🛡️ What Is the Canadian Tank Museum?
Founded in 1980, this accredited Canadian Forces Museum is located on the south field of Oshawa Executive Airport (1000 Stevenson Rd. N) . It evolved from the Ontario Regiment’s artifact collection dating back to 1972, merging with the "Ferret Club" vehicle restoration team in 1993
Today, it houses North America's largest collection of operational military vehicles—over 140 in total, including more than 33 tanks, jeeps, armoured personnel carriers, logistics trucks, and self‑propelled guns
🚶‍♂️ Exploring the Museum
1. Historic Static Gallery
Start your journey through time with the museum's static displays, tracing history from the War of 1812 to Afghanistan. Expect to see uniforms, medals, firearms, photos, and artifacts like the rare Dingo Scout Car (donated in 2023) tankmuseum.ca.
2. The Operational Vehicle Hangar
Enter the breath-taking hangar—and yes, they’re not just for display; these vehicles run. Sherman Mark IV, M60s, Sheridans, Centurions, Lynx scout cars—many of them mobile, loud, muddy, and thrilling
3. Behind-the-Scenes & Volunteer Crew
Nearly everything is volunteer-run by ex-CAF members and history buffs. In the restoration garage, they rebuild and maintain vehicles—sharing their hands‑on knowledge along the way .
4. Educational Walking Tours
Want more context? Opt for themed tours like “Tank Story Hall” exploring from Little Willie (WWI) to Challenger 2 (modern era), or tours of Cold War, AFVs, etc
🎫 Visiting Details & Admission
Address: 1000 Stevenson Rd. N, Oshawa, ON L1J 5P5—access from south via Stevenson Rd. (not airport entrance)
Hours:
May to Remembrance Day: open daily 12–4 PM.
Winter (Dec–Apr): Thu–Sun 12–4 PM. Closed major holidays
For special events or group tours, email tours@tankmuseum.ca
Admission: around $10 CAD general, veterans free; special event add-ons (rides, demos) extra .
Group Tours: tailored guided experiences available; contact ahead tankmuseum.ca.
Why It's a Must-See
Living History in Motion
It’s not about dusty relics—the roar, rumble, muddy tracks, and pyrotechnics make history visceral.Immersive Education
Hands-on tours, expert guides, and youth quizzes (Kids Zone) make learning fun and memorable.Veteran-Owned Expertise
Every detail—from restoration to storytelling—is powered by real veterans and history lovers.Epic Events
Battle reenactments—especially during Tank Saturday or Aquino Weekend—are next-level experiential theatre.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
Check the event calendar: Tank Saturdays, Aquino Weekend, Winter Warfare—each offers a unique experience.
Book rides early—armoured vehicle rides tend to fill fast.
Arrive before noon to explore galleries, see vehicles up close, and chat with volunteers before demos begin.
Weather readiness: Hangar is warm indoors, but outdoor demos (Battle Royale) happen rain or shine.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible, restrooms available; group discounts for schools and veterans.
Summary: What to Expect
ExperienceDescriptionStatic MuseumArtifacts, uniforms, rifles, medals, AFV historiesInteractive HangarOver 140 operational vehicles—tanks, jeeps, carriersGuided ToursTank Story Hall, AFV Recognition, Cold War & ModernEventsMonthly Tank Saturdays, June/July Aquino Weekend, Winter WarfareSpecial ExperiencesArmoured vehicle rides, Tank Talks, re-enactor involvement
🗺️ Getting There from Toronto
Just a ~45‑minute drive east on Highway 401. Take exit 415 (Stevenson Rd), head north about 10 minutes, and follow signage to the south field entrance
From the roar of a 60‑ton Sherman to chatting with a WWII veteran volunteer, the Canadian Tank Museum in Oshawa delivers a dynamic, educational, and unforgettable journey through military history. If you're looking for a unique, action-packed day trip—and a great one for families with kids 8+—this is it.
