Indigenous Arts & Cultures in Prince Rupert

Discover Indigenous Destinations and Experiences in Prince Rupert

Prince Rupert, located on British Columbia’s rugged north coast, is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Ts’msyen (Tsimshian) Nation, whose people have lived along the Pacific shores for thousands of years. As a gateway to Indigenous culture, marine life, and breathtaking landscapes, Prince Rupert offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the rich heritage of the Ts’msyen people through art, storytelling, and immersive cultural experiences.

Visit the Museum of Northern British Columbia

One of the most significant Indigenous cultural attractions in Prince Rupert is the Museum of Northern British Columbia, housed in a traditional Northwest Coast longhouse-style building. The museum showcases a stunning collection of Ts’msyen artifacts, totem poles, ceremonial regalia, and carved masks, providing insight into the deep spiritual and artistic traditions of the region’s First Nations.

Explore the North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site

A short drive from Prince Rupert in Port Edward, the North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site highlights the important role of Indigenous fishing communities in the early salmon industry. Interpretive exhibits and guided tours share the stories of Ts’msyen and other Indigenous workers who contributed to British Columbia’s fishing heritage.

Experience Indigenous Art and Totem Poles

Prince Rupert is home to several traditional Ts’msyen totem poles and public art installations, many of which can be found in public spaces, such as Sunken Gardens Park and Mariners Park. The region also has Indigenous art galleries featuring contemporary and traditional works, including carved masks, jewelry, and woven cedar pieces.

Attend Indigenous Cultural Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, Prince Rupert hosts Indigenous-led events, including the All Native Basketball Tournament, one of the largest Indigenous sporting and cultural gatherings in Canada. The tournament features not only basketball but also traditional drumming, dancing, and storytelling that celebrate the resilience and unity of First Nations communities.

Indigenous-Led Outdoor Adventures and Eco-Tours

For those seeking a deeper connection to the land and sea, Indigenous-led eco-tours provide an opportunity to explore traditional fishing techniques, marine wildlife, and ancient village sites along the coast. Visitors can also experience whale-watching, kayaking, and guided nature walks with Indigenous knowledge keepers who share stories about the region’s ecosystems and their cultural significance.

Whether you’re exploring ancient totem poles, learning about the Ts’msyen people’s deep relationship with the ocean, or experiencing Indigenous art and storytelling firsthand, Prince Rupert invites you to connect with the rich cultural heritage of its First Nations communities in a meaningful and immersive way.

Discover Indigenous Destinations and Experiences in Prince Rupert

Prince Rupert, located on British Columbia’s rugged north coast, is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Ts’msyen (Tsimshian) Nation, whose people have lived along the Pacific shores for thousands of years. As a gateway to Indigenous culture, marine life, and breathtaking landscapes, Prince Rupert offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the rich heritage of the Ts’msyen people through art, storytelling, and immersive cultural experiences.

Visit the Museum of Northern British Columbia

One of the most significant Indigenous cultural attractions in Prince Rupert is the Museum of Northern British Columbia, housed in a traditional Northwest Coast longhouse-style building. The museum showcases a stunning collection of Ts’msyen artifacts, totem poles, ceremonial regalia, and carved masks, providing insight into the deep spiritual and artistic traditions of the region’s First Nations.

Explore the North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site

A short drive from Prince Rupert in Port Edward, the North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site highlights the important role of Indigenous fishing communities in the early salmon industry. Interpretive exhibits and guided tours share the stories of Ts’msyen and other Indigenous workers who contributed to British Columbia’s fishing heritage.

Experience Indigenous Art and Totem Poles

Prince Rupert is home to several traditional Ts’msyen totem poles and public art installations, many of which can be found in public spaces, such as Sunken Gardens Park and Mariners Park. The region also has Indigenous art galleries featuring contemporary and traditional works, including carved masks, jewelry, and woven cedar pieces.

Attend Indigenous Cultural Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, Prince Rupert hosts Indigenous-led events, including the All Native Basketball Tournament, one of the largest Indigenous sporting and cultural gatherings in Canada. The tournament features not only basketball but also traditional drumming, dancing, and storytelling that celebrate the resilience and unity of First Nations communities.

Indigenous-Led Outdoor Adventures and Eco-Tours

For those seeking a deeper connection to the land and sea, Indigenous-led eco-tours provide an opportunity to explore traditional fishing techniques, marine wildlife, and ancient village sites along the coast. Visitors can also experience whale-watching, kayaking, and guided nature walks with Indigenous knowledge keepers who share stories about the region’s ecosystems and their cultural significance.

Whether you’re exploring ancient totem poles, learning about the Ts’msyen people’s deep relationship with the ocean, or experiencing Indigenous art and storytelling firsthand, Prince Rupert invites you to connect with the rich cultural heritage of its First Nations communities in a meaningful and immersive way.