Quick Facts
Location: Victoria Inner Harbour
Opened: 1886 (current building: 1968)
Exhibits: Natural history, First Peoples, Old Town
IMAX: 6-story screen theatre
Time Needed: 2-4 hours
Admission: Adults ~$30, Youth ~$20
Type: Provincial museum
Info
Getting There: Located at 675 Belleville Street on Victoria's Inner Harbour, adjacent to the Parliament Buildings. Walking distance from downtown. Google Maps
Highlights: First Peoples gallery, Old Town, natural history
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Royal BC Museum?
The Royal BC Museum is British Columbia's premier museum showcasing the province's natural and human history. It features world-class exhibits on First Peoples, an immersive Old Town streetscape, natural history galleries, and an IMAX theatre.
Where is the Royal BC Museum located?
The Royal BC Museum is located at 675 Belleville Street on Victoria's Inner Harbour, right next to the BC Parliament Buildings in downtown Victoria.
How much does the Royal BC Museum cost?
Admission is approximately $30 for adults, $20 for youth (ages 6-18), and free for children under 6. IMAX films cost extra. Combination tickets and memberships are available.
How long should I spend at the Royal BC Museum?
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to see the permanent galleries. If you want to see temporary exhibits and an IMAX film, allow 4-5 hours. The museum is large and information-rich.
What are the main exhibits at the Royal BC Museum?
The main permanent exhibits include the First Peoples Gallery (Indigenous history and culture), the Natural History Gallery (BC's ecosystems and wildlife), and Old Town (a recreated historical street from the 1920s).
What is Old Town at the Royal BC Museum?
Old Town is an immersive exhibit featuring a full-scale recreation of a 1920s Victoria street, complete with storefronts, a hotel, cinema, and Chinatown. You can walk through and experience historical BC.
Is the Royal BC Museum good for kids?
Yes! Kids love Old Town, the natural history dioramas with animals, the hands-on discovery areas, and the IMAX theatre. The museum is engaging for all ages.
Does the Royal BC Museum have an IMAX theatre?
Yes! The Royal BC Museum IMAX Theatre features a 6-story screen showing nature documentaries and educational films. IMAX tickets are sold separately from museum admission.
What is the First Peoples Gallery?
The First Peoples Gallery showcases the rich cultures and histories of BC's Indigenous peoples through artifacts, art, traditional structures like a bighouse, and multimedia presentations. It's one of the museum's most important exhibits.
Is the Royal BC Museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Royal BC Museum is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible washrooms throughout. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come basis.
Can you take photos in the Royal BC Museum?
Photography is allowed in most areas for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are not permitted. Some temporary exhibits may have photography restrictions.
Are there restaurants at the Royal BC Museum?
Yes, the museum has a café serving light meals, snacks, and beverages. Numerous restaurants are also within walking distance in downtown Victoria and around the Inner Harbour.
