Check out these smaller community museums in Ottawa

Ottawa Travel Guide

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Wednesday, 13 February 2013 08:12

Those who are considering travelling to Ottawa have likely heard of some of the well-known museums such as the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian War Museum and the Canadian Museum of Nature. Even though these top many travellers' to-do lists when they visit Canada's capital, there are plenty of community museums that are rich with history and give a more specific look at some of the ins and outs of Ottawa. Here are a few of these museums including a brief description. 

Bytown Museum 
The Bytown Museum takes its visitors on a journey through the evolution of the city of Ottawa - starting with the area's earliest inhabitants and leading guests through the end of the First World War. Not to mention, the location of this museum is perfect, as it sits right in the heart of downtown Ottawa, next to the Rideau Canal and near Parliament Hill and the Fairmont Château Laurier hotel.

Vanier Museopark
This museum is focused on showcasing the history of French-speaking residents in Ottawa's culture. in Ottawa's culture. Vanier Museopark is devoted to sharing the history of the Vanier Districts, and it is one of the few places outside of Quebec that caters to the French-speaking community. What's more, it is right next to Sugar Shack, which produces maple syrup as well as offers tours about the process, so visitors can kill two birds with one stone. 

Ottawa Jewish Archives
The Ottawa Jewish Archives was first established in 1969, and has since collected and recorded various information from the Jewish community in Canada's capital. Visitors are able to find a slew of information about the Jewish community including the records of businesses, educational institutions, community organizations, family histories as well as congregational establishments. 

Ottawa Room 
Travellers who are interested in the works created by Ottawa residents can check out the Ottawa Room at the Ottawa Public Library’s main branch. It contains a unique collection of literature  written by locals over the past few decades. This collection began in 1955 during the City of Ottawa centenary celebrations, and works on subjects such as architecture, festivals, industry, history, education, tourism and culture are continuously being added. 

Billings Estate National Historic Site 
This tour through Ottawa's oldest wood-framed house will tickle any history buff's fancy, as the home of Braddish and Lamira Billings is rich with history. The Billings Estate, which has experienced tour guides, has been designated a National Historic Site. The tour guides share with visitors all about the pioneer settlers that opened the area back in 1813.