Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour

I am so glad we walked a bit further down the Halifax waterfront to spend some time at Pier 21. Every Canadian should see this museum. There is an office that can help find information about when/how your ancestors arrived in Canada. I did not come prepared with any information, so did not do this, but wish I had known ahead of time. The museum has both early Canadian and more modern immigration information. Well worth a visit!

A trip back in time. So many Canadians (>1M) have a connection to Pier 21.

As someone who was born and raised in Halifax, I have always been incredibly proud of Pier 21 and the important role it played in Canada's history. Growing up, I remember visiting the museum on school trips, where I first learned about this important chapter of our country's past. Recently, I returned with my family and my boyfriend's family, who had travelled from another country, because I wanted them to experience one of the most historically significant sites in our province. I was genuinely disappointed to discover that the original Oceans of Hope film, which had concluded the museum experience for many years, has been replaced. The original film beautifully captured the stories of the millions of immigrants, refugees, war brides, children, and families who passed through Pier 21 between 1928 and 1971. It provided an emotional and historically appropriate conclusion to a tour focused on that specific period in Canadian history. Although the new multimedia presentation includes interviews with at least two individuals who immigrated through Pier 21 before it closed as an immigration centre, much of its focus shifts to immigration experiences that occurred after the site had already ceased operating in that role. As a result, it feels disconnected from the historical timeline visitors have just spent the tour learning about. One of the strengths of Pier 21 has always been its honest portrayal of history. It does not shy away from difficult topics, including the discrimination and restrictive immigration policies that existed at different points in Canada's past. Understanding these realities is essential because history allows us to recognize how far we have come while reminding us of the lessons we should never forget. While Canada has rightly earned a reputation as a multicultural nation, preserving the history that shaped our country is equally important. Museums exist to preserve history in its proper context. The story of modern multicultural Canada is important, but it should complement—not replace—the interpretation of one of Canada's most significant historical immigration sites. I believe Oceans of Hope was an integral part of telling the story of Pier 21 and the generations of people whose lives were forever changed by passing through its doors. I sincerely hope the museum considers restoring the original film or, at the very least, presenting the newer multimedia experience separately. Doing so would preserve the historical integrity of the museum while still allowing visitors to learn about Canada's continuing immigration story. For anyone else who misses Oceans of Hope, I was happy to learn that the film is still available for purchase in the museum's boutique. When I asked what had happened to it, an employee told me that it is one of the most common questions they receive and that many visitors express disappointment about its removal from the museum experience. She then showed me where I could purchase a copy, and I was grateful to be able to bring it home. While I'm glad the film has been preserved in that way, I truly hope future visitors will once again have the opportunity to experience it as the powerful conclusion to the Pier 21 tour.

Interesting information about immigration and what immigrants have to study to become Canadian citizens.

Fascinating insight into stories of some of the over 800K people who passed through this facility on their immigration journey to Canada in the middle section of the 20th Century. Many very positive stories but, as with any country, there have been mistakes, or callous treatment and these do get mentioned. The guides I saw were both immigrants themselves, maybe a deliberate choice, which enhanced the stories they relayed to us. I had a great grandfather who immigrated to Canada but died here whilst his family remained in the UK and I found a little bit of extra information about him, though he didn't pass through Halifax. Thoroughly recommend this museum.

Very educational museum. The walk tour guide is very knowledgable anout the immigration history. The pkace is wonderful with souvenir shops!

Went here before flying back to UK. Spent 3 hours here including a tour by museum employee around the original immigration facility which was enjoyable, informative and at times amusing. She illustrated the tour with stories of those who had passed through the facility in a very effective and moving way. The rest of the museum tells the story of immigration into Canada. While I am sure it waters down some of the issues it does not hide the mistakes that were made. There is effective use of interviews and av material.While we did not use the service there are staff who can help you find out about your relative if they passed through the facility or even I believe if they entered the USA. Well worth the 15CD fee(senior rate).

The museum was decent, nice way to showcase the immigration roots of Canada through halifax. Exhibits of people stories were good. Museum a bit expensive and visit would take an hour or two - good place to visit on a rainy day.

Visiting the Canadian Museum of Immigration was a memorable and enriching experience. The exhibits are thoughtfully presented and offer a fascinating look at the stories, challenges, and contributions of immigrants who helped shape Canada. The interactive displays and personal stories make the experience engaging. I left with a deeper appreciation of Canada's history and cultural diversity. I highly recommend this museum to anyone visiting Halifax—it's both educational and inspiring.

What an amazing place! So much information. Guides are wonderful.