Doctor's Office
1 / 10

Museum of Health Care Kingston

4.6
·78 reviews·Kingston, Canada

Discover Canadian healthcare history in a charming, donation-based museum with interactive exhibits and a unique gift shop.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Doctor's Office

Museum of Health Care Kingston

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Canadian healthcare history in a charming, donation-based museum with interactive exhibits and a unique gift shop.

4.6
(78 reviews)

"A delightful, intriguing, well-textured museum that holds the stories of how all of us were cared for."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Donation-Based Entry

Support this gem by donating what you can. It's a great way to experience history affordably. :moneybag:

👟 Scavenger Hunt Fun

Challenge yourself or the kids with a scavenger hunt! Multiple difficulty levels available. :detective:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nurses' Stories

Nurses' Stories

Main Exhibition Hall

Discover the poignant stories of Kingston nurses, including those who served in WWI. A moving tribute to their dedication.

Interactive Children's Space

Interactive Children's Space

Designated Family Area

A fun and educational zone with crafts and activities, including a popular scavenger hunt for kids.

Rockwood Exhibition

Rockwood Exhibition

Special Exhibition Area

Explore the history of psychiatric care and its evolution through this insightful and well-textured exhibit.

Unique Gift Shop Finds

Unique Gift Shop Finds

Museum Gift Shop

Browse quirky plush toys of diseases and other health-themed novelties that make for memorable souvenirs.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit: Donation-Based Entry

The Museum of Health Care operates on a donation basis, making it accessible for all budgets. Consider contributing what you can to support this unique institution. Check their website for current hours before you go.

Engage with Interactive Exhibits

This museum offers more than just static displays. Look for interactive elements and scavenger hunts designed for various age levels, ensuring an engaging experience for families and curious minds alike.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Family-friendly activities available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Kingston Penitentiary Tour! Pretty eerie to walk through this place! Very cool experience! #kingstonpenitentiary#kingston#kingstonpen#scary#creepystories #museummoment#nutorious#maximumsecurityprison@Mike
@mjolaisen
4.3K likes • 195K views

🎯 Donation-Based Entry

Support this gem by donating what you can. It's a great way to experience history affordably. :moneybag:

👟 Scavenger Hunt Fun

Challenge yourself or the kids with a scavenger hunt! Multiple difficulty levels available. :detective:

SAVE for the perfect historic Ontario getaway! If you’re looking for an incredible and super historic getaway in Ontario, you need to visit Kingston. Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, Canada’s first capital city has SO many heritage sights to explore. In fact, Kingston is home to more than 40 museums, National Historic Sites, art galleries and one UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also only 3 ...
@kirstenwendlandt
2.9K likes • 139.6K views
⭐️Meet 40 Under 40 award recipient, Simge Erdogan-O’Connor!⭐️ Simge Erdogan-O’Connor, PhD, is Director of the Museum of Health Care in Kingston. She holds a PhD in Cultural Studies from Queen’s University and an MA in Museum Studies from University College London. Informed by her background in Turkey and experience in England and Canada, she leads with a global and community-focused lens on museu...
kingstonyoungprofessionals
22 likes • 723 views

🧸 Quirky Souvenirs

Don't miss the gift shop for unique, health-themed plushies and goodies. :gift:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Activities

The interactive space and crafts are a hit with younger visitors. :child:

The Museum of Health Care and Murney Tower Museum are inviting you to Eggs-tream Easter Fun - at the Museum! 🥚🐇⁣ ⁣ On Saturday, April 1st the Museum of Healthcare and Murney Tower Museum will open their doors specifically to Kingston groups and families for Eggs-tra special Easter event which includes an Easter egg hunt and Easter-themed crafts. ⁣ ⁣ 🔺What to expect? Easter eggs will be hidden in b...
murneytowermuseum
3 likes • 166 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Donation-Based Entry

Support this gem by donating what you can. It's a great way to experience history affordably. :moneybag:

👟 Scavenger Hunt Fun

Challenge yourself or the kids with a scavenger hunt! Multiple difficulty levels available. :detective:

🧸 Quirky Souvenirs

Don't miss the gift shop for unique, health-themed plushies and goodies. :gift:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Activities

The interactive space and crafts are a hit with younger visitors. :child:

🚗 Limited Parking

On-site parking is available but can be limited. Consider nearby street parking. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(78 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Health Care for its unique focus, engaging exhibits, and family-friendly atmosphere. While small, its donation-based entry and interactive elements, like scavenger hunts and a dedicated children's space, make it a highly recommended stop in Kingston. The quirky gift shop also receives positive mentions.

"It's really worth the visit if you're passing through Kingston."

Carole Maigar

"A very nice small museum. It provides insight to the experiences of nurses in Kingston with interesting facts, and I loved that they have an educational interactive space for children.

They also have a small merch shop that had cute plushie dolls of diseases and other health related goodies.

They had a section where you could leave a message to nurses and how they affected your life, and it was cute to look through the many messages that were left behind.

And a scavenger hunt in 3 levels of difficulty for those who are up for a challenge!

Admission by donation. Small paid parking space available on site."

Young Lee

"Nice little museum. It's really small but it is interesting.
The entry to the museum is through donations.
We stopped at Kingston on the way on our road trip and decided to check it out.
Fun stuff in their gift shop too, kids found some knick knacks that are very loved."

Aakriti Gupta

What People Like

Donation-based entry
Interactive exhibits
Kid-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Small size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Kingston, Ontario. If driving, there is a small paid parking lot on-site. Public transport options within Kingston can also be utilized to reach the museum's vicinity. TikTok

Yes, there is a small paid parking space available on site. However, it can fill up quickly, so arriving early or considering alternative parking nearby is advisable. Reddit

Depending on your starting point, the museum is generally within walking distance from downtown Kingston, especially if you are exploring other heritage sites in the area. TikTok

Kingston Transit operates bus routes that can take you close to the museum. Check the Kingston Transit website for specific route information and schedules. TikTok

While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the museum, historical buildings can sometimes present challenges. It's recommended to contact them in advance if you have specific accessibility needs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Museum of Health Care is by donation. Visitors are encouraged to contribute what they feel is appropriate to support the museum's operations. Reddit

As admission is by donation, advance booking is typically not required. However, for special events, it's always best to check the museum's website or social media for any registration needs. Instagram

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Museum of Health Care website or their social media channels for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. Instagram

Since admission is donation-based, there are no standard discounts. However, keep an eye out for special event days or community partnerships that might offer unique experiences. Reddit

Information regarding tourist passes and their applicability to the Museum of Health Care is best confirmed directly with the museum or the pass provider. Given the donation model, it's unlikely to be included. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can expect exhibits on the history of Canadian healthcare, the experiences of nurses (including WWI nurses), psychiatric care history, and interactive displays for children. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The museum features an educational interactive space with crafts and a popular scavenger hunt designed for kids. InstagramReddit

Yes, the museum offers fun scavenger hunts with varying difficulty levels and an interactive area for children's crafts. Reddit

This textile installation by Tracey-Mae Chambers explores disenfranchised grief and addiction, motivated by personal loss. Instagram+1

Given its size, a visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend engaging with the exhibits and participating in activities. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not appear to have a cafe or dining facilities. Visitors are advised to explore the many restaurants and cafes in downtown Kingston for food options. Reddit

Typically, museums discourage outside food and drinks in exhibit areas to preserve the artifacts. It's best to consume any personal food or beverages outside the museum. Reddit

Kingston's downtown core, a short walk from the museum, offers a wide array of dining choices, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. TikTok

While not directly at the museum, there are parks and waterfront areas in Kingston where you could enjoy a picnic before or after your visit. TikTok

For specific event inquiries, including catering, it's recommended to contact the museum directly through their official channels. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted, but flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. It's always best to check for posted signs or ask staff. Instagram

Some exhibits, particularly those featuring loaned items or sensitive materials, may have restrictions on photography. Always be mindful of signage. Instagram

Yes, sharing your experiences on social media is encouraged! Just ensure you're not using flash and are respectful of other visitors and the exhibits. TikTokInstagram

The unique exhibits, historical artifacts, and the interactive children's area offer various interesting photo opportunities. The gift shop also has visually appealing items. Reddit

Drone usage is typically regulated by local bylaws and aviation authorities. It's highly unlikely to be permitted in the vicinity of the museum or other public spaces without special permits. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of Health Care is a fantastic, budget-friendly outing for families. Admission by donation means you can contribute what fits your budget. Kids will love the dedicated interactive space, complete with crafts and a fun scavenger hunt that makes learning an adventure. InstagramReddit

Parents often mention the engaging nature of the exhibits for younger visitors, and the unique gift shop with its quirky plush toys is a guaranteed hit. It's a great way to introduce children to Canadian history and the importance of healthcare in a fun, accessible way. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This museum is a dream for budget-conscious travelers. With admission by donation, you can tailor your contribution to your spending. It offers a rich historical and cultural experience without a hefty price tag. Reddit

Combine your visit with exploring other free or low-cost attractions in Kingston, like walking along the waterfront or exploring historic streets. The museum's central location makes it easy to incorporate into a day of affordable sightseeing. TikTok

📚 History Buffs & Students

For those fascinated by Canadian history and the evolution of medicine, this museum is a must-visit. The detailed exhibits on nursing history, psychiatric care, and general healthcare practices offer deep insights. InstagramReddit

Students can find valuable information for research projects, particularly on social history and the development of healthcare systems. The museum's focus on personal stories and specific exhibitions like Rockwood provides unique perspectives often missed in broader historical texts. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Healthcare in Kingston

The Museum of Health Care in Kingston offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of medical practices and healthcare in Canada, with a particular focus on the Kingston region. Housed in a historic nursing residence, the museum's architecture itself adds to the immersive experience. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing everything from early medical tools and techniques to the significant contributions of nurses and physicians throughout history. TikTokReddit

One of the museum's strengths is its ability to connect historical medical practices to contemporary understanding. Exhibits often highlight the challenges faced by healthcare providers and patients in different eras, fostering a deeper appreciation for the advancements made. The museum also delves into specific areas like psychiatric care, as seen in the Rockwood exhibition, providing nuanced perspectives on social and physical well-being. Reddit

Beyond the historical artifacts, the museum emphasizes the human element of healthcare. Stories of individual nurses, doctors, and patients bring the exhibits to life, making the history relatable and impactful. This focus on personal narratives, combined with interactive elements, ensures that the museum is not just educational but also emotionally engaging for visitors of all ages. InstagramReddit

Engaging Young Minds: Family Activities

The Museum of Health Care is a surprisingly engaging destination for families, thanks to its dedicated interactive space for children. This area is designed to make learning about health and history fun and accessible for younger visitors. It often features hands-on activities, coloring stations, and crafts that tie into the museum's themes. InstagramReddit

A standout feature for families is the museum's scavenger hunt. Available in multiple difficulty levels, it encourages children (and adults!) to actively explore the exhibits, find specific items, and learn interesting facts along the way. This gamified approach transforms a museum visit into an adventure, keeping kids entertained and curious. Reddit

Parents often praise the museum for its welcoming atmosphere for children. The 'leave a message to nurses' section also provides a sweet, interactive way for families to reflect on the impact of healthcare professionals. The gift shop, with its unique plush toys of diseases and other health-related novelties, is also a hit with kids looking for a memorable souvenir. Reddit

Artistic Interpretations of Health and Grief

The Museum of Health Care has also become a venue for contemporary artists to explore themes related to health, well-being, and human experience. A notable example is the textile installation 'They are loved - an epidemic of grief' by artist Tracey-Mae Chambers. This powerful piece delves into the complexities of disenfranchised grief and addiction, stemming from personal loss. Instagram+1

By incorporating such artistic expressions, the museum broadens its narrative beyond purely historical accounts. It demonstrates how art can serve as a medium to process difficult emotions and societal issues related to health. These temporary exhibitions add a dynamic layer to the museum's offerings, attracting a diverse audience interested in both history and contemporary art. Instagram

These artistic collaborations highlight the museum's commitment to exploring the multifaceted nature of health. They invite visitors to reflect on personal experiences and societal challenges through a different lens, making the museum a space for contemplation and dialogue. Instagram

You may also like