Liam SmithSince its founding in 1983, the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum has become an interesting part of the Central Experimental Farm. Still, this isn’t your typical museum.
This museum focuses on exploring the worlds of agriculture and food sciences, showing how our food goes from farm to table in the most interactive ways. Live animals and interactive displays are among the many things available to make learning enjoyable for all visitors.
It’s entirely focused on teaching people about the value of agriculture, and you may leave with a newfound understanding of what you’re eating or a few new skills.
- Things to Know
- Where is Ottawa's Canada Agriculture and Food Museum?
- How to Get to Ottawa's Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
- What to Do and See in Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
- Visit the animal barns and see adorable farm animals
- Explore the Sustainable Agriculture Gallery exhibits
- Experience the fascinating aquaculture exhibit firsthand
- Check out the dazzling canola tower installation
- Explore Farming for the Future and learn innovations
- Get cooking tips in the vibrant Demonstration Kitchen
- Join and enjoy daily demonstrations on various topics
- Where to Eat and Drink near Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
- Where to Stay near Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
- FAQs about Ottawa’s Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Things to Know
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Contact: +1 613 991 3044
Ticket Prices:
- Adult – $14.50
- Senior (Ages 60 and above) – $12.25
- Student (Ages 18+ with valid student ID) – $12.25
- Ages 3 to 17 – $12.25
- Ages 2 and under – Free
- Family (6 people – max. of 2 adults) – $40.50
- Ingenium member – Free
*taxes not included
Where is Ottawa’s Canada Agriculture and Food Museum?
Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is located at 901 Prince of Wales Drive. It’s quite easy to get to because it’s right in the middle of the city.
How to Get to Ottawa’s Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Closest bus stop: If you plan on taking public transport, simply board the OC Transpo bus and get off at the stop close to Prince of Wales Drive; routes like 85 and 56 should bring you fairly close.
Alternatively, driving is much easier. Search for 901 Prince of Wales Drives into your GPS, and there is lots of parking on the property.
On your way to the museum, you’ll pass through the Central Experimental Farm, and that’s when you’ll know you’re there!
What to Do and See in Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Visit the animal barns and see adorable farm animals
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You can visit a little farm without ever leaving the city, thanks to the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum’s animal barns! They keep different kinds of animals in different barns so you might see dairy cows one minute and then quirky alpacas the next.
While the Small Animal Barn is a must-see for those cute goats, piglets, and sheep, don’t miss the Poultry House, where you can meet a variety of feathery friends. It’s a great spot to explore, especially if you have children.
Pay attention to everyday rituals, like feedings, which are entertaining to witness!
Explore the Sustainable Agriculture Gallery exhibits
– Media credit: agfoodmuseum
If you’re interested in sustainability and modern farming practices, you have to check out the Sustainable Agriculture Gallery.
This gallery showcases interactive exhibits that explore how traditional farming methods and contemporary technology can be combined to provide a more sustainable farming strategy.
You’ll also discover fascinating stories of research, innovation, and evolving practices in sustainable agriculture. There are also several interactive features that children will like if you are bringing them along.
Experience the fascinating aquaculture exhibit firsthand
– Media credit: agfoodmuseum
The aquaculture exhibit offers a fascinating look at the methods used for farming fish, shellfish, and seaweed. This exhibit takes you underwater to experience a completely new form of farming, even though we typically think of farms as being on land.
The science underlying the controlled breeding, raising, and harvesting of seafood is explained in the display. It also highlights sustainable practices and some intriguing technology, demonstrating how forward-thinking Canadian farmers are in this sector.
For those really into detail, sections that delve deeply into the environmental effects and the laws governing aquaculture to guarantee its safe and sustainable operation are also available.
Check out the dazzling canola tower installation
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The installation of the canola tower is undoubtedly one of the museum’s most notable features. The exhibit, “Canola! Seeds of Innovation,” explores the origin, growth, and worldwide importance of this yellow-flowered plant.
You’ll discover how canola was developed by Canadian scientists and how it spread over the world as a staple crop. The actual installation is beautiful and educational.
