The National Gallery of Canada is full of surprises. Courtesy of its pool of distinguished antiquities. Also known as the National Art Gallery of Canada, the Gallery is home to several unreal and unique collections in which one can find artistic and religious values. The delicate blend of the Gallery’s inspiring history, splendid architecture, theme, surrounding ambience and pool of exciting art pieces, make it a must-visit place in the national capital region of Canada, Ottawa.
If you’re in Canada or planning to visit soon and wish to take a closer look at Canada’s National Art Gallery, this guide will help you with everything you need to know about the gallery. Read below to get an insight into the architectural design, overview, what’s inside, the collection, visiting hours, ticket details and the amenities available at National Art Gallery Ottawa, Canada.
National Gallery of Canada: Overview
The National Art Gallery, Ottawa, was founded in 1880, and by far, it is one of the finest art galleries around the globe. Designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, the architectural design of the Gallery is as fascinating as its collection. The gallery is home to some of the most exquisite American, European and Canadian photography, drawings and paintings. The neatly crafted interior theme of this futuristic glass and graphite structure beautifully complements its vivid artefacts.
One unique fact about this Gallery that makes it stand out from other galleries is that it features art pieces even on the outside. One can head outside the Nepean Point just behind the museum to witness numerous unique art installations, including an elevated, contemporary carved One Hundred Foot Line by Roxy Paine (American painter and sculptor). The space also features a gigantic statue of French explorer Samuel De Champlain.
On the Gallery’s main entrance lawn sits the Maman (a giant spider sculpture by Loius Bourgeois made of bronze, steel and marble), which is another roadside attraction for visitors and passers. Moreover, the panoramic view of Gatineau, Parliament, Sussex Drive and Notre Dame Cathedral from the Gallery is irresistible. However, some sections of Nepean Point may be inaccessible due to rehabilitation. Overall, with its pristine location, monumental design and exquisite collection of art and artefacts, the Gallery invokes an unparalleled sense of ceremony.
What’s Inside the National Art Gallery, Ottawa?
Inside the National Gallery of Canada, you can explore more than 40,000 artworks by more than 6,000 creators. Even on the outside, one could stand underneath Maman, a 30-foot structure of a spider created by Louise Bourgeois, just before entering the astonishing glass and granite building.
Inside of the gallery, you can also discover fine art from Canada, Europe and America. The expansive display includes religious pieces and indigenous artefacts from New France, which are one of the major attractions of the gallery. The Canada Art Gallery is also known for its comprehensive collection of photographs.
Category-Wise Things you can Search for in the Canada Art Gallery
Artist: Josef Sudek, Homer Watson, A.Y. Jackson, Franklin Carmichael.
Category: Photography, Canadian drawings and prints, American and European prints and drawings, later Canadian art, early Canadian art, indigenous art, American European sculptures, paintings and decorative arts and National Gallery of Canada Library and Archives. The category further includes Contemporary International Art, Historic Asian and non-Western art.
First Collection of Canada Art Gallery
The first collection of the Gallery was the diploma works of academicians, supplemented by occasional gifts. In 1913, after adopting the Parliament Act to incorporate the National Art Gallery Ottawa, Sir Edmund Walker headed the appointed board of trustees confirmed in 1910. At that period, Sir Eric Brown was the director of the Canada Art Gallery; he wanted to create other similar national galleries like the Canada Art Gallery all-round the British Empire
National Gallery of Art Tickets Details
The ticket-fee structure for visitors at the National Gallery of Canada is mentioned below:
- Adults: CAD 12
- Senior Citizens: CAD 10
- Students: CAD 10
- Youth: CAD 6
- Children under the age of 12: Free
- Family Pass with two adults and three kids: CAD 24
- Member: Individuals can become a member free of cost
Note: You can book tickets online from the official portal of the National Gallery of Canada
National Gallery of Art Timings
Planning to visit the gallery? The operational timing of the National Gallery of Canada mentioned below should help you plan your visit accordingly:
| Gallery | National Collection and Special Exhibitions |
| Monday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
Amenities of the Art Gallery of Canada
The National Gallery of Canada is strongly committed to offering visitors a smooth experience with optimal support and facilities. For the same, the Gallery has the below-mentioned amenities for visitors.
Cloakroom: The cloakroom is free for visitors. Bags larger than 12×16×5 inches, umbrellas, luggage, and bag packs must be checked in the cloakroom. Individuals can also check their coats and other belongings in the cloakroom. However, bags may be searched upon entering or leaving the space.
Washrooms: An all-gender restroom is accessible to all members of the public. The bathroom sits on the lower level of the Canada Art Gallery.
Lost and Found: Lost something behind at the Gallery? Nothing to worry about as the lost and found services are available in the cloakroom.
Cash Dispenser: An ATM is available at Canada Art Gallery, located on the lower floor.
Wheelchairs Strollers: All galleries and facilities are wheelchair accessible. This free-of-charge service is available at the Foyer Information Desk, and individuals do not need to make reservations for the same in advance.
Parking: We spend too much time searching for a parking spot when visiting such places, but the National Gallery of Canada has chargeable parking to help you out. The underground parking costs about CAD 2.75/ half-hour, up to a daily maximum of CAD 14. For members, though, the daily parking limit is about CAD 12. The underground parking garage clearance is about 1.8 metres, while parking on the adjacent street is also permitted.
Group Amenities: The National Art Gallery of Canada welcomes people in groups with reduced entry fees and unique services. However, to avail of this facility, all groups must make a reservation to get a group admission rate.
Retail Therapy at Canada Art Gallery
Any visit to such places is incomplete without retail therapy, and the National Gallery of Canada is no exception. Thankfully, the Gallery has its boutique to offer visitors a memorable shopping experience. Visitors can find many items in the boutique including stationery, posters, books, toys, and decorative items. One can also check the new exhibition merchandise, Canadian jewellery collection and unique gift ideas inspired by the national collections at the boutique.
Note: In case you missed the shopping at the Boutique of Canada Art Gallery, you can browse the extensive collection of products from the comfort of your home via the online shopping portal.
Shopping at National Gallery of Canada Hours
Check out the below-mentioned table to get aware of the timing and hours of the Boutique.
| Boutique | Timings |
| Monday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
Ways to Reach National Art Gallery
There are multiple modes of transportation available to reach the National Art Gallery, Ottawa:
- Via public transport such as a bus.
- Individuals can book a cab or take a taxi.
- Rent a self-drive car or rent a bicycle.
- You can also reach the gallery on foot.
Library and Archives at Canada Art Gallery
The Library and Archives at the National Gallery of Art timings are accessible from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. There is limited space in the library, so we strongly recommend you make an appointment via phone call at (613-714-8949) or via email at erefel@gallery.ca. An individual can’t access the Archives without making a prior appointment.
To Sum Up
A visit to the National Gallery of Canada is something you shouldn’t miss while being around Ottawa. With its eye-catching design, mesmerizing view and location, alongside an extraordinary collection of artefacts, the Gallery offers a truly memorable experience.
Apart from a peek into historical art pieces and art history, the Gallery offers visitors great indulgence. The Gallery also has a boutique and a dedicated library and archives section to ensure something for every kind of visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The nearest bus station to the National Art Gallery Of Canada is Sussex/ Murray.
The bus lines stop near the National Gallery of Canada are 6, 11, 14, 15, 25, 53, 75, 80, 87, and 98.
The nearest light rail station to the National Art Gallery Of Canada in Ottawa is Rideau station, a 15-minute walk from the gallery.
The first hour is 8:00 AM, and the last house is 5:00 PM to the National Art Gallery in Ottawa. What are the closest stations to the National Gallery Of Canada?
Which bus lines stop near the National Gallery Of Canada?
What’s the nearest light rail station to the National Gallery Of Canada in Ottawa?
What are the first and last hours at the National Gallery Of Canada in Ottawa?
