The National Gallery
Canada's premier art museum in a stunning Ottawa landmark
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Varies
Time Needed
2–4 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Weather Fit
Great for rainy days
Stroller Access
Yes, step-free and elevators
Washrooms
On-site with baby change
Food
Café on-site
Parking
Paid lot and street parking nearby
Booking
Recommended for special exhibitions
Parent Effort
Medium (supervision and engagement)
A world-class art museum that genuinely welcomes families, with free admission to the permanent collection, hands-on Open Studio sessions, and wide stroller-friendly galleries. The iconic glass-and-granite building is an attraction in itself, and the mix of Canadian, Indigenous, European, and contemporary art offers something for every age.
About This Place
The National Gallery of Canada (Musée des beaux-arts du Canada) in Ottawa houses the country's foremost collection of Canadian and Indigenous art, spanning centuries from the earliest settler paintings through the Group of Seven to contemporary works. The striking glass and granite pavilion designed by Moshe Safdie also contains significant European and American holdings, a permanent photography gallery, and a dedicated Indigenous and Canadian art centre. Admission is free for the permanent collection, with charges for major travelling exhibitions.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Sunday
- 09:30 – 17:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Check the official website for current admission prices.
Free Permanent Collection
Explore Canadian, Indigenous, European, and contemporary art at no charge.
Hands-On Artmaking
Open Studio invites kids and families to create together.
Guided Tours & Programs
Family-friendly tours and school programs from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Stunning Architecture
Moshe Safdie's glass pavilion is a memorable sight in its own right.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Admission
- Permanent collection is free; special exhibitions require paid tickets
- Strollers
- Permitted throughout; elevators connect all floors
- Food & Drink
- Café available; no outside food in galleries
- Photography
- Non-flash photography usually allowed in permanent collection
- Quiet Spaces
- Some galleries are quiet and dimly lit—good for calming breaks
- Gift Shop
- NGC Boutique on-site with art-inspired items
Kid Fit by Age
Calm galleries for stroller naps; baby-change facilities available
Open Studio offers tactile fun; short attention spans suit rotating exhibits
Colourful contemporary works and hands-on artmaking engage this age well
School programs, guided tours, and wide-ranging collections spark curiosity
Photography, Indigenous art, and special exhibitions offer depth
Contemporary and international collections resonate with older kids
Insider Tips
Start with the Canadian and Indigenous galleries on the lower level—they're especially engaging for kids
Ask at the desk about the day's family tour or Open Studio schedule
The Great Hall and outdoor plaza offer space to run and take photos between gallery visits
- •Children must stay with adults at all times; no running in galleries
- •Some artworks are unprotected—keep little hands at a safe distance
- •Emergency exits and staff are clearly marked throughout the building
- •Step-free entry and elevators to all floors
- •Wheelchairs and walkers available to borrow
- •Accessible washrooms and baby-change facilities on-site
- •Quiet viewing times available; ask at the information desk
schedule Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings tend to be the quietest, especially outside of school-group season. Summer and holiday weekends are busier—arrive early or book special-exhibition tickets in advance.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxComfortable walking shoes for expansive galleries
- check_boxA light sweater—air conditioning can be cool
- check_boxWater bottle (for lobby areas; not permitted in galleries)
- check_boxCamera or phone for non-flash photos
- check_boxSmall bag for the gift shop or art supplies
Location
Address
380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada
Phone
+16139901985
