Museum of Anthropology (UBC) Vancouver
A world-class museum at UBC showcasing Indigenous art and cultures, housed in an iconic Arthur Erickson-designed building.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Half-price admission
Museum of Anthropology (UBC) Vancouver
Best Time
Half-price admission
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-class museum at UBC showcasing Indigenous art and cultures, housed in an iconic Arthur Erickson-designed building.
"One of the most unique and thoughtful museums in Vancouver, with architecture and exhibits that stick with you."
🎯 Half-Price Thursdays
Tickets are half off on Thursdays after 5 PM. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Take a Guided Tour
Complimentary noon tours offer fantastic insights into the exhibits. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bill Reid's Masterpiece
Great Hall
Marvel at Bill Reid's 'Raven and the First Men,' an astonishing and iconic sculpture that's a must-see.
Architectural Wonder
Exterior and Interior
Experience Arthur Erickson's award-winning glass and concrete design, a stunning backdrop for the exhibits.
Indigenous Cultures
Various Galleries
Explore diverse Indigenous art and artifacts from the Pacific Northwest and around the world.
Reflection Pool & Grounds
Outdoor Area
Enjoy a moment of quiet contemplation in the serene outdoor spaces and reflection pool.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for Rainy Days
Maximize Your Visit
Also, check for discounted admission days, like the last Thursday of the month after 5 PM, to make your visit more budget-friendly. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Half-Price Thursdays
Tickets are half off on Thursdays after 5 PM. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Take a Guided Tour
Complimentary noon tours offer fantastic insights into the exhibits.
Museum of Anthropology at UBC is the most underrated attraction in Vancouver
👟 Explore UBC Campus
Combine your visit with the Nitobe Garden or Pacific Spirit Park. :athletic_shoe:
🌧️ Perfect Rainy Day Spot
An excellent indoor activity when the weather is less than ideal. :umbrella:
Museum of Anthropology - worthwhile?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Half-Price Thursdays
Tickets are half off on Thursdays after 5 PM. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Take a Guided Tour
Complimentary noon tours offer fantastic insights into the exhibits.
👟 Explore UBC Campus
Combine your visit with the Nitobe Garden or Pacific Spirit Park. :athletic_shoe:
🌧️ Perfect Rainy Day Spot
An excellent indoor activity when the weather is less than ideal. :umbrella:
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
Allow ample time to absorb the stories and perspectives behind the artifacts. :frame_photo:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Anthropology for its stunning architecture and profound insights into Indigenous cultures, particularly from the Pacific Northwest. The exhibits are described as deeply moving and respectfully presented, offering a rich learning experience. While some wish for more detailed explanations of artifact significance, the overall consensus is that it's a world-class institution and a must-visit in Vancouver.
"Great place to learn more about indigenous art and culture. However, I would have loved to learn more about the significance and meaning behind the animals on the totem poles and the way of living. Also, how some of the traditions are similar across various cultures and geographies. There were a lot of artifacts in an exhibit of various regions from Asia to the Americas but it felt like it was missing some explanation or storytelling.
Lovely building and exterior grounds. The outdoor area is a nice place for quiet contemplation on a sunny day."
Alicia C
"One of the most unique and thoughtful museums in Vancouver. The architecture alone is worth seeing, and the exhibits give a deep and moving look into Indigenous cultures, especially from the Pacific Northwest. Everything feels respectfully presented, with a lot of space to take things in quietly. It’s not just about artifacts, it’s about stories and perspectives. A calm, meaningful visit that sticks with you long after"
Val T.
"Fabulous museum, so interesting and the galleries tour was fantastic. Highly recommend the tour- I would never have made it to some of the exhibits or appreciated the exhibits as much if I hadn’t taken the tour. Fabulous First Nations collection, sensitively handled. I learned a ton and really enjoyed seeing all the fantastic art and cultural objects. Great temporary exhibits too and really excellent use of first person audio and video. Deeply enjoyed, could have easily spent much longer."
Melissa P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) is located at UBC. You can reach it by car, taxi, or public transit. Several bus routes, including the 49, 6, and 41, stop near the museum. Parking is available on campus, but can be costly.
Yes, the MOA is well-served by public transit. Buses like the 49, 6, and 41 provide direct access to the UBC campus, with stops close to the museum.
