Amanda PhillipsThe alpine town of Jasper boasts an incredible selection of outdoor activities. Arguably some of the best in Canada. But it also caters for the homebodies of the world too (or sporty types who are having a day off).
If you’re in Jasper and don’t fancy anything strenuous, we recommend checking out its fascinating selection of museums. There are art, history and even a planetarium. Here are our top 5 museums in Jasper.
1. Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archives
For a general overview of the area’s history, we recommend starting here. There’s a permanent historical gallery that includes exhibits on the fur trade, the railway, and early exploration and tourism in Jasper National Park. There’s also the Showcase Gallery and Alcove Gallery, which have a rotation of exhibits. Special events take place throughout the year as well.
Website: jaspermuseum.org
Address: 400 Bonhomme Street, Jasper
2. The Den Wildlife Park
Get up close and personal with the animals of Jasper National Park in the form of taxidermy. Animals include caribous, cougars, grizzly bears, and various bird species. This museum is small, but still fascinating, and is quite easy to miss – you’ll find it in the basement of Whistlers Inn.
Website: whistlerssinn.com
Address: 105 Miette Avenue
3. Mountain Galleries
If you consider yourself a bit of an art buff, this is a great place to start. It focuses on promoting living Canadian artists, both famous and up-and-coming. The collection is also varied, featuring both paintings and ceramics. Mountain Galleries have three locations (Jasper, Banff and Whistler) and together they are one of the largest commercial galleries in Western Canada.
Website: mountaingalleries.com
Address: 1 Old Lodge Road,
4. The Habitat for the Arts
Looking for more art? The Habits for the Arts focuses on visual storytelling, whether that be through painting, music, theatre, or film. They hold regular events and everyone is welcome.
Website: iotad.ca
Address: 500 Robson Street
5. Jasper Planetarium
Welcome to the world’s largest astronomy park. Sit back in the 50-seat dome theatre for a live virtual tour of Jasper. Then have a look up at the night sky through the largest telescope in the Rocky Mountains. The planetarium is open nightly, but occasionally you can also book a guided tour into Jasper Dark Sky Preserve.
Website: jasperplanetarium.com
Address: Marmot Lodge, 86 Connaught Dr
