What we do
The Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum is Ottawa’s immersive history destination. Built as a four-storey underground facility, it once served as the country’s central communications headquarters during the Cold War, ready at any moment in case of a nuclear attack.
Today, it is a one-of-a-kind museum, a national historic site and an independent charitable organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting Canada’s Cold War history. Each year, the museum welcomes more than 80,000 visitors from around the world to experience award-winning exhibitions, tours, programs, events and escape rooms.
How you can help
Donate
The Diefenbunker is Canada’s most significant surviving Cold War artifact and a powerful reminder of a world on the brink of nuclear war. It tells the story of Canada’s resourcefulness, preparedness and extraordinary efforts to safeguard our way of life.
Your gift supports the preservation of this national historic site and its stories, ensuring they remain accessible for future generations. Donations also help fund our unique educational programs, giving youth the opportunity to learn from and reflect on a pivotal period in world history.
Sponsor an event
The Diefenbunker values its community connections and welcomes meaningful collaborations. Sponsorship of our annual special events gives organizations and businesses an opportunity to be at the forefront of engaging, educational initiatives. Sponsorship support enables the museum to continue offering its wide array of public programs and events to new and diverse audiences.
Become a member
Sign up today to experience the Diefenbunker’s underground history time and again with free admission year-round. Members enjoy discounts on events and programs, exclusive invitations and more. Membership helps preserve Cold War artifacts and stories while giving you the chance to explore them in depth.
This article first appeared in the 2025 Giving Guide produced by the Ottawa Business Journal. That publication is available in its digital edition below.
To learn more about this charity, please visit the latest issue of the Giving Guide:
