Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre
Explore a remarkable collection of historic bushplanes and aerial firefighting aircraft, with many open for boarding. Features the fascinating Entomic...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal exploration
Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a remarkable collection of historic bushplanes and aerial firefighting aircraft, with many open for boarding. Features the fascinating Entomica Insectarium.
"A lively museum jam-packed with aircraft you can touch and explore – definitely recommended!"
✈️ Board the Planes!
Many aircraft are open to explore inside. Get up close with history!
🗺️ Download the Tour
Enhance your visit with an informative audio tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Board Historic Bushplanes
Main Hangar
Step inside and explore iconic aircraft like the DeHavilland Beaver. Get a feel for bush pilot life!
Aerial Firefighting Displays
Main Hangar
Discover the powerful machines used to combat wildfires. Learn about their crucial role in conservation.
Entomica Insectarium
Adjacent Exhibit
Fascinating collection of insects and reptiles, offering a unique educational experience for all ages.
Flight Simulator Experience
Interactive Zone
Pilot your own virtual bushplane adventure! A thrilling way to understand flight dynamics.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Immerse Yourself in Aviation History
Beyond the Planes: A Multi-Faceted Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✈️ Board the Planes!
Many aircraft are open to explore inside. Get up close with history!
🗺️ Download the Tour
Enhance your visit with an informative audio tour.
🦋 Insect Exhibit Surprise
Don't miss the Entomica Insectarium – a cool bonus!
🛍️ Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique aviation-themed souvenirs and apparel.
Tips
from all over the internet
✈️ Board the Planes!
Many aircraft are open to explore inside. Get up close with history!
🗺️ Download the Tour
Enhance your visit with an informative audio tour.
🦋 Insect Exhibit Surprise
Don't miss the Entomica Insectarium – a cool bonus!
🛍️ Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique aviation-themed souvenirs and apparel.
📅 Check for Events
Special shows and expos happen year-round. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre for its extensive collection of accessible historic aircraft and the engaging Entomica Insectarium. Many highlight the immersive experience of boarding the planes and the wealth of Canadian aviation history on display. While most find the staff friendly and knowledgeable, a few reviews mention a lack of enthusiasm from some employees.
"Great collection of aircraft! I loved that you can actually board most of them and take a look inside. It makes for an immersive experience to be able to wander around the inside of the hull and take a stroll through history. I do recommend that the employees are coached a little better as there was 0 enthusiasm from the employees. We wandered into the insect exhibit and the young women inside wouldn't even make eye contact with us. I tried to smile at them but they looked away. A warmer reception from the employees would have made the experience truly memorable."
Carlin Selwyn
"We visited Canada for the first time yesterday and stopped at the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. Very nice and informative museum. Alot of Canadian aviation history in one hanger. Many planes to look at from small float planes to larger fire bombing aircraft. Everyone was very friendly. The facility was nice and clean and as a bonus, it had an entomology lab inside that had an array of of insects from small to large, along with several small reptiles. The lady that showed us some of the critters(I'm sorry I forgot her name) was extremely friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. If you make it to Sault Ste Marie, Ontario Canada. I would highly recommend checking it out👍👍😊"
Jay Shaffer
"Great museum! We enjoyed our experience here. My husband was my tour guide, but there is a tour guide that you can download that is filled with info also. The store was great, too. Highly recommend when visiting Sault Ste Marie."
Stacey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The centre is located at 50 Pim Street in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transit options may also be available; check local Sault Ste. Marie transit schedules for routes and times.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the centre. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current parking information, especially during special events.
Sault Ste. Marie, often called 'The Soo,' is known for its natural beauty, proximity to Lake Superior, and its industrial heritage. It's a gateway to outdoor adventures.
Absolutely! The centre is a fantastic stop for a day trip to Sault Ste. Marie, offering a concentrated dose of aviation history and unique exhibits.
For exploring the city and its attractions like the Bushplane Heritage Centre, driving is convenient. For specific transit information, consult local resources.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary. It's best to check the official Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre website for the most up-to-date pricing for adults, seniors, children, and families.
Operating hours can change seasonally. Generally, the museum is open daily, but specific times, including extended hours on Thursdays, are available on their website.
Yes, purchasing tickets online is often recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons or special events. Check their official website for online booking options.
Look out for special passes like the March Break Cultural Family Pass, which offers access to multiple cultural locations, including the Bushplane Heritage Centre.
The museum strives to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the centre directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and accommodations.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You can explore a large collection of historic bushplanes, many of which you can board and examine closely. There are also displays on aerial firefighting and the Entomica Insectarium. A flight simulator offers an interactive experience. +1
Yes, a significant highlight is that many of the aircraft are accessible for visitors to board and explore inside, offering an immersive historical experience. +1
Yes, the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre features a flight simulator that allows visitors to experience piloting a bushplane.
Entomica Insectarium is an exhibit within the centre showcasing a diverse collection of insects and other invertebrates, providing an educational and engaging experience.
Yes, guided tours are offered and highly recommended. Tour guides are knowledgeable and provide in-depth information about the aircraft and aviation history. +1
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, the museum has a gift shop offering a variety of aviation-themed merchandise, souvenirs, and apparel.
While the centre may have limited concessions, Sault Ste. Marie offers various restaurants and cafes nearby. It's advisable to check their website for any onsite dining facilities.
The gift shop is a great place to find aviation-themed gifts, from model planes to clothing and books.
During special events like craft shows or expos, food vendors are often present, offering a range of treats and meals.
Souvenirs range from small trinkets and patches to apparel like hoodies and sweaters, perfect for aviation enthusiasts.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the museum for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially near sensitive exhibits.
The accessible aircraft interiors and exteriors offer fantastic photo opportunities. The displays on aerial firefighting and the unique insects in Entomica also make for interesting shots. +1
During specific holiday events, you might have the chance to take photos with characters like the Grinch. Keep an eye on their event schedule.
Drone photography is typically not allowed inside museums or enclosed public spaces due to safety and privacy concerns. Always adhere to local regulations.
The museum has a mix of ambient and display lighting. Some areas might be dimmer, so a camera with good low-light performance or a flash might be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during special events like the March Break Cultural Family Pass for added value and activities. The interactive flight simulator also provides a thrilling experience for older children and teens. Don't forget to check out the gift shop for aviation-themed souvenirs to remember the visit.
+1✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the displays on aerial firefighting and the evolution of bushplane technology. The knowledgeable staff and available tours can provide deep insights into the operational history and technical aspects of these iconic aircraft.
📸 Photographers
Don't overlook the Entomica Insectarium for macro photography opportunities. During events, the added elements of vendors and crowds can create dynamic, candid shots. Remember to check for any specific photography guidelines upon arrival.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Bush Flying
Visitors can get an up-close look at these legendary machines, with many aircraft open for exploration. This hands-on approach allows you to truly appreciate the engineering and the challenging conditions these planes operated in. The centre also highlights the bravery and skill of the bush pilots who navigated these aircraft through unpredictable weather and remote landing sites, often serving as the lifeline for isolated communities.
Beyond passenger and cargo transport, bushplanes were crucial for aerial firefighting. The museum features impressive displays on this critical aspect of aviation, showcasing the specialized equipment and techniques used to combat wildfires. Learning about these operations provides a deeper understanding of the dual purpose these versatile aircraft served in protecting Canada's natural resources.
More Than Just Planes: Entomica Insectarium
The Insectarium features a diverse array of specimens, from colourful butterflies and intricate beetles to larger, more imposing creatures. Knowledgeable staff are often on hand to share interesting facts and demonstrate the behaviours of these creatures, making the experience both informative and engaging. It’s a great opportunity to learn about biodiversity and the often-overlooked importance of insects in our ecosystem.
This dual attraction makes the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre a well-rounded destination. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about the natural world, the Entomica Insectarium adds significant value to your visit, offering a unique educational experience that complements the historical aviation exhibits.
Events and Community Engagement
+1These special occasions provide unique opportunities to experience the centre in a different light. For instance, holiday events offer a chance to get into the festive spirit with activities like Grinch photos and shopping for unique gifts.
+1 The centre also participates in broader city initiatives, such as the March Break Cultural Family Pass, which encourages exploration of multiple cultural attractions in Sault Ste. Marie. Attending an event at the centre is a great way to support local artisans and businesses while enjoying the unique backdrop of historic aircraft. It demonstrates the centre's commitment to community engagement and providing diverse experiences beyond its core aviation exhibits.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit