Jasper-Yellowhead Museum & Archives — Attraction in Municipality of Jasper

Very unpleasant experience! My family and I visited this museum to learn about the history of Jasper. Unfortunately, while waiting for the manager to make a donation for entry we were greeted by two women who approached us and asked if we would like to have our donation paid for. As a black family, this was very disrespectful because the assumption was made that we were unable to make our own donations. The manager at the counter did not intervene but she proceeded to facilitate it by saying “They are very kind people”. I would urge people of color to stay away from this place since the environment is not very inclusive.

As you can see below someone from the museum reached out and while I appreciate the additional context they provided regarding the incident. I want to express my continued dissatisfaction with how the situation was handled and the impact it had on my museum experience. Effective communication and prompt resolution of such incidents are crucial for maintaining a positive environment for all visitors. While I acknowledge their offer to demonstrate inclusivity in the future, I must emphasize that I remain unsatisfied with the response provided. Their clarification, in my perception, exhibits bias and attempts to downplay my experience rather than taking full accountability, which was the reason for my initial review. It is evident to me that this organization still maintains the same biases and is partial toward certain...

Not a great place for kids. My 9 and 7 year old were excited about taking in a museum to learn more about the town of Jasper. The place looks closed from the outside but once you enter you realize it’s a small place and expectations lower. We were still pumped though and looking to learn some facts. The lady behind the till seemed annoyed that we had walked in. I had a brochure in my hand that the tourist information booth gave us to get 20% off and she rang up the old cash register at full price. I said “doesn’t this brochure get us 20% off admission” and she replied “well, I wish you would have showed me that first, now I’m going to have to re-do everything”. After that she told me I would have to pay debit because everyone gets their cut - sounds like a Jasper Mafia may be at large. Meanwhile, my daughter is touching little trinkets that are clearly for sale on the counter and the lady scolds her. “Not everything is for touching” she said. I almost asked for a refund and got out of there but didn’t want her head to explode so we just went in. Lots of good information but even if you took your time you might be there 30 mins. We were out in 5. Maybe this lady was a volunteer? Maybe she had a bad day? Maybe she hates children and discounts? My advice...lighten up and have fun. We’re on vacation for...

This museum packs a lot of punch in a small footprint. Entrance fee is by donation. The history exhibit includes a kid's cave (with stuffies), a small model train display, and several original artifacts related to the area (eg. The two shovels from Shovel Pass on the Skyline Trail). The artifacts are very well maintained. If your group includes kids, Rob will offer them a chance to participate in a mini Scavenger Hunt.

To the left of the history loop is a rotating exhibit room (currently hosting contemporary art), and to the right is the local book sale room.

The gift shop has REAL LOCAL ART made by people in the area. They sell original wood carvings, blankets made by the local quilting guild, jewelry, and photography. You may also buy replicas of the original Jasper Park Pass. The gift shop carries an extensive selection of books focused on history, hiking in the area and Indigenous literature.

The shop accepts cash and debit, but would prefer not to use credit due to high processing fees.

Outside the museum is a small garden exhibit showcasing different geological formations from the area's history.

In total, our group of four adults spent about half an hour wandering around. Your group might only take five minutes, depending on your cumulative level...