Royal British Columbia Museum, Victoria (must see)

Founded in 1886, the Royal British Columbia Museum is divided into several permanent galleries, including the Natural History gallery, the First Peoples gallery, and the Modern History gallery. The Natural History gallery features exhibits on the province's flora and fauna, including displays of taxidermied animals and interactive exhibits that explore the region's diverse ecosystems. The First Peoples gallery showcases the history and culture of the Indigenous peoples of British Columbia, with exhibits that include ceremonial regalia, carvings, and artwork. The Modern History gallery examines the province's more recent history, with displays that focus on the colonial period, the gold rush, and the impact of industrialization on the region.

The museum's main focus is a fascinating journey through time, with two primary themes taking center stage: the rich history of the major cities in British Columbia, and the captivating history of the indigenous peoples who have long called this area their home. As you wander through the museum's carefully curated collection, you'll discover an impressive array of artifacts and exhibits that vividly illustrate the lives of these communities during a pivotal period of change, when the first Europeans arrived on these shores.

One particularly impressive exhibit focuses on the history of 20th century Vancouver and Victoria, taking visitors on a journey through the bustling city streets of yesteryear. A full-scale mockup of a classic town awaits, complete with a vintage movie theater featuring the legendary Charlie Chaplin, bustling Chinatown streets teeming with activity, and a hotel that showcases various pivotal moments in history. Visitors can even board Capt. Vancouver's ship and witness a gold panning operation in action.

The museum also hosts touring exhibitions. Some of the previous ones have included artifacts related to the RMS Titanic, Leonardo da Vinci, Egyptian artifacts, the Vikings, the British Columbia gold rushes and Genghis Khan. The Royal BC Museum partners with and houses the IMAX Victoria theater, which shows educational films as well as commercial entertainment.

Why You Should Visit:
The main museum in Victoria, BC, with a huge section of anthropology, nice section on natural history and geology of Vancouver Island, and the most amazing reconstruction of entire sections of the city of Victoria during different historical periods.

Tip:
Don't skip the outdoor section on the side of the main entrance. You can visit one of the original houses of the first big settlement in Victoria, totems, and a First Nation chief house, in a very nice and quiet setting. Otherwise, plan at least 3 hours to enjoy all the exhibitions (permanent and temporary).