Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is a captivating destination that beautifully intertwines history, culture, and storytelling. Located in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, this museum occupies a historic oceanfront site that once served as the gateway for over a million immigrants arriving in Canada between 1928 and 1971. Unique Historical Features Pier 21 is recognized as a National Historic Site, and it stands as a poignant reminder of Canada's immigration story. The museum showcases personal stories, artifacts, and multimedia exhibits that highlight the diverse experiences of immigrants. One of its most significant features is the "Immigrant Journey" exhibit, where visitors can trace the paths of those who sought new beginnings in Canada. Activities and Experiences Visitors can engage in a variety of enriching activities, including: Guided tours that provide deep insights into the immigrant experience. Interactive exhibits that encourage personal connections to the stories shared. Special events and workshops that celebrate cultural diversity and heritage. Geographical Location Situated along the picturesque waterfront of Halifax, the museum is easily accessible and offers stunning views of the harbor. Its prime location makes it a perfect addition to any visit to the area, surrounded by other attractions, shops, and restaurants. Facilities and Services The museum is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable visit: A well-stocked gift shop featuring unique Canadian and immigrant-themed products. A café offering a selection of refreshments and light meals. Accessibility options to accommodate all visitors. Parking Options For those driving, there are both free and paid parking options available nearby. Visitors can find convenient street parking, as well as designated paid lots that offer easy access to the museum. Conclusion The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 invites you to explore the rich tapestry of Canada's immigration history. With its engaging exhibits, stunning location, and a commitment to storytelling, it promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. Whether you're a history buff, a family looking for a fun day out, or someone interested in the diverse cultures that shape Canada today, this museum is not to be missed!

Very impressive museum- a lot of heart and soul went into creating this place I’m sure! I enjoyed looking at all the artifacts and learning about the stories of immigrants throughout the years. The employees were all quite friendly, especially a volunteer who shared some knowledge with us. I think everyone should go to Pier 21 at least once, it will leave you with a new perspective and a better appreciation for the people who left everything to start a new life here.

A meaningful and well-curated experience. Pier 21 is exceptionally well done — the layout is thoughtful, the exhibits are engaging, and the entire space is welcoming and kid-friendly. The staff were attentive, the facilities were clean, and admission was free on Canada Day, which made it even more accessible. As someone with Dutch heritage, I found the experience both eye-opening and deeply moving. It offered powerful insights into the immigrant journey, and I left with a greater appreciation for the courage and resilience of those who came before us.

Fantastic experience of Canada’s immigration history in the mid-20th century. We went with our two kids (13 and 10) and weren’t sure how long they would want to stay. In the end we stayed 2 hours and only left because the museum was closing. The tour was very good and the short documentary very moving. There are so many interactive exhibits and the staff were so helpful.

If you are a descendant of immigrants which most of us are. You will be intrigued. My wife is a 1st generation born in Canada. Her parents' came through this port. The guide tour was very informative. It lasted about 30 minutes. The museum is fairly small but is packed with interesting items and information. They also have an office to track your family lineage.

I love reading about history especially about how my ancestors arrived here by ship. There are guided tours that lasts 20 followed by a 22 minute film. Very interesting. Both my grandparents and my dad immigrated to Canada.

Museum was interesting but seemed expensive once we got thru the exhibits. There were interesting things to see but felt somewhat limited for the cost of admission. We came to Halifax on a cruise, so we were docked literally right next door. We docked at Pier 22 and the museum is at Pier 21. The buildings share a wall and there is a doorway to access the museum from the cruise poetry shops area. So if you are visiting via cruise ship, the location is excellent.

Great Experience visiting the Canadian Museum of Immigration. Encapsulates what makes Canada great and the hardships those had to go through during the early conception of Canada and into the 20th century

This was one of the most wonderful museums we have ever visited. We were moved to tears several times. The guided 30-'minute tour is a must, and the 20 minute film with first hand experiences from immigrants to Canada was moving. Hearing about the pride Canada takes in their vibrant tapestry of multiculturalism was a breath of fresh air. We absolutely loved the museum.

Nice pier to get off the ship on. Lots of shops inside. Great area info and maps. Walking distance to lots of other shops and places to eat. Easy on easy off.

