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Ross House Museum

4.5
·34 reviews·Winnipeg, Canada

Step back into 1850s Winnipeg at the meticulously preserved Ross House, a log home offering a tangible connection to the Red River Settlement.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
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Ross House Museum - Image 1

Ross House Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back into 1850s Winnipeg at the meticulously preserved Ross House, a log home offering a tangible connection to the Red River Settlement.

4.5
(34 reviews)

"Felt like we went back in time to the turn of the last century. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Get a Personal Tour

Volunteers are fantastic! Ask questions; they provide a personal tour and make history come alive.

🚗 Free Street Parking

Plenty of free street parking is available right outside the museum.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Log House Structure

The Log House Structure

Exterior and Interior

Step inside a meticulously preserved 1850s log house, offering a tangible connection to early Winnipeg life.

Victorian Era Artifacts

Victorian Era Artifacts

Throughout the house

Discover authentic artifacts, including a stunning Victorian pickle castor, that paint a vivid picture of domestic life.

Spinning Wheel Display

Spinning Wheel Display

Inside the museum

See spinning wheels attributed to Red River craftsman Hugh Matheson, highlighting local artistry.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

To truly step back in time at Ross House, consider visiting during off-peak hours. Weekday mornings often offer a more intimate experience, allowing you to fully absorb the historical ambiance without the bustle of larger groups. Check their operating hours before you go, as they can vary seasonally.

Exploring the Neighborhood

Ross House is situated in Winnipeg's historic Point Douglas neighborhood. While the museum itself is a gem, be aware of your surroundings. The adjacent Joe Zuken Heritage Park is a nice addition, but some travelers advise exercising caution in the area. Free street parking is available.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Volunteers offer great tours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our very own Pickle Castor! It is approximately from the late nineteenth-century and is beautifully ornate. We also now have pickle castor socks available in our gift shop! Audio credit:@Jenna Jones #fyp #victorian #dalnavertmuseum #victorianhouse #victorianhistory #victorianera #manitoba #winnipeg #pickles #picklecastor
@dalnavertmuseum
2.1K likes • 16.2K views

🎯 Get a Personal Tour

Volunteers are fantastic! Ask questions; they provide a personal tour and make history come alive. Reddit+1

🚗 Free Street Parking

Plenty of free street parking is available right outside the museum. Reddit

A 12-year-old girl sought help at Rossbrook House on Saturday after feeling threatened by a man swinging a machete nearby. Winnipeg police have charged an 18-year-old with assault with a weapon. #winnipeg #mb #police #winnipegpolice
@cbcmanitoba
1.5K likes • 52.4K views
🏡 Rediscovering Winnipeg’s Past: The Enigmatic Ross House 🏡 Transport yourself through time at the mesmerizing #RossHouse, an integral piece of #Winnipeg’s history nestled within the city’s heart. 🌆 Erected in 1851, this iconic gem provides a captivating portal into Winnipeg’s rich heritage. Once home to esteemed fur trader Alexander Ross, the house stands as a testament to the enduring entrepre...
soncinatravel
29 likes • 618 views

🕰️ Step Back in Time

The house is meticulously maintained, making you feel like you've traveled to the turn of the last century. Reddit

📍 Explore Point Douglas

Located in historic Point Douglas, adjacent to Joe Zuken Heritage Park. Be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Have you noticed the similarities between the spinning wheels at Ross House and Seven Oaks House? Both are attributed to Red a river craftsman Hugh Matheson. This year’s theme for #HistoricPlacesDays is Makers from Coast to Coast to Coast: Honouring Arts, Crafts, and Storytelling. Watch this video to learn more about Hugh Matheson and his Red River craftsmanship. 🔍 Want a closer look? Visit Ros...
rosshousemuseum
23 likes • 475 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Get a Personal Tour

Volunteers are fantastic! Ask questions; they provide a personal tour and make history come alive. Reddit+1

🚗 Free Street Parking

Plenty of free street parking is available right outside the museum. Reddit

🕰️ Step Back in Time

The house is meticulously maintained, making you feel like you've traveled to the turn of the last century. Reddit

📍 Explore Point Douglas

Located in historic Point Douglas, adjacent to Joe Zuken Heritage Park. Be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

🥪 Nearby Deli

There's a great deli with fresh sandwiches just across the street for a quick bite. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(34 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ross House Museum for its authentic historical preservation and the exceptional quality of its volunteer-led tours. Many feel transported back in time, appreciating the meticulous upkeep of the 1850s log house and its period artifacts. While the museum itself is a highlight, some travelers suggest exercising caution when visiting the surrounding Point Douglas neighborhood.

