Royal Canadian Mint
Explore Canada's currency and precious metals production at the historic Royal Canadian Mint, featuring tours and impressive displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See coin production
Royal Canadian Mint
Best Time
See coin production
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Canada's currency and precious metals production at the historic Royal Canadian Mint, featuring tours and impressive displays.
"An amazing tour, well worth the admission, with personable and knowledgeable guides."
🎯 Book Tours Online
Secure your spot by booking tours in advance online. :admission_tickets:
🚶 Arrive Early for Tours
Give yourself ample time before your tour to explore the gift shop and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The World's Largest Coin
Display Area
Marvel at the sheer scale of the 100 kg pure gold coin, a Guinness World Record holder and a true testament to minting prowess.
Gold and Silver Bar Displays
Display Area
See impressive stacks and displays of gold and silver bars, showcasing the Mint's role in precious metal production.
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The Minting Process Tour
Guided Tour Route
Gain insight into how Canada's currency and precious metal products are made on an informative guided tour.
The Gift Shop Treasures
Gift Shop
Browse and purchase a wide array of coins, collectibles, and unique Canadian-themed souvenirs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Timing is Key for Production
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours Online
Secure your spot by booking tours in advance online. :admission_tickets:
🚶 Arrive Early for Tours
Give yourself ample time before your tour to explore the gift shop and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
📸 No Photos on Tour
Photography is not permitted during the guided tour itself. :camerawithflash:
💰 Souvenir Coins
Consider purchasing souvenir coins as unique keepsakes from your visit. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours Online
Secure your spot by booking tours in advance online. :admission_tickets:
🚶 Arrive Early for Tours
Give yourself ample time before your tour to explore the gift shop and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
📸 No Photos on Tour
Photography is not permitted during the guided tour itself. :camerawithflash:
💰 Souvenir Coins
Consider purchasing souvenir coins as unique keepsakes from your visit. :moneybag:
💡 Ask Questions
Guides are knowledgeable and happy to answer your questions about the minting process. :bulb:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Royal Canadian Mint tour to be an informative and interesting experience, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the impressive displays of coins and precious metals. The historic building and the gift shop are also frequently praised. However, some find the tour restrictive due to the no-photography rule and the limited visibility of actual production on weekends.
"What an amazing tour! Quite glad we did it a well worth the admission. The fellow we had doing the tour was personable and knowledgeable. Gave great overviews and shows the process. If we had questions and wanted to get deeper on things (like how it is refined to 5 9s) he gave detailed explanations. Bought the kids a couple 1oz silver investment coins for their souvenir. All in all a great time. No pics from the tour as they weren’t permitted. You should try getting an appointment online - they email you back right away. That said, some people that were visiting the gift shop were able to buy and hop on to the tour while we were there."
Jim H
"As an avid coin lover, this place has been on my bucket list for years. My late-father and I collected coins for years, from the Royal Canadian Mint. He was never able to make it here but I was so glad I did.
I almost wasn't able to get a tour due to some major miscommunication between myself and a lady on the phone about when I should book. An amazing woman by the name of Amber was able to swoop in and help me and my family get 3 tickets.
This was my super bowl while in Ottawa. Seems small for some but for others, it's their passion. Upon entry, you'll notice how old and historic the building is, and still beautiful to this day. There are various little spots to take photos on your way to the entrance and eventually to the gift shop which anyone can visit.
The gift shop is top-notch. Hundreds of coins here. It's nice to be able to see them in person prior to purchase. They also have puzzles, sweaters, coin collection cases, etc. All the staff that I dealt with were so nice, helpful and friendly.
The tour itself, was so great and informative. The tour guide (I forget her name, blond hair lady), was fantastic and very knowledgeable. She answered questions and gave us lots of time to see everything around us, and take it all in.
I'll definitely be recommending this experience to anyone visiting the Ottawa area and I look forward to visiting again next time we're in Ottawa.
5/5
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"
MJG
"The tour of the mint was okay. You are inside a gallery for the 45 minute tour and are not allowed to take any pictures and it is difficult to see what is going on at times. The only other thing is the gift shop so there is not much to do outside of the tour, which I felt left something to be desired. It did book up fast so I would recommend booking a tour in advance."
Joe Desourdie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Canadian Mint is located in Ottawa, Ontario. Visitors can typically reach it by car, taxi, or public transportation. Parking information should be checked in advance, as some visitors have found free street parking nearby.
While specific parking details can vary, some visitors have reported finding free street parking on the street across the road. It's advisable to check the official website or contact the Mint for the most current parking information.
Ottawa has a public transit system (OC Transpo) that can likely take you near the Royal Canadian Mint. Checking the OC Transpo website for routes and schedules is recommended for planning your public transit journey.