Additionally, you will learn about the economic implications of canola, particularly concerning trade and agricultural innovation. On top of that, there are advisers available who can respond to any further queries you may have.
Explore Farming for the Future and learn innovations
– Media credit: gkdadlife
Farming for the Future is a must-see if you’re interested in—as its name suggests—farming’s future. This exhibit explores the newest developments in agriculture in great detail.
You’ll have the opportunity to observe everything from state-of-the-art technology to environmentally friendly farming methods that have the potential to transform the world completely.
Moreover, you’ll see some fantastic irrigation systems, automated equipment, and even cool drones. Lastly, keep an eye out for interactive displays where you can sit on some of the tractors to experience what it’s like to drive this advanced machinery.
Get cooking tips in the vibrant Demonstration Kitchen
– Media credit: agfoodmuseum
The Demonstration Kitchen is a must-visit if you’re a foodie or simply enjoy experimenting in the kitchen. The name says it all—it’s a lively place to see live cooking demonstrations that are both amusing and instructive.
The chefs here prepare meals with local, fresh products and offer helpful advice that you may implement at home. You’ll learn everything from fundamental knife skills to gourmet techniques that will wow your loved ones.
Even better, they occasionally have guest chefs who share their skills and secret recipes, which you can take note of.
Join and enjoy daily demonstrations on various topics
– Media credit: agfoodmuseum
The Daily Demonstrations are where it’s at for those who love variety. As the name suggests, there is always a surprise waiting because there is something new every day.
They frequently have in-depth guest specialists who cover everything from shearing sheep to producing butter. And since these demonstrations are interactive, you won’t just observe—you’ll participate and even get a bit muddy!
Furthermore, the animal demos are super popular, especially with kids, so if you’re coming along with a little one, this is definitely for them.
Where to Eat and Drink near Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Supply and Demand
– Media credit: supply_ottawa
Address: 1335 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613 680 2949
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 5 PM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for a sophisticated dining experience
Supply and Demand is all about using fresh, local ingredients, which makes everything taste twice as good. If you’re into raw food, you’ll love their offerings, especially the oysters and the tuna crudo with its zesty lemon truffle oil.
You also can’t miss digging into their house-made pasta dishes like the squid ink rigatoni—it’s got tuna, prosciutto meatballs, and a kick of chilli.
Oh, and make sure you save some room for dessert: the caramel custard tart with Amarena cherries is—hands-down—the crowd favourite. Furthermore, their menu changes often, so there’s always a fresh surprise waiting.
Pub Italia
– Media credit: pub_italia
Address: 434 Preston St.
Phone: +1 613 232 2326
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Good to know: Great for intimate dates and larger groups
To get the best of both Italian and Irish cuisine in one spot, head over to Pub Italia. Everyone is talking about their epic “beer bible”—you’ll want to make some space in your evening to thumb through it and try a few pints.
Also, the stone-baked pizza (any variant is fantastic!) and pasta dishes like the Meatball and the Gorgonzola are crowd favourites. When it’s time to wrap things up with something sweet, their Big Foot Ice Cream and Blackout Torte are musts!
Paper Tiger Noodle Bar
– Media credit: papertigerottawa
Address: 1091 Bank St.
Phone: +1 613 521 2125
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday and Wednesday – 4 PM to 9 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Good to know: Ideal for groups
If noodles are your thing, Paper Tiger Noodle Bar is a must-visit. This place focused on using local, seasonal produce!
The satisfying Asian-inspired, Beast Ramen and Dan Dan Noodles are must-orders! Since these bowls come in great portions, they’re better for sharing.
If you’re with a bigger group, you guys shouldn’t miss the PT Bossam, a Korean-style braised pork shoulder that’s so tender and tasty, that it’ll have you salivating the moment it arrives on your table.
You can also opt for their best-selling small plates such as edamame and chicken karaage. Their Wednesday Night Oysters are worth trying if you’re into raw.
Fauna
– Media credit: faunaottawa
Address: 425 Bank St.
Phone: +1 613 563 2862
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM
- Thursday – 5:30 PM to 10 PM
- Friday – 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM
- Saturday – 5:30 PM to 12 PM
- Sunday – 5:30 PM to 9 PM
Good to know: Perfect for foodies, intimate dinners, special occasions
Since Fauna focuses on seasonal and locally sourced cuisine, its menu changes frequently. Even so, expect to drool over its mains, like the wagyu strip loin for two, while seafood lovers will love the scallops and shrimp toast.
Desserts and cocktails here are worth the shout, too, with the Peach on a Plane drink and the tiramisu affogato sweet treat being top picks. It’s more intimate—a nice spot for date night, but it’ll work as well if you’re with a small crew of friends.
Elgin Street Diner
– Media credit: chucklefebvrerealty
Address: 374 Elgin St.
Phone: +1 613 237 9700
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Good to know: Fantastic breakfast spot, family-friendly
If you’re looking for a nice breakfast spot, you should check out the Elgin Street Diner. They’re legendary for it—think hefty portions of eggs, bacon, pancakes, and all the breakfast fixings you’d want.
Aside from breakfast, this place is also known for its poutine—laden with cheese curds and gravy—which is some of the best around.
If that’s still not satisfying, you can opt for additional toppings like pulled pork or smoked meat. Oh, and their milkshakes are pretty stellar, too.
Where to Stay near Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown
– Media credit: lorigold99
Address: 361 Queen St.
Phone: +1 613 234 6363
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Hilton Garden Inn is perfect if you want to be in the middle of it all—that is, the hustle and bustle of Ottawa. Plus, all the amenities of contemporary hotels are available here, including free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre, and an indoor pool.
The rooms here are spacious and equipped with all the things you need for a relaxing stay. The best part? There’s a 24-hour convenience store on-site for those late-night snack needs!
The on-site restaurant, meanwhile, is ideal if you don’t feel like leaving the hotel for dinner.
However, if you’re driving, bear in mind that parking might be somewhat expensive.
Lord Elgin Hotel
– Media credit: thelordelginhotel
Address: 100 Elgin St.
Phone: +1 613 235 3333
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Lord Elgin Hotel is one of Ottawa’s iconic spots. You get more than just a room when you stay here—you gain a piece of history.
The hotel has you covered with a saltwater pool, a well-equipped fitness facility, and even a Starbucks on the premises. They also have conference spaces, valet parking, and room service if you’re visiting for business.
If you want to maintain your fitness routine, do not forget to check out their jogging path.
Ottawa Marriott Hotel
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Address: 100 Kent St.
Phone: +1 613 238 1122
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Another excellent choice is the Ottawa Marriott Hotel, particularly if you’re travelling for business. This location features an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness centre, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
For a quick snack, the on-site restaurant and lounge are very convenient. The kids’ play area is one of the main attractions here, and it’s a lifesaver if you’ve got little kids in tow.
If you plan on bringing your pet, make sure to enquire about their pet-friendly options!
Sheraton Ottawa Hotel
– Media credit: sheratonottawahotel
Address: 150 Albert St.
Phone: +1 613 238 1500
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
If you’re all about convenience and comfort, the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel is a great pick. This hotel is centrally located, so exploring Ottawa and getting to the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is easy.
The spacious rooms have cosy beds and all the amenities you might need. They also have a business centre and extensive meeting rooms—great if work is on your agenda.
If you’re travelling with pets, look for their special pet-friendly rooms. However, be aware that the parking they offer costs an extra charge.
The Metcalfe Hotel
– Media credit: metcalfehotel
Address: 123 Metcalfe St.
Phone: +1 613 231 6555
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Metcalfe Hotel by Grey Collection is a boutique hotel that offers tailored concierge services and elegant, well-appointed furnished rooms that are perfect for a comfortable stay.
Expect standard amenities including an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and complimentary Wi-Fi. You might not want to miss dining at the hotel’s restaurant because they provide some amazing food.
For those who might require some privacy or a quiet environment, they also have meeting rooms and a library.