"The Ross house museum is located on Meade ave in the historic Point Douglas neighborhood of Winnipeg.

There is plenty of free street parking it is a great place to visit in order to gain a more in-depth u deranging of the red river settlement. The home is a log house (constructed 1852–55) that was designated a Winnipeg Landmark Heritage Structure in 1980 very historic and very well preserved.

It is located adjacent to the Joe Zuken heritage park. Excellent place to visit. Please exercise caution while visiting the area. For those who know, they know."

Bobby singh

"Great peice of history. I love this history of our city of winnipeg. I highly recommend everyone to visit."

susan catherine

"My friend and I very much enjoyed our visit to this museum. The house has been meticulously maintained in its original, historical condition. We felt like we went back in time to the turn of the last century. The volunteers were fantastic and answered every question we had and gave us a personal tour of the house.
It reminded me of Lower Fort Garry in that it really feels like stepping into the past. Really easy place to get to in the heart of Point Douglas in Winnipeg."

Jocelyn Allan

What People Like

Meticulously preserved history
Knowledgeable volunteer tours
Authentic time-travel feel

What People Dislike

Neighborhood caution advised

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ross House Museum is located on Meade Ave in the historic Point Douglas neighborhood of Winnipeg. It's easily accessible by car, with plenty of free street parking available. Reddit For those familiar with the city, it's considered easy to get to in the heart of Point Douglas. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of free street parking available directly outside the museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Driving is a convenient option due to the readily available free street parking. Public transport options may be available depending on your starting point in Winnipeg, but specific routes are not detailed in traveler feedback.

While not explicitly detailed by visitors, its location in a central Winnipeg neighborhood suggests potential public transport access. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Ross House is in the historic Point Douglas neighborhood, adjacent to Joe Zuken Heritage Park. Travelers advise exercising caution in the area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Ross House Museum website or contact them directly for the most current information before planning your visit.

Admission details are not specified in the provided reviews. It's recommended to check the museum's official website for current admission fees and any potential discounts.

Advance booking is not mentioned as a requirement in traveler feedback. However, for special events or during peak seasons, it might be advisable to inquire with the museum.

Yes, visitors highly praise the guided tours offered by knowledgeable and friendly volunteers. These tours are often described as personal and insightful, making the visit more engaging. Reddit+1

Group visits are likely accommodated, but it's advisable to contact the museum in advance to arrange group tours and ensure availability, especially if you have specific needs.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can expect to see a meticulously maintained 1850s log house, offering a glimpse into early Winnipeg life. Highlights include authentic Victorian-era artifacts and a unique pickle castor. TikTokReddit

While not explicitly described as interactive in a modern sense, the experience is highly immersive. The well-preserved nature of the house and the engaging tours by volunteers make it feel like stepping back in time. Reddit

Ross House is a significant Winnipeg Landmark Heritage Structure, built between 1852-1855. It provides an in-depth understanding of the Red River settlement and the life of fur trader Alexander Ross. InstagramReddit

The historic architecture and preserved interiors offer many picturesque opportunities. You can capture the charm of the log house and its period furnishings. Instagram

Joe Zuken Heritage Park is located adjacent to Ross House Museum. It's a park that complements the historical context of the area, offering a pleasant outdoor space.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a highly recommended deli with fresh sandwiches located directly across the street from the museum, perfect for a convenient lunch. Reddit

The deli across the street offers fresh sandwiches, providing a simple and satisfying option for visitors. Other dining options might be available further afield in Winnipeg.

It's generally not recommended to bring food inside historical buildings to preserve the artifacts. It's best to enjoy your meal at the nearby deli or in the adjacent park.

No, Ross House Museum is a historical house and does not have an internal cafe or restaurant. The nearest dining option is the deli across the street. Reddit

The deli across the street is a casual option suitable for families. For a wider variety of family-friendly restaurants, you would need to travel to other parts of Winnipeg.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. While not explicitly forbidden in reviews, it's always best to check with the museum staff upon arrival to ensure you comply with their guidelines, especially regarding flash photography.

The exterior of the log house itself is very photogenic, as are the preserved interiors with their period furnishings. Capturing the details of the artifacts, like the pickle castor, can also make for unique shots. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and residential areas. It's highly unlikely to be permitted and would require special authorization. Always check local regulations.

