a key cultural organization on the waterfront of Toronto , Ontario , Canada, situated at 235 Queens Quay West. Established as a crown corporation in 1972 by the Government of Canada to create a waterfront park, it became a non-profit organization in 1991. Funding comes from co

Fort York is a historic site located in the west of downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is known for its military fortifications and associated buildings. The fort was built by the British Army and Canadian militias in the late 17th and early 18th centuries to defend the settlement of York and protect the new capital of the British colony of Upper Canada from the threat of military attack, especially from the newly independent United States.

The Ontario Science Centre is a prominent science museum located in the North York district of Toronto. It is situated approximately 11 kilometres northeast of the city's downtown area. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment.

The Canadian Museum of Nature ( French : Musée canadien de la nature ; CMN ) is a national natural history museum based in Canada's National Capital Region . The museum's exhibitions and public programs are housed in the Victoria Memorial Museum Building, a 18,910 square metres (203,500 sq ft) stru

The Canadian War Museum (French: Musée canadien de la guerre ; CWM ) is a national museum on the country's military history in Ottawa , Ontario , Canada. The museum serves as both an educational facility on Canadian military history, in addition to serving as a place of remembrance. The 440,000 squa

The International Hockey Hall of Fame (HHOF) is a significant landmark in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It was established in 1943 with the primary purpose of honoring the best ice hockey players. The HHOF serves as a testament to the rich history and talent in the sport of ice hockey, making it a worthwhile visit for sports enthusiasts and tourists alike.

This unique park is a reflection in landscape of Bach's Suite No. 1 in G Major for unaccompanied cello.

The National Gallery of Canada ( French : Musée des beaux-arts du Canada ), located in the capital city of Ottawa , Ontario , is Canada's national art museum . The museum's building takes up 46,621 square metres (501,820 sq ft), with 12,400 square metres (133,000 sq ft) of space used for exhibiting

Riverdale Farm, situated in the urban neighbourhood of Cabbagetown in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a 3-hectare municipally operated farm. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience a working farm within the city's boundaries. The farm is maintained by the Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation Division, ensuring its upkeep and preservation for the enjoyment of both locals and tourists.

Watson's Mill, located in Manotick, Ontario, Canada, is a unique attraction as it is the only working museum in the Ottawa area and one of the few operating industrial grist mills in North America. This historic flour and gristmill offers a rare glimpse into the past, showcasing the industrial processes of the past in a fully operational setting.

The Canada Science and Technology Museum (abbreviated as CSTM ; French : Musée des sciences et de la technologie du Canada ) is a national museum of science and technology in Ottawa , Ontario , Canada. The museum has a mandate to preserve and promote the country's scientific and technological herita

Mill Street Brewery is a brewery in Toronto, Ontario , Canada that is a part of Anheuser–Busch InBev and named after Mill Street where it is located. During its first decade of operation, as an independent brewer, Mill Street won several awards including Golden Tap Awards for Best Toronto Microbrewe

The Bytown Museum (French: Musée Bytown) is a museum in Ottawa located in the Colonel By Valley at the Ottawa Locks of the Rideau Canal at the Ottawa River , just below Parliament Hill . Housed in the Commissariat Building, Ottawa's oldest remaining stone building, the museum provides a comprehensiv

Hart House is a student activity centre at the University of Toronto . Established in 1919, it is one of the earliest North American student centres, being the location of student debates and conferences since its construction. Hart House was initiated and financed by Vincent Massey , an alumnus and

Kingston Penitentiary (known locally as KP and Kingston Pen ) is a former maximum security prison located in Kingston, Ontario , Canada, between King Street West and Lake Ontario .

The Design Exchange, also known as DX, is a Canadian event venue situated in the heart of Toronto's financial district. It is housed in the historical Toronto Stock Exchange building, which was incorporated into a skyscraper, the Toronto-Dominion Centre, in 1991. This iconic location offers a unique blend of history and modern architecture, making it a notable spot in downtown Toronto.

