All ethnology museums to visit in Canada

Explore the cultural diversity and heritage at 67 ethnology museums in Canada. These museums offer insights into the traditions, customs, and ways of life of various communities.

Are you interested in learning about different cultures and their histories? Here are the ethnology museums to visit in Canada:

  1. Royal Ontario Museum1

    Royal Ontario Museum

     Toronto
    The Royal Ontario Museum, also known as ROM, is located in Toronto, the capital city of the Canadian province of Ontario. It is a museum dedicated to culture, art, and natural history. This museum is a significant cultural institution in Canada and offers a wide range of exhibits and collections that cater to various interests.
  2. Online discount!Museum of Vancouver2

    Museum of Vancouver

     Vancouver
    The Museum of Vancouver, previously known as the Vancouver Museum, is situated in Vanier Park in the city of Vancouver, Canada. This location is easily accessible and offers a scenic view of the city, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for tourists.
  3. Canadian Museum of History3

    Canadian Museum of History

     Gatineau
    The Canadian Museum of History, located in Gatineau, Quebec, is the national museum of human history in Canada. It is dedicated to collecting, studying, preserving, and presenting material objects that reflect Canada's human history and the cultural diversity of its population. The museum is known for its permanent exhibition halls, which cover 20,000 years of Canada's human history.
  4. Museum of Civilization4

    Museum of Civilization

     Quebec City
    The Museum of Civilization, located in Quebec, Canada, is a public institution that was established on December 19, 1984. It opened its doors to the public in 1988, offering a wide range of exhibits and activities for visitors to enjoy. The museum is part of Old Quebec and is situated on the banks of the Saint Lawrence River, providing a picturesque setting for those visiting the museum.
  5. National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec5

    National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec

     Quebec City
    The Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ) is a significant art museum located in Quebec City, Canada. It holds the status of being the national museum of the province of Quebec. The museum specializes in works related to Quebec or created by Quebecois artists, making it a unique destination for those interested in the region's art and culture.
  6. Museum of Anthropology6

    Museum of Anthropology

     Vancouver
    The Museum of Anthropology, located near Vancouver, is recognized as one of the premier institutions dedicated to the culture of the First Nations in the Pacific Northwest. This makes it a significant attraction for those interested in indigenous cultures and history.
  7. Bata Shoe Museum7

    Bata Shoe Museum

     Toronto
    The Bata Shoe Museum, located in Toronto, Canada, is a unique institution dedicated to the history of footwear. The museum was officially opened to the public on May 6, 1995, and since then, it has been a significant cultural landmark in the city.
  8. Fort Edmonton Park8

    Fort Edmonton Park

     Edmonton
    Fort Edmonton Park, situated in Edmonton, Alberta, is recognized as the largest living history museum in Canada. The park is named after the first enduring European post in the area of modern-day Edmonton. It features both original and rebuilt historical structures that represent the history of Edmonton, including that of Indigenous Peoples. During the summer, the park is staffed by costumed historical interpreters, providing an immersive experience for visitors.
  9. The Rooms9

    The Rooms

     Saint John's
    The Rooms is a cultural facility located in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. This facility, which opened its doors to the public in 2005, serves as a hub for the province's cultural and historical artifacts. It houses the Art Gallery of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Archives of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Provincial Museum of Newfoundland and Labrador. The building's unique architecture is a nod to the simple gable-roofed sheds, known as 'fishing rooms', that were once a common sight in Newfoundland fishing villages.
  10. Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre10

    Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre

     Calgary
    The Chinese Cultural Centre, situated on the north-eastern side of downtown Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is a significant cultural landmark. Completed in September 1992, the centre serves as a hub for Chinese culture and heritage in the city. Its location in the heart of the city makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.
  11. Royal Saskatchewan Museum11

    Royal Saskatchewan Museum

     Regina
    The Royal Saskatchewan Museum, founded in 1906 as the Provincial Museum, has a long-standing mission to protect and preserve specimens of natural history and objects of historical and ethnological interest. This commitment to preservation and education makes it a valuable destination for those interested in learning about Saskatchewan's rich history and diverse natural environment.
  12. Textile Museum of Canada12