The Mint is generally accessible, but it's always best to contact them directly to confirm specific accessibility features and accommodations for tours and facilities.
The Royal Canadian Mint's Ottawa facility is located at 320 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, ON K1A 0G8, Canada.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for the guided tours. It's recommended to check the official Royal Canadian Mint website for the most up-to-date pricing information for adult, senior, and child tickets.
Yes, booking your tour tickets in advance online is highly recommended as tours can sell out, especially during busy periods.
The operating hours for tours and the gift shop can vary. It's best to consult the official Royal Canadian Mint website for their current hours of operation, as well as any seasonal changes.
While some visitors have been able to purchase tickets for the gift shop and potentially hop on a tour if space is available, booking in advance is the safest bet to guarantee entry.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or group rates is typically available on the Mint's official website. It's worth checking there for any applicable promotions.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
You can take a guided tour to learn about the minting process, see impressive displays of gold and silver bars, and visit the gift shop to purchase coins and souvenirs.
No, photography is not permitted during the guided tour of the Royal Canadian Mint.
The guided tour typically lasts around 45 minutes, providing an in-depth look at the Mint's operations.
The 'mint exchange' likely refers to opportunities to purchase or exchange currency and coins directly from the Mint, often available during specific times or events.
The main attraction is the tour, but the gift shop offers a wide selection of coins and collectibles. Some visitors also appreciate the historic architecture of the building.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The gift shop offers a vast selection of coins, including collector's items and investment-grade bullion, as well as puzzles, sweaters, and coin collection cases.
Yes, the Royal Canadian Mint is a primary producer of gold and silver bullion, and you can purchase these items directly from their gift shop or through authorized dealers.
Typically, there are no full-service dining facilities within the Royal Canadian Mint itself. Visitors may need to explore nearby restaurants in Ottawa for food and beverages.
Many visitors find the gift shop offers competitive pricing, especially considering the quality and direct-from-mint authenticity. Some online retailers may offer lower premiums on bullion.
Absolutely! The Mint frequently releases special edition and commemorative coins, which are often available for purchase at their gift shop or online.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the tour areas of the Royal Canadian Mint to protect proprietary processes and security.
While photos aren't allowed inside the tour, the exterior of the historic, castle-like building offers great photo opportunities. There are also spots on the way to the entrance and gift shop.
Generally, photography is permitted in the gift shop area, allowing you to capture the displays of coins and souvenirs. However, it's always polite to ask staff if you're unsure.
The most significant 'photo opportunity' is the impressive architecture of the building itself. Inside, the displays of coins and bars are visually striking, though not photographable during the tour.
A standard digital camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the exterior. Consider a wide-angle lens if you want to fit the entire impressive structure into your shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing a small, affordable coin for children as a unique memento of their visit. The historic architecture of the building can also spark imagination. Remember to book tours in advance, as they can fill up quickly, and plan for a visit during weekdays to potentially see some production.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on the tour as the primary expense. The gift shop, while tempting, can be avoided if you're strictly on a budget, though even a small souvenir coin can be a relatively inexpensive memento. Parking might be a consideration; look for free street parking options if available.
💍 Couples & History Buffs
History buffs will appreciate the building's 1908 origins and the Mint's long-standing role in Canadian finance. The displays of gold and silver, along with the intricate coin designs, offer a glimpse into economic history and artistry. Consider a visit during weekdays to potentially witness production, adding an extra layer of interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Science of Minting
+2During the guided tour, visitors get a glimpse into the intricate processes involved, from the initial design stages to the final striking of coins. While actual production might not always be visible, the tour explains the sophisticated machinery and techniques used to create Canada's currency and precious metal products.
Beyond currency, the Mint is a major producer of gold and silver bars for investors worldwide. These bars are recognized for their authenticity, purity, and security features, making them a trusted choice for those looking to invest in precious metals.
+2A Collector's Paradise: The Gift Shop
+1For those interested in investment, the shop also offers bullion coins and bars struck by the Mint, providing a tangible asset with guaranteed purity. It's a unique opportunity to see these items in person before making a purchase, allowing you to appreciate their craftsmanship and detail.
Beyond numismatic items, the gift shop stocks a variety of other Canadian-themed merchandise, including puzzles, apparel, and accessories, making it a great place to find a unique gift or memento of your visit.
The Historic Architecture
Even if you're not taking the tour, the exterior of the Mint offers a striking visual. Visitors can appreciate the architectural details and find picturesque spots for photos on their way to the entrance or gift shop. The building's presence adds to the overall experience, providing a sense of place and history.
Inside, the historic nature of the building is also palpable, contributing to the atmosphere of the visitor experience. It’s a reminder of the Mint's enduring legacy and its importance to the Canadian economy and identity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit