Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Point Grey overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is a world-class destination for those captivated by history, creative expression, and Indigenous cultures. Home to one of the most comprehensive collections of Northwest Coast First Nations artifacts on earth, alongside thousands of rare global objects, MOA is not just a museum—it’s an immersive exploration of the art, beliefs, and traditions that shape humanity.
History of Museum of Anthropology
The Museum of Anthropology was founded in 1949 as part of UBC’s commitment to research, education, and engagement with the cultures of British Columbia and the world. Notably, the current building, designed by renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson in 1976, is celebrated for its soaring glass Great Hall, concrete post-and-beam structure inspired by Indigenous post-and-beam houses, and seamless harmony with the ocean and mountains.
The museum sits on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Musqueam people—actively collaborating with Musqueam and other First Nations communities to ensure their perspectives, artistry, and stories are honored and shared.
Attractions at Museum of Anthropology
The Great Hall: Step into a luminous, cathedral-like gallery lined with monumental totem poles, carved house posts, feast bowls, canoes, and other treasures from the Haida, Musqueam, Gitxsan, Heiltsuk, Kwakwaka’wakw, Nuu-chah-nulth, and more. The impact is awe-inspiring—these pieces are both historical artifacts and contemporary works of cultural continuity.
World’s Largest Bill Reid Collection: Discover dozens of works by Canada’s famed Haida artist, including the iconic cedar sculpture The Raven and the First Men—immortalized on Canada’s $20 bill and considered one of the country’s most powerful artistic creations.
Multiversity Galleries: Wander through 10,000+ objects displayed from Africa, Asia, the South Pacific, Europe, and South America. Open storage drawers reveal textiles, jewelry, ritual objects, ceramics, and personal artifacts, highlighting global cultural diversity.
Contemporary Indigenous Art: MOA regularly hosts temporary and permanent exhibitions by leading Indigenous artists, exploring colonialism, migration, identity, and tradition through photography, digital media, painting, and installation art.
Museum Grounds: The surrounding outdoor space is dotted with monumental totem poles, Haida houses, and Musqueam house posts, set against the backdrop of mountains, forests, and the Strait of Georgia.
Things to Do at Museum of Anthropology
Join a free guided gallery walk—offered regularly—to deepen your understanding of the objects, stories, and Indigenous perspectives that animate the museum.
Attend lectures, workshops, or children’s programs covering art techniques, First Nations history, and cultural celebrations.
Visit the MOA Shop for authentic art, jewelry, and books by Indigenous and local artists.
Stroll the grounds to admire outdoor sculptures and breathtaking Pacific Northwest scenery.
Explore special exhibitions, often focusing on contemporary Indigenous voices and urgent topics like cultural resilience and reconciliation.
View the Sea-Lion House and canoe displays to learn more about traditional housing and mariner heritage.
Museum of Anthropology – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
As of 2025, MOA is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and until 9:00 PM on Thursdays. Closed on Mondays.
How Long to Spend at Museum of Anthropology
Most visitors spend 2–4 hours exploring the extensive galleries, special exhibits, and museum grounds.
How to Get There
By Car: About 30–40 minutes west of downtown Vancouver. Paid parking lots are available adjacent to the museum and at the nearby Rose Garden Parkade.
By Bus: Take bus #99 B-Line or #4 from downtown to UBC Exchange, then transfer to the #68 (or walk ~15 min to MOA). Total transit time: 40–60 minutes.
By Taxi/Rideshare: 30–40 minute drive from central Vancouver.
By Bicycle: Bike routes along West 16th Avenue or Southwest Marine Drive lead to UBC; racks at the museum.
No boat service; nearest marina is on English Bay.
Eateries Nearby Museum of Anthropology
Sage Restaurant: Upscale campus dining with ocean views.
Great Dane Coffee: Popular café for fresh pastries and espresso, great for a quick snack.
Mercante: Casual eatery serving Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian espresso.
Harvest Mediterranean Grill: A favorite for salads, bowls, and Mediterranean-inspired fare.
Loafe Café: A bright spot for sandwiches, baked goods, and local coffee.
Mahony’s Tavern: Pub fare and drinks in a vibrant setting, just a short walk from the museum.
Other Attractions Nearby Museum of Anthropology
Nitobe Memorial Garden: An authentic Japanese garden steps away, ideal for peaceful reflection.
UBC Botanical Garden: Explore walking trails, canopy walkways, and diverse plant collections.
Beaty Biodiversity Museum: Natural history exhibits and a striking blue whale skeleton.
Wreck Beach: Vancouver’s famed clothing-optional beach, accessed via a steep stairway near the museum.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park: Expansive forested park for walking, running, and birdwatching.
The Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the study and preservation of global cultures, with a special focus on Indigenous art and artifacts. Known as The Museum of Anthropology, it offers visitors an unparalleled experience in archaeological anthropology, featuring totem poles, sculptures, and ethnographic collections from around the world.
For international travelers, it is often compared to other prestigious institutions such as the National Museum of Anthropology, Nacional Museo de Antropologia, and the Mexican Anthropology Museum, showcasing the rich diversity of human history. Also referred to as the Anthro Museum, the facility is recognized for its innovative exhibits that highlight cultural heritage and storytelling.
Students and researchers often explore the Haffenreffer Museum or Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology for comparative studies, while the National Museum Anthropology provides a broader perspective on human civilization. Whether you’re interested in Indigenous artifacts, historical studies, or global cultural insights, the Museum of Anthropology offers a deep and engaging exploration of humanity’s past and present.