Museum of Anthropology at UBC
About This Museum
Perched on the cliffs of the University of British Columbia campus, with stunning views over the Salish Sea, this place is an absolute treasure. Stepping inside Arthur Erickson's masterpiece, you're immediately struck by the sheer presence of the Great Hall, where towering totem poles stand bathed in natural light. It feels less like a traditional museum and more like a profound conversation with cultures from across the globe. The way the concrete and glass structure interacts with the coastal rainforest outside blurs the line between artifact and environment.
Collection Highlights
The heart of the museum is its incredible collection of Northwest Coast First Nations art, including breathtaking totem poles, intricate argillite carvings, and the famous 'The Raven and the First Men' sculpture by Bill Reid. Don't miss the Multiversity Galleries, where you can explore thousands of objects from their open study drawers—it’s an ethnographer’s dream come true.
Visitor Information
It's located right at UBC, so parking can be a bit of a hunt—arriving by bus is often easier. Check their website for current hours and ticket prices before you go, as they sometimes have timed entry for popular exhibitions.
Architecture & Building
A landmark of West Coast modernism designed by Arthur Erickson, featuring vast concrete forms and massive glass walls that are meant to evoke a post-and-beam Northwest Coast longhouse nestled right into the forest.
Contact & Location
Address: Museum of Anthropology, 6393, Northwest Marine Drive, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Metro Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, V6T 1Z2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-827-5932
Website: Visit Website
