Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Aboriginal Experiences
Bill Reid sculpture at Museum of Anthropology, Tourism BC/JF Bergeron photo
The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region is the ancestral home of the Coast Salish peoples, and includes such First Nations bands as the Squamish, Lil’wat, Sto:lo, Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh.
Visitors to the region can discover the dynamic culture of the Coast Salish First Nations through interpretive centres, archaeological sites, museums, galleries, and guided First Nations interpretive tours.
Many more opportunities for cultural exploration can be found in the four-season resort community of Whistler and in the vibrant, multicultural city of Vancouver, where Asian, European and First Nations influences can be seen all around.
Museum of Anthropology
Just west of Vancouver, the University of British Columbia’s architecturally stunning Museum of Anthropology boasts a vast 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 totem pole, which measures just 4.4cm/1.7in, about the size of a pin.
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Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler
The stunning Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is the result of a partnership between the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations, the traditional inhabitants of the Whistler Valley.
Take a self-guided tour and learn about the distinct culture, history, arts and endeavours of the two First Nations through displays, multimedia exhibits, interactive performances, forest walks, and craft making. Strike up a conversation with the Squamish and Lil'wat hosts or with a resident artist and enjoy affordable Aboriginal-influenced food at the on-site café. The gift gallery sells original artwork, jewellery and carvings.
Guided First Nations Tours
The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region offers opportunities to discover local Aboriginal culture with the help of a First Nations guide.
On the Sunshine Coast, visit totem poles, tour a longhouse, or take a guided kayak paddle as you learn about Tla’Amin (Sliammon) First Nations history, traditions and ecological practices. Drop in to Hewhiwus (House of Chiefs) home to the Sechelt Aboriginal band's government offices.
In North Vancouver, travel the tranquil waters of a glacial fjord in an ocean-going canoe – or explore the shores by kayak – as you learn about the cultural heritage of a local First Nation.
Tips on Aboriginal & Cultural Visits:
- Some locations are open seasonally or by appointment only; always check operating hours in advance.
- Aboriginal 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.
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Miniature Train In Stanley Park
Vancouver, British Columbia
V6B 3X8
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.
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4584 Blackcomb Way
Whistler, British Columbia
V0N 1B4
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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10% Off General Admission
Save 10% on admission rates when tickets are booked through HelloBC!
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4971 Hicks Rd
Boston Bar, British Columbia
V0K 1C0
This is our invitation to tour the original site where Fraser Canyon legends were born. See the summer lodges, smoke house, food caches, sweat lodge, earth ovens and an awe-inspiring pit house. Enjoy an historical adventure that will evoke deep memories of the old ways. Come enjoy some of our traditional stories. Walk our village and share sacred memories of our Nlaka'pamux culture.
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Other businesses with Aboriginal Experiences
639 Hornby St
Vancouver, British Columbia
V6C 2G3
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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3735 Capilano Rd
North Vancouver, British Columbia
V7R 4J1
Appreciate nature from three breathtaking perspectives - world famous Capilano Suspension Bridge, the seven bridges of Treetops Adventure & the thrilling new Cliffwalk, a heart-stopping journey along the granite cliff high above Capilano River.
The 137 m (450 ft) long, 70 m (230 ft) high Capilano Suspension Bridge has thrilled visitors since 1889. While the wobbly bridge has become a Vancouver landmark, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers an all-encompassing BC experience. History, culture & nature are presented through knowledgeable staff and interpretive signage. Seasonal events like Raptors Ridge birds of prey June to October & Canyon Lights in December enhance this year-round destination.
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Buy Online & Save
Buy your tickets online & save on adult ticket prices at the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
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700 Apex Ave
North Vancouver, British Columbia
V7H 2R5
West Coast Canoe Tours:
Explore the rich marine ecosystem while experiencing Coast Salish culture while you enjoy a guided interpretive paddle in one of our traditional 31 foot Coast Salish Ocean going canoes. Gently paddle the protected waters of Burrard Inlet & the beautiful pristine Indian Arm. Trained First Nations Guides share first nation's culture, sing traditional songs & tell legends & the history of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation.
Rainforest Ground Tour:
Explore the ancestral trails of Whey-Ah-Whichen (Cates Park). Learn about the traditional uses of the local flora and fauna, harvesting methods, traditional medicines & how to identify different plant species.
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Hwy 99
Britannia Beach, British Columbia
V0N 1J0
Enjoy a superb collection of First Nations Aboriginal handcrafted carvings, masks, pottery & jewelry by members of the Squamish Nation. We also carry BC Jade, soapstone sculptures, paintings by local artists, giclees, prints, moccasins & a large variety of unique gift ideas.
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