If you think British Columbia is all about mountains, forests, and outdoor adventure — think again! BC also has an incredible cultural scene, full of world-class museums that celebrate art, history, Indigenous heritage, and nature. Whether you’re strolling through Whistler or exploring Vancouver’s coast, here are five museums you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Audain Art Museum, Whistler
The Audain Art Museum is a true gem tucked into the forests of Whistler. The building itself is a modern masterpiece, and inside you’ll find stunning collections of Canadian and Indigenous art — including works by Emily Carr and an incredible display of Northwest Coast masks.
After hitting the slopes, it’s the perfect spot to slow down, reflect, and soak in some creative inspiration.
👉 Don’t miss: The dramatic wooden masks and rotating contemporary exhibitions.*
* The inhabitants of British Columbia, especially the Indigenous peoples — such as the Haida, Tlingit, Kwakiutl (Kwakwaka’wakw), Tsimshian, and others — used wooden masks mainly for ritual and ceremonial purposes.
Here are the main functions and meanings of these masks:
Religious and spiritual significance
The masks served as a link between the human world and the world of spirits. It was believed that when a person put on a mask, they temporarily transformed into a spirit, an animal guardian, or a mythological ancestor.
Participation in rituals and celebrations
Masks were actively used in dances, potlatch ceremonies (gift-giving feasts), initiations, and shamanic rituals. Each dance or performance told a myth, legend, or family story.
Social hierarchy and status
Some masks belonged to certain families or clans and could only be used by their members. Owning a mask was often a sign of high status and was passed down through generations.
Artistic expression
The masks were not only ritual objects but also works of art. They depicted animals (such as the raven, bear, eagle, and wolf), spirits, humans, and supernatural beings. They were made of wood (usually cedar), painted in bright colours, and decorated with feathers, fur, and shells.
Shamanic practices
Shamans wore masks during healing ceremonies or when communicating with spirits, believing that the mask helped them enter a trance and receive assistance from supernatural forces.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, Whistler
Also in Whistler, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) celebrates the living cultures of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, whose territories meet in this region.
Visitors can explore hand-carved totems, traditional clothing, and artifacts — or join a guided tour to hear stories, songs, and legends from local Indigenous hosts.
👉 Don’t miss: The drumming performances and authentic craft workshops — a beautiful, hands-on cultural experience.
Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia is one of Canada’s most iconic museums. Designed by architect Arthur Erickson, it overlooks the ocean and houses an extraordinary collection of Indigenous art and global artifacts.
Massive totem poles, intricate carvings, and thought-provoking contemporary pieces make this a must-see for anyone interested in culture and history.
👉 Don’t miss: The Great Hall — a breathtaking space filled with towering totems and carvings.
Vancouver Maritime Museum
Set right by the ocean, the Vancouver Maritime Museum takes you deep into the province’s seafaring past. You can step aboard the legendary St. Roch ship, which made history navigating the Arctic, and discover fascinating exhibits on exploration, shipwrecks, and ocean life.
👉 Don’t miss: The chance to explore the decks of the St. Roch and imagine what Arctic voyages were really like!
Beaty Biodiversity Museum, Vancouver
Tucked away on UBC’s campus, the Beaty Biodiversity Museum is one of Vancouver’s hidden treasures. The first thing you’ll see is its jaw-dropping blue whale skeleton — the largest creature ever to live on Earth.
Beyond that, the museum is packed with exhibits about animals, plants, fossils, and insects — perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
👉 Don’t miss: The 25-meter-long blue whale suspended dramatically in the main hall.
From Whistler’s art and Indigenous stories to Vancouver’s ocean adventures and natural wonders, these five museums show just how rich and diverse British Columbia really is. Whether it’s a rainy day or a break from hiking, you’ll find plenty of inspiration inside these cultural gems.
So next time you’re exploring BC — take a little detour from the trails and step into a world of art, history, and discovery!
Write a comment