Vancouver Art Gallery

Founded in 1931 on the ancestral and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, the Vancouver Art Gallery is recognized as one of North America’s most innovative visual arts institutions. As the largest art museum in Western Canada, the Gallery brings together bold international exhibitions and iconic works from British Columbia, offering visitors an inspiring journey through historical and contemporary art.

Visitors can discover dynamic exhibitions that spotlight leading Indigenous artists and highlight creative voices from across the Asia Pacific region through the Centre for Global Asias. Across its exhibitions, the Gallery also examines the broader impact of images within visual culture, design and architecture, fostering critical dialogue around how art shapes and reflects society.

Beyond the galleries, an exciting lineup of talks, tours, family activities and public programs invites visitors to dive deeper into the stories behind the art. The new Art of Wellbeing Lab offers unique opportunities to slow down, reflect and experience the restorative power of creativity.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning art lover, the Vancouver Art Gallery offers a welcoming, thought-provoking and distinctly West Coast cultural experience in the heart of downtown Vancouver.

ADMISSION
Gallery admission is always free for children and youth aged 18 and under and Indigenous Peoples.

Gallery admission is FREE on the first Friday of every month from 4 to 8 PM during Free First Friday Nights presented by BMO. Visitors must reserve a spot in advance to guarantee entry into the Gallery.

ACCESSIBILITY
The Vancouver Art Gallery is wheelchair accessible. Street-level access is available through the Hornby and Robson Street entrances, open during all public hours. Wheelchairs are available to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis or can be reserved before your visit by calling 604-662-4700.

A Service Animal may accompany visitors to all public areas of the Gallery.

LOCKERS
The Gallery has installed self-serve storage lockers to replace our old Coat Check Desk. Lockers are free for Members and visitors with admission to store coats, backpacks and other large itemsthat are not permitted inside the Gallery.

TOURS
The Gallery hosts Guided Gallery tours which are a great way to learn more about the cultural and social contexts of artworks on display. Led by a trained Art Educator, each tour is unique and reflects each guide’s passions and interests. Gallery tours run on Thursdays at 10:30, 11:30 AM, 1 PM and 2 PM and on Sundays at 11 AM. Family tours run on Sundays at 2 PM.