We had a group event on the upper level with cocktails, snacks and a live band. It was nicely set up with standing room at the bar and food areas and seating with tables where the stage and band were. There were washrooms in the standing area. We also got a guided tour of the museum and saw the names of the people the immigrated through this pier. It was a cool way to experience what it would have been like back then and it was emotional. The staff and guide were very friendly. The view of the harbour from the windows was beautiful.

This is an absolute must-visit wether you're a resident or just visiting Halifax. Plan to spend at least half of your day here. It's not an overly huge museum, but it is packed with content and will take a few hours to get through. You can park directly outside in the paid lot. Evenings and weekends are free. Make sure you bring tissues with you. The exhibits are both touching and heartbreaking. It was a very emotional experience even as someone who knew much of the horrific histories of our country. No matter how much you know, where you come from, this museum will hopefully educate and give you hope. Don't pass this up and check it out. Admission is about $15 for an adult and they have great hours. This facility is fully accessible.

The museum itself is rather small but it does have e som compelling exhibits. It's actually next to where the cruises dock so you get a feel for the immigrants. I like that they tell stories of immigration old and new, not just the 1800s version. This should be mandatory for all congress people wanted to change the immigration/migrant crisis. Good gift shop and attached to another. Lots of hands on activities for kids. Highly recommend.

Pier 21 was Canada's Ellis Island. Housed in the original buildings once including a railway yard, though which over a million passed, this is an exceptionally good example of an interactive museum. Immigration to Canada in general and though Pier 21 specifically are both thoroughly covered. Good centre for genealogical research. Also worth seeing is the Wheel of Conscience. They have regular travelling exhibits. When we were there, it was an incredibly thorough collection of Yousef Karsh's photography.

Pier 21 Rich in history and stories, Pier 21 is a Canadian museum that everyone should pay attention to. It was the port of entry for hundreds of thousands of mostly European (only Caucasians were widely welcome until 1967), who settled in Canada leaving their homes, friends and families filled with anticipation but without really knowing what would await them. I was literally in tears walking down the halls where thousands of people walked to start a new life; they were fearful, happy, anxious, joyful, excited and nervous. They came from all walks of life. Some of them were happy to just leave their war-torn countries. Google says that people spend about 2.5 hours inside, that sounds about right although if you really want to fully experience the museum; you would need more than that. There is just so much information to consume, so many videos to watch and oral history to listen to - Pier 21 tells the story of Canada told by the same people who left their countries and settled in Canada. Up in the second floor, you see tons of luggage because you can't tell a story about immigrants without talking about their luggage - what they fit in them and whatever they painfully left behind. Each luggage has a story to tell and begs to ask the viewers; what would you bring with you if you were to move to a new country, 7-14 days boat-ride away? We gaze at the magnificence of Halifax's waterfront which for many, marked a new beginning. We see the assembly hall where immigration processing occurred; 99% of people were admitted and about 1% were jailed or sent back home for various reasons. We stand in the same assembly hall where hundreds of thousands of immigrants waited anxiously for their turn for the interview, hoping that the immigration officer would grant them entry. The entire process could take hours; imagine doing that along with your hungry children. Wall-size photos of the hall are present; if you look closely, you'll notice that everyone was Caucasian. Up until 1967, non-whites were not welcome in Canada - except to do arduous labour. Pier 21 does not shy away from the issues that faced the aboriginals and how their generosity changed their community forever. Quite pointedly, we see quotes, declarations, photos and artifacts related to painful experiences brought by the first settlers in Canada. Stories that at one point, risked not being told. Equally important, Pier 21, tells the success stories brought by immigration. One of the halls features scientists, athletes, artists and powerful industries that were shaped by, and made better by, immigrants. It talks about welcoming neighbours who welcomed their new immigrant neighbours, support networks, advocacy and the ever-changing laws that make the experiences of new immigrants better. The story of immigrants continues today and Pier 21 presents us those stories too. The first floor houses a sombre reality - a tearful story about refugees. The exhibit invites you to experience what it feels like to be a refugee. The curator attempts to relive the horrors of persecution: letting us listen to fear in the interrogation room; feel the terror of answering the knock on your door, without knowing who would be at the other side; and sit in anticipation aboard the aircraft that will take you to freedom. The exhibit also provides a glimpse of the lives of people who, until now, are categorized as displaced persons - they live in precarious, in abandoned buildings with many others, or locked in tent communities that have striking similarities with concentration camps. The exhibit also points out that not all refugee stories are tragic - we hear the stories of successful men and women who entered Canada as refugees. I flew to Halifax to see and experience nature, to de-stress, to find comfort in nature. I did not know that that healing would happen indoors. Pier 21 gave me comfort that despite Canada's wrongdoings, it continues to get better with regards to immigration. I spent over 3 hours in this relatively small museum, but its impact is long-lasting.

This is such a beautiful building and museum. I attended a party here with my husband's work. The staff working that night were very nice and friendly and eager to answer any questions we may have about the immigration museum displays. They offered up a lot of knowledge and history. There's lots of very interesting exhibits and some interactive stuff as well. It was a beautiful place to have a party with lots to see and do.

Sister Sarah and I went to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 this afternoon. We checked the Empress of Ireland exhibit first. |We checked out the Canadian Immigration Story exhibition ... showcasing the vast contributions of newcomers to Canada's culture, economy and way of life, from past to present day, see how Canada is shaped by the world in experiential ways. We snapped our photos which were included in the Canadian mosaic of cross-country landscapes. We checked out the main exhibit. You could leave a note re what Pier 21 means to you Before we left, we watched a 20-minute movie called In Canada interviewing recent immigrants about why they came to Canada and how do they like it, etc. It was an interesting museum and worth checking out. We spent about three hours there. My family has been in Canada for many years and never had to go through Pier 21.

Pier 21 is a must see sight In Halifax. Plan to spend between three and five hours there diving into all of the information and history around immigration in Canada from the mid-1800s or before through to today. You can even find records at the scotiabank sponsored centre of your ancestors who may have arrived at pier 21. We found the ship manifest that carried my great grandparents and their seven children including my grandfather to Halifax 1905. There is a guided tour and a short film and several interactive areas for you to feel how an immigrant or refugee must feel arriving in Canada.

An immigration museum could go in many directions, but this one was fantastic, the best I have seen on the subject. They gave some basic concepts about the topic, along with some kid and family friendly demos, but also had a very details overview of the entire history of Canadian immigration law, a topic under the microscope in our world. I walked away after learning quite a bit about all the different methods tonscreen people and how they were influenced by the times, and revised with change. You could spend a few hours here, even without the guided tours. A great gift shop to boot!

My visit to Pier 21 in August 2010 was a very special one for me. This is the very spot where my father, Nonna and Nonno, immediate aunts and uncles, and numerous cousins first set foot in Canada in the mid 1950s after being on a ship for a week from Italy. I've always been fascinated by the history of my family, and even went to their village in Italy (which was an amazing experience), so it was cool to see this part of their journey. It was a beautiful day outside when we visited, so we read the plaques outside (one of them very moving, called The Immigrant) and checking out the old train. I was really looking forward to visiting the Research Centre. However, i didn't get much out of this part of my visit, since records are not available to the public until 75 years after the fact. They did give me a form that my relatives could fill out so they could get their immigration records mailed directly to them. We moved on upstairs and were able to join one of the free guided tours. I would highly recommend this. Without it, I think it would be a lot of interesting pictures on the walls without a ton of explanation. The guide told a lot of really cool, interesting and sometimes personal stories. All of the guides are volunteers and passionate about Pier 21. Afterwards we went to the theatre inside a replica boat to watch Oceans of Hope, stories of different immigrant families acted out in a kind of 3D hologram presentation... sadly to say, neither me nor my husband were a fan of the way it was presented and found it to be too cheesy. The most special part of the visit was going to the dock area, where my family, along with over a million others, first set foot in Canada. It was a surreal experience for me and brought a couple of tears to my eyes to picture my 5 year old dad, holding hands with my Nonna, walking onto this very spot and beginning his new life here. I'm getting a little verklempt just typing this! There a couple of benches there now, and a great view over the water. I spent a while just sitting and reflecting, thinking. Whether or not you have a personal connection, go to Pier 21. It is a very important and interesting piece of our history.

Guided tours are great. Sheila is amazing. Not a typical museum in that it doesn't have rooms full of artifacts but the photo and visual displays are wonderful. The building itself is impressive - Canada's "immigration shed" - the first touch of Canada for more than a million newcomers and point of departure for half a million military service personnel. Although I didn't use it, the Scotiabank Family History Centre houses a large collection of archival information available to the public. Visitors can search for the basic arrival information of anyone arriving through a Canadian port between 1865 and 1935, and the records of individuals coming through Halifax, Quebec City, Montreal or Saint John between 1925 and 1935 can be accessed on microfilm.

My visit yesterday was slightly informal, opting to simply browse the tourist shops and the main floor. I had no idea there was such an extensive shopping district sprawling along the Pier's lowest level. From Halifax tees, to hand painted silk scarves, various jewellers and souvenirs for kiddies, this strip is a stereotypical tourist's dream come true. There were quite a few people milling about, as there was a cruise ship parked outside unloading the prospective buyers. It was a nice bright space, easily accessible, especially if you're stepping right off of a ship. I've been to the upper levels of the Pier before for various events, including Nocturne and Chinese Moon Festival celebrations. The volunteer greeters are always very hospitable, and the space is lofty and impressive. I can't speak to the Pier 21 tours, but all other aspects of the building and staff are a hit with me. An interesting place to take visitors, and a fun place to just pop about if you're a native Haligonian with an interest in tourist merchandise!

If your family came to Canada in the 1950s, this is an amazing spot to come to, especially with the family member who initially immigrated. It has lots of interactive displays about immigration where you can dress up and enter spaces and it'd be lots of fun for little kids. There's a comprehensive timeline of the history of Canadian immigration with artifacts and snippets of personal stories. One section of the museum was very interactive and the other was very text heavy, so it's geared for two audiences. The immigration game they have, where you can "experience" applying for Canadian Citizenship, doesn't seem to have been updated since they made lots of changes to the system in 2015. But it's a cute idea for taking something complicated and bureaucratic and making it easier to understand. I was a little confused about why some of the artwork reflecting the immigration experience was done by people who hadn't immigrated (they'd moved from one province to another) but it seemed like maybe it was an exhibit of local student work. Overall, it was cute. It's hard to guess if someone going in without knowing a lot about immigration would really have a better understanding of it at the end. Part of this is just how different immigration has been historically for different groups as well as how different it is for immigrants today. It's tough to turn so many narratives into a story that makes sense for a museum visitor.

Exceptional presentation of immigration to Canada. We loved the interactive components that really engaged with our children as well as us adults! The visuals are so well placed, the flow is perfect, and it is so interesting to hear the voices of the people who became Canadians speak about how proud they are to become a Canadian! I love this place!

It seems here in Halifax, our Museums are 1st Rate! This is another one we should be proud of. Take a walk back through time here, learn and see things you might not have known before. Anyone arriving here, Immigrants, came through this Pier. The schools seem to favor this for class trips and for good reason. It is beautiful around our waterfront in the summer. Go make a day of it.

If you get a chance to get the guided tour, don't miss it. The docents (tour guides) share personal accounts and point out some wonderful artifacts provided by or left behind by immigrants of an earlier time. Sometime heart wrenching, sometimes heart warming, but always fascinating and memorable. There are sections dedicated to war brides and their stories about meeting Canadian soldiers and moving to a new land with them after the war. You'll learn about the children of Britain who were sent to Canada for safety during the war. walk through the immigration process and listen to stories from immigrants. Very moving.

I've been to Pier 21 numerous times for events and I have to say: They do them well! They've got a great space, service is usually very good and the food is great. That being said, I'm here to talk about the rest of the museum...I'd only actually been there once so a friend and I popped by during Nocturne. I have to say that I wasn't overwhelmed but I wasn't underwhelmed either (does that make sense?). They've got a nice set-up and there were some interesting displays set up. I liked that we could touch some of the artifacts and really get a good look at stuff. As mentioned in earlier reviews, and as a former history student, I did find some of the information/displays leaned a little more towards propaganda than historical facts but overall I think they do a good job. I loved reading the few personal stories they had and would LOVE to read and learn about more personal aspects of people's journeys. I didn't get to see everything so I'll definitely go back to Pier 21and take a few hours to wander around and read it all. I'd also love to do the tour!

