Tianna ClarkeJust 30 minutes from Vancouver is the charming city of Surrey which quietly charms you with its diverse culture, vibrant art scene, lush parks, and craft beer. At its heart is the Museum of Surrey, a local gem that offers an intimate look at the region’s rich heritage.
The museum features interactive exhibits for all ages and rotating displays that showcase everything from indigenous history to contemporary art.
Beyond exhibits, it’s a hub for community stories, hands-on activities (a lot of free programs, too!), and cultural celebrations.
Jump into our guide to start your adventure at the Museum of Surrey!
What’s in the Museum of Surrey?
The Museum of Surrey is a space devoted to celebrating Surrey’s indigenous heritage and culture. Its mission is to inspire creativity and foster connections among the city’s diverse communities by exploring its past, present, and future.
Located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Salish People, the museum is dedicated to honoring and respecting indigenous lands.
Visitors will get to see dynamic exhibits that highlight local history, cultural diversity, and sustainability. Its programs include educational workshops, public events, and textile programs.
Through storytelling and interactive learning, the Museum of Surrey provides a space for residents and visitors to connect, learn, and celebrate the rich heritage of the region.
Getting There
The museum is situated at 17710 56A Avenue, Cloverdale, Surrey. If you’re coming from Vancouver, it’s easily accessible by car in just under 40 minutes,
You can take Highway 1 East or BC 91 and Highway 10, and there’s limited free parking available on-site as well.
Public transport options are also available by train and by bus via SkyTrain’s Expo Line to King George Station, followed by a bus ride to Cloverdale.
Admission, Hours & Accessibility at the Museum of Surrey
Admission
Thanks to the Friends of the Museum and Archives Society, admission to the Museum of Surrey is free! But they also accept donations to help keep museum visits pleasant and enjoyable.
For groups of 8 and above, you can book self-guided group tours. Just contact the museum in advance for availability at 604-592-6954 or send a message to [email protected].
Hours
The museum is open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 9:30am to 5:30pm and Sundays from 12 to 5pm.
Accessibility
The venue is fully accessible and committed to inclusivity in every aspect. It features wheelchair access, braille and tactile signage, accessible washrooms, assistive hearing devices, and safe, multisensory exhibits.
There are also multiple seating areas to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
What to Do at the Museum of Surrey
Indigenous Hall
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The Indigenous Hall is a dedicated space for storytelling, learning, and cultural exchange. It was created in partnership with the Semiahmoo, Kwantlen, and Katzie First Nations and showcases indigenous exhibits from across Canada.
This gathering place highlights the rich traditions, histories, and perspectives of indigenous communities through thoughtfully curated displays.
You can explore changing exhibits featuring artworks, installations, artifacts, and interactive elements that celebrate the indigenous heritage of Surrey.
Surrey Stories Gallery
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Step back in time at the Surrey Stories Gallery, which brings the city’s past to life with immersive displays, from farming and first responders to a charming 1950s living room.
Get a glimpse of the sights and smells of daily life from a bygone era, from vintage billboards to the scent of an old printing press.
Additionally, text panels are available in Punjabi, with plans for more translations, including Braille.
Community Treasures
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Community Treasures provides a platform for the community to share their unique stories and cultural heritage.
Through rotating, submission-based exhibits, individuals, cultural organizations, and community groups in Surrey can showcase their treasures. These exhibits allow diverse narratives to be more accessible to the public.
An example of these exhibits is “Celebrating Our Ugandan Heritage,” which offers a glimpse into Uganda’s rich traditions through a private collection of artifacts. Past exhibits can also be viewed here.
The exhibits at Community Treasures offer a rare opportunity to explore and appreciate Surrey’s diverse cultural landscape, bringing hidden stories into the spotlight.
Textile Workshops
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One of the Museum of Surrey’s most unique features is its Textile Centre which is a dedicated space that celebrates the rich traditions of fiber arts.
