The Muse
The Muse is the umbrella name for the Lake of the Woods Museum and Douglas Family Art Centre in Kenora showcasing the history, culture and talents of the Lake of the Woods community. The Muse also strives to live up to its commitment to embrace and strengthen ties with local Indigenous groups in an honest and respectful way.
Browse interesting historical artifacts at the Lake of the Woods Museum. Across the street, the Douglas Family Art Centre focuses on local painting, art, crafts, textiles and beading.
Kenora | The Muse
How to get to The Muse
Location: 224 and 300 Main Street South, Kenora
By car: The Muse facilities are located on the harbourfront between Main and Water streets in downtown Kenora, just off Highway 17.
By transit: Ontario Northland provides bus service to the Kenora bus depot. From there, take a local taxi or walk 25 minutes west to The Muse.
Know before you go
The Muse is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and in July and August, the two locations are open daily.
Things to do at The Muse
Discover more activities and experiences.
Walk through history
Take a self-guided tour of visiting and permanent collections in the museum and the art centre exhibits at the Douglas Family Art Centre.
Book a guided tour
Guided group tours are available upon special request and can be booked along with a hands-on art activity.
Discover art and art history
Explore The Muse’s ongoing exhibitions, from art exhibits at the Douglas Family Art Centre to stories and artifacts at the museum.
Sign up for unique programs
Special events and programming include film screenings, speaker talks, curated workshops and family craft programs.
Shop local gifts
Browse two spacious gift shops for a selection of high-quality local goods such as souvenirs, books, soaps, art posters and original artwork.
Articles and itineraries
Get ideas and inspiration for your next trip.
Interesting facts about The Muse
Lake of the Woods Museum was founded in 1964 in the Lands Title building. Its collection focused on Indigenous artifacts bequeathed to the museum from a British captain and Lake of the Woods resident named Frank Edwards. Edwards was fascinated with Indigenous stories and folklore.
By 1986, the collection had grown so much thanks to artifacts generously donated by the general public that the Lake of the Woods Museum was moved to its present-day location. Today the award-winning Kenora museum houses over 25,000 artifacts.
Accessibility features
Last updated: July 18, 2025