From downtown Vancouver, you can take a bus such as the 49 or 6 directly to the UBC campus, which is a convenient option.
Yes, renting a bike is a great way to explore the area, especially if you plan to ride along the seawall before or after your visit.
Yes, parking is available on the UBC campus, but it is typically paid parking. Consider public transit or ride-sharing if you want to avoid parking fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but general admission is available. Look out for special discount days, such as half-price admission on Thursdays after 5 PM. Check the official MOA website for the most current pricing.
Yes, the museum offers discounted admission on the last Thursday of the month after 5 PM. It's always a good idea to check their website for any ongoing promotions or special offers.
Museum hours can change seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Museum of Anthropology website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak times, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
The Great Hall may occasionally close for upgrades or special events. It's advisable to check the museum's website for any closure notices before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Bill Reid's 'Raven and the First Men' in the Great Hall. The museum also features extensive collections of Indigenous art and artifacts from around the world, offering deep cultural insights. +1
Yes, complimentary noon tours are often available and highly recommended for a richer understanding of the exhibits and their cultural context.
The museum itself is an architectural marvel, designed by Arthur Erickson. Its award-winning glass and concrete structure is a significant attraction.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography without flash is permitted in most areas, but it's best to check for specific restrictions within certain galleries or exhibits.
The UBC campus offers attractions like the Nitobe Memorial Garden and the Beaty Biodiversity Museum. You can also explore Pacific Spirit Regional Park or walk down to Wreck Beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has a cafe or restaurant on-site offering refreshments. For a more local experience, consider dining at Salmon n' Bannock Bistro for Indigenous cuisine.
Salmon n' Bannock Bistro is highly recommended for authentic Indigenous food and is a great option after visiting the museum.
Yes, the UBC campus has various dining facilities, including cafes and restaurants, offering a range of options for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's striking architecture, the 'Raven and the First Men' sculpture, and the outdoor reflection pool are all excellent subjects for photography.
Generally, personal photography without flash is permitted in most galleries. However, always check for specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure about any restrictions.
Focus on capturing the intricate details of the artifacts, the grandeur of the architecture, and the serene atmosphere of the outdoor spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To enhance the family visit, look for any family-specific programming or activity guides the museum might offer. The outdoor grounds also provide space for kids to move around. Combining the museum visit with a walk in Pacific Spirit Park or exploring other child-friendly attractions on the UBC campus can make for a full day of discovery.
🏛️ Culture Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour, which provides expert insights into the cultural context and significance of the exhibits. Allow ample time to explore the various galleries, as there is an enormous amount of material to absorb. Consider revisiting sections or spending extra time with pieces that particularly resonate with you.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider combining your visit with free activities on the UBC campus, such as exploring the grounds, walking through Pacific Spirit Park, or enjoying the views from the campus overlooking the water. Public transit is also a cost-effective way to reach the museum from downtown Vancouver.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Vision of Arthur Erickson
Erickson's design emphasizes the connection between the museum and its surroundings. The building's placement on the edge of the campus, overlooking the Burrard Inlet, provides panoramic views that complement the exhibits. The use of materials like concrete and wood reflects the natural environment of the Pacific Northwest. Visitors often comment on the building's aesthetic appeal, noting how it enhances the overall museum experience and provides a contemplative atmosphere for appreciating the artifacts.
Exploring Indigenous Cultures at MOA
Beyond the Pacific Northwest, MOA also houses significant collections from Indigenous peoples across Canada and from around the globe, including North America, Australia, and Africa. The museum strives to present these cultures with respect and authenticity, often in collaboration with Indigenous communities themselves. Visitors frequently praise the museum's sensitive handling of these important cultural materials and the educational value of the exhibits, which offer deep insights into diverse traditions and ways of life.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Tours and Beyond
Beyond the museum's walls, the surrounding UBC campus and endowment lands offer further exploration. Consider visiting the serene Nitobe Memorial Garden, a traditional Japanese garden, or exploring the vast network of trails in Pacific Spirit Regional Park for a dose of nature. For those feeling adventurous, Wreck Beach is accessible from the museum grounds. Combining a museum visit with these nearby attractions provides a well-rounded experience of the UBC area.
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