Aboriginal Experiences
Aboriginal canoe tour, Howe Sound (Patrice Halley photo)
British Columbia has the highest diversity of distinct First Nations in Canada, with more than 50 First Nations in more than 200 communities.
Interpretive centres, museums and tours throughout the province provide opportunities to learn about Aboriginal stories, ceremonies and traditions.
Aboriginal artwork, carvings and totem poles can be seen at galleries and museums, or even standing in their original, historic locations.
Some highlights include the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, the Haida Heritage Centre on Haida Gwaii, and the Nk’mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos – but these are just a few of the many places and tours sharing Aboriginal cultural experiences in BC.
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Learn more about Aboriginal and cultural experiences in BC's regions and cities:
Vancouver, Coast and Mountains
Vancouver Area
Whistler
Vancouver Island
Victoria
Thompson Okanagan
Kootenay Rockies
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast
Northern British Columbia
Highlights in BC:
Museum of Anthropology
Just west of Vancouver, the University of British Columbia's architecturally stunning Museum of Anthropology boasts an acclaimed collection of Aboriginal art and artifacts from BC and around the world. See traditional canoes, masks, jewellery, carvings, longhouse replicas and totem poles – including the world's smallest, which measures just 4.4cm/1.7in.
Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre in Whistler
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler is the result of a partnership between the Squamish and Lil'wat First Nations, the traditional inhabitants of the Whistler Valley.
Learn about the distinct culture, history, arts and endeavours of the two Nations through displays, multimedia exhibits, interactive performances, forest walks, and craft-making. Enjoy affordable Aboriginal-influenced food at the on-site café, or pick up original artwork, jewellery and carvings at the gift gallery.
Quw’utsun Cultural Centre
Learn about the Quw'utsun people, BC's largest Aboriginal band, and discover more about their heritage at the Quw'utsun Cultural Centre in Duncan.
Haida Heritage Centre
The Haida Heritage Centre on Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands) highlights the unique history of the Haida First Nation, which dates back more than 12,000 years in the region. The waterfront centre features cedar longhouses representing a traditional Haida village. See distinct totems, masks and art of the Haida people, including the famous Bill Reid war canoe “Loo Taas.” The centre also features a museum, carving shed, artist teaching centre, traditional performances, gift shop and small cafe.
Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre
The Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos is the showpiece of the Okanagan First Nation. The award-winning architecture blends into the surrounding landscape and features extensive indoor and outdoor displays highlighting both the rich culture of the Okanagan people and Canada's only desert. The site is also home to Nk’Mip Cellars, North America's first Aboriginal owned and operated winery and vineyard.
Practical Points
- Some locations are open seasonally or by appointment only; always check operating hours in advance or pop in at local community Visitor Centres to find out more.
- Artifacts and regalia have historical and cultural significance. Do not touch items unless you have been given permission to do so by a knowledgeable guide or local.
- If possible, also ask permission to take photos – some artifacts such as totem poles have interesting stories, and in asking for permission visitors learn more about the local history.
- For more information on Aboriginal tourism in BC, visit the Aboriginal Tourism Association of British Columbia.
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16 Aboriginal Experiences in British Columbia
1 - 10 of 16 Results
1
1719 Cowichan Bay Road
Cowichan Bay, British Columbia
V0R 1N0
Websitehttp://www.arthurvickers.com
Toll-free
Phone250-748-7650
The gallery celebrates Arthur's passion for creating original West Coast art. Often described as a modern day renaissance man & known for his love of story telling his works connect us with the stories & memories of his beloved coast & its history. A master at the ancient art of serigraphy & always experimenting with new & challenging mediums & materials Vickers works in 24k gold-leafing in low relief are signature pieces that are unique to this renowned First Nations Artist. The gallery & the seaside village of Cowichan Bay will be a true highlight of your trip to Vancouver Island, an experience you will always treasure.
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2
778 Richardson Rd
Tlell, British Columbia
V0T 1Y0
Websitehttp://www.crystalcabingallery.com
Toll-free866-557-4383
Phone250-557-4383
Welcome to Crystal Cabin Gallery! Over 20 years of business in Tlell on Haida Gwaii. Showcasing Haida artists, beautiful gemstones and crystals & Haida art. Good selection of silver & argillite. Crystal Cabin Gallery is where Artisan Jeweller DUTES DUTHEIL has a workshop gallery designing and handcrafting gold & gemstone jewellery which is available exclusively in the shop. The best assortment of minerals & crystals in the North. Crystal Singing Bowls & original t-shirts. Greeting you in front of the gallery is the "Tlell Stone Circle", an outdoor installation of local mineral & fossil pieces from the islands. Join us on Facebook.
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3
2 Second Beach Rd
Skidegate, British Columbia
V0T 1S1
Websitehttp://www.haidaheritagecentre.com
Toll-free
Phone250-559-7885
The Haida Heritage Centre at Kaay Llnagaay in Skidegate on Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands), opened in July, 2007. The Centre, located at the site of the old Haida seaside village of Kaay Llnagaay, or "Sea Lion Town", showcases the living culture of the Haida, dating back over 12,000 years. Six monumental cedar totem poles carved by Haida artists stand in front of the Haida longhouses, which are connected by interior walkways & atrium space. The Centre incorporates the Haida Gwaii Museum, a gift shop, canoe house, carving shed, performing house, the Bill Reid Teaching Centre & a cafe.