Steeped in history, Pier 21 offers tourists like me a look into the history of our country's immigration. Although I would have liked to see more pieces and older generations of real stories, I liked what they did have. My favourite part was probably the train installment with the CBC listening rooms full of tales from real immigrants who went through Pier 21. Most impressive was the "boat" serving as a theatre. While the stories were fictional and more ept for a school child, I liked the 3D imaging portrayed on the screen. Visually and technologically stimulating for sure. If it's your first time to Halifax, I'd check it out... linger in the World War II wing where the water feels like it's lapping up onto the second floor.

God I loveeeee history. And what better place to go, than the place where so many Canadians can trace back their journey to our country within. A huge space makes it great for events.. as I know many Yelpers have experienced.. and that leads into the museum. A place rich with so much information, and most importantly, a comprehensive breakdown of the of signatures that have been collected. Ever see the movie Hitch? Yea, that kind of history at your fingertips. Also a beautiful place to watch the world's cruise ships.. and luxury boats coming into the harbor.

I'm not sure if I'm qualified to review Pier 21 just yet seeing as how I've never actually made it into the museum portion of this historic Halifax port, but hey - I've been in the building for countless events over the years and, quite frankly, I'm sick of seeing it pop up under the 'Your Next Review Awaits' section. Even in recent memory, Pier 21 was off by itself deep in the city's South End without much reason for locals to visit beyond the occasional banquet dinner. Now, thanks to things like Garrison Brewery and the Seaport Farmers Market, Pier 21 feels more connected to the city and we're all better off for it. Why? Well, spectacular views and a lovely, refined multipurpose space for events of all kind for starters. The upstairs at Pier 21 has got to be one of the reasons floor-to-ceiling windows were invented. The view of the island, the relaxing pulse of the ocean, it all just makes me feel so proud to be an east-coaster. Purely from an event perspective, one of the tricky things about Pier 21 is an exclusive catering contract with insanely high prices (the highest in the city, from what I remember). Because of this, you can expect the same options for most events you attend here - luckily the trio of dips with pita and veggies are pretty tasty...

Summertime means that this place is outwardly buzzing, what with the loots of tourist, board-walkers and meandering locals just down for some good old fashioned site seeing. The lower level of the Pier is definitely a tourist trap. With bundles of pocket sized trinkets and accessories, the place makes it easy for everyone to get a piece. Cruise-ship waders can burn sometime dressing themselves in jewels and scarves, all for a mere couple bucks. (And maybe more) Pier 21 also houses many local cultural events, so an eye out. A bit out of the way from other downtown galleries and artistic endeavors, the space is attractive-- large and open-- with a lot to look at. Its a good spot to keep on your radar, as they are pretty keen on keeping the flux coming their way. Pop in for a gander next time you're in the area... its worth a trip.

Pier 21 is an incredibly important part of Canadian history. Want to know more? Then check it out! Ok ,ok, seriously, Pier 21 was a passenger terminal for transatlantic ocean liners for the better part of the 20th century. During its years of operation, Pier 21 was the entry point of Canada for over one million immigrants. Suffices to say, a lot of history has past through the walls of this building and the Pier 21 National Historic Site does a nice job of capturing a lot of that history. The museum is very open concept, with a lot of photographs and interactive displays. The workers and volunteers around the site are friendly and knowledgeable. The museum does a great job of painting a very extensive picture of Pier 21's history. On location there is also a gift shop and cafe, as well as a number of kiosks from a number of local businesses. Definitely check this place out, it's a valuable resource to learn more about our country's history.

Very helpful personnel on the computer helping find your relatives. So great to see the actual pages. The whole process was free of charge

I have to disagree with the other reviews done by the locals. I was seriously underwelmed by my visit to this museum. I'll admit that I was looking forward to the Canadian equivalent to Ellis Island. Americans tend to forget that other countries are countries of immigrants. The fact that I was soaked to the bones on my walk from downtown to the museum didnt help my disposition. Although there are a couple of neat aspects. Sadly, the view of the habor is probably the best of them, I cant recommend this museum. It was really thin on interesting information.

