Museums

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies
This museum is a repository for ideas, art and culture in the Rocky Mountains. This is a first call venue that shouldn't be overlooked by any traveller who seeks to find meaning in the places they pass through. The museum was founded in 1968 by Peter & Catharine Whyte, a couple with passion for the arts, mountains and the people who occupied the landscape. The museum property includes an archive, library, 4 main galleries, gift shop and several heritage homes in and around the property. It's well worth spending at least half a day or more immersing yourself in the many interesting features of this museum.
Open 10am-5pm daily. $6 admission, under 5 free.
Archives & Library Mon-Fri 1-5pm
111 Bear Street
403 762 2291

Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum
Representing and celebrating the First Nation people of North America, then and now. Incredible collection housed in a fort like building built in the 50's. See native arts, costumes, teepees and more, all displayed in life-like settings.
Open 10am-6pm daily. $8 admission, under 6 free. Family $16.50.
1 Birch Ave
403 762 2388

Walter Phillips Gallery
Contemporary exhibits by artists from around the world.
Tues-Sat 12-5pm.
The Banff Centre
107 Tunnel Mountain Drive
403 762 6281

Banff Park Museum
Natural history, mammals, birds & insects are preserved and displayed in a realistic Victorian style. The building itself is well worth seeing (national historic significance), built in 1902 with overhanging verandas, Douglas fir cross-log construction, large wrapping veranda, lantern skylights and top pagoda used to bring natural light into the space before there was electricity in the area.
Open 10am-6pm daily. $3.90 admission, family $9.80, free 3pm tours.
Banff Ave & Buffalo St
403 762 1558

Canada Place
Birchbark canoe, computer touch screens, Canadian history and achievements, fun for children. Don't miss the Cascade Garden just behind the building.
10am-6pm, admission free.
Parks Canada Admin Building
101 Mountain Ave
403 760 1388