Accessibility

The City of Waterloo Museum aims to provide experiences and services that are equitable, diverse, inclusive and barrier-free for residents and visitors to feel welcome. We recognize this is an ongoing process and are open to ideas to make exhibition and programming changes.

Territorial Acknowledgment

The City of Waterloo Museum is located on the traditional lands of the Haudenosaunee, Anishnaabe and Chonnonton People. For generations these individuals have gathered, cared for and lived on this piece of Turtle Island. In 1701, the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe people created the Dish with One Spoon treaty which bound them to share and protect the land. In 1784, the Haldimand Tract was land granted to the Haudenosaunee following their contributions to the British in the American Revolutionary War. This granted land included six miles on either side of the Grand River, a river which runs through Waterloo. We also acknowledge the enduring presence and deep traditional knowledge and philosophies of the Indigenous People with whom we share this land today. There is lots of work to be done in building this relationship and it is the work of every member of community.
A page for indigenous resources is available here:

Indigenous Resources

Current Exhibit Accessibility Features
Exhibit	Location	Accessible features
A Distiller's Tale: The Art and Legacy of the Seagram Distillery	Conestoga Mall	Gallery layout includes: Navigation that is easy for mobility device users Magnifying glasses Video components with subtitles

Assistive Features at The City of Waterloo Museum and Conestoga Mall
Location	Accessible features and assistive devices
City of Waterloo Museum	Free admission VOYCE remote interpretation services Automated door openers for all entrances/exits to the museum Access to the museum is available via the ION or Grand River Transit busses. The museum is located in the mall at Conestoga Station. Click here for the GRT Easy Go Trip Planner Service animals welcome Encouraged quiet hours between 10am-12pm daily Sensory backpacks available at front desk
Conestoga Mall	Motorized scooters are available for loan at the Conestoga Mall Guest Services counter in the central-court on a first come-first serve basis free of charge Wheelchairs and walkers are also available for loan at Guest Services free of charge The museum is located at the edge of the Conestoga Mall Food Court. Food and beverages can be purchased from nearby vendors Universal washrooms are located in the Food Court Baby changing tables are available in the mall washrooms and emergency diaper kits are available for $1. Serene baby feeding areas are also available in the Food Court washrooms An adult change station is available in the washrooms of the North Wing of the mall between the stores Athena and Steel N Ink

Sensory Backpacks

A sensory backpack is for individuals to use who may benefit from extra support and resources. It is a portable resource with tools that can be used to support an individual’s sensory needs. The backpacks are designed to provide comfort and support for individuals of all ages, abilities, and needs.

Inside each of the sensory backpacks, you will find the following items:

Noise-canceling Headphones – Assist in reducing noise and overstimulation caused by loud environments.
Fidgets – Tools that can provide an easy and accessible way for individuals to self regulate, self soothe, and/or concentrate.
Timer – Can be used to assist in transitioning and providing a clear visual reminder for individuals that is more engaging and provides structure
Fidget Band – A quiet and discreet tool that can be used by individuals to regulate their sensory needs. It can be looped onto chair legs or used in an individual’s hands.
Sunglasses – Used to reduce the sensory input for light sensitivities and assist in mitigating sensory overload.
Drawing Pad – Can be used as a communication tool or a resource to engage individuals and provide a creative outlet.
PEC (Picture Exchange Communication) Cards – A visual tool that serves as a communication system to assist individuals in communicating their wants and needs. It can also be used as a visual in conjunction with other forms of communication.
Laminated Inclusion Information Page – Providing contact information for Inclusion Services if an individual has questions about the backpack or would like additional information about the services we provide at the City of Waterloo.
Sanitizing Wipes – Wipe down the items after use before returning the backpack. Individuals are welcome to wipe down items before use as well, if they prefer.

These sensory backpacks are available at:

City of Waterloo Museum
Rim Park Manulife Sportsplex
Albert McCormick Arena
Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex
Waterloo City Centre
Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex - Community Pavilion

Request an Alternate Format

Personal tours are available upon request for those with audio, visual or other support requirements. To request this service, please email the museum at least 72 hours in advance of your visit.

Email the City of Waterloo Museum

If you have a general request for an accessible document or communication support, please contact Henny Bruce at 519-747-8780.

Report an Accessibility Issue

If you encounter an accessibility issue with a museum service or product, you can report it using an online form. If your issue requires follow up, you will be contacted within 1 to 3 business days. Responses are sent to the City of Waterloo before being directed to the museum. All responses are received by the city staff as information.

Report an issue

Apply for Assistance and Inclusion Programs

The City of Waterloo offers a number of assistance and inclusion programs and accommodations to help everyone take part in recreation programs. Click the link above to learn more.

Accessible Parking and Map

Accessible parking is available outside the museum’s main entrance, between the Cineplex and the Hudson’s Bay.

Policies and Reports

Our goal is to remove barriers and provide accessible goods, services and facilities for all of our residents.

This work is guided by the Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, and The City of Waterloo's own accessibility plan (PDF), annual status report (PDF) and accessibility policy (PDF).

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