Before our Titanic excursion, we were wondering around Pier 21 and found the museum. We had no idea of the history about Pier 21. The museum is great. We didn't do the guided tour, but I have heard good things about it. The museum is not big, but there is a lot to read and take in. It was so interesting, I ended up buying a couple of books at the gift shop to learn more.

This review is about the Canadian Museum of Immigration, the most important component of Pier 21. Unfortunately I found this museum, which is located on the upper level of Pier 21, to be a misnomer. It's not truly a "Canadian Museum of Immigration" - it doesn't cover anything that happened before Pier 21 opened, it doesn't cover anything that happened after Pier 21 closed in 1971, and it doesn't cover immigration to Canada at other ports of entry. As a result of that, the museum is much more Europe-centric than immigration to Canada has been, and, in particular, it is very UK-centric. Moreover, the museum devotes a lot of attention to soldiers leaving and returning to Canada at Pier 21 - something that, apart from the "war brides", doesn't have anything to do with immigration. Therefore, a more realistic name for the current form of the museum would be "Pier 21 Museum". The name "Canadian Museum of Immigration" is misleading and shouldn't be kept unless the content of the museum is actually changed to reflect that name. The map that one receives at the ticket counter is a map of Pier 21 rather than a map of the museum. Several people who were at the museum at the same time as I missed parts of the exhibit because of the lack of a proper map and because of the lack of signage (specifically, the CN car as well as the video exhibits located towards the bay). I very much liked the fact that the authentic layout of the arrival hall, including the immigration desk and sign, has been very accurately maintained (as can be seen by comparing it to an old photograph that is displayed in the museum). The audio and video documents are also very informative. Unfortunately a few of the audio documents that are installed throughout the museum are too quiet or too loud. Most of them have the "right" volume though. The best A/V documents are those in the CN car in which each compartment contains a video with three or four immigrants who share their story. The museum also has a longer movie called "Oceans of Hope" which is displayed in a large theatre that, from the outside, looks like a steamer. The movie tells the (fictional) stories of several different (groups of) immigrants that arrived in Halifax during the first half of the 20th century, and of a soldier that returned to Canada in Halifax after World War II. These stories, however, are very cheesy, and the emphasis clearly is on emotion rather than information. (The same is true, unfortunately, for the movie that is shown at the Grand Pré National Historic Site.) Because of that, I found the authentic A/V documents a lot more helpful than "Oceans of Hope". The fact that Canada's attitude towards immigration and immigrants hasn't always been as open as it is today, especially when it came to non-European or Jewish immigrants, is discussed only on one of the many display stands. Related to that is the "Wheel of Conscience" by Daniel Libeskind which shows how hatred, racism, xenophobia, and antisemitism are linked to each other. A very thoughtful piece of art that you should not miss when you visit the museum. The guided tour was a bit weak - it was essentially a collection of anecdotes about past visitors of the museum and about some of the people who are displayed in photographs throughout the museum. One could make the guided tour more informative than that. Overall it is an interesting museum, but it could be better, and it would benefit from being brought more in line with its name.

Not only is this a great venue for events (like the Chamber of Commerce speakers' panel I just attended), but the museum is spectacular. My children and I attended and arrived just as the film started, telling the story of Pier 21 and immigration. It really set the stage for our visit and made everything there so much more interesting for the girls. Also had a significant impact on them and their understanding of immigration and Canada.

If you haven't been to Pier 21, GO! It is an amazing, emotional experience and really makes you appreciate what immigrants had to go through to come to Canada. Lots of displays including a new area with interactive activities for kids. I left there feeling like a very proud Canadian!

Perhaps Im an unfair candidate to write a review with a masters degree in immigration but if one word could describe the experien of Peir 21 it would be - propaganda! To the highest degree. Cool to be in the building itself but please! Read between the lines of the poorly curated explanations and pictures. And I think I've seen enough suitcases there in my life time. Seriously? That's what I paid money for...to see corners and corners stuffed with mock suitcases. Glad I only paid $6!