Celebrate a child's birthday in a truly unique setting—an underground Cold War bunker turned museum. Kids become secret agents on a mission filled with code-breaking and gadget-making in this historic adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Children should be able to comfortably walk and move around underground tunnels.
Wildlife
History
The Diefenbunker was built in the 1950s as part of Canada’s national defense strategy during the Cold War.
Conservation
The museum promotes historical preservation and sustainable visitor practices to protect the site for future generations.
Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum
Celebrate a child's birthday in a truly unique setting—an underground Cold War bunker turned museum. Kids become secret agents on a mission filled with code-breaking and gadget-making in this historic adventure.
Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum in Ottawa, Ontario preserves one of Canada’s most significant Cold War artifacts and offers immersive public programs that bring underground history to life. The museum operates self-guided and guided experiences including general admission, flexible ticketing, free parking, and a complimentary shuttle between downtown Ottawa and the site for summer 2025. Visitors can explore museum exhibits at their own pace or join scheduled guided tours and group tours, with some group options allowing individual payments.
Educational programs include Spy Camp for children aged 5 to 10, featuring disguise techniques, codebreaking, and Cold War technology, plus a Counsellor‑in‑Training (CIT) leadership program for youth aged 12 to 15. Birthday parties for children aged 7 to 12 provide spy‑themed missions and hands‑on activities. Seasonal events include a Toddlers’ Halloween Hunt and theatrical performances such as “Dief the Chief: October ’62,” a one‑hour show set 75 feet underground starring actor Pierre Brault.
The museum supports ongoing engagement through an Annual Pass offering year‑round access and the monthly e‑newsletter News from Underground. The Cold War Speaker Series delivers virtual expert talks with advance registration. Facilities feature visitor conveniences such as free parking and a new summer shuttle connecting the Canadian War Museum and the Diefenbunker from July 10 to September 21, 2025. With clear ticketing options and a range of family and educational programs, the Diefenbunker provides a secure, documented setting for learning about Cold War history. Operating as a museum facility, it preserves artifacts, archives, and educational resources for researchers.
Location
Ottawa, Ontario
Historic underground site
Guided Tours
Flexible ticketing
Explore at your own pace
Family Programs
Spy camps & parties
Ages 5–15 activities
Summer Shuttle
Free Jul 10–Sep 21
Round-trip from downtown
Book guided tours, Spy Camp, birthday parties, or the summer shuttle—secure tickets for an unforgettable Cold War visit.
Arrive early for the best experience
Getting there early ensures more time for activities and photos.
Wear comfortable clothing
Kids will be moving through tunnels and participating in active games.
Bring a camera for photos
Capture fun moments during the secret missions and team challenges.
Book in advance
Spaces for birthday parties are limited and fill up quickly.
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes
Necessary for moving safely and comfortably through the underground corridors.
Camera or smartphone
Perfect for capturing fun moments during the spy missions.
Hat and water bottle
Stay cool and hydrated during outdoor arrival or departure.
summer
Light jacket or layers
Indoor temperature can vary; layers help ensure comfort.
winter