Get a close up look at ships from around the world on the elevated viewing platform at Lock 3 at Welland Canals. Be sure to get a look inside the interactive center, where you’ll get a fascinating look at the engineering and construction of the canal. Watch the 15 minute video presentation “Welland Canals: Past and Present” to get a better understanding of the canal system and its importance to Niagara Falls and the beginning of North America’s industrial heartland. The Museum offers exhibits and intriguing educational programs which will inform you of the history of the locks and the area.  

The Welland Canal connects Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, which is 100m (327ft) higher than Lake Ontario. Some 8m (27ft) deep, the canal enables large ocean vessels to navigate the Great Lakes. Each year, more than a thousand seafaring ships travel through the seven locks that make up the 42km (26mi) long canal. The average transit time for any vessel is 12 hours.  The Ontario Welland Canal Memorial monument was built in 2002 to commemorate those who came to the Niagara Peninsula to build the Welland canal, some men even died while digging with picks and shovels. The bronze boy at the back of the fountain overlooks the canal and memorial pathway, which both contain a number of bricks and plaques with the names of donors.

Along the Welland Canal corridor, there are also other observation points, trails, beaches, picnic areas and waterways, as well as historical ruins, museums, and restaurants. Take a day to drive along the scenic routes through the various cities and lakes. 

Welland Canals at Lock 3 Hours of Operation

Open 9:00am to 5:00pm, daily

Winter weekends and Holidays – 11:00am to 4:00pm 

Welland Canals at Lock 3 prices and admissions

Observation Deck is always FREE 

Museum Rates

$4.20 Adults, $4.00 Seniors (60+), $3.24 Students (over 14), $2.50 Children (ages 6 to 13), Children 5 and under are FREE!

“Welland Canals: Past and Present” Video - $1.00/person 

Families receive a 15% discount! 

Groups of 15 or more:

$4.00 Adults, $3.75 Seniors, $3.75 Students (Elementary and Secondary) 

Welland Canals at Lock 3 Location

Located at 1932 Welland Canals Parkway (formerly Government Road), St. Catharines, Ontario 

Visit www.st.catharineslock3museum.ca for detailed information.