St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre — Attraction in St. Catharines

Visited in the beginning of July from the US with my family. What a disappointing experience. To think it is 2023 and the contributions of enslaved Africans are still not properly honored—get with the times. First of all, the exhibit on abolition and the enslaved contribution to St.Catherine’s was deplorable. It is apparent that it was thrown together—some of the pictures that were in hung up were crooked. Also in the middle of the room there were chairs so you could sit and watch a video—which had nothing to do with the enslaved/Harriet Tubman and the community—it was odd. I walked around and saw random folks that sat and watched the video but got up and walked away. I guess they did not care to learn about the slavery/racism history connected to Canada? Weird!

But unfortunately, it got worse. I went to the gift shop and upon arrival the saleswoman asked what I was looking for? Lol It’s a gift shop! Can’t a person say hello and browse in peace? But anyhow I asked to be directed to Harriet Tubman/free slave books—souvenirs and didn’t find much—hardly anything. Saleswoman seemed nice and wanted to help but I can tell my families presence made her uncomfortable. It was weird that the security guard came in and had something to do all of a sudden. Also when I asked her option on a good book(s) to buy on the history of former enslaved she told me the Crabtree publishing company was best because they don’t have all that political stuff in it and got down to the facts. I was confused at what she meant. I did however purchase a book in the shop—not recommended by the salesperson— by Adrienne Shadd, Afua Cooper, and Karolyn Smardz Frost called The Underground Railroad. It was enlightening and a perspective that wasn’t dry with degrading stereotypical depictions of slavery. The Crab tree recommendation was awful and outdated like your exhibit!

I would like to say God bless the historian in this town who I know is trying to get more attention on the historical black churches and the rich history and contributions in this town to be recognized. It is evident that you all don’t have much support and I know it can be frustrating but the black community appreciates you! I was so sad that my 10 year old daughter had to see this sad excuse for an exhibit but I am grateful for the people who keep fighting to make it better. I was in tears seeing how poorly this was done. Hopefully if I decide to come back in a couple of years there will...

Date of visit Thursday may 1st, 2025 History in Motion! 🥍 🚢

Our visit to the St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre was an absolute highlight of our trip to explore the area around the Welland Canal and the many communities that it runs through. This place offers an experience that’s equal parts historic, scenic, and totally unique.

The grounds are beautifully maintained, making it a peaceful and inviting spot to wander. But the true showstopper is the canal viewing platform, where we got front-row seats to watch massive ships navigate Lock 3 of the Welland Canal. Watching those vessels rise and lower is nothing short of mesmerizing—a real testament to human engineering and perseverance.

Inside the museum, the exhibits are thoughtfully curated, covering a wide range of topics, from regional heritage to the remarkable history of the canal itself. We especially loved the Lacrosse Hall of Fame, a hidden gem within the museum that celebrates the deep-rooted cultural and sporting significance of Canada’s national summer sport. It's interactive, educational, and gives the game the spotlight it deserves.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a ship buff, or just looking for a unique stop in Niagara, this spot is a winner. We left feeling inspired, a little more informed, and already talking about a return visit. It was the perfect spot to start our Welland Canal History Road trip.

There is ample free parking on site, and admission to the museum is 100% donations. Pay what you can...

The St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre is one of those local gems that beautifully blends history, engineering marvels, and quiet charm. I stopped by on a sunny afternoon and was pleasantly surprised at how much there was to see and learn—especially for a museum that often flies under the radar compared to other Niagara-area attractions.

The museum itself is well-curated, offering a deep dive into the history of St. Catharines and the vital role the Welland Canal played (and still plays) in Canada’s transportation story. I especially enjoyed the exhibits on early shipping, local industry, and the stories of the people who built and lived around the canal.

But the real magic is outside, on the viewing platform. Watching the massive cargo ships pass through Lock 3, right in front of you, is absolutely mesmerizing. You get a true sense of scale and the incredible engineering that goes into canal navigation. It’s great for kids and adults alike—you can spend a peaceful hour just ship-watching.

Your kids can borrow a backpack of explorer. It is free and welcome for donation.

The staff are friendly and informative, and the building is clean and accessible, with plenty of parking. Whether you’re a history buff, an engineering fan, or just curious, this museum is well...