The Manitoba Museum is the province’s largest, not-for-profit centre for heritage and science learning. Renowned for its vivid portrayal of Manitoba’s rich and diverse history, the Museum is home to nine interpretive Galleries, a full-dome Planetarium, and a hands-on Science Gallery.
The Manitoba Museum plays a pivotal role in showcasing the rich heritage and natural wonders of our region. Our collections encompass both cultural artifacts and scientific specimens, and are a testament to the diversity of life and the importance of preserving our past for future generations. We strive to conserve, collect, and share knowledge, while encouraging intercultural dialogue and understanding within our communities, showcasing diverse perspectives, and promoting inclusivity within our society.
Vision
To shape Manitoba’s future by expanding knowledge, sharing stories, and encouraging discovery.
Mission
To preserve the heritage of Manitoba for present and future generations;
To seek, acquire, and share knowledge of Manitoba’s history, culture, and natural world with Manitobans and others; and
To inspire personal discovery, appreciation, and understanding of Manitoba, the world, and our universe.
Values
Curiosity – We promote innovation by seeking out new ideas and welcoming knowledge exchange.
Integrity – We act with honesty and integrity. We strive to know and uphold the highest ethical standards.
Responsibility – We are responsible stewards of the public trust and institutional assets as stated in the Museum’s mandate. We are committed to being socially and environmentally responsible.
Respectfulness – We value the contributions of all Museum stakeholders and treat them with respect and sensitivity.
Inclusivity – We encourage diversity and dialogue, and are committed to creating an environment for staff and the public that is welcoming and one that promotes inclusivity and equity.
History of the Manitoba Museum
In 1965, two acts of provincial legislature incorporated the Museum and Planetarium, which were included in the plans to build a magnificent new Centennial Centre. The Planetarium opened in May of 1968 and the Museum was opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on July 15, 1970. In July 1972, a new act joined the Museum and Planetarium as the Manitoba Museum of Man and Nature. In 1986 the Touch the Universe Science Gallery was opened based on an emerging “science center” model at the time, emphasizing touchable, interactive exhibits over artifacts in glass cases.
In 1965, two acts of provincial legislature incorporated the Museum and Planetarium, which were included in the plans to build a magnificent new Centennial Centre. The Planetarium opened in May of 1968 and the Museum was opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on July 15, 1970. In July 1972, a new act joined the Museum and Planetarium as the Manitoba Museum of Man and Nature. In 1986 the Touch the Universe Science Gallery was opened based on an emerging “science center” model at the time, emphasizing touchable, interactive exhibits over artifacts in glass cases.
The name, The Manitoba Museum, is a legacy of the evolution of the organization from its opening to the development of ‘The Futures Project” – Strategic Plan 2000-2005. The Plan called for a new corporate identity to reflect the legal and operational integration of the Museum, Planetarium, and Science Gallery under the umbrella of The Manitoba Museum.
The new Museum brand and graphic identity was launched March 30, 2021, featuring a stylized letter ‘M’ reaching out to reflect the Museum’s welcoming approach to making connections and sharing the stories of Manitoba.
On April 8, 2021 the Museum opened a new Prairies Gallery, marking the completion of the $20.5 million Bringing Our Stories Forward Capital Renewal Project. Over four years, the Project saw the renewal of the Nonsuch Gallery, Boreal Forest Corridor, and Welcome Gallery, and the creation of a new Winnipeg Gallery and Prairies Gallery.
In June 2023, the Manitoba Museum held its first Report to the Community to share the Strategic Plan for 2022-2027. The Museum’s continued success and achievement of these priorities will be made possible by continuing to engage in open dialogues with the Museum’s communities, collaborators, supporters, and teams. We are consciously leaning into the forces of change in our world which call upon us to be an active ally in truth and reconciliation, a champion of social justice, and a trusted voice for climate change education. We are ready to take up this work with our community.
1932-1968 Collections in the Civic Auditorium.
1968 The Planetarium is built.
1970 The Manitoba Museum of Man and Nature opens.
1974 The Nonsuch Gallery is built.
1980 The Boreal Forest Gallery opens.
1986 Touch the Universe opens for hands-on learning.
1995 Alloway Hall is expanded.
2001 The HBC Gallery opens.
2003 The Bat Cave is added to the Parklands Gallery.
2017 The Nonsuch Gallery is renewed.
2019 The new Winnipeg Gallery opens.
2021 The new Welcome Gallery and Prairies Gallery open.
Truth and Reconciliation
The Manitoba Museum acknowledges we are on Treaty No. 1 land, and the homeland of the Métis Nation. These lands, occupied for thousands of years, are the traditional territories of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, and Nakota Nations. The Museum is committed to collaborating with all Indigenous peoples of this province.
The Manitoba Museum is honoured to be able to share the historical and contemporary stories of Indigenous communities in our province, stories that are at the heart of Manitoba’s history. The Museum has a long tradition of working collaboratively with Indigenous communities, and we are committed to reconciliation and an inclusive approach to the representation, presentation, and interpretation of Indigenous stories and experiences at the Museum. Developing and nurturing respectful and collaborative relationships with Indigenous communities is an institutional priority and the Museum values its role as a trusted keeper of Indigenous artifacts, and as a partner in the sharing of Indigenous stories.
EDIB Commitments
The Manitoba Museum is committed to creating a space where everyone feels valued, respected, and encouraged. We welcome all people and know that it is important that our employees, volunteers, and leaders reflect the diversity of the community we serve.
We embrace the principles of social justice, anti-racism, and gender equity. We aim to create equitable access to opportunities for everyone by recognizing and supporting communities who have often been excluded in the past.
The Museum acknowledges the complexities of our shared history. We commit to meaningful actions and community accountability in our efforts to advance Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging in six key areas.
Construction
We are on an exciting journey of transformation, with significant upgrades to our Rupert Avenue entrance and a comprehensive renovation of our foyer.
Accessibility
The Manitoba Museum is dedicated to ensuring equal access and participation for all. We advocate for inclusion and strive to treat every individual in a manner that upholds their dignity and independence.
Board & Staff Directory
Are you looking to get in touch with a specific member of the Manitoba Museum team?
Careers & Volunteering
The Manitoba Museum is a unique and exciting place to work and volunteer. Learn about our current Careers and Volunteering opportunities.
Annual Reports
Every year, many exciting things happen behind the scenes at the Manitoba Museum. For a comprehensive look at our year-in-review, explore our Annual Report.
Media
Explore the latest Manitoba Museum media releases, and find contacts for film and media requests.
Contact Us
The Manitoba Museum
190 Rupert Avenue
Winnipeg MB R3B 0N2
P: (204) 988-0576 • F: (204) 942-3679
Info@ManitobaMuseum.ca