At 901 Prince of Wales Drive, the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum combines a working farm with exhibits on Canadian agriculture and food production. Walk through the barns to see cattle, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry and rabbits, then explore displays about dairy farming, farm machinery and the journey from farm to table. Hands-on activities and demonstrations bring the subject to life, while a play area gives children room to move. Spring is a good time to visit for a chance to see young farm animals.
A working farm in Ottawa
The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is at 901 Prince of Wales Drive, on the Central Experimental Farm. Its barns and outdoor areas bring visitors close to animals while exhibits explain how agriculture and food production have changed in Canada. The museum connects farm life with everyday food, from caring for animals to processing milk.
The site includes barns for dairy cattle, sheep, poultry and other farm animals, along with a demonstration kitchen and displays on soil, farming and machinery. The animals are part of a working farm, so the visit is shaped by farm activities as well as indoor exhibits. Daily demonstrations can add a practical view of how food is made or how animals are cared for.
Animals, food and farm science
The barns are a central part of the visit. You can see cattle, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry and rabbits, and learn about their place in farming. Dairy exhibits trace the steps involved in milking cows, storing milk and processing it before it reaches consumers. The focus is not only on animals: displays also cover food production and the science behind agriculture.
Look for the live observation hive, where you can watch bees at work, and the tractor exhibition, which explores the machines used on farms. The museum’s exhibits also address topics such as locally grown food, animal care and agricultural technology. Together, they give families a way to talk about where food comes from and the work involved in producing it.
Plan time for activities
The visit can include both indoor and outdoor stops. Children can explore an extensive play kitchen, while an outdoor play structure and picnic areas provide a break between the barns and exhibits. The museum also runs scheduled activities such as live baking demonstrations, story time and animal-related presentations. Check the day’s schedule when you arrive so you can plan around any demonstrations you want to see.
Spring is a particularly appealing season for families because young animals are often born then. The barns are open year-round, and indoor exhibits mean a visit is not limited to outdoor activities. Wear closed-toe shoes for walking around the farm. Online ticket booking is recommended, and parking is paid.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long should I spend at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours for the barns, exhibits and activities.
What animals can you see at the museum?
The farm has cattle, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry and rabbits, among other animals.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. Children can see farm animals, explore the play kitchen and use the outdoor play structure.
When is a good time to visit?
Spring is a good time to visit, when many young animals are born.