Generally, personal social media use is fine, but commercial photography or filming may require permission. Always be respectful of other visitors and the historical integrity of the site.

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, would be useful for capturing both wider interior shots and details. A prime lens with a wide aperture could be good for low-light conditions inside. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ross House Museum offers a unique opportunity for families to explore history in a tangible way. The well-preserved log house provides a fascinating glimpse into how children lived in the 1800s. While not a playground, the immersive nature of the house and the engaging stories told by volunteers can capture a child's imagination. Encourage kids to look for details like the spinning wheels Instagram or imagine life without modern conveniences. The adjacent Joe Zuken Heritage Park offers a space for children to run around after their visit. Consider packing snacks and drinks to enjoy in the park, as food is not permitted inside the museum.

🏛️ History Buffs & Enthusiasts

For those passionate about local history, Ross House Museum is a must-visit. Its designation as a Winnipeg Landmark Heritage Structure and its meticulous preservation offer an authentic historical experience. The insights provided by knowledgeable volunteers on the Red River Settlement and the life of Alexander Ross are invaluable. Reddit Pay close attention to the architectural details of the log house and the period artifacts, such as the Victorian pickle castor TikTok and Hugh Matheson's spinning wheels.Instagram The museum provides a deep dive into the foundational years of Winnipeg, making it a rewarding visit for anyone seeking to understand the city's roots.

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

The rustic charm of the Ross House log exterior and its carefully preserved interiors offer a wealth of photographic opportunities. Capture the unique textures of the log walls, the period furnishings, and the intricate details of artifacts like the pickle castor.TikTok The natural light filtering through the windows can create beautiful scenes within the house. Instagram Photographers interested in historical architecture and domestic life will find plenty to inspire them. Remember to check photography guidelines with the museum staff to ensure respectful image capture.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Ross House

Ross House Museum is a significant historical landmark in Winnipeg, offering a direct window into the city's formative years. Erected between 1852 and 1855, the house was originally home to Alexander Ross, a prominent fur trader and one of the first settlers in the Red River Settlement. Instagram The structure itself is a testament to the building techniques of the era, being a well-preserved log house. Its designation as a Winnipeg Landmark Heritage Structure in 1980 underscores its importance in understanding the region's past. The house provides an in-depth understanding of the Red River settlement, showcasing the daily lives, challenges, and domestic arrangements of its early inhabitants.

The museum is not just about the building; it's about the stories it holds. Visitors often remark on how the house feels like stepping back in time, a sentiment amplified by the meticulous preservation of its original condition. Reddit The volunteers play a crucial role in bringing this history to life, offering personal tours and answering questions that enrich the visitor experience. Reddit The house also connects to broader themes of craftsmanship, as seen in the spinning wheels attributed to Red River craftsman Hugh Matheson, highlighting the artistic and practical skills of the time. Instagram

Furthermore, the personal history of the Ross family, including Mary Elizabeth ("Lizzie") Ross's fondness for animals and her pets, adds a layer of human connection to the historical narrative. Instagram The house's donation to the Dearborn Historical Museum by Lizzie upon her death ensured its preservation for future generations. This dedication to maintaining the house in its original, historical condition allows visitors to connect with the past in a tangible and meaningful way.

Experiencing Ross House: What to Expect

Visiting Ross House Museum is often described as a journey into the past. The most striking aspect for many visitors is how meticulously maintained the house is, retaining its original historical essence. Reddit This preservation effort makes it feel like you've genuinely stepped back in time, perhaps to the turn of the last century or the mid-1800s when it was first occupied. Reddit The volunteers are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often providing personal tours that go beyond a standard museum experience. Reddit They are eager to answer questions and share anecdotes, making the history feel alive and relatable.

The house itself, a log structure from the 1850s, offers a unique glimpse into domestic life of that era. You can explore different areas, such as the basement, which would have been used for storage and keeping cool in the summer. Instagram The artifacts within the house, from furniture to decorative items like a Victorian pickle castor, are carefully curated to reflect the period. TikTok These items help paint a vivid picture of the lifestyle, customs, and even the personal tastes of the residents, such as Lizzie Ross's love for animals. Instagram

While the museum offers a rich historical experience, it's also situated in the historic Point Douglas neighborhood. Visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings when exploring the area, though the adjacent Joe Zuken Heritage Park provides a pleasant green space. Reddit The convenience of free street parking and a nearby deli for a quick bite adds to the practicality of a visit. Reddit+1 Overall, Ross House provides a charming and educational experience for anyone interested in Winnipeg's early history.

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