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Canada is home to some pretty quirky places, and its museums are no exception. Beyond the usual art galleries and historical sites, there are hidden gems that showcase the oddest collections and unique histories you could imagine. These weird museums offer everything from potatoes and pickles to bad art and bathtubs, providing curious visitors with experiences they won’t find anywhere else.
Why settle for a typical museum when you could explore an entire institution dedicated to the accordion or even the humble broom closet? This list of the top 15 weirdest museums in Canada will take you on a cross-country adventure, celebrating the unusual and unexpected. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just looking for a unique weekend trip, these museums prove that Canada is full of surprises — and perhaps a bit of whimsy, too. So, buckle up and prepare to be amazed by the eccentric side of Canadian culture!
Nestled in British Columbia, The Banana Museum began as a personal collection of banana-themed items by a local enthusiast. Over time, it grew into a full-fledged museum dedicated to celebrating this tropical fruit. From plush toys to banana-shaped clocks, the museum houses thousands of banana-related items, turning a simple love for bananas into a public display of humor and passion.
At the Banana Museum, you’ll find some of the most bizarre banana-related items ever created. The collection includes banana phones, banana jewelry, and even a banana-shaped canoe! There’s an entire wall covered in banana stickers from around the globe, while another room features artwork solely focused on this beloved fruit. It’s a feast for the eyes and a joy for anyone with a love for the whimsical.
Visitors rave about the museum’s lighthearted atmosphere and quirky charm. Many describe it as a “bananas” experience, in the best way possible! The friendly staff often share fun facts and stories about the exhibits, making the tour interactive and entertaining. While it’s not the biggest museum, it certainly leaves a lasting impression with its playful spirit and unique subject matter.
Located in O’Leary, Prince Edward Island, The Canadian Potato Museum pays homage to the humble potato and its significance in Canadian agriculture. The museum not only explores the history of potato farming but also highlights the cultural and economic impact of this essential crop in the region. Through engaging displays, visitors learn about the evolution of potato farming techniques and the role potatoes play in Canadian cuisine.
The museum features interactive exhibits that detail the journey of potatoes from the field to the dinner table. Visitors can explore the history of potato farming equipment, view vintage farming tools, and even test their knowledge with fun potato trivia. There’s also a potato kitchen where cooking demonstrations showcase popular potato recipes from around the world.
Don’t miss the museum’s collection of potato memorabilia, including vintage potato sacks, rare potato stamps, and quirky potato-themed art. The highlight for many visitors is the world’s largest exhibit of potato-related items, ranging from unusual kitchen gadgets to potato-shaped plush toys. You can also take a photo with the giant potato sculpture outside, a popular spot for selfies and family photos.
The Telephone Historical Centre, located in Edmonton, Alberta, was established to preserve the rich history of telecommunications in Canada. It started as a project by retired telephone employees who wanted to share their knowledge and passion for the evolution of communication technology. Today, the museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history of how we connect.
Visitors can find an array of historical telecommunication artifacts, from antique switchboards and rotary dial phones to early mobile devices. The museum also displays old telegraph equipment and showcases how telephone technology evolved from its invention to the digital age. Each exhibit is meticulously curated to tell the story of innovation and ingenuity in the field of telecommunications.
The Telephone Historical Centre offers a variety of interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages. Visitors can try their hand at using an old-fashioned switchboard or learn how to send a message via Morse code. The museum also features a mock telephone exchange where you can experience what it was like to be an operator in the early 20th century. Kids and adults alike enjoy the hands-on experiences that bring history to life.
The Shoe Museum in Ontario is dedicated to the fascinating world of footwear. Founded by a local collector who amassed thousands of unique pairs of shoes over several decades, the museum offers a journey through the evolution of shoes across different cultures and periods. The collection ranges from ancient sandals to modern designer sneakers, showcasing the art and craft of shoemaking.
From shoes made of fish scales to ancient Chinese foot-binding shoes, The Shoe Museum houses some of the most unusual footwear you could imagine. Highlights include celebrity shoes, footwear from different occupations like astronauts and circus performers, and an extensive collection of high-fashion heels. Each shoe tells a story, reflecting the culture, history, and technology of its time.
The museum regularly hosts workshops and events, such as shoemaking classes, historical reenactments, and themed tours. These events offer visitors the opportunity to learn more about the history and craftsmanship of shoes, as well as to try their hand at making their own footwear. Seasonal exhibitions also focus on specific themes, like winter boots or summer sandals, providing fresh content for repeat visitors.
Located in the heart of Quebec, The Accordion Museum celebrates this unique musical instrument and its role in local and international music. The museum’s collection includes accordions from around the world, highlighting different styles, materials, and craftsmanship. It’s a treasure trove for music lovers and anyone interested in the cultural significance of the accordion.
The Accordion Museum’s exhibits feature a range of accordions, from antique models to modern designs. The museum also showcases memorabilia from famous accordion players, sheet music, and rare recordings. Interactive displays allow visitors to try their hand at playing the accordion, guided by audio tutorials and friendly staff.
The museum not only honors the local heritage of accordion playing but also celebrates its global influence. Exhibitions often feature the accordion’s role in different music genres, from folk to jazz to classical. Special events, like live performances and masterclasses, attract visitors from all over the world, making the museum a vibrant cultural hub.
Situated in New Brunswick, The Moosehead Breweries Museum dives deep into the history of Canada’s oldest independent brewery. Founded in 1867, Moosehead Breweries has a storied past, and this museum captures its journey through displays of original brewing equipment, photographs, and memorabilia. It’s a fascinating look at the history of brewing in Canada and the family behind it.
One of the most popular aspects of the museum is its behind-the-scenes tours. Visitors can explore the brewery’s production areas, learn about the brewing process, and even sample some of Moosehead’s finest beers. Expert guides share anecdotes and historical tidbits, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Visitors love the unique insights provided by the museum, such as learning about the challenges faced by the brewery during prohibition or the innovative marketing campaigns that have kept Moosehead relevant for over a century. The tastings, of course, are a highlight, and many leave with newfound appreciation for the craft of brewing.
The Broom Closet Museum in Saskatchewan might be the tiniest museum you’ll ever visit — literally housed in a broom closet! It was started by a local artist who wanted to challenge conventional ideas of what a museum could be. Inside, you’ll find a rotating collection of quirky items, from handmade crafts to peculiar objects donated by visitors.
Despite its size, the Broom Closet Museum attracts large numbers of curious visitors. Its charm lies in its unpredictability; no two visits are ever the same. The exhibits are often bizarre and humorous, and the curator’s passion for showcasing the odd and unexpected makes every visit a unique experience.
Inside, you’ll find everything from a tiny set of garden gnomes to a miniature painting of a cow playing a violin. The museum also encourages visitors to leave their own contributions, making it a constantly evolving space that surprises everyone who steps inside.
The Spudnut Museum in Manitoba is dedicated to the history of the beloved spudnut — a doughnut made with potato flour. The museum traces the origins of this unique treat, from its invention in the 1940s to its rise in popularity across North America. It celebrates the creativity of using potatoes in new and delicious ways.
Visitors can expect to find an array of spudnut-related memorabilia, including vintage advertisements, old recipes, and rare spudnut-making machines. There are also exhibits on the cultural impact of spudnuts, featuring stories from the bakeries that made them famous. It’s a small but delightful museum that showcases a unique slice of culinary history.
Many visitors suggest arriving hungry — the museum often features tastings, allowing guests to sample freshly made spudnuts. Reviews highlight the museum’s welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff who are always eager to share stories and recipes. It’s a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth or an interest in culinary history.
The Bathtub Racing Museum in British Columbia is dedicated to the peculiar sport of bathtub racing, which originated in Nanaimo in the 1960s. The museum traces the quirky beginnings of this unique pastime, where participants race modified bathtubs across watercourses, turning a humble fixture into a competitive vehicle.
Inside, you’ll find a collection of racing bathtubs, each with its own unique design and history. The museum also features trophies, photographs, and memorabilia from past races. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to climb into a racing bathtub and imagine themselves competing in this unusual sport.
What makes the Bathtub Racing Museum truly unique is its dedication to such a specific, local tradition. The exhibits are filled with humor and a sense of fun, reflecting the lighthearted spirit of the sport itself. Visitors often leave with a smile, charmed by this eccentric celebration of community and creativity.
The Neon Sign Museum in Edmonton, Alberta, tells the story of neon signage, from its early days in the 1920s to its decline in the 1980s and its recent resurgence. The museum showcases a collection of restored neon signs that once lit up the streets of Edmonton, preserving this vibrant part of the city’s heritage.
The museum features over 20 vintage neon signs, each with its own unique story. Visitors can learn about the history and significance of each sign, from the first neon signs in the city to those that became iconic landmarks. The colorful glow of the signs creates a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.
The Neon Sign Museum is especially magical at night when the signs are lit up. The museum offers special nighttime tours, providing a unique opportunity to see the signs in all their glory. Events like photography workshops and guided tours are also popular, allowing visitors to capture the perfect shot of these glowing pieces of history.
The Museum of Bad Art in Ontario is dedicated to celebrating art that is, well, not exactly “good.” Founded by a group of art lovers with a sense of humor, the museum’s mission is to showcase art that falls short of conventional standards, but still has value in its effort, creativity, or sheer eccentricity.
From amateurish landscapes to unintentionally funny portraits, the museum’s collection is as diverse as it is bizarre. Each piece is displayed with a humorous caption, highlighting both its flaws and its unique charm. The museum challenges visitors to rethink their notions of what art should be and to find beauty in the unexpected.
Visitors often leave with a smile, having enjoyed a refreshing break from the seriousness of traditional art galleries. The Museum of Bad Art offers a light-hearted experience that encourages everyone to appreciate art for what it is — a form of expression that doesn’t always have to be perfect.
Located in Quebec, The Stained Glass Museum is dedicated to the art of stained glass and its preservation. The museum showcases beautiful stained glass pieces from historic churches, private collections, and modern artists, highlighting the craft’s evolution over centuries.
The museum’s exhibits include stunning stained glass panels, windows, and mosaics that reflect different artistic styles and techniques. Visitors can explore both historical pieces and contemporary works, learning about the craftsmanship and materials that make stained glass so mesmerizing.
The Stained Glass Museum also offers workshops and classes for those interested in learning the art themselves. From beginners to advanced artists, these classes provide a hands-on experience in creating your own stained glass pieces. It’s a great way to dive deeper into the craft and leave with a unique souvenir.
The Hockey Hall of Fame in Ontario is a must-visit for any hockey fan. It celebrates Canada’s favorite sport through a vast collection of memorabilia, including jerseys, trophies, and equipment from legendary players. The museum tells the story of hockey’s origins and its rise to becoming an integral part of Canadian culture.
The Hall of Fame boasts a wide array of rare artifacts, from the oldest hockey stick to the Stanley Cup itself. Visitors can explore the personal collections of some of the greatest players in history and see how the sport has evolved over the years. Interactive displays also allow fans to test their skills in shooting, goalkeeping, and commentary.
Expect a highly engaging experience, complete with multimedia presentations, interactive games, and special exhibits. The Hockey Hall of Fame is not just for sports enthusiasts; it’s a deep dive into a cultural phenomenon that has shaped Canada’s national identity.
The Museum of Healthcare in Ontario is dedicated to exploring the history of medical practices and healthcare in Canada. It offers a comprehensive look at how healthcare has evolved, from early remedies and treatments to modern medical advancements. The museum’s collection includes medical tools, pharmaceuticals, and archival materials.
Visitors can explore various exhibits that display antique surgical instruments, early stethoscopes, and even a recreated 19th-century pharmacy. The museum also features interactive displays where visitors can learn about historical medical procedures and the evolution of patient care.
The museum provides numerous learning opportunities through guided tours, workshops, and lectures. It is a valuable resource for both medical professionals and history enthusiasts, offering insights into how far we’ve come in the field of healthcare and what the future may hold.
The Pickle Museum in British Columbia is a quirky homage to everyone’s favorite brined vegetable. This museum explores the history of pickling, from ancient preservation methods to modern pickling practices. The museum’s founder, a passionate pickle enthusiast, wanted to share their love for all things pickled with the world.
Inside, you’ll find a wide array of pickle-related exhibits, including vintage pickle jars, unique recipes from different cultures, and even pickle-themed merchandise. There’s a tasting area where visitors can sample pickles from around the world, making it a mouthwatering experience for all who visit.
Visitors love the museum’s light-hearted approach and unique focus. Many praise the informative exhibits and the friendly staff who are always ready to share fun facts about pickles. It’s a surprisingly delightful stop that leaves many visitors craving more — and perhaps with a newfound appreciation for the humble pickle.