The Military Museums image

The Military Museums

Tourist attraction Museum Army museum

One of the Best Places To Visits in Calgary


Address

4520 Crowchild Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2T 5J4, Canada

Website

www.themilitarymuseums.ca

Contact

+1 403-410-2340

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (1.9K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Sunday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Monday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Tuesday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Wednesday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Friday: 9 am to 5 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (40) military (24) history (18) time (18) visit (16) exhibits (16) hours (15) great (12) Canadian (11) displays (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Omolara S. 2 years ago on Google
    This is the place to be should you want to learn about the history of the Canadian Armed Forces and their courage during the past wars. This museum will remind you of the sacrifices of our heroes past and help you appreciate how far we've come and the cost those heroes had to pay for peace. It was a great experience and we hope to visit again. The tour guide at the Cold War Area was very knowledgeable and gave us a good history of how the Cold War happened.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pam B. 7 months ago on Google
    Could easily spend half a day here! Many exhibits tell the long history of all Canadian military branches. Attendants are very knowledgeable and friendly. A must see!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Taxi d. 9 months ago on Google
    The museum was very impressive. Unfortunately also a bit depressing. Thanks to Dave, who welcomed us at the entrance and explained a lot in advance. This has greatly simplified the visit to the museum. It is very special and also somewhat exciting to see how the individual areas of the Canadian military have had an influence on the various wars. Very moving also the individual areas where the fallen are commemorated.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rick M. 2 years ago on Google
    We drove down to Calgary and spent the night at the Best Western Premier before spending four hours at the museum. They say it is the 2nd largest war museum in Canada. I have been to the other one in Ottawa and though it is bigger, Calgary's is far better in my opinion. They have Army, Navy and Airforce displays. Extensive battle scenes ship, ship models, a real F-18 Hornet, CF-104 Starfighter and a Sabre Jet. They have tanks, armored vehicles and a wealth of war knowledge to be shared. Our 8 year old grandson loved it. You might need more than a day to take it all in but our four hours was pretty satisfying.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vivian L. 4 months ago on Google
    Went there for Remembrance Day Ceremonies. They hold the ceremonies outside and then the museum opens for everyone to go inside. Admission is free that day (donations are appreciated) and it provides an opportunity for everyone to explore the museum. Expect to spend a few hours there if you're reading and watching the mini video clips. Very educational and always learn something new. Didn't make it through all the exhibits but they are so well done. It was an experience and every year we go, we always take the opportunity to walk through the museum, especially to check out the new exhibit on display at that time. With a retired military veteran along with me during the tour definitely gave a very different perspective on how things were. Very lucky to have the freedoms we have today and remember to not take it for granted. Lest we forget.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Flames 10 months ago on Google
    It was an ideal place to learn about the history of the Canadian military. The displayed tanks and fighter planes were impressive, and I was overwhelmed by their size and grandeur. There were many interesting exhibits that showcased the evolution of military technology across various eras. The exhibits were accompanied by detailed explanations, allowing me to gain a deep understanding of their historical background and roles. Inside the museum, I was able to learn about the brave acts of Canadian military heroes and their courageous actions, which left a profound impression on me regarding their bravery and spirit of service. Overall, the Military Museum in Calgary offers a rich and comprehensive experience, making it a must-visit place for those interested in history and military affairs.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark P. 2 years ago on Google
