Audain Art Museum
A modern architectural gem housing BC's art, from Indigenous masks to Emily Carr's vibrant paintings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Audain Art Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern architectural gem housing BC's art, from Indigenous masks to Emily Carr's vibrant paintings.
"The architectural design of the whole museum itself is already somewhere you wanna just stay and read and relax."
Free Lockers Available
Utilize the complimentary lockers for your backpacks to explore comfortably. :key:
Don't Miss the Gift Shop
Find unique souvenirs and local art, including jewelry from Fire & Grace Silverworks. :gift:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indigenous Art Collection
Permanent Exhibition
Marvel at the stunning collection of masks and carvings from early area peoples, including works by Beau Dick.
Emily Carr's Masterpieces
Permanent Exhibition
Discover the largest public collection of Emily Carr paintings, showcasing her vibrant career and artistic evolution.
Architectural Marvel
Entire Museum
The museum building itself is a work of art, with a stunning design that complements its natural wooded setting.
Rotating Exhibitions
Upper Galleries
Experience captivating temporary exhibits, such as Russna Kaur's 'Pierced Into The Air.'
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Beyond the Slopes: Art and Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Lockers Available
Utilize the complimentary lockers for your backpacks to explore comfortably. :key:
Don't Miss the Gift Shop
Find unique souvenirs and local art, including jewelry from Fire & Grace Silverworks. :gift:
Check for Special Exhibitions
The museum frequently hosts world-class temporary exhibits, adding variety to your visit. :art:
Kid-Friendly Admission
Children can enter the museum for free, making it a great family outing. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Lockers Available
Utilize the complimentary lockers for your backpacks to explore comfortably. :key:
Don't Miss the Gift Shop
Find unique souvenirs and local art, including jewelry from Fire & Grace Silverworks. :gift:
Check for Special Exhibitions
The museum frequently hosts world-class temporary exhibits, adding variety to your visit. :art:
Kid-Friendly Admission
Children can enter the museum for free, making it a great family outing. :child:
Guided Tours Offered
Enhance your understanding with guided tours, often included with admission. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Audain Art Museum for its stunning architecture and impressive collection, particularly its Indigenous art and Emily Carr pieces. Many highlight the building's design as a highlight, complementing the art beautifully. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some visitors might wish for more extensive temporary exhibitions or additional dining options within the museum itself.
"Been waiting for exploring this great museum for 3 years haha! The permanent exhibition of indigenous First Nation mask collection from the great artist Beau Dick has been stunning! The current great photographer works of snowy mountain landscapes are awesome too! The architectural design of the whole museum itself is already somewhere you wanna just stay and read and relax in Whistler here! ❤️❤️🌷🌷👍👍"
Avis Woo
"Terrific art collection including west coast indigenous masks and carvings, Emily Carr, EJ Hughes, and more! Stunning architectural purpose built building. Well curated gift shop. Don't miss this gem while visiting Whistler."
Henrik Bruusgaard
"We took a rest day from skiing and visited this museum mid week. Audain is a high quality museum with an impressive primary collection. Of course there’s many First Nation pieces like interesting masks and bronze castings, but there’s also pieces from ground breaking BC artists like Emily Carr. The building is gorgeous and the wooded setting is a perfect match with the museum’s collections. We really enjoyed our visit!"
Sybrina Soga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Audain Art Museum is conveniently located in Whistler Village, easily accessible by foot from most accommodations. If driving, there is parking available nearby. For those looking for a guided experience, tours from Vancouver often include transportation to both the Audain Art Museum and the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre.
Yes, Whistler has a public transit system that can get you close to the museum. Many visitors also opt for organized tours that handle transportation.
Many visitors opt for organized bus tours from Vancouver that include admission and transportation to the Audain Art Museum and other Whistler attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Audain Art Museum is typically open Thursday through Monday, from 11 am to 6 pm. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
Admission prices can vary, but it's generally a reasonable cost for the quality of art and architecture. Children often receive free admission, making it a great option for families.
It's highly recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, children typically get in for free. Check their website for any seasonal promotions or group rates.
Yes, the Audain Art Museum often provides guided tours that offer deeper insights into the collections and exhibitions.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, but it's best to check signage or ask staff for specific exhibition rules.
The museum's stunning architecture, the Indigenous mask collection, and the works of Emily Carr offer fantastic photo opportunities. The exterior and surrounding landscape are also very picturesque.
Special exhibitions may have stricter photography rules, sometimes prohibiting it entirely to protect the artwork. Always adhere to posted signs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum focuses on art, there isn't a full-service restaurant. However, Whistler Village offers a wide array of dining options just a short walk away.
Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside the galleries to protect the artwork. There are often designated areas or nearby cafes for refreshments.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the main collections and any current exhibitions.
Yes, the museum features a well-curated gift shop offering unique art-related items, books, and local crafts.
Yes, the museum provides free lockers for visitors to store their backpacks and larger bags, allowing for a more comfortable viewing experience.
The museum showcases a diverse range of art, including historical and contemporary works by British Columbian artists, Indigenous art, and often features traveling exhibitions of international renown.
Absolutely! It's a perfect way to spend a rest day, offering a cultural and relaxing alternative to skiing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Culture Seekers
⛷️ Skiers Seeking a Break
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Brilliance of the Audain Art Museum
Inside, the museum offers a sense of spaciousness and tranquility. The layout is thoughtfully designed to guide visitors through its diverse collections, from the historical Indigenous art to contemporary pieces. The architectural design is frequently praised by visitors, who note how the building's quiet, open spaces contribute to a relaxing and immersive atmosphere. It's a space where art and nature converge, offering a unique visual experience that complements the artworks on display.
Exploring Whistler's Artistic Heritage
Beyond Emily Carr, the museum proudly displays Indigenous art, including a remarkable collection of masks and carvings from the First Nations of the region. This section provides invaluable insight into the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the area's original peoples. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, showcasing both established and emerging artists, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to discover.
For those interested in a broader cultural experience, the Audain Art Museum often partners with other local institutions. For instance, guided tours may include visits to the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the region's art and history. This integrated approach allows visitors to appreciate the multifaceted artistic tapestry of Whistler.
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