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4
Miniature Train In Stanley Park
Vancouver, British Columbia
V6B 3X8
Websitehttp://www.aboriginalbc.com/klahowya-village
Toll-free
Phone604-921-1070
Enjoy the warmth of our Aboriginal Summer Village in Stanley Park this summer. Klahowya Village welcomes you to celebrate & experience our vibrant culture through song, dance, art & cuisine. There will be dance performances Fridays through Sundays & programming throughout the day, every day, by artisans - wood carving & weaving, crafts for budding artisans, aboriginal cuisine & artisan kiosks. More lasting memories if you hop aboard the Spirit Catcher train for a fun ride through nature. Gate admission to the Village is FREE. Charges apply for Spirit Train rides.
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5
1000 Rancher Creek Rd
Osoyoos, British Columbia
V0H 1V6
Websitehttp://www.nkmipdesert.com
Toll-free888-495-8555
Phone250-495-7901
Experience "The Land, the Legends and the People" at Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre, a cultural and outdoor desert experience. View arts and cultural exhibits, audio-visual presentations and interactive displays featuring Okanagan First Nations culture and desert plants and animals. The 22 ha site features walking trails through the sagebrush habitat, outdoor sculptures & hands-on displays. Highlights include a reconstructed aboriginal village and in the summer, features daily guided walks, cultural programs and rattlesnake demonstrations. Visit Coyote's Gifts for First Nations art, jewelry, books, clothing and giftware. Located in an award winning, sustainable building.
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6
34 Weway Rd
Quathiaski Cove, British Columbia
V0P 1N0
Websitehttp://www.nuyumbalees.com
Toll-free
Phone250-285-3733
Nuyumbalees means "The Beginning". The Nuyumbalees Society was founded in 1975 by Hereditary & Elected Chiefs of the KwaKwaKa' WaKw people, to negotiate the return of their Potlatch Treasures & Regalia (Kikasuw). The society is entrusted with the care & preservation of a priceless & historic collection of original KwaKwaKa' WaKw Kikasuw returned in February, 1979. The Kwagiulth Museum opened in June that same year.
A visit to the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre is a fascinating journey that forms a link between the past, the present & the future of the Kwakwaka'wakw People. Beautiful treasures include: masks, regalia, whistles, rattles & carvings of the Sacred Potlatch Collection.
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7
4584 Blackcomb Way
Whistler, British Columbia
V0N 1B4
Websitehttp://www.slcc.ca
Toll-free866-441-7522
Phone604-964-0990
2012 BC Cultural Centre of the Year, the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre showcases Whistler's Aboriginal heritage through tours, singing & drumming, Native art, interactive & outdoor exhibits, crafts, food & film. The Centre features a great hall, museum, theatre, contemporary gallery, cafe & gift shop. Our exhibit map is available in several languages. This world-class attraction is a fun, family-friendly activity that provides a genuine cultural experience. Check our website for programming updates & special events. Visit our online art gallery for our full store online!
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8
Soda Creek
Williams Lake, British Columbia
V2G 5L5
Websitehttp://www.xatsullheritagevillage.com
Toll-free
Phone250-297-6502
The Xat'sull community invites you to visit and experience our spiritual, cultural and traditional way of life. We offer daily tours and cultural workshops where you take part in a variety of educational and recreational activities. We are situated on a sunny plateau overlooking the Fraser River. Meet our friendly, knowledgeable guides who will take you on a memorable journey through the history of the Northern Secwepemc people. Learn to cook a traditional meal, listen to stories around an open fire and fall asleep to the beautiful sound of the Fraser River in the distance.
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Other businesses with Aboriginal Experiences
9
639 Hornby St
Vancouver, British Columbia
V6C 2G3
Websitehttp://www.billreidgallery.ca
Toll-free
Phone604-682-3455
A public gallery for Contemporary Aboriginal Art of the Northwest Coast named after the acclaimed Haida artist Bill Reid (1920 - 1998). The Gallery showcases the permanent collection of Bill Reid alongside changing exhibitions of contemporary Northwest Coast Art. Highlights include stunning gold and silver jewelry, monumental sculptures and a towering totem pole by James Hart of Haida Gwaii. Visit the Gallery Gift Shop for a selection of original works and prints by local Northwest Coast artists, distinctive jewelry, accessories, books, cards and more. Located in the heart of downtown, just steps from the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and Canada Line skytrain.
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10
Websitehttp://www.bluewateradventures.ca
Toll-free888-877-1770
Phone604-980-3800
We offer multi-day cruises through Haida Gwaii's (Queen Charlotte Islands') Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, Northern Vancouver Island, the Great Bear Rainforest, North Coast/ Khutzeymateen and Southeast Alaska. Our 68' vessels provide the perfect base from which to tour remote coastlines. On these world-class learning journeys we expect to see whales, bears, rich intertidal zones, and a great number of birds. With our First Nations guides we visit ancient villages, see totem poles and hope to catch a glimpse of the Kermode. Our experienced Crew and on-board naturalist will take you places that few have visited on our award-winning expeditions.
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