Whale Exhibit
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Beaty Biodiversity Museum Vancouver

4.5
·1k reviews·Vancouver, Canada

Explore over 2 million natural history specimens, including Canada's largest blue whale skeleton, at UBC's Beaty Biodiversity Museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more focus

CrowdLow
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Whale Exhibit

Beaty Biodiversity Museum Vancouver

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more focus

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore over 2 million natural history specimens, including Canada's largest blue whale skeleton, at UBC's Beaty Biodiversity Museum.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"A fascinating and unique place, Vancouver's best museum for appreciating biology and natural history."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free for UBC Students

If you're a UBC student, admission is free! :moneybag: Don't miss out on this campus gem.

Ask for Hidden Gems

Red-vested staff can show you cool stuff in locked stacks. 🔑 Ask away!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 1,195 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Blue Whale Skeleton

Blue Whale Skeleton

Main Hall

Marvel at Canada's largest blue whale skeleton, an awe-inspiring centerpiece that dominates the museum's main hall.

Critters in Jars

Critters in Jars

Various Exhibits

Explore a vast collection of preserved animals and plants, offering a unique glimpse into biodiversity.

Evolution of Life Wall

Evolution of Life Wall

Main Hall

Trace the incredible journey of life on Earth through a comprehensive display dedicated to evolutionary history.

Bird Art and Taxidermy

Bird Art and Taxidermy

Bird Exhibit

Admire detailed bird art and a vast collection of taxidermied birds, a must-see for aspiring birders.

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Planning Your Visit

UBC Campus Gem

Located on the University of British Columbia campus, the Beaty Biodiversity Museum is a treasure trove of natural history. Plan your visit to coincide with campus events or explore the surrounding UBC area for a fuller experience. Consider checking their website for special exhibits or events before you go.

Specimen Showcase

This museum houses over 2 million specimens, including Canada's largest blue whale skeleton. While fascinating, some visitors note it can feel like a 'giant cemetery' due to the preserved nature of the exhibits. It's a unique, educational space, especially for those interested in biology and natural history.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more focus
Crowd
Low
When
During UBC Academic Year
Why
Lively campus atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Special Exhibit Times
Why
Unique displays
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A very important message in this Exhibition “Our Story” - a must visit! #davidattenborough #naturalhistorymuseum #exhibition #nature #savetheplanet
@orlagill4
513.6K likes • 2.6M views

Free for UBC Students

If you're a UBC student, admission is free! :moneybag: Don't miss out on this campus gem. Reddit

Ask for Hidden Gems

Red-vested staff can show you cool stuff in locked stacks. 🔑 Ask away!

Neon ‘Ugly’ Vancouver #vancouverbc #neonsign #vancouver #vancouvercanada #museum #vancouverbccanada #vancouvertiktok #neonsigns #photoshootideas
@laurareidd
38.7K likes • 331.2K views
Drawing from life 🧬🧬🧬 #beatymuseum
thoughtsupnorth
142 likes • 1.6K views

Sketching Inspiration

Bring your sketchbook! Artists find inspiration in the specimens. :pencil2:

Plan for 2 Hours

You can skim the museum in about 2 hours, or deep dive into topics. :stopwatch:

(Dead) anmial sketching at Beaty Biodiversity Museum with Vancouver Urban Sketchers. I drew whatever caught my eye and made a little journal spread. First, I sketched the squirrels since I found them cute. Then, the beak of the brown pelican grabbed my attention. It was huge. I was like "I needed to draw that!" I wandered a bit after that, and stumbled upon these penguins stacking up. I wondered w...
m_t_0809
54 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free for UBC Students

If you're a UBC student, admission is free! :moneybag: Don't miss out on this campus gem. Reddit

Ask for Hidden Gems

Red-vested staff can show you cool stuff in locked stacks. 🔑 Ask away!

Sketching Inspiration

Bring your sketchbook! Artists find inspiration in the specimens. :pencil2:

Plan for 2 Hours

You can skim the museum in about 2 hours, or deep dive into topics. :stopwatch:

Nearby Dining Options

No cafeteria on-site, but the UBC Student Centre has many options. 🍴

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Beaty Biodiversity Museum for its vast and fascinating collection, particularly the impressive blue whale skeleton. It's seen as an educational and inspiring place, offering a unique glimpse into natural history and the scientific process of specimen preservation. Some find the preserved nature of the exhibits a bit somber, likening it to a 'cemetery,' but most appreciate its educational value and the wealth of information it provides.

"It’s a fascinating and unique place. Some people joke that it feels like a giant cemetery - a bit dark, but not entirely wrong. Many of the animal and plant specimens have been here for decades.

Each specimen feels like a teacher, quietly sharing the story of nature. They’re not just displays; they form the foundation for research and inspire both children and adults to appreciate biology.