The exciting part is, visitors of all ages can engage in hands-on workshops, cultural exhibits, and live demonstrations that bring textile history and techniques to life.
The programs range from beginner-friendly knitting, sewing, and weaving classes to specialized courses like spinning and felting.
There are also seasonal workshops, such as “Kids Can Knit” and “Spin Your Own Yarn” that cater to different skill levels and interests.
Meanwhile, the Textile Studio offers drop-in sessions where you can try weaving on a public loom and watch fibre arts demonstrations. You’ll also get to explore the historic Jacquard Loom which is a key artifact in textile history.
The centre also hosts textile talks, guided tours, and a seasonal Dye Garden open house, where you can learn about natural dyeing techniques.
Honoring the legacy of Honey Hooser, the centre continues to be a hub for creativity, education, and cultural appreciation.
Programs & Activities
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The Museum of Surrey offers a myriad of activities year-round. You can sign up for a diverse range of programs and activities designed to educate, inspire, and entertain visitors of all ages.
Registered programs offer small group learning experiences led by industry experts, ensuring personalized instruction and affordable fees.
These hands-on sessions cover a variety of interests, from wellness workshops to interactive craft activities and speaker series featuring engaging discussions.
Whether you’re interested in sewing, spinning, or exploring cultural heritage, there’s surely an activity for everyone.
And if you prefer spontaneous visits, the museum provides free drop-in activities throughout the year, such as the “Sketching Series” and “Sensory Sunday.”
There are also special programs for children, seniors, and families like birthday party packages, Tea & Tours, and Reminisce Kits that bring history to life.
With engaging exhibits, creative workshops, and cultural celebrations, the Museum of Surrey is a hub for learning and connection. These programs make history and heritage accessible to the entire community.
Other Nearby Attractions
Crescent Beach
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Location: 16 minutes away from Museum of Surrey
After immersing yourself in Surrey culture, you can unwind at Crescent Beach to catch a breathtaking sunset or simply relax by the sea.
Take a scenic stroll along the shoreline, enjoy a beachside picnic, or try paddleboarding and kayaking. For a delicious meal with ocean views, dine at Hooked Fish Bar, or explore the nearby restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of flavors.
Redwood Park Fairy Forest
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Location: 8 minutes from Museum of Surrey
Just a short drive from the Museum of Surrey is another magical attraction – the Fairy Forest in Redwood Park! Nestled among towering trees, this whimsical spot is home to tiny, hand-painted fairy houses hidden along the trails.
A favorite for families and nature lovers, the Fairy Forest offers an enchanting escape into a world of fascination and wonder. Redwood Park also features nature trails, a tree house, playground, and picnic areas.
Russell Brewing Company
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Location: 17 minutes away from Museum of Surrey
Surrey is home to a number of breweries, and one of the local favorites is Russell Brewing Company.
If you want to cap off the day with a locally crafted pint, this brewery offers a diverse selection of craft beers, from hazy IPAs to smooth lagers and bold stouts.
Step into their tasting room where you can sample seasonal and specialty brews while enjoying a menu of tasty food pairings. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a laid-back spot to unwind after a long day, Russell Brewing is a must-visit!
Historic Stewart Farm
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Location: 10 minutes from Museum of Surrey
If you’re up for a side trip to another historic gem in Surrey, you should visit Historic Stewart Farm.
This beautifully preserved early 1900s Victorian-style home offers a glimpse into the city’s pioneer past with costumed guides, heritage gardens, and original outbuildings.
Nestled along the Nicomekl River, the farm provides a peaceful escape where history comes to life in a picturesque setting.
Green Timbers Urban Forest
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Location: 17 minutes away from Museum of Surrey
Green Timbers Urban Forest Park is a perfect spot to escape in nature in the heart of Surrey. It offers scenic trails, a peaceful lake, and towering trees – a great place for a walk, picnic, or even some fishing.
The park is also home to diverse species of birds and wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled! Whether you’re up for an adventure or just some quiet time in nature, this park can be your own urban oasis.