The Canada Aviation and Space Museum (French: Musée de l'Aviation et de l'Espace du Canada ) (formerly the Canada Aviation Museum and National Aeronautical Collection ) is Canada's national aviation history museum. The museum is located in Ottawa , Ontario, Canada, at the Ottawa/Rockcliffe Airport .

The Schneider Haus National Historic Site, previously known as the Joseph Schneider Haus, is a museum situated in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. This historic site is a significant part of the region's history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The museum is located on some of the earliest land to be settled by non-Indigenous peoples in what would later become Waterloo County.

The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum ( French : Musée de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation du Canada ) is a national agricultural museum in Ottawa , Ontario , Canada. Occupying several buildings within the Central Experimental Farm , the museum operates as a "working farm," and provides public p

Steam Whistle Brewing is an independent brewery in Toronto , Ontario , Canada. It was founded in 2000 by three former employees of Upper Canada Brewing Company after that company was bought out. The company celebrates Beer in Canada and produces a Premium Pilsner , a Premium Pale Ale (launched in 20

The Textile Museum of Canada is situated in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The museum is dedicated to the collection, exhibition, and documentation of textiles. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the world of textiles, their history, and their significance in various cultures.

The Diefenbunker is a significant historical site in Canada, built as a nuclear fallout shelter between 1959 and 1961. Located in Carp, just outside of Ottawa, the bunker was constructed to protect Canadian government officials in the event of a nuclear attack. The construction of this shelter was a secret operation, reflecting the tense political climate of the Cold War era.

The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is situated at the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport in Mount Hope, Ontario, Canada. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists, especially those who are flying into the country. The museum's location at an active airport also adds to the authenticity of the experience, as visitors can see modern aircraft in operation alongside the historical planes on display.

Spadina House, also known as Spadina Museum, is a historic mansion located on Spadina Road in Toronto, Canada. The museum is operated by the City of Toronto's Culture Division and is a significant part of the city's cultural heritage. The mansion has been preserved largely as it existed historically, reflecting the contemporary styles from the 1860s to the 1930s.

Castle Kilbride, located in Baden, Ontario, is a significant historical site in Canada. It was the former residence of James Livingston, a notable Canadian member of parliament and owner of flax and linseed oil mills. The castle was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in March 1994, marking its importance in the country's history.

Gibson House is a historical museum situated in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is conveniently located on Yonge Street, in the North York Centre neighbourhood of the former city of North York. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the area.

Meridian Hall is a major performing arts venue in Toronto , Ontario , and it is the country's largest soft-seat theatre. The facility was constructed for the City of Toronto municipal government and is currently managed by TO Live , an arms-length agency and registered charity created by the city. L

The Gardiner Museum, located in Toronto, is a unique institution in Canada as it is the only museum in the country that is solely dedicated to the art of ceramics. This specialization allows the museum to offer a deep and comprehensive exploration of ceramic art, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery is a public contemporary art gallery located in the heart of Toronto, Ontario at the Harbourfront Centre. As a non-collecting gallery, it focuses on presenting new and recent works by living Canadian and international artists. The gallery is a registered Canadian charitable organization and is supported by its members, sponsors, donors, and funding bodies at all levels of government.

The Aga Khan Museum, situated in the North York district of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a unique institution dedicated to Islamic art, Iranian (Persian) art, and Muslim culture. It provides a platform for artistic, intellectual, and scientific contributions from Muslim civilizations, making it a significant cultural hub in the region.

Horaceville is a historic site located on the Ottawa River in eastern Ontario , Canada. The site remained the property of the heirs of Hamnett Kirkes Pinhey until the 1970s, when the property was sold to the township. Today, The 88-acre (360,000 m ) heritage site is owned and operated by the City o

The Niagara Apothecary is a significant historical site in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Established no later than 1820, it has since been designated as a National Historic Site of Canada. This apothecary was operated by a series of owners, most of whom had apprenticed under the preceding owner. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Sharon Temple is a museum site located in Sharon, Ontario. It was declared a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990, marking it as a significant location in the country's history. Managed by the Sharon Temple Museum Society, the site offers a unique glimpse into Canada's past.

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, located near the Wye Marsh near Georgian Bay on Lake Huron, was a significant Jesuit missionary center in the 17th century. This historical site in New France offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the life and work of the Jesuit missionaries during that era.

Black Creek Pioneer Village, formerly known as Dalziel Pioneer Park, is an open-air heritage museum located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. This museum offers a unique opportunity to experience the history and culture of the 19th century Ontario. It's a great place for tourists who are interested in history and want to learn more about the lifestyle of the people during that period.

The Billings Estate National Historic Site is a heritage museum in Ottawa , Ontario, Canada. It is located at 2100 Cabot St. in the former home of one of the region's earliest settlers. The oldest wood-framed house in Ottawa was built in 1827-9 by Massachusetts -born Braddish Billings . It became th

The Canadian Automotive Museum, situated in Oshawa, Ontario, is a unique destination for automobile enthusiasts. The museum showcases a wide array of Canadian-made cars, reflecting the rich automotive history of the country. It provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the evolution of the automobile industry in Canada, with a particular focus on the Canadian division of General Motors, a key player in Oshawa's economy.

Fulford Place is a historic mansion located in Brockville, Ontario. It was completed in 1901 for Senator George Taylor Fulford, a prominent Canadian businessman and politician. The mansion is a testament to the Edwardian era and reflects the opulence of the time. It is now operated by the Ontario Heritage Trust and has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada since 1992.

HMCS Ojibwa is an Oberon -class submarine that served in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and later the Canadian Forces Maritime Command (MARCOM). Originally intended for service with the British Royal Navy as HMS Onyx , the submarine was transferred to Canadian ownership before completion, and entere

The Canadian Football Hall of Fame (CFHOF) is a not-for-profit organization situated in Hamilton, Ontario. It is dedicated to commemorating the significant achievements in Canadian football. The CFHOF is a testament to the rich history and heritage of Canadian football, showcasing the sport's greatest accomplishments.

The Murney Tower, a Martello tower located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, was constructed in 1846. Its primary purpose was to serve as a redoubt for the port of Kingston. This historical structure provides a glimpse into the defensive architecture of the time.

The Kincardine Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Kincardine, Ontario , near the mouth of the Penetangore River. Built in 1881, it is 24.4 metres (74 feet) tall and was built above the light keeper's home. The tower is eight sided and sits on a stone foundation. The facility has been ren

The King Township Museum, located at 2920 King Street in King City, Ontario, Canada, serves as a local history museum for the King Township. It was formerly known as the Kinghorn Museum and is situated in the locality that was once known as Kinghorn, now a borough of the city of King. The museum is operated by the 'Parks, Recreation and Culture' organization led by Kathleen Fry.

Dundurn Castle is a historical mansion of neoclassical style situated on York Boulevard in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. This architectural gem is a significant part of the city's heritage and offers a glimpse into the past. The mansion's location provides easy access for tourists and is a notable landmark in the city.

The Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archives (PAMA) is a multifaceted institution that serves as a museum, art gallery, and archives for the Regional Municipality of Peel. It is situated in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. The establishment offers a rich blend of historical, artistic, and cultural experiences, making it a significant destination for tourists and locals alike.

The National Air Force Museum of Canada, located on the west side of CFB Trenton in Trenton, Ontario, is an aviation museum dedicated to preserving the history of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). The museum serves as a permanent archive, collecting, preserving, and displaying RCAF memorabilia, photographs, paintings, and documents as a lasting tribute to the men and women who served in the RCAF and its predecessor organizations.

