8 Under-the-Radar Museums in Vancouver

There’s always something going on at the Vancouver Police Museum, from movies hosted in the former morgue, to lecture series with authors, to hands-on true crime investigative programs. The museum was established in 1986 to preserve the city’s criminal and legal history, and continues to intrigue visitors with its offbeat theme. Exhibits include in-depth explorations of famous cold cases—such as the sad tale of “the Babes in the Woods”—and deep-dives into historical accounts of corruption and scandal. At this museum, you’ll get a glimpse into Vancouver’s gritty, compelling past.

Don’t miss: Book an interactive forensic program and challenge your friends and family to solve a puzzling crime.

A distinctive feature of the North Vancouver waterfront, the exterior of the Polygon Gallery reflects the water, sky, and mountains that surround it. This airy gallery offers admission by donation to ensure everyone can access art, and curates exhibitions by artists who reflect the diversity of the Vancouver community. Past shows include Response: Resonance, a video series exploring the ability of sound to link us to territory, history, and heritage, and Deanna Dikeman: Leaving and Waving, which unpacked the passage of time and the sadness of saying goodbye.

Don’t miss: The gallery is next to scenic Lonsdale Quay, with its collection of cafés, boutiques, and lookout spots. Try some photography of your own as you gaze out over Vancouver Harbour.

Set in the historic former Bank of Montreal building in vibrant Chinatown, this museum focuses on the multigenerational stories and contributions of Chinese Canadians to Vancouver. Rather than concentrating on historic objects, the center explores the past through the personal stories of the neighborhood’s residents, stories that teach visitors about the history of Canada’s shameful discriminatory practices against Chinese newcomers while celebrating the strength of the community that emerged. Make sure to check the film schedule at the museum’s Rogers Theatre before your visit.

Don’t miss: Ensure you leave time to explore Chinatown itself—you’ll find delicious food and quirky shops.

This interactive gallery offers fun for kids and adults alike—get creative while you pose with the optical-illusion artworks. With trompe-l'oeil murals and tilted rooms, you can shrink yourself down or walk on walls in this quirky gallery. Don’t forget to book your time slot ahead, as the museum fills up quickly. Afterwards, explore the historic Gastown neighborhood with its cobbled streets and lively pubs. You’ll find as much to photograph outside the gallery as inside.

Don’t miss: Make sure you bring a camera (and a friend or two), so you can properly capture all the illusions on display.

Located in pedestrian-friendly Whistler Village, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is well worth the drive from Vancouver. Its expansive windows and cedar beams create a space that’s seamlessly integrated with the local environment, welcoming visitors to the traditional territory of the Squamish and the Lil’wat nations, and sharing their vital stories and rich culture. Here, you can learn how to carve a small cedar paddle or make a miniature hand drum, watch a live carving demonstration, and learn about the belongings on display in the museum.

Don’t miss: The Thunderbird Café highlights Indigenous-inspired cuisine and local ingredients.

Busy Broadway is home to this combination gallery and market space, which highlights dozens of local artists. The upstairs market lets you browse for the newest piece to add to your collection, while the shared gallery space features a rotation of artwork. The site also includes studios that are sometimes open to the public, so you can see artists at work. If you’re looking to discover Vancouver’s art scene, check their events calendar—their gatherings typically include live music and the opportunity to meet the artists featured in the gallery.

Don’t miss: Check the market’s online store for new additions, so you can find favorites even when you return home.

Recently opened, the Museum of North Vancouver focuses on the interplay between the North Shore’s industrial history and the stories of the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh nations who have lived on the land since time immemorial. The museum is also home to the restored Streetcar 153, which visitors can climb aboard to hear voices from the past. The bustling surroundings of the Shipyard District of North Vancouver offers plenty of opportunities for exploration—grab a cone from the excellent Earnest Ice Cream, and take a stroll through the neighborhood.

Don’t miss: Check the museum’s online calendar for unique events, including discussions on queer history, scrapbooking sessions, and traditional wool-weaving.

Vancouver has long been a port city, and this museum highlights the area’s fascinating maritime history. Climb aboard the restored St. Roch—the first boat to travel through the Northwest Passage from west to east, and imagine life as a daring sailor. The museum’s heritage harbor features an impressive collection of vintage wooden boats, from tugboats to a one-of-a-kind fur trading ship. The building is set in the picturesque Kitsilano neighborhood with easy access to the beach, and plenty of restaurants and cafés where you can refuel after your visit.

Don’t miss: The museum runs summer camps and other activities for children, making it a great spot for the whole family.