The Canadian Canoe Museum has stewarded the world’s largest and most significant collection of canoes, kayaks, and paddled watercraft for 28 years. More than 650 in number, the watercraft and their stories have a pivotal role to play in understanding our past and our collective future.
In May 2024, The Canadian Canoe Museum opened the doors to their new location on the water’s edge in Peterborough, Ontario. The support of the R. Howard Webster Foundation has helped the Museum achieve this long-held dream and begin their new chapter.
The Museum’s 20,000-square-foot Exhibition Hall hosts a brand new suite of exhibits that explores the fascinating stories carried by the 100+ watercraft in this space. The Collection Hall provides integrated, onsite storage for the 500+ watercraft not currently on display in the Exhibition Hall.
A Living Traditions Studio creates space for authentic artisan workshops and canoe and kayak builds. A Gathering Room that overlooks the lake is the perfect setting for events. An in-house cafe allows visitors to relax inside or outside around a fireplace, and a thoughtfully curated gift store provides the perfect shopping experience.
The Museum’s stunning waterfront campus connects visitors to the land and water and offers visitors paddling adventures and hands-on discovery in nature.
The Canadian Canoe Museum’s new location and purpose-built facility provides visitors of all ages with truly transformative cultural and recreational experiences!
Natural elements are highlighted in The Canadian Canoe Museum’s Atrium through the use of mass timber and wood panelling, alongside hanging canoes. Credit: Eden Photography.
An aerial shot of various canoes and a kayak padding along The Canadian Canoe Museum’s docks and shoreline. In the background, the waterfront campus features the Canoe House, boardwalk, and a trail leading to the Museum. Credit: Justen Soule.