The Experience
Perched on the cliffs of UBC, the Museum of Anthropology is world-renowned for its architectural beauty and vast collections. It offers a profound look into the artistry and traditions of First Nations peoples of the Pacific Northwest.
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The Great Hall houses massive totem poles and carvings that stand against floor-to-ceiling glass walls.
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Visitors can explore thousands of ethnographic objects from cultures across the globe in the research collections.
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Bill Reid’s iconic 'The Raven and the First Men' sculpture serves as a breathtaking centerpiece of the museum.
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The museum's unique Arthur Erickson-designed building is an architectural masterpiece inspired by traditional First Nations structures.
Fun Facts
The museum reopened in June 2024 with a newly reconstructed Great Hall designed to withstand major earthquakes.
Bill Reid’s "Raven and the First Men" sculpture was once featured on the Canadian 20-dollar bill.
The building’s design was inspired by traditional post-and-beam architecture of the Northwest Coast First Nations.
The museum’s Multiversity Galleries use a "visible storage" concept with over 10,000 objects on display.
Best Suited For
The Crowd
- 🔹History Buffs
- 🔹Architecture Fans
- 🔹Culture Seekers
- 🔹International Guests
The Occasion
- 🔹Educational Tour
- 🔹Cultural Pilgrimage
- 🔹Scenic Discovery
- 🔹Quiet Reflection
Special Shows & Exhibits
Exhibitions and events run on various dates; check the schedule for specifics.
Jaad Kuujus: Everyone Says I Look Like My Mother
Explores themes of identity and motherhood.
Entangled Territories: Tibet Through Images
A visual journey through Tibetan landscapes and culture.
In a Different Light: Reflecting on Northwest Coast Art
Showcases contemporary Northwest Coast art.
Tupananchiskama: Ancient Andean Cosmovision
Explores ancient Andean beliefs and worldviews.
Coastal Dance Festival 2026—Artist Sharing Series
Features artist presentations as part of the festival.
Coastal Dance Festival 2026—Signature Performances
Highlights performances from the Coastal Dance Festival.
Plan Your Visit
Best Times to Visit
When: Thursday evenings (5–7 PM) for half-price admission and fewer crowds
Peak season: Summer (June–September) when tourists combine with UBC campus visits. Closed Mondays.
Insider Tips
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Visit Thursday after 5 PM for half-price admission — $13 for adults instead of $26, open until 7 PM.
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Walk the outdoor Haida Village — two full-size Haida houses and totem poles on the grounds overlooking the water.
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Spend time in the Visible Storage galleries — thousands of objects in glass cases in the Multiversity Galleries, a unique open-storage concept.
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Free for Indigenous peoples, UBC students/staff/faculty — bring your UBC card or self-identify at the desk.
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Tickets are in-person only — no online purchase, so arrive with flexibility for potential lineups on weekends.
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Borrow a free wheelchair — four wheelchairs available for visitors at no charge.
Visiting with Kids
The museum is fully stroller-friendly with elevators to all levels and wide, flat pathways.
The "Raven and the First Men" rotunda is a favorite spot for children to learn about traditional storytelling.
Pick up a gallery guide at the entrance to help guide children through the monumental carvings.
What to Bring
- 🎒UBC student/staff ID for free admission
- 🎒Comfortable walking shoes for outdoor grounds and Haida Village (gravel paths)
- 🎒A camera — photography permitted in most areas (flash-free)
- 🎒Cash or credit card for parking (UBC Parking; MOA does not validate)
- 🎒Layers — the Great Hall's glass wall makes temperatures vary
Admission
Adult
6.00
Seniors 3.00
Youth 3.00
Infants Free
Indigenous Peoples: Free; Thursday After 5Pm: 3.00 (Half-price)
Buy Tickets →Know Before You Go
Location
Getting Here
🚇 Transit
Take major bus routes (99 B-Line, R4, 25, 44, 84) to the UBC Exchange, followed by a 15-minute walk. For a shorter walk, transfer to the #68 bus to NW Marine Dr.
🚗 Parking
Paid parking (/hr) available directly in front of the museum and at the Rose Garden Parkade across the street. Car share (Evo) parking at North Parkade.