Address: Lock 3, 1932 Government Road, St. Catharines, ON.
Tel: 905-984-8880 or 1-800-305-5134
Come and experience one of the greatest engineering feats in the world at the Welland Canal Centre, where you can explore the fascinating history of the Welland Canal. The canal which was built in 1829, allows ships from around the world to bypass Niagara Falls through a series of locks.
Located at lock 3 in St. Catharines, the museum houses a large collection of artifacts relating to the history of St. Catharines and the Welland Canal, including shipping and marine artifacts, costumes, textiles and fine art to name a few. The second floor of the Centre holds the new Interactive Centre where virtual tours, slideshows, and hands on displays allow visitors the opportunity to see the engineering of the locks of the Welland Canal. Visitors can also learn about the African Canadian Underground Railroad, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and North America’s oldest sport, Lacrosse. Be sure to take advantage of the elevated viewing platform at Lock 3 where you can see enormous ships from around the world pass through the locks. Ships use the Canal regularly from April to December.
Visitors of the museum may also want to connect with the Welland Canal Parkway Trail, which can be accessed from Lock 3. This 9 kilometre paved path allows cyclists, walkers, rollerbladers, and joggers to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the area. The trail provides scenic views of the waters edge along to Lock 1, with picnic facilities and attractions along the way.
The museum is open year round daily from 9 am to 5 pm except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. Winter weekend hours are from 11 am to 4 pm. The museum is wheelchair accessible.
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