At the University of British Columbia’s Vancouver campus, the Beaty Biodiversity Museum brings together specimens from across the natural world. A blue whale skeleton greets you at the entrance, with collections covering mammals, plants, coral, invertebrates and marine life. Open specimen drawers reveal animal facts and details about preservation, and interactive activities give younger visitors ways to explore. The displays are closely packed, so allow time to look carefully. It is a good stop for families and anyone curious about biology, though the plant section relies more on reading than on visual displays.
Collections beyond the whale skeleton
The museum’s collections extend across several groups of life, including mammals, plants, coral, invertebrates and marine specimens. Larger displays sit alongside rows of specimen cabinets, so the visit shifts between objects on view and smaller details to explore.
Some open drawers contain animal facts and information about preservation procedures. Take time to browse them as you move through the collection. The plant section has more text than visual displays, while preserved marine specimens are kept in jars.
Activities and visitor facilities
Interactive elements add ways to engage with the collections, including an activity for identifying bees. Museum staff can also share more information about the exhibits. Families with children can explore displays together, and there is a souvenir shop on the upper floor with a small seating area behind it.
A documentary about the blue whale skeleton covers the challenges involved in bringing it to the museum. It adds context to the large specimen at the entrance.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Beaty Biodiversity Museum?
It is at 2212 Main Mall on the University of British Columbia campus in Vancouver.
What can you see at the Beaty Biodiversity Museum?
The collections include mammals, plants, coral, invertebrates and marine specimens. The blue whale skeleton is displayed at the entrance.
How long do you need at the Beaty Biodiversity Museum?
Allow around 2 to 3 hours to explore the exhibits and specimen drawers.
Is the Beaty Biodiversity Museum suitable for children?
Yes. The museum has interactive activities, including bee identification, and its exhibits can be explored by children and adults.
