Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre Yellowknife
Discover the rich heritage of the Northwest Territories through free, engaging exhibits on Indigenous culture, wildlife, and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre Yellowknife
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the rich heritage of the Northwest Territories through free, engaging exhibits on Indigenous culture, wildlife, and history.
"For a free museum, it was lovely and had some very interesting exhibits."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a rich cultural experience without spending a dime. A true gem in Yellowknife!
✈️ Aviation History
Don't miss the de Havilland DH83 Fox Moth aircraft on display. A rare find!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indigenous Heritage
Main Exhibit Halls
Discover the vibrant cultures and traditions of the Northwest Territories' First Nations peoples.
Wildlife & Natural History
Taxidermy Collection
Marvel at an impressive collection of taxidermied animals native to the NWT.
RCMP Special Constable Exhibit
Dedicated Exhibit Area
Explore the fascinating history of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in the North.
Interactive Kids' Zone
Children's Area
Engage young minds with fun, hands-on activities and a cozy play cabin.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Winter Travel Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a rich cultural experience without spending a dime. A true gem in Yellowknife!
✈️ Aviation History
Don't miss the de Havilland DH83 Fox Moth aircraft on display. A rare find!
🏒 Hockey Fun
Interactive hockey games and activities make this exhibit fun for all ages.
🧥 Winter Warm-up
Perfect indoor activity to escape the subarctic cold.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a rich cultural experience without spending a dime. A true gem in Yellowknife!
✈️ Aviation History
Don't miss the de Havilland DH83 Fox Moth aircraft on display. A rare find!
🏒 Hockey Fun
Interactive hockey games and activities make this exhibit fun for all ages.
🧥 Winter Warm-up
Perfect indoor activity to escape the subarctic cold.
📚 Learn About the North
Gain insights into Indigenous languages, mining history, and local wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre for its excellent, free exhibits that offer a comprehensive look at the Northwest Territories' rich history, culture, and wildlife. Many highlight the engaging displays, particularly those on Indigenous heritage and the RCMP, and appreciate the family-friendly interactive elements. While some wish for more extensive exhibits, the overall consensus is that it's a highly valuable and well-managed museum for its remote location.
"I visited the Centre early Friday morning when I had some free time. I spent about an hour in total walking through. I must say it's an well managed and impressive museum particularly for being in such a remote area and being free. I've been to other regional museums which are not nearly as well organize and charge significant amounts to visit.
Highly recommend visiting if you come to Yellowknife."
Malcolm Gray
"For a free museum, it was lovely and had some very interesting exhibits. The RCMP special constable exhibit was my favourite, it showcased a very interesting history of the RCMP. The kids area was nice as well, with some air hockey, animal puppets, and a small cabin for kids to play in. Definitely recommend coming here on a visit to Yellowknife."
Mateo
"We visited the Heritage Center the other day and had a wonderful time learning about the history of the First Nation people, the animals as well as the people who came to mine and trap in the area. The displays were very well done with just the right amount of information. It was amazing that such a wonderful center was free."
Gina Hadly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre is conveniently located near City Hall and the Legislative Building, making it easily walkable, even in winter. If driving, there is parking available. It's a central spot in Yellowknife, accessible for most visitors.
While Yellowknife has limited public transport, the Heritage Centre is in a central, walkable area. Taxis are also an option if you're coming from further afield in the city.
Yes, the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre is very walkable from downtown Yellowknife, including City Hall and the Legislative Building, making it an easy addition to your city exploration.
During Yellowknife's cold winters, walking is still feasible if you're dressed warmly, as the museum is centrally located. It also serves as a great indoor destination to warm up.
Yes, there is parking available at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre offers free admission, making it an accessible and valuable experience for all visitors to Yellowknife. +1
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
No, advance booking is not typically required as admission is free. However, for group visits or special events, it's advisable to contact the centre beforehand.
The museum is generally open on weekends, but hours may differ from weekdays. It's recommended to confirm weekend operating times directly with the centre.
The centre often hosts rotating exhibits and special events that highlight various aspects of Northern heritage. Check their schedule for current offerings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about an hour to an hour and a half exploring the exhibits. You could easily spend longer if you delve into every detail or enjoy the interactive areas.
Highlights include the Indigenous heritage displays, the impressive taxidermy collection, the RCMP exhibit, and the interactive children's zone. The de Havilland DH83 Fox Moth aircraft is also a unique draw. +1
Yes, there's a dedicated kids' area with interactive games, animal puppets, and a small cabin for play, making it family-friendly.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
You'll find a diverse range of artifacts, including traditional Indigenous tools and clothing, historical mining equipment, RCMP memorabilia, and natural history specimens.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre. However, always be mindful of any posted signs regarding specific exhibits or flash photography restrictions.
The de Havilland DH83 Fox Moth aircraft is a unique photographic subject. The well-displayed taxidermy animals and cultural artifacts also make for compelling shots.
The museum is located in a central part of Yellowknife, offering opportunities to photograph the surrounding civic buildings and, depending on the season, the unique Northern landscape.
Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging exhibits. It's best to inquire at the information desk upon arrival.
The museum generally has good, even lighting throughout its exhibits, designed to showcase the artifacts effectively. Natural light may be limited in some areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the play area, the museum's exhibits on wildlife and Indigenous culture are often captivating for children. The well-presented displays, including the impressive taxidermy collection, can spark curiosity about the natural world. Plus, the RCMP exhibit offers a glimpse into the history of law enforcement that many kids find intriguing.
📚 History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to explore exhibits on the mining industry, which played a significant role in Yellowknife's growth, and the natural history of the NWT, showcased through an impressive taxidermy collection. The presence of a rare de Havilland DH83 Fox Moth aircraft also appeals to those interested in the history of transportation and early aviation in the North.
✈️ Aviation & Transportation Fans
This rare vintage bush plane is a testament to the importance of air travel in connecting the vast and often remote communities of the Northwest Territories. It’s a unique opportunity to see a piece of aviation history up close.Beyond the aircraft, the museum's broader narrative often touches upon the challenges and triumphs of transportation in the North, including the iconic winter roads and the role of various vehicles in accessing remote areas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Indigenous Heritage
Visitors often express how well-done and informative these exhibits are, appreciating the respectful presentation of sensitive cultural information. The centre plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing these stories for future generations, making it a cornerstone for understanding the true spirit of the North.
Wildlife of the NWT
These exhibits are not only visually striking but also serve an important educational purpose, helping visitors understand the ecological balance of the NWT. The quality of the taxidermy is frequently praised, making it a memorable part of the museum experience for both adults and children.
Aviation and RCMP History
Adding to the historical narrative is the display of a rare de Havilland DH83 Fox Moth aircraft.
This vintage bush plane represents the vital role aviation played in connecting remote communities, transporting goods, and enabling exploration in the NWT. Seeing this piece of history firsthand offers a tangible connection to the pioneering spirit of the North.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit