Port Colborne Historical & Marine Museum - Port Colborne, Ontario

Rogue T.

Date of visit: May 2nd
A Whimsical Step Through Time! ⚓
For years, we have been visiting Port Colborne and often said – we should go visit that Museum, but for one reason or another, it never happened. So, during our little Welland Canal History Road trip getaway, we made it a plan to visit all of the Museums.

Our visit to the Port Colborne Historical & Marine Museum was an absolute delight! Even before the full season launch, this charming spot offered a taste of its magic—and let’s just say, we’re already planning our return.

The current exhibit, ‘Step Right Up’, is pure nostalgia and curiosity rolled into one. We stepped under the big top and found ourselves immersed in a playful, mysterious world filled with rarely-seen artifacts, each with its own quirky backstory. It’s a brilliant way to celebrate the museum’s 50 years of collecting—and it truly feels like they brought out their most fantastic treasures just for this moment.

I grew up in Crystal Beach, and there were many artefacts pertaining to the good old days of Crystal Beach Amusement Park, and other items from the town’s heyday. This brought back many great childhood memories.

The museum grounds are beautiful and tranquil, perfect for a slow stroll and soaking up the local heritage. And a huge shoutout to the warm and welcoming docent, who brought the exhibits to life with insightful stories and genuine enthusiasm—we felt right at home.
Although Arabella’s Tea Room wasn’t open yet, just peeking through the windows was enough to get us excited for a future visit. We can already imagine sipping tea and enjoying homemade treats in that cozy setting once the season is in full swing.

While I am disappointed we hadn’t made it into the museum before now – I have to say – I am very glad we went when we did – because not only is it their 50th anniversary – but the Step Right Up exhibit was so beautifully curated, it was the highlight of the visit.
Good job on curating this beautiful local history museum.

Admission is ‘free’ but please leave a donation to help them continue doing fantastic work.

There is street parking – and a couple of nearby lots.

VL

**Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum: A Charming Journey Through Time**

Nestled in the heart of Port Colborne, the Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum offers a delightful and intimate journey into the past. Though modest in size, this captivating museum is rich in history and brimming with fascinating exhibits that beautifully chronicle the story of Port Colborne and its early inhabitants.

From the moment you step through its doors, the museum envelops you in a bygone era. Each exhibit is meticulously curated, offering a glimpse into the lives of the early settlers, their daily routines, and the challenges they faced. The museum's charm lies in its ability to make history accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of the museum experience is the unique opportunity to partake in tea time on the museum premises. This quaint tradition is lovingly upheld by dedicated volunteers, who serve a delightful selection of teas and treats for just $7. It's a cash-only affair, adding to the old-world charm of the experience. Tea time at the museum is more than just a refreshment break; it's a chance to sit back, relax, and soak in the serene surroundings while reflecting on the rich history of Port Colborne.

Despite its modest size, the Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum offers a wealth of knowledge and a truly memorable experience. For those seeking a deeper understanding of the region's history or simply a pleasant afternoon activity, this museum is a must-visit. Highly recommended for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, the Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and heritage of this charming lakeside community.

In summary, if you find yourself in Port Colborne, make sure to carve out some time to visit this delightful museum. It's a journey through history you won't want to miss.

Alex M.

Nice place, historic and beautiful, too bad it was close for the season.

Keith H.

Excellent museum with numerous outbuildings, great blacksmith shop authentically equipped. Excellent period tea room with scones (tea biscuits) and servers in period dress. Bone china cups and tea pots.

Tina G.

Very educational. Went during Canal Days and there were many really cool demonstrations

Cara R.

Maintained and operated with love and respect. One of my favourite stops with visitors. Tea and biscuits at Arabella's Tea Room is lovely.

Janet S.

Very nice set up! I noticed kid friendly areas so it would be good for families. The grounds are shaded. The exhibits are nicely displayed.

Toni S.

I absolutely loved it! I’m so glad that I just popped in and walked around