    Textile Museum of Canada

     Toronto
    The Textile Museum of Canada is situated in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The museum is dedicated to the collection, exhibition, and documentation of textiles. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the world of textiles, their history, and their significance in various cultures.
  13. Manitoba Museum13

    Manitoba Museum

     Winnipeg
    The Manitoba Museum, formerly known as the Museum of Man and Nature, is the largest museum in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. It was designed by Henry Herbert Gatenby in 1965 and is the largest heritage center in Manitoba and the world, focusing on human and natural heritage.
  14. Wanuskewin Heritage Park14

    Wanuskewin Heritage Park

     Saskatoon
    Wanuskewin Heritage Park, located just outside the city of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, serves as an archaeological site and a non-profit cultural and historical centre of the First Nations. This park is a testament to the rich history and culture of the First Nations, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the indigenous peoples of Canada.
  15. Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre15

    Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre

     Yellowknife
    The Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (PWNHC) is a significant cultural institution in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada. It serves as the official museum and archives for the Government of the Northwest Territories. The PWNHC is responsible for acquiring and managing objects and archival materials that represent the cultures and history of the Northwest Territories. It plays a crucial role in documenting and providing information about the region's cultures and history.
  16. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site16

    Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site

     Fort Macleod
    Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 18 km northwest of Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada, on highway 785. This location is where the foothills of the Rocky Mountains begin to rise above the prairies, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors. The site offers a unique insight into the indigenous culture and history of the area.
  17. Glenbow17

    Glenbow

     Calgary
    The Glenbow Museum, located in Calgary, Alberta, is a renowned art and history museum. It was established in 1954 by the philanthropist Eric Harvie. The museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a deep dive into the history of southern Alberta through its permanent exhibitions.
  18. 18

    Maison Smith

     Montreal
    The museum offers an insight into the history and geology of Mount Royal, the original settlement of first inhabitants in Montreal.
  19. Canadian Museum For Human Rights19

    Canadian Museum For Human Rights

     Winnipeg
    The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a cultural history museum situated in Winnipeg, the capital city of the Canadian province of Manitoba. It is the only national museum of Canada located outside of the capital, Ottawa. The museum was built between 2008 and 2012 and officially opened on September 19, 2014.
  20. Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village20

    Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

     Edmonton
    The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is an open-air museum situated in east central Alberta, Canada. It is dedicated to recreating the pioneer settlements of Ukrainian Canadian settlers from the years 1899 to 1930. The museum uses costumed historical interpreters to provide an immersive experience of the past. Buildings from surrounding communities have been relocated to the site and restored to various years within the first part of the twentieth century, providing a tangible glimpse into the lives of these early settlers.
  21. Museum of Natural History21

    Museum of Natural History

     Halifax
    The Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, is a museum dedicated to natural history and archaeology. It is part of the Nova Scotia Museum system and has a rich history dating back to 1868. The museum houses a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Mi’kmaq, scientific apparatus, fossils and minerals, animals, paintings, and prints.
  22. Royal Alberta Museum22

    Royal Alberta Museum

     Edmonton
    The Royal Alberta Museum, previously known as the Provincial Museum of Alberta, is a renowned institution dedicated to the fields of natural history and anthropology. It is situated in the residential neighborhood of Glenora in Edmonton. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse cultures that have shaped Alberta and the world.
  23. OSEREDEOK - Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre23

    OSEREDEOK - Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre

     Winnipeg
    The Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre, also known as Oseredok, is a multifaceted institution located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. It serves as a museum, gallery, and library, all dedicated to celebrating the Ukrainian Canadian community. As a visitor, you can explore a wide range of exhibits and collections that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Ukrainians in Canada.
  24. Le Musée de Saint-Boniface Museum24

    Le Musée de Saint-Boniface Museum

     Winnipeg
    Le Musée de Saint-Boniface is situated in the heart of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Specifically, it is located at 494 Taché Avenue, nestled between Cathedral Avenue and Despins Street, in the Saint-Boniface area. This area is part of the Riel district of the city of Winnipeg, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.
  25. Farmers' Bank of Rustico and Doucet House Museum25

