Buffalo Nations Museum — Attraction in Banff

Visiting the Buffalo Nations Museum was one of the most meaningful parts of our trip to Banff. Tucked away near the Bow River, this beautiful museum offers a powerful and immersive glimpse into the lives, culture, and history of the Indigenous peoples of the Northern Plains and Rockies.

From the moment we walked in, we were struck by the depth of knowledge and respect shown for Indigenous traditions and ways of life. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, with incredible displays of traditional regalia, beadwork, hunting tools, tipis, and artifacts that speak to the strength, resilience, and beauty of the cultures represented.

What stood out most was how personal and grounded everything felt. There was a real sense of storytelling — not just facts and dates, but the voices and histories of people who have called this land home for thousands of years. It’s a museum that invites reflection, respect, and appreciation for cultures that too often go overlooked.

The gift shop is also lovely — small but full of meaningful items, many of them made by Indigenous artisans. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful souvenir or a gift with cultural significance, it’s definitely worth browsing.

The location itself couldn’t be more beautiful — nestled in the picturesque town of Banff with the mountains as a backdrop. It’s a peaceful and inspiring place to spend a few hours, and a must-visit for anyone wanting to better understand the land they’re standing on.

If you’re in Banff and looking to connect with the deeper roots of the area, don’t miss this museum. It’s not just history — it’s living culture, and it’s told with care, heart, and...

As visitors from England we were in Banff on Sept.14th 2016, and wouldn't have wished to miss this. Having traveled worldwide, my wife and I agree that it is one of the finest exhibitions we've seen. The mass of genuine First Nation artifacts are fascinating and the life-size exhibits of daily life, etc., featuring totally realistic models - plus running videos - cannot fail to 'bring to life' the period - during which we were delighted to hear that the Fort or palisade was not erected to keep these peoples out, but in order that they may be brought inside to live by the Canadian Mounted Police, in order to protect THEM form settlers. What a change form the USA!!! The wide selection of extremely attractive goods in the gift shop also benefited from being made in Canada, I believe mostly by these peoples. No Chinese stuff here! The young staff were charming and I have no idea what may have happened with Nick Brunner. Once having left any paid-for exhibition, etc., I don't think that I'd expect to be allowed back in anyway , but surely he only had to show his receipt if returning to attempt to use the washroom - as we found ALL Canadians charming and friendly.? And describing this as a sub par product would appear to be unreasonable 'sour grapes', as the entry charge was worth every penny and a lot more as far as we were concerned. If you are near, have enough time and have any feeling for history or pure visual imagery, then we doubt that you would feel anything but pleasure and admiration for...

I’ve lived in Banff for a year and slowly but surely got around all the visitor attractions and museums etc. We visited to learn more about First Nations and the more local indigenous groups of the area as I am very interested in history.

To be honest I am confused why all the reviews say “highly informative”….I was highly disappointed ..and a little sad to be honest. It is incredibly dated, with objects that lack context, description or any sense of flow for a narrative experience. I would also say that its datedness verges on slightly offensive maybe to some.

The lack of any narrative focus of “truth and reconciliation” in regard to the historic effects of colonialism are non existent here. From working in museums for years, I urge the museum board to review as it has so much untapped potential to give a great experience to visitors…

Or just continue to offer tourists a dated and perhaps incorrect perspective. Museums have...