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Diefenbunker tour tips (and things to do in Carp)

A four-storey nuclear bunker built under a hillside 35 minutes west of Ottawa, 75 feet underground and almost unchanged since the 1960s.

Updated October 2026 · How we make money

What it is

Built from 1959 to 1961 to shelter Canada's government in a nuclear war, it ran as Canadian Forces Station Carp until 1994. Now it's a not-for-profit museum with the War Cabinet room, the prime minister's suite, the Bank of Canada vault and more.

Tour tips

  • Book a guided tour if you can; the guides are the highlight. A self-guided visit with the audio guide (available in 10 languages) also works.
  • Buy tickets online ahead of your visit, especially on weekends.
  • Allow at least an hour; most people spend 1.5–2 hours.
  • Bring a sweater: parts of the bunker are chilly year-round.
  • Hours vary by season, and the admissions desk closes 30 minutes before closing.

With kids

School-age kids love the blast tunnel and the spy-gadget feel. The museum runs escape rooms, spy-themed camps over March Break and summer, and special events such as laser tag nights.

Getting there

It's at 3929 Carp Road. Take Highway 417 west to the Carp Road exit (144) and head north through the village. Parking is free. It isn't reachable by public transit.

Things to do in Carp

  • Carp Farmers' Market on Saturdays in season
  • Carp Fair, a big rural fall fair each September
  • Cafés, a custom creamery and pubs in the village
Ottawa museum tickets

Drive times are from downtown Ottawa with normal traffic. Hours and seasons change, so check the venue's own site before you go.

Keep planning

FAQ

How long does a Diefenbunker tour take?

Allow at least an hour; most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours including a guided tour.

Is the Diefenbunker good for kids?

Yes, especially for school-age kids. It also runs escape rooms and spy-themed camps.

Can you get to the Diefenbunker by bus?

No. It isn't served by public transit, but there's free parking on site.

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Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Prices, hours and seasons change, so confirm with the venue before you go.