    Farmers' Bank of Rustico and Doucet House Museum

     South Rustico
    The Farmers' Bank of Rustico, located in the village of Rustico, Prince Edward Island, was operational from 1864 to 1894. It is often recognized as the first community-based bank in Canada. This historical significance makes it an interesting site for those interested in the history of banking and community development in Canada.
  26. King Heritage and Cultural Centre26

    King Heritage and Cultural Centre

     King
    The King Township Museum, located at 2920 King Street in King City, Ontario, Canada, serves as a local history museum for the King Township. It was formerly known as the Kinghorn Museum and is situated in the locality that was once known as Kinghorn, now a borough of the city of King. The museum is operated by the 'Parks, Recreation and Culture' organization led by Kathleen Fry.
  27. 27

    Huron-Wendat Museum

     Wendake
    The Huron-Wendat culture is brought closer to the visitors of Musée Huron-Wendat through exhibitions and even a garden with medicinal plants.
  28. Nk'mip Desert Cultural Centre28

    Nk'mip Desert Cultural Centre

     Osoyoos
    The Nk'Mip Desert Culture Centre, located in Osoyoos, British Columbia, Canada, is a unique interpretive centre that is owned and operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band. This cultural hub provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the Okanagan Desert and the culture of the Okanagan people in an immersive and interactive environment.
  29. 29

    TD Gallery of Indigenous Art

     Toronto
    This museum offers collection of post WWII Inuit sculptures. This must-see collection has over 200 pieces.
  30. Fort Whoop-up30

    Fort Whoop-up

     Lethbridge
    Today, Fort Whoop-Up is also the name of a replica site and interpretive centre located in Indian Battle Park. This site offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the original fort and the activities that took place there. The replica fort was built based on new photographic evidence and is designed to resemble the original fort as closely as possible.
  31. Amherstburg Freedom Museum31

    Amherstburg Freedom Museum

     Amherstburg
    The Amherstburg Freedom Museum, formerly known as the North American Black Historical Museum, is situated in Amherstburg, Ontario, Canada. This community-based, non-profit institution is dedicated to narrating the history and contributions of African-Canadians. Many of the individuals whose stories are told here had ancestors who entered Canada as refugees from slavery in the United States.
  32. New Brunswick Museum32

    New Brunswick Museum

     Saint John
    The New Brunswick Museum, situated in Saint John, New Brunswick, holds the distinction of being Canada's oldest continuing museum. This historical institution has been preserving and showcasing the country's rich heritage for many years, making it a significant cultural landmark.
  33. Yukon Transportation Museum33

    Yukon Transportation Museum

     Whitehorse
    The Yukon Transportation Museum (YTM) is a non-profit organization and registered charity. It is situated in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada, on the traditional territories of the Ta'an Kwächan Council and the Kwanlin Dün First Nation. This location is not only significant for its historical and cultural value but also for its accessibility to visitors.
  34. 1000 Islands History Museum34

    1000 Islands History Museum

     Gananoque
    The 1000 Islands History Museum is situated in the charming town of Gananoque, Ontario, Canada. This location is not only beautiful but also rich in history and ecology, making it an ideal place for a museum that interprets the history and ecology of Gananoque and the 1000 Islands.
  35. 35

    Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver

     Vancouver
    The Chinese Cultural Centre is a multifaceted institution located in Vancouver's Chinatown. It serves as a community centre, a museum, and a municipal archives facility. This makes it a unique destination for tourists interested in Chinese culture and history, as well as the history of Vancouver itself.
  36. Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung36

    Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung

     Stratton
    The Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre, also known as Manitou Mounds, is a significant site of early habitation and ceremonial burial in Canada. It comprises a vast network of 30 village sites and 15 ancient burial mounds, making it a rich source of historical and cultural information. The site offers a unique opportunity to explore Canada's ancient past and gain insights into the lives and practices of its early inhabitants.
  37. 37

    Black Cultural Centre For Nova Scotia

     Halifax
    The Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia is situated in Cherry Brook, Nova Scotia, within the Halifax Regional Municipality. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of African Nova Scotians.
  38. 38

    Native Canadian Centre of Toronto

     Toronto
    A community centre focused on native Canadian culture. Various performances such as drum lessons take place here.
  39. Osoyoos Desert Centre39

