Ride on a horse-drawn wagon, introduce the kids to barnyard animals and discover Canada’s agricultural heritage on this living farm in the middle of Ottawa.
The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is a working farm in the heart of the city. Immerse yourself in farm life and learn about Canada’s proud agricultural heritage.
The museum is a comprehensive celebration of farming culture, science and technology. Resident animals make the museum a rewarding experience for city folks, especially children who may have never seen, heard or smelled live farm animals. Meet the resident Clydesdales, Canadian horses and the Hereford bull. Interact with pigs, goats, sheep, alpacas and rabbits. Time your visit to catch one of the twice-daily milkings of the small dairy herd. Children will also love the horse-drawn wagon rides and the chance to climb aboard a tractor cab.
Participate in hands-on demonstrations at the Learning Centre and browse the permanent and temporary exhibitions. The displays are surprisingly diverse and cover topics ranging from the role of women in rural Canada, to threshing and harvesting technology. Learn about tending rabbits, using worms in your garden and keeping bees.
Discover new ways of making bread, butter and ice cream. These methods are perhaps new to you, but they have been practiced for many years by Canada’s farm wives. Pick up traditional Canadian home-style recipes like maple syrup dessert bread, pumpkin muffins and apple cake.
At the Energy Park, learn about renewable energy in Canada and investigate Ottawa’s commitment to being a “green city.” The museum features an indoor playground for babies and toddlers and outdoor areas for having a picnic.
The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is open daily, except Mondays. There is an admission charge but children under three enter free. The museum is located near Dows Lake and is easily accessible by public transportation. Parking is offered with a fee and there are bike racks for those cycling to the facility.Bring your own picnic to enjoy in the open air, or under one of the tents provided. There are vending machines but no other food services at the museum.
