How long does it take to tour the Museum?
We can guarantee that we can entertain and delight you for whatever length of time you have available for a visit! Visitors have been known to zoom through the site in half-an-hour, while others have spent many hours, returning for days, to soak up the atmosphere.
What is there to see and do at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic?
There’s always lots to see and do at the Museum, with activities and exhibits tailored to every age group and many interests. The Museum is housed in a complex of buildings which date to the 19th century. Indoor exhibits include an magnificent aquarium, three floors of exhibits, a theatre, the Parks Canada Age of Sail gallery, the fish demonstration room, the Hall of Inshore Fisheries and a working boat building shop. The site also features two deep-sea fishing vessels, the schooner Theresa E. Connor and the steel-hulled side trawler Cape Sable. The summer season is packed full of daily activities and there are special events throughout the year.
How do we find the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic?
The Museum is located at 68 Bluenose Drive on the waterfront in historic Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. If you are traveling on Highway 103, take Exit 11 and follow the key, which is the symbol for heritage sites in Nova Scotia. Our bright red buildings make us hard to miss and there is a large parking lot at the front entrance. Location & Maps
Do you provide guided tours of the Museum?
Yes, a program of guided tours is a value-added feature. One hour guided tours for the general public are available in the summer. VIP Express Tours have been developed for Motor Coach visitors; these tours are offered in 30 and 45 minute sessions. Self-guided tours are encouraged, as the Museum is fully staffed with talented Heritage Interpreters and retired fishermen.
Is the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic open year-round?
Yes, we are open daily for full interpretation mid-May to mid-October. Monday to Friday, from mid-October to mid-May, you may take self-guided tours of the aquarium and the second and third floors. Special programs are also offered during our winter hours, including the traditional March break of schools in Nova Scotia. Tour Groups and School Groups are welcomed year-round with advanced reservation.
Are there restaurant facilities available?
There is a licensed, air-conditioned restaurant on the second floor of the Museum. The Old Fish Factory Restaurant has the best view of the harbour and offers a wide variety on the menu. There is also a canteen, on the first floor. Both facilities are seasonal and we recommend that you check the website for The Old Fish Factory Restaurant for open hours and information.
What other on-site research facilities are available, in addition to the Library and Archives of the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic?
The South Shore Genealogical Society is an important part of the services offered to the public at the Museum. Their office is open year-round, with the exception of the month of December. Please check their website for additional information. The South Shore Genealogical Society is located on the third floor of the Fisheries Museum.
Where is Bluenose II?
Although Lunenburg is the homeport for Bluenose II, the vessel does have an extensive sailing schedule throughout the area. Please check Bluenose II for up-to-date information.
What is the Lunenburg Marine Museum Society?
The Lunenburg Marine Museum Society, through the Board of Directors, is a volunteer group that operates the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic and the schooner Bluenose II for the Province of Nova Scotia.
How can I find out more information about the town of Lunenburg?
Two of the best places to start include Explore Lunenburg and the toll-free number for the Lunenburg Board of Trade -1.888.615.8305
Where can I find tourism information about Lunenburg and the South Shore area of Nova Scotia?
Have a look at the Destination Southwest Nova web site.
Do you have an Aquarium?
Yes! We have 14 tanks in our Aquarium, including a seven-foot high vista tank. We showcase species native to the area, including the endangered species, Atlantic Whitefish, found only in two rivers in Nova Scotia! There is also an interactive multi-media display with lots of information for visitors of all ages.
How large is the Museum?
The Museum is comprised of 46,000 sq. ft. of space, housed in the old Lunenburg Sea Products building. There are also two Museum vessels tied up at the wharf which visitors can go aboard and explore. The Museum collection consists of 43,000 artifacts.
Are there parking facilities at the Museum?
We have a parking lot adjacent to the Museum. The cost is $3/day.
Is there a bike rack at the Museum?
We have a bike rack just outside the entrance to the Museum.
What credit cards are accepted at the museum?
The Museum Shop and Museum admissions accept VISA, MASTER CARD and debit. We also honour CAA/AAA members with a 10% discount on admissions and on some merchandise in the Shop (some restrictions apply).
Does the Museum allow dogs?
Bringing dogs into the Museum is not recommended, but if you wish to bring your dog inside, the dog must remain in your arms at all times throughout the Museum, inside as well as on the wharf area. The exception is service dogs that do NOT have to be carried.
What services does the Museum offer for visitors with disabilities?
Wheelchair accessible washrooms are available on the first floor. There is an elevator to take visitors to the 2nd and 3rd floors. Two wheelchairs are available at admissions on a first-come, first-serve basis. This service is complimentary. Unfortunately, the two Museum vessels are not wheelchair accessible, but photo albums are available upon request showing images of the interior of the vessels.