    Osoyoos Desert Centre

     Osoyoos
    The Okanagan Desert, located in the southern region of the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia and Washington, is a unique semi-arid shrubland. This desert is centred around the city of Osoyoos and is the only one of its kind in Canada. Its unique ecosystem and location make it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring diverse landscapes.
  40. 40

    Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre

     Whistler
    Learn about the indigenous people of the region, discover their art, history and culture. You can also buy some souvenirs at the gift shop.
  41. U'mista Cultural Centre41

    U'mista Cultural Centre

     Alert Bay
    Alert Bay is deeply rooted in indigenous culture, with up to half of its residents being First Nations people. The village is located in the traditional territory of the Kwakwakaʼwakw, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the rich cultural heritage of these indigenous communities.
  42. 42

    Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art

     Vancouver
    A striking gallery exhibiting various pieces of Bill Reid, famous Haida artist. There are also exhibits of other Haida artists.
  43. 43

    Wetaskiwin & District Heritage Museum

     Wetaskiwin
    The Wetaskiwin and District Heritage Museum is a significant cultural institution in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Canada. It is dedicated to celebrating and preserving the history, heritage, and culture of the local area. This includes the City of Wetaskiwin, County of Wetaskiwin, and the Maskwacis Cree Four Nations. The museum serves as a vital resource for understanding the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
  44. 44

    Bay of Spirits Gallery

     Toronto
    A gallery offering wide collection of aboriginal art such as totem poles, Inuit carvings or Inukshuk figurines.
  45. Museum of Ontario Archaeology45

    Museum of Ontario Archaeology

     London
    The Museum of Ontario Archaeology, situated in northwest London, Ontario, Canada, is a unique institution dedicated to the exploration and public interpretation of over 11,000 years of human history in Ontario. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the region's rich history, making it an ideal destination for those interested in learning about Ontario's past.
  46. Ksan Historical Village and Museum46

    Ksan Historical Village and Museum

     Hazelton
    ʼKsan is a significant historical village and living museum located in the Skeena Country of Northwestern British Columbia, Canada. It serves as a testament to the rich history and culture of the Gitxsan Indigenous people. Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditions and customs of the Gitxsan, gaining a deeper understanding of their way of life.
  47. Canadian Canoe Museum47

    Canadian Canoe Museum

     Peterborough
    The Canadian Canoe Museum, situated in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, is a unique institution dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of the culture and history of the canoe. The museum's mission is deeply rooted in the significance of the canoe in Canadian history and its influence on the nation's development. Visitors to the museum can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the canoe's role in shaping Canada's cultural and historical landscape.
  48. Saint John Jewish Historical Museum48

    Saint John Jewish Historical Museum

     Saint John
    The Saint John Jewish Historical Museum is located in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the Jewish community in the city. The museum offers a unique insight into the Jewish heritage and culture in Saint John, making it a significant destination for those interested in history and culture.
  49. Glengarry Pioneer Museum49

    Glengarry Pioneer Museum

     North Glengarry
    The Glengarry Pioneer Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the pioneer and Celtic history of eastern Ontario, from before 1812 until the 1920s. This historical journey provides a unique perspective on the region's past, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
  50. Galt Museum & Archives50

    Galt Museum & Archives

     Lethbridge
    The Galt Museum & Archives is a significant cultural institution in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. It holds the distinction of being the largest museum in the province south of Calgary. This museum is the primary museum in Lethbridge, making it a central hub for cultural and historical exploration in the region.
  51. Oshawa Museum51

    Oshawa Museum

     Oshawa
    The Oshawa Museum, located in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, is a historical museum founded by the Oshawa Historical Society. It serves a dual purpose, offering exhibits for the general public and acting as a storage facility for the city's historical documents. The museum is a significant resource for those interested in learning about the history of Oshawa and its surrounding areas.
  52. Lillooet Museum52

    Lillooet Museum

     Lillooet
    The Lillooet Museum is conveniently located on Main Street in Lillooet, British Columbia, Canada. It is situated across from the "Mile '0'" cairn, which marks the beginning of the Old Cariboo Road. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and provides a starting point for exploring the historical Old Cariboo Road.
  53. Craigflower Manor53

    Craigflower Manor

     View Royal
    The Craigflower Manor and Craigflower Schoolhouse are recognized as National Historic Sites of Canada. They are situated in View Royal, British Columbia, and Saanich, near Victoria. These sites were commissioned by the Hudson's Bay Company in the 19th century to provide education and lodging for their employees. Today, they serve as museums that offer insights into the colonial history of Victoria.
  54. Itsanitaq Museum54

    Itsanitaq Museum

     Churchill
    The Itsanitaq Museum, situated in Churchill, Canada, is a cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Inuit culture. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and traditions of the Inuit people.
  55. Pemberton & District Museum & Archives Society55

    Pemberton & District Museum & Archives Society

     Pemberton
    Welcome to the Pemberton and District Museum, located in the heart of the Pemberton Valley, the traditional and unceded territory of Lil'wat Nation, who have been here since time immemorial. The Pemberton Museum has over 2,000 artifacts, 2,000 photographs and over 20 meters of archival and refere
  56. 56

    Whistler Museum

     Whistler
    If you wish to learn more about Whistler, head for this museum. Plenty of interactive exhibits will guide you through its history and culture.
  57. 57

    Macbride Museum

     Whitehorse
    The MacBride Museum of Yukon History, located in Whitehorse, Canada, holds the distinction of being the oldest and most frequently visited museum in Yukon. It offers a deep dive into the history of the territory, making it a significant destination for those interested in understanding the region's past.
  58. 58

    Urban Shaman Contemporary Aboriginal Art

     Winnipeg
    Progressive exhibition space connecting the urban experience and aboriginal roots. Now this is interesting!
  59. 59

    Acadian House Museum

     West Chezzetcook
    The Acadian House Museum, located in West Chezzetcook, Nova Scotia, Canada, is a unique blend of a living and interpretive museum. It was officially opened to the public in 1997, offering visitors a chance to experience and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
  60. 60

    The Kamloops Museum and Archives

     Kamloops
    The Kamloops Museum and Archives is situated in the heart of downtown Kamloops, at 207 Seymour Street. This location is easily accessible and offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of Kamloops and British Columbia.
  61. 61

    Nanaimo Museum

     Nanaimo
    The Nanaimo Museum, which was originally named the Nanaimo Centennial Museum, is situated in the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia, Canada. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a chance to delve into the rich history and heritage of Nanaimo and its surrounding areas.
  62. 62

    New Iceland Heritage Museum

     Gimli
    The New Iceland Heritage Museum, situated in Gimli, Manitoba, is a unique institution dedicated to the preservation of the history and artifacts of the Icelandic population that migrated to the Interlake Region of Manitoba. This area, known as New Iceland, was home to a large Icelandic community and the museum provides a comprehensive insight into their lives, culture, and history.
  63. 63

    Fredericton Region Museum

     Fredericton
    The Fredericton Region Museum, which was previously known as the York Sunbury Museum, is a small, non-profit institution that was established in 1934 by the York Sunbury Historical Society. This museum is a testament to the rich history of the region and serves as a repository of its cultural heritage.
  64. 64

    Northern Life Museum & Cultural Centre

     Fort Smith
    The Northern Life Museum, situated in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, Canada, is a significant cultural institution that houses an extensive collection of over 13,000 artifacts. These artifacts represent the rich history and diverse cultures of the North, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the region's past and its people.
  65. 65

    Halton Region Heritage Services

     Milton
    Heritage Services is a key institution in the preservation of the material and cultural heritage of Halton Region. It is dedicated to acquiring and sharing knowledge about the region's historical and natural world. This commitment to preservation and education provides a rich and informative experience for visitors.
  66. 66

    DesBrisay Museum

     Bridgewater
    The DesBrisay Museum is a significant historical institution in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. It provides a comprehensive display of the town's history and the surrounding area. The museum's collection includes a wide range of exhibits that depict the life and architecture of the region's inhabitants. Visitors can gain a deep understanding of the local culture and history through the museum's exhibits.
  67. 67

    Nicola Valley Museum & Archives

     Merritt
    The Nicola Valley Museum and Archives is a significant cultural institution located in Merritt, British Columbia. It is managed and operated by the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives Association, a society that was formed in 1976. The museum is a testament to the rich history and culture of the Nicola Valley and serves as a repository of valuable artifacts and information from the region.