Ottawa Tourism granted special museum status to dozens of Ottawa festivals, restaurants, venues and attractions on June 21; the Unofficial Museums campaign serves to shine a light on some of the city’s hidden gems and aims to attract travelers to Ottawa to celebrate culture and creativity year-round.

© Ottawa Tourism

“Seven of Canada’s nine national museums are found in Ottawa, along with dozens of other notable museums and galleries,” said Michael Crockatt, president and CEO, Ottawa Tourism. “We’re proud of our museums — they’re among the best in the world. By granting museum status to 76 grassroots institutions this summer, we’re showing the world the range of cultural experiences that Canada’s capital has to offer, and signaling to the world that Ottawa is ready for visitors.”

Additionally, through Oct. 10, Ottawa’s 3^rd Night on Us offer gives travelers booking a stay of three nights or more a third night free, courtesy of Ottawa Tourism.

© Ottawa Tourism

“Opening 76 museums in a day is an ambitious undertaking but we’re an ambitious city,” said Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson. “Tourism is a critical economic driver for Ottawa, and after a two-year disruption for restaurants, the arts, and live concerts, this is a big step towards recovery in our community. Ottawa has so much to offer in the way of arts, food, and music — this is our way of celebrating and giving back to those who work in the tourism industry and bring vibrancy to our amazing city.”

Some of the newly anointed museums include the Unofficial Museum of Croffles, First Bite Treats, for Ottawa’s first union of waffle and croissant; and the Unofficial Museum of Second-Hand Treasures, Highjinx, an antiques and vintage social enterprise shop where the proceeds benefit those in need in the community.

“We never expected our café to become a museum — let alone the Unofficial Museum of Croffles,” said Elias Ali, co-owner, First Bite Treats. “We’re delighted to participate in this celebration of Ottawa’s people and businesses. We’re ready for a great summer.”