Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre — Attraction in Yellowknife

This is a nice museum that does a good job of explaining the basics of the history of the Northwest Territories while centering the First Nations perspective. However, the history is definitely portrayed in a diplomatic manner, giving a nostalgic air to the past rather than framing things in a critical manner illuminating current social and political issues of northern Canada.

You definitely need to talk to locals if you want a full understanding of northern issues.

There is a nice interactive display about the Aurora and several beautiful beadwork art displays. There is a cafe too, but it was closed...

It's not the museum it used to be. Instead of displaying general history of the NWT like it used to it has greatly narrowed its focus to native people and their superstitions. We were very disappointed that much of the previous history is gone from this museum. Not a peep about the Franklin expedition!! There's more on that at the Cambridge Bay Airport! Nothing about the early explorers, early or current aviation or mining and the tragedies and challenges.... just native stuff and their superstition. We would never go back here again. So...

Covers a bit of geological, anthropological and cultural aspects of a large swath of Canada's North (not just Yellowknife area). It's a large bite, necessarily restricted, and reasonably done.

Engaging sections for all ages and a variety of interests. Very family-friendly. Includes free parking, washrooms, coat alcove, and a very nice cafe.

There is no gift shop / book shop.

Admission is free, but they have a low-key solicitation for donations.

Plan for perhaps 2 hours (up to 4 hours if you really want to savour...