The McMaster Museum of Art (MMA) is a public art gallery situated at the heart of McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. The museum is conveniently located in the centre of the campus, adjacent to Mills Memorial Library and near the McMaster University Student Centre. This central location makes it easily accessible for visitors.

The Griffin House, built in 1827 by Englishmen, was purchased by Enerals Griffin and his wife Priscilla in 1834. This historical building, located in Ancaster, offers a glimpse into the past and the lives of its former inhabitants. The Griffins, who were some of the first Black settlers in the area, had escaped from slavery and made a new life for themselves in Canada. Their story is a significant part of the history of the Griffin House.

The Museum of Health Care is situated in the historic Ann Baillie Building on the Kingston General Hospital site in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of medical history, spanning from the 18th century to the present day. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the evolution of health care within the context of a historic hospital site.

The François Bâby House is a historic residence located in Windsor, Ontario , Canada which was owned by the prominent local politician François Baby . The house is a two-storey, Georgian style, red brick house once known as La Ferme locally, and was a French-Canadian ribbon farm which was a long na

You can learn a lot of interesting facts in this interactive museum. Find out about the history of newspapers and printing press.

Morningstar Mill is a heritage site that spans 2.98 acres, located in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. It's a place where history comes alive, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The site is rich in historical significance and offers a unique experience for those interested in history and heritage.

The Buxton National Historic Site and Museum is a significant tribute to the Elgin Settlement, which was established in 1849. This settlement was founded by Rev. William King, along with an association that included Lord Elgin, who was the Governor General of Canada at the time. This historical site provides a glimpse into the past and the efforts made to create a safe haven for fugitive slaves and free Blacks.

One of the key features of the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area is an 1830s grist mill. This mill was once the summer home and sculpture studio of R. Tait McKenzie, a medical doctor, sculptor, and native of Ramsay Township. McKenzie's connection to the mill adds a layer of historical and cultural significance to the site.

The McMichael Canadian Art Collection (MCAC) is a renowned art museum situated in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada. The museum is nestled on a sprawling 100-acre property in the charming village of Kleinburg. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Marine Museum of the Great Lakes is a small yet significant museum that focuses on the marine history of the Great Lakes. It has been recognized as a national historic site of Canada since 1978, marking its importance in the country's cultural and historical landscape. The museum offers a unique insight into the maritime history of the region, making it an interesting destination for those interested in history, maritime affairs, or the Great Lakes themselves.

A museum reflecting the rich tradition and history of policing in Toronto city. There are wide collections of police equipment.

TheMuseum, which was previously known as the Waterloo Regional Children's Museum until 2010, is a unique blend of art and technology. Located in the vibrant city of Kitchener, Ontario, this museum offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages. It's a place where art meets technology, providing a platform for creativity and innovation.

The Elmvale Jungle Zoo, located in Springwater, Ontario, Canada, operates seasonally from Victoria Day weekend until the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend. This information is crucial for tourists planning their visit to ensure they choose a time when the zoo is open.

The Billy Bishop Home & Museum, located in Owen Sound, Ontario, is a National Historic Site of Canada. It is dedicated to commemorating the life and achievements of World War I flying ace and Victoria Cross winner Air Marshall William Avery "Billy" Bishop. The museum is situated in Bishop's birthplace and childhood home, providing a unique insight into the early life of this decorated serviceman.

Montgomery's Inn, situated in the Etobicoke area of Toronto, Ontario, is a historic building that now functions as a living history museum. This Georgian-style inn was built in the early 1830s and offers a glimpse into the colonial times of Upper Canada. Although most of the artifacts on display are not original to the building, they are period pieces that help to tell the story of this historic site.

Lambton House is a historic former inn in Toronto , Ontario , Canada. It is the last remaining building from the former village of Lambton Mills along the Humber River . The inn was established in 1847, with its present building erected in 1860.

Bellevue House National Historic Site, located in Kingston, Ontario, served as the residence of Canada's first Prime Minister, Sir John Alexander Macdonald, from 1848 to 1849. This historical significance makes it a notable destination for those interested in Canadian history and politics.

The Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, which was established in 1985, is housed in a former station of the Canadian Northern Railway. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the railway, including the station itself and a collection of historic rolling stock, equipment, and railway memorabilia.

The Parkwood Estate in Oshawa, Ontario, is a significant historical site as it was the residence of Samuel McLaughlin, the founder of General Motors of Canada. The McLaughlin family lived in this residence from 1917 until 1972, making it a place of historical significance and interest.

The Richmond Hill Heritage Centre, located in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada, is a significant example of 1840s Regency-style architecture. This historical dwelling provides a glimpse into the architectural style and aesthetics of the mid-19th century, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time.

The Thunder Bay Museum, situated in Thunder Bay, Ontario, is managed by the Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society. This society was incorporated in 1972 as the successor to the Thunder Bay Historical Society. The museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a wealth of historical and cultural exhibits for visitors to explore.

The Hermitage, once a grand residence in Ancaster, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, now stands as a historical ruin. It forms a significant part of The Hermitage and Gatehouse Museum, which is diligently maintained by the Hamilton Conservation Authority. The site offers a unique glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to explore the remnants of a once magnificent home.

Campbell House, located in downtown Toronto, is a heritage house and museum that dates back to 1822. It was originally built for Sir William Campbell, the Chief Justice of Upper Canada, and his wife Hannah. This historical site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of one of Canada's prominent figures during the early 19th century.

This museum offers collection of post WWII Inuit sculptures. This must-see collection has over 200 pieces.

Jungle Cat World, initially known as "Orono Exotic Cat World," is a wildlife park that was founded in 1983. It is situated in Orono, Ontario, Canada, roughly 45 minutes to the east of Toronto, just off Highway 35 / 115. The park is open throughout the year and houses over 150 different animals, making it a diverse destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Military Communications and Electronics Museum is situated in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, along Ontario Highway 2 at CFB Kingston. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the history and development of military communications and electronics.

Visit a nicely restored mansion of a woman who was one of the most important figures in the War of 1812. You can learn more about her here.

Reptilia is a collection of Canada's largest indoor reptile zoos, boasting a combined area of over 84,000 sq ft. The indoor exhibits feature a diverse range of over 250 reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about a wide variety of species in a controlled and safe environment.

The Wellington County Museum and Archives, located in Fergus, Ontario, is housed in the oldest surviving state-supported poorhouse in Canada. The building was constructed in 1877 and served as a poorhouse and farm until 1947, and later as an old age home until 1971. In the 1980s, the building was repurposed to house the museum and archives, providing a unique historical setting for visitors.

The Papanack Park Zoo, located in Wendover, Ontario, Canada, is a small conservation park that opened its doors in 1994. The zoo changed hands in 2014, with the new owners maintaining its focus on conservation. This park offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about various species and the importance of conservation efforts.

The Huron Historic Gaol is not just any ordinary jail; it was designed by Thomas Young and modelled after Jeremy Bentham’s Panopticon design. This design was common in mid-19th century Britain and North America and is characterized by its octagonal shape. This unique architectural style adds to the intrigue and historical significance of the site.

The Amherstburg Freedom Museum, formerly known as the North American Black Historical Museum, is situated in Amherstburg, Ontario, Canada. This community-based, non-profit institution is dedicated to narrating the history and contributions of African-Canadians. Many of the individuals whose stories are told here had ancestors who entered Canada as refugees from slavery in the United States.

The Barnum House holds the distinction of being the first house museum to open in Ontario. It was restored and opened to the public by the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario in 1940. This makes it a significant site for those interested in the preservation and celebration of architectural history.

The Ontario Regiment (RCAC) Museum is a military museum situated in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. It is conveniently located on the South Field of the Oshawa Municipal Airport, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum is a significant landmark in the region, offering a deep dive into the history of the Ontario Regiment and the Canadian Armed Forces.