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.
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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