    Great Calgary must see if you are from out of town, also a great place to see if you live in Calgary and want to know some of the military history. Family of four was $32. We spent about 2hrs just looking, we have a 5yr old and he moves, so we didn’t get to read or watch much. If you spend time reading and learning you can loose yourself here for hours on end, in fact, a whole day if you take your time. Snacks in a area vending Very clean washrooms Easy accessibility also have extra wheelchairs and walkers Ample parking Special events happening on certain days Some hands on things A great museum, been to lots and this one is a top three all time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 M Scott (. 2 years ago on Google
    That is a well done museum. I cannot believe the detail and the amount of exhibits. We didn't even get to all of it, there was so much to see. Very cool. Also remarkabley clean bathrooms, with at least a chair to feed or breastfeed your little one. I really appreciated that little touch.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonas M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great place to visit as a family, it was very interesting to see all the exhibits and look at all the planes/military equipment. The employees were very kind and helpful with any questions we had. I would highly recommend anybody of any age to come visit!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Роман �. 10 months ago on Google
    Great museum. Nice collection of tanks, armoured vehicles, aircrafts. Amazing ship models. A lot of history of the wars and missions around the globe. Reach collection of uniforms. I spent there around 4.5 hours, one hour outside. There is a place to eat and a small souvenir shop. Museum has a good discount for students. Visiting this museum also gives a discount for the Hangar Museum
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ricky L. 2 years ago on Google
    Visited the museum today with my kids 6-9, I haven't been back here since I was a kid and they have improved it so much. It is way bigger with the Air Force and Navy exhibits. So much information, stories and artifacts that you could easily spend the day here to take it all in. Great treasure trove of knowledge that we need to pass on to future generations. Friendly staff as well! We spent about 2 hours here and easily ran out of time. Will be back to explore and spend more time soon!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jake P. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful displays and information. Large facility. Nicely laid out. Clean. Reasonable cost to visit. Has a small gift shop which supports the facility. Nice you are not made to exit through it like most places. Bought a few items. Cold war display very cool. Fighter jets on display. Can see into cockpits. Outside has several vehicles displayed. Also artifact from 9-11 in NYC. Well worth the time. Lots of free parking.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Clint S. 1 year ago on Google
    Attended the summer skirmish held at the Military Museum. The day was full of fun activities consisting if people in various period costumes role playing and educating. I only had 30 minutes to go through the Museum itself but I was blown away by the quality if it. I'm definitely going back to just the Museum in order to give it the time it deserves.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chitty Chitty Bang b. 2 years ago on Google
    Especially in our society today it is vital that we record our history as accurately as possible without interpretations or manipulations. In the name of war human beings have endured unimaginable pain and suffering. In today’s world I really want to know the facts. So I’ll turn off my Tv and Cell phone Head down to this museum where I can get the raw truth of what our men and women have had to experience. The exhibits on display are incredibly detailed and seeing and reading the stores gives me a personal encounter to their sacrifices. It’s because of what our servicemen and women have done to their bodies and minds that they have given us our freedom today.. Our Future is our children let them not forget. Thank you for your Service.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 W. B. 2 years ago on Google
    Very good museum. Lots of artifacts and displays. Covers the armed forces from early nineteen hundreds to the present. Well worth the visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kristy C. 1 year ago on Google
    Jam packed with information, especially if you actually take the time to read everything. I quite enjoyed the museum here and we were here for a good 2 hours. But even then, we didn’t end up looking closely at everything because after the first two exhibits, I doubt you would want to closely read through the rest. My recommendation would be to go on two separate occasions to fully understand everything that is showcased. There were a few historically inaccuracies where it was a tad biased towards Canadians, but overall, everything is done quite nicely. Student pricing is $10 each.

  • 5/5 Yaroslav T. 11 months ago on Google
    Great place with honours memory of Canadian military service. Very nice work of all generation volunteers. You should plan time for viewing more than 3 hours. One of great place for learning history. Thanks a lot for all museum's stuff.

  • 5/5 Alvin C. 1 year ago on Google
    It was my family's first time to visit this place, and we weren't disappointed. Parking is spacious. The exhibits (inside and outside) were fascinating. The staff and volunteers were friendly and accommodating. The items in the gift shop were fairly priced. We would love to come back again someday.

  • 5/5 Andrew J. 3 months ago on Google New
    Short: The museum was packed full of just about anything and everything you could ask for, with the ability to either skim through and see the impressive exhibits, or take some serious time and read all the incredible wall mural stories. I will definitely go again. I couldnt believe how much there was to see - I only saw a fraction of things in the two and a half hours I went. I am not well-versed in military history to any degree, and I found the whole experience to be fascinating. I also enjoyed that they had a few interactive exhibits as well. If you want to get a full experience, plan to make a day of it and really dive in.

  • 5/5 Mann 9 months ago on Google
    Great place for the family and kids. Amazing museum to look at and see Canadian history. Not busy and lots of staff ready to help you and tell you things. The only thing is that there is no restaurants nearby but other than that a great museum. We love this place.

  • 5/5 Soban F. 9 months ago on Google
    Well worth the visit. There’s plenty to learn and do. I highly recommend any tourists or locals to visit this museum. Here’s a tip for anyone planning to go, go on a weekday, it will save some waiting time. And allow at minimum 2 hours for this visit.

  • 5/5 Faiyaz K. 1 year ago on Google
    One of my favourite experiences from visiting Calgary. It was amazing to go through each of the sections and read stories about the Canadian military over time, how it's advanced, the battles it had, the types of equipment that was used. My only regret is that I didn't stay longer. There was so much information and artifacts to see. Anyone who has even a slight interest in history should visit this place. There was also a student discount which is a big plus.

  • 5/5 Kanwar Preet Singh M. 9 months ago on Google
    Very nice collection of historical military artifacts, equipment and most importantly stories of military personnel presented with utmost care and attention to detail while paying respect to war heros! Good job to the organizers, employees and administrators.

  • 5/5 Andrea G. 4 months ago on Google
    This place is AMAZIIIINNNNGGGG. This was the best military museum I've ever been to. We got in free as my husband is a retired veteran who loved the experience as well. It's great that the museum has all three branches of the military. Maybe in the future there will be a devoted section to the role native culture/branches contributed to the war. Consider at least 4 hours of time here if you enjoy learning new things and reading. The museum was very informative, realistic and interactive! Plenty of parking, no need to book in advance unless you want to attend a special event. The gift shop has some very professionally\neat souvenirs for all ages. ♡

  • 5/5 Collin C. 4 months ago on Google
    Simply a treasure right in the middle of Calgary. Credit to all the curators, the museum(s) are magnificent with a tremendous collection of artifacts and a glimpse into the proud military legacy of Canada. Many stories of dedication to duty like Mike Mountain Horse. This old US Marine was really impressed

  • 5/5 Luke S. 5 months ago on Google
    I have been here so many times and the staff are great. There was a medicine of war special area set up. A doctor who was volunteering offered us a tour which was fantastic. Really enjoyed it. Then in the hangers the guys were really nice. There were two pilots and an engineer. They were friendly told us so much and even allowed us to sit in the starfighter. What a place there is so much to see and it's a hidden gem in Calgary.

  • 5/5 Bharat Raj V. 3 months ago on Google New
    Great place to spend time with family. Learn about our history and sacrifices made by our forces to keep us safe. You get to see planes, tanks up close and personal Wasnt too busy. There is gift shop and cafe inside but not anything fancy. Easy to spen 4 hours during a holiday

  • 5/5 Tracy L. 2 years ago on Google
    Well worth the visit! I learned so much and a great reminder to be thankful for all those who fought and served our country, both past and present.

  • 5/5 Pamela 2 years ago on Google
    Tanks are my son passion and the Calgary military museums was our family choice for vacation. We will be gonog back as we only jas the chance to see half of what this great museum has to offer.

  • 5/5 Kevin W. 2 years ago on Google
    A pretty sweet military museum. It’s gotten a lot bigger over the years. Approximately 1hr walk through if you speed walk and read about everything.

  • 5/5 Dean and Julie D. 2 years ago on Google
    This museum is world class. From the life like displays of what life was like for soldiers in different battle settings to the weapons it has a lot to take in. My favorite is seeing the medals owned by the decorated veterans and reading the stories of heroism. The rooms showing the names of soldiers lost in the wars is quite sombre and touching. Great place, lots of history. A must see.

  • 5/5 jackie p. 2 years ago on Google
    Great displays. Visit great for any age. Took a 4 yr old and although i couldnt read what was presented, there is a lot to keep kids interested just walking through the displays. The fighter jets were very interesting. Ill go back when i can spend more time.

  • 5/5 Mariola K. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is amazing! So much work and detail put into it. So glad we went on a rainy day and it wasn't busy.

  • 5/5 Atanu M. 2 years ago on Google
    A museum dedicated to Canada's military history. A must see place for military buffs. Here you can get up close and personal with tanks like the WWII era Sherman or T-72 or fighter jets like F-18 Hornets. When I was there, a special exhibition was on and one had the opportunity to see and hold with one's own hand all the primary weapons that Canadian army used over the past 200 yrs, from swords to automatic rifles. Overall, a memorable occasion.

  • 5/5 Max R. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful museum, amazing staff members. Would highly recommend a visit with the family or by your self. We'll worth the admissions fee to maintain the history and heritage of the Canadian armed forces. The exhibits are top notch and there are regular additions that take place. The curators, and living members that have served are history within themselves. There is occasionally a fighter pilot in the hanger who is an absolute joy to talk to. And a few members on the base as well.

  • 5/5 K. W. 2 years ago on Google
    The military museums is probably one of my favourite museum in all of Calgary. I just love the history and everything about this place. If you have a family or are interested in the military I highly recommend a visit plus the admission price is not too bad either.

  • 5/5 Maria I. 1 year ago on Google
    I was amazed at the time I enter the building. It was extra ordinary real and has lots of information and memories. The museum is huge, my children run around at the front of the museum looking at the tanks and others display outside the museum. I bring my 5, 8, & 10 years old and they were thrilled. It can be a perfect place for picnic while watching the kids playing around in the safe open space (outside the museum). The ticket person & the boy who gave us a quick host doesn't have the same excitement energy like us. They energy really bring us down, they didn't smile and not knowledgeable about the story. That really is too bad for them. I was literally crying when I enter Princess Patricia place and read the notes of the soldier that they displayed on the wall. I can feel their situation and I couldn't imagine the situation they been through. It must be very miserable and scary. The display of the war situations, the stories through paper or audio, the sounds of the bomb and shooting, it's very devastating to imagine. I wish there's no war in the world so people will not need to sacrifice themselves for their country. I salute and respect all of the soldiers and veterans for their services to the country. It was a good and memorable experience. A must place to visit.

  • 5/5 Daniel E. 2 years ago on Google
    Extremely well designed and organized museum. Displays are realistic and descriptions are thorough. Sobering portrayal of war and very honoring to our veterans.

  • 5/5 jeff g. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome museum. Always had cool birthday parties here growing up. Historic and modern exhibits. Really nice ceremonies.

  • 5/5 Brian F. 2 years ago on Google
    The Military Museum was unexpectedly good. There many thoughtful displays. We spent 3 hours there and could have used 3 more hours to better see everything. One thing I did notice was that many of the displays and story boards were too dimly lit read very well. It would be a good idea to work on the lighting.

  • 5/5 Kristal T. 2 years ago on Google
    It was a great experience and lots going on with it being family day. Will definitely visit again.

  • 5/5 J L. 1 year ago on Google
    The exhibits are the museum are meticulous and painstaking. Not everyone might be a fan, but the care and effort that went into making it is undeniable. Well organized and planned. Outdoor exhibits are great as well.

  • 5/5 Gina P. 1 year ago on Google
    What an amazing tribute to our Canadian Armed Forces and it's veterans. This place is like kid in a candy awesome for military enthusiasts! So much fun for people of all ages!

  • 5/5 Dallas M. 1 year ago on Google
    Oh where to start! What a museum!! Granted, I don't exactly frequent museums, but I felt this place was immersive, with so much content to take in and gaze for hours. The displays were top notch! Some were interactive ,( the miniatures etc) Facility was clean. The sections of the museum were segmented in a manner that made sense. The place was clean. The still capture displays in general were our favorite. If I had any complaint at all, the areas overall seem to be lacking staff to explain things if you have a question.


Call +1 403-410-2340 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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