About
Ontario Museum of History & Art
The Ontario Museum of History & Art is a facility of the City of Ontario’s Department of Museum, Arts & Culture. From developing exhibitions, to engaging visitors through educational experiences, and events that inspire creative action, the Museum is an anchor to the growing downtown arts district.
The Museum is uniquely housed in Ontario’s former City Hall, a historical landmark funded by the Works Progress Administration, completed in 1937. In 2023, the Museum achieved accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), the highest national recognition afforded to the nation’s museums.
The Ontario Museum of History & Art preserves, interprets and celebrates the history and cultural heritage of Ontario and the surrounding area.
Museum Renovation – We're Improving Your Visitor Experience
From July 2026, through spring 2027, the Museum will renovate its North Wing Gallery, to better serve the community. Funded through Measure Q, the sales tax measure approved by Ontario voters in 2022, the project will transform the Museum's North Wing Galleries into more flexible, accessible, and dynamic spaces for exhibitions and community engagement.
During construction, the main entrance will move to a temporary location, with signs to guide you. Our permanent exhibitions Built on Water and Gem of the Foothills will remain open. We will continue to provide free programs and events – sign up on our programs page.