Today's Story
British Columbians have every reason to be proud of their provincial museum and archives. Since 1886, the Royal BC Museum has collected, cared for and shared with others the history of British Columbia. Not only does the Royal BC Museum preserve and provide access to the provincial collection, we also share the province’s environmental and cultural history through informative programs and engaging exhibitions.
New findings from our research initiatives expand the knowledge about the cultural and environmental history of BC. By using technology to reach out beyond our walls and through travelling exhibitions, we bring our collections to the corners of the province.
However, we cannot simply think about our history. As stewards of the provincial collection, we must be realistic about the present and plan for the future. Just as the stories of this land change, so does the RBCM.
An integral driver of tourism in British Columbia, we are always looking ahead at how best to develop and preserve our collections for future generations so that the story of BC can be told for years to come.
The Royal BC Museum precinct consists of a 2.71 hectare site that houses:
- The museum and archives - over 7 million artifacts, records, specimens, and objects
- BC Archives - a vast holding of government and private records
- Museum - permanent and temporary special exhibition galleries
- Netherlands Centennial Carillon
- St. Ann’s Schoolhouse
- Helmcken House
- Native plant garden
- Mungo Martin House (Wawadit’la)
- Thunderbird Park
- National Geographic IMAX Theatre
- National Geographic Shop
- Royal BC Museum Shop
- Museum Café and Café Royale kiosk
- Glenshiel Seniors Residence