What I especially value is how the museum explains the process of collecting, cataloguing, and preserving specimens, while also serving as the actual storage site.

I hope visitors leave with a deeper respect for nature."

Zacery Wood

"I think this is Vancouver’s best museum. It’s like an ethical zoo!

So much to learn here for kiddos and adults alike. As aspiring birders, we loved the bird art and the hundreds (maybe thousands?) of bird taxidermies that were truly fascinating to ogle at.

We also spoke with such a warm and welcoming volunteer (whose name is escaping me sadly) which introduced us to “Georgie”, as she had kindly named the owl she was touring around the museum.

We learned SO much! I would love to come back, especially as I get the sense that they often change their exhibitions around too."

Gemma Boothroyd

"If you don't like taxidermy or other preserved specimens, this probably isn't the place for you. But if that doesn't bother you, the price is reasonable and the exhibits are neat. My sibling is a huge fan of whales, so big blue was a big hit with them. The show about preparing the whale corpse for the museum was a bit gross to me, but they still enjoyed it."

Nicolas Moore

What People Like

Vast specimen collection
Blue whale skeleton
Educational value

What People Dislike

Somber atmosphere
No on-site cafe

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Beaty Biodiversity Museum is located on the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus. You can reach it via public transit using TransLink buses that serve the UBC Exchange. Driving is also an option, with parking available in nearby lots, though it can be paid. TikTok

Parking is available in various lots around the UBC campus, including near the museum. Be aware that parking fees apply and can vary depending on the lot and duration. It's advisable to check UBC Parking for the most current rates and locations. TikTok

Yes, the Beaty Biodiversity Museum is within walking distance of other UBC attractions like the Museum of Anthropology (MOA). Enjoy a pleasant stroll through the beautiful campus grounds. Reddit

Numerous bus routes serve the UBC campus, with many terminating at the UBC Exchange. From there, it's a short walk to the museum. Check the TransLink website or app for specific routes and schedules from your starting point. TikTok

Absolutely! The UBC campus is well-served by TransLink buses, making the Beaty Biodiversity Museum easily accessible via public transport from across Vancouver. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees vary for adults, seniors, and children. UBC students and staff often receive free or discounted entry. It's best to check the official Beaty Biodiversity Museum website for the most up-to-date pricing. Reddit

Yes, if you are a UBC student, you can enjoy free admission to the Beaty Biodiversity Museum. This makes it a fantastic and accessible resource for students interested in natural history. Reddit

The museum typically has set operating hours, often closed on Mondays and holidays. It's highly recommended to visit their official website to confirm current opening hours before your visit, as these can change seasonally. TikTok

While you can often purchase tickets at the door, buying in advance online might be an option, especially during peak times or for special events. Check the museum's website for ticketing information. TikTok

Yes, the museum often facilitates group tours and school bookings. These can provide a more structured and educational experience. Contact the museum directly to inquire about availability and arrangements. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The undisputed star is Canada's largest blue whale skeleton, a truly massive and impressive specimen. Beyond that, the museum boasts over 2 million specimens covering all aspects of biodiversity. Reddit+1

Most visitors spend around 2 hours exploring the museum, but you can easily spend longer if you wish to delve deeper into specific exhibits. Reddit

While the museum's focus is on its vast collection of specimens, there are elements that engage visitors, such as the teaching aides in drawers below exhibits and the opportunity to learn about specimen collection and preservation. Reddit

Absolutely! Children often find the specimens, especially the whale skeleton and the 'critters in jars,' fascinating. It's a great educational outing for families. TikTokReddit

You'll find an incredible array of specimens, including fossils, insects, plants, birds, mammals, and marine life. The collection spans millions of years of life on Earth. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, the Beaty Biodiversity Museum does not have an on-site cafeteria. However, the nearby UBC Student Centre offers a wide variety of dining options. Reddit

The UBC Student Centre, located a short walk away, provides numerous food choices, from quick bites to more substantial meals. You can also find cafes and eateries around the UBC campus. Reddit

Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks outside the exhibit areas to protect the specimens. Check the museum's specific policies upon arrival. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is typically allowed, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the specimens. It's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure. Instagram+1

Yes, the massive blue whale skeleton, the detailed specimens, and the overall museum architecture offer many unique and striking photo opportunities. Instagram+1

The blue whale skeleton is a must-capture. Also, the diverse collection of preserved animals, especially those in jars, and the intricate details of fossils and plant life make for compelling shots. Instagram+1

Yes, you can photograph the 'critters in jars,' which are a notable feature of the museum's collection. Just remember to avoid using flash. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted on university campuses for safety and privacy reasons. It's highly unlikely you'll be permitted to fly a drone near or inside the museum. TikTok

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