Apart from the outdoor experiences, Whitehorse’s cultural offerings are a must-see for any visitor. Immerse yourself in the rich history and diverse heritage of the Yukon Region by exploring the many museums and cultural centers located in and around Whitehorse.
First, the SS Klondike is a national historic site that I visited and that is well-known around here. Indeed, it is a beautiful and iconic ship that stands as a testament to the rich history of the Yukon. Built in 1929, it was used to transport goods and passengers along the Yukon River during the famous Klondike Gold Rush. The ship has been restored to its former glory, and today it serves as a museum that allows visitors to step back in time and experience what life was like during this period of Canadian history.
From the outside, the SS Klondike is an impressive sight. The ship is painted in traditional colours of red, white, and black, and the Canadian flag flies proudly from its mast. As I approached the ship, I have particularly been struck by its size.
Stepping aboard the SS Klondike, I found myself transported back in time. The ship’s interior is full of exhibits telling the story of the Klondike Gold Rush and the important role that the riverboats played in this period. From the engine room to the captain’s quarters, the ship has been meticulously restored to its original condition, and you can see and touch the very same items that were used by the crew and passengers nearly a century ago.
One of the most impressive features of the SS Klondike is the spacious main deck. Here, you can stand at the helm of the ship and imagine what it would have been like to navigate the waters of the Yukon River! The deck also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with the river stretching out before you and the mountains rising in the distance.
Overall, the SS Klondike is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the history of the Yukon and the Klondike Gold Rush. Its beautiful design, impressive size, and interesting exhibits make it a truly unique experience.
If you want to learn more about the First Nations culture and history in Yukon, you have to visit the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre. It is located in the heart of Whitehorse and provides visitors with a unique and immersive experience of the local indigenous culture.
One of the things that struck me the most about the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre is the architecture. The building itself is a work of art, featuring a modern design that incorporates traditional First Nations elements. The use of wood, stone, and glass creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for learning and exploration.
Inside, you’ll find a wealth of exhibits, displays, and interactive experiences that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation. From traditional artwork and crafts to historical artifacts and contemporary installations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the highlights of my visit was the performance space, where I got to attend a traditional dance performance by local First Nations artists. Another thing I loved about the Centre is the emphasis on community engagement and education, it offers a variety of activities like sewing and moccasins workshops.
Overall, my visit to the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre left me with a reinforced appreciation for the First Nations culture and heritage in Yukon. I highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to learn more about the rich history and traditions of the indigenous people of this region.
Get ready to travel back in time to the Ice Age at the Beringia Interpretive Centre in Whitehorse! This museum is a great place to visit because it is special and educational. Located just a short drive from downtown Whitehorse, it is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to learn about the ancient history of the region.
The Beringia Museum takes you on a journey through time, back to the period when the land bridge between Asia and North America was exposed, creating a vast landscape known as Beringia. Here, you can see the incredible fossils, bones, and other artifacts that have been unearthed in the region, including the Woolly Mammoth and the fierce Scimitar Cat!
What I love about the Beringia Museum is that it brings the past to life through interactive exhibits and displays. You can see diaporamas of ancient species in their natural habitats, and even touch replicas of some of the fossils and bones. It’s an immersive experience that is both fun and educational. But the Beringia museum isn’t just about the past – it also has a strong focus on the present and the future. The museum is committed to preserving the natural environment and the culture of the First Nations people who call this region home.
One of my favorite exhibits at the museum is the Ice Age Beringia exhibit. Here, you can learn about the plants and animals that lived in Beringia during the last Ice Age, and how they adapted to the harsh and changing environment.
Family friendly: this is the perfect destination for family travelling with young children to learn about the geological and biological diversity of the region.
Located right in the heart of downtown, it’s hard to miss this charming museum. The MacBride Museum is a perfect destination for anyone interested in the Gold Rush era, and the history of the Yukon.
You’ll learn about the first people to arrive in the area, the Woolly Mammoths, and other prehistoric creatures that roamed the land. It’s a fascinating exhibit that will give you a glimpse into what life was like thousands of years ago. The exhibit features displays of authentic artifacts and photographs, providing visitors with an immersive experience of what it was like to live in the Yukon during the Gold Rush era.
One of my personal favourite exhibits is the “Art and Culture of the North” exhibit, which showcases the unique art and culture of the Indigenous people of the Yukon. From traditional clothing to intricate bead work, this exhibit is a feast for the eyes and a great way to learn about the local First Nations communities.
And of course, no visit to the MacBride Museum would be complete without stopping by the gift shop. It’s filled with all sorts of treasures, from local artisanal products to books about the history of the Yukon.
Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and educational activity, the MacBride Museum is a lovely destination.
“After spending a year studying in Sherbrooke, Quebec, I got a great change of scenery coming to the Yukon. I love it here, the nature is incredible and the people are lovely! Working at Neighbourly North is a real opportunity and a fun experience for me. Being used to travelling and using short-term rentals, I am more than motivated to spend my time here being as useful as possible. So far, my experience has been incredibly enriching.”
Héloïse
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