One of Ottawa’s best-kept secrets sits steps from Parliament Hill—and it’s completely free. The Bank of Canada Museum offers interactive exhibits about money, economics, and financial history that engage visitors of all ages, making complex topics accessible and even fun.
This hidden gem deserves far more attention than it receives, offering a unique perspective on something that touches everyone’s life: money.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: The Bank of Canada Museum is a free, interactive museum exploring money, currency, and economic concepts. Located at 30 Bank Street, steps from Parliament Hill. Features hands-on exhibits, historical currency collections, and games about economic decision-making. Great for all ages.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Opened | 2017 (current location) |
| 📍 Location | 30 Bank Street |
| 🎟️ Admission | FREE |
| ⏰ Hours | Wed-Sun (check website) |
What You’ll Experience
Main Exhibits
The museum covers several interconnected themes:
The Economy:
- Interactive economic simulations
- How interest rates work
- Supply and demand concepts
- Global economic connections
Currency:
- Evolution of Canadian money
- Security features
- Design process
- Counterfeit prevention
Bank of Canada’s Role:
- What the central bank does
- Monetary policy basics
- Financial system stability
- Economic research
Interactive Elements
Hands-on learning throughout:
Games and Simulations:
- Run your own economy
- Make monetary policy decisions
- Trade goods in historical scenarios
- See effects of your choices
Touch Screens:
- Deep dives into topics
- Multiple language options
- Self-paced exploration
- Engaging graphics
Illustrative image only.
Currency Collection
Historical Money
Fascinating artifacts:
Canadian Currency Evolution:
- Playing card money (New France)
- Colonial currencies
- Dominion notes
- Bank notes through the ages
- Modern polymer bills
Global Currencies:
- Currency from around the world
- Unusual forms of money
- Historical trading mediums
- Comparative designs
Money Security
How currency is protected:
Security Features:
- Learn what’s in your bills
- Counterfeit detection
- Evolution of security
- Technology advances
Design Process:
- How bills are designed
- Artist involvement
- Security integration
- Canadian symbols
For Different Visitors
For Families
Great for children:
Kid-Friendly Features:
- Interactive games engage young minds
- Physical activities
- Manageable museum size
- Free entry means no pressure
Learning Opportunities:
- Age-appropriate economic concepts
- Hands-on discovery
- Making learning fun
- Real-world connections
For Students
Educational resource:
School Groups:
- Program offerings
- Curriculum connections
- Guided experiences
- Booking available
Individual Students:
- Economic concepts explained
- Research resource
- Career exploration
- Policy understanding
For Adults
Deeper engagement:
Topics Covered:
- Monetary policy in depth
- Economic history
- Financial system
- Policy implications
Perspective Shift:
- Understand central banking
- Context for news
- Personal finance connection
- Citizenship engagement
Illustrative image only.
Planning Your Visit
Location and Access
Address: 30 Bank Street, Ottawa
Getting There:
- Steps from Parliament Hill
- Beside World Exchange Plaza
- Close to Rideau Canal
- Central downtown location
Transit:
- Parliament Station (O-Train) nearby
- Multiple bus routes
- Easy walking from anywhere downtown
Parking:
- No museum parking
- Public parking nearby (paid)
- Street parking limited
Hours and Admission
Admission: FREE
Hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday
- 10 AM - 5 PM (check website for current)
- Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
- Holiday closures vary
Duration:
- 1-2 hours typical
- More for thorough exploration
- Interactive elements reward time
Accessibility
Designed for all:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator access
- Accessible washrooms
- Staff assistance available
Special Programs
Events and Activities
Regular Programming:
- Guided tours
- Special exhibits
- Educational workshops
- Public lectures
Seasonal:
- March Break activities
- Summer programs
- Special events
Educational Resources
Online:
- Virtual exhibits
- Educational materials
- Teacher resources
- Downloadable content
Nearby Attractions
Combine Your Visit
While in the area:
Parliament Hill:
- Steps away
- Free tours available
- Changing of the Guard (summer)
ByWard Market:
- Short walk
- Shopping and dining
- Historic market area
Rideau Canal:
- Walk along the water
- Skating (winter)
- Boat tours (summer)
Sparks Street:
- Pedestrian mall
- Shopping and food
- Historic buildings
Why It’s Overlooked
The Hidden Gem Factor
Why people miss this museum:
Assumptions:
- “Bank museum sounds boring”
- Not heavily advertised
- Smaller than national museums
- Name doesn’t excite
Reality:
- Highly interactive
- Engaging for all ages
- World-class exhibits
- Free admission
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it really free? A: Yes, completely free. No tickets needed, no suggested donation—just walk in and enjoy.
Q: How long should I plan for a visit? A: Most visitors spend 1-2 hours. The interactive elements can engage you longer if you explore thoroughly.
Q: Is it good for kids who don’t care about money? A: The games and interactive elements engage kids without requiring interest in economics. Many children enjoy it more than their parents expect.
Q: Can I see real gold? A: The museum has a gold bar visitors can attempt to lift. It’s very heavy! Other precious metal displays are included.
Q: Do I need to book ahead? A: Generally no booking needed for individuals. School groups and large parties should contact the museum in advance.
Final Thoughts
The Bank of Canada Museum represents everything a modern museum should be: free, accessible, interactive, and genuinely educational without being boring. That it remains relatively unknown compared to Ottawa’s national museums is both a shame and an opportunity—you can often explore without crowds.
Money affects everyone’s life. Understanding how it works, where it comes from, and how the financial system operates makes us better citizens and consumers. This museum delivers that understanding in an engaging, accessible way.
Next time you’re on Parliament Hill, walk the few steps to Bank Street. You’ll discover a hidden gem that changes how you think about the money in your pocket.
Source: Bank of Canada, Bank of Canada Museum - Compiled for Via Ottawa readers.
For more Ottawa discoveries, visit Where to Go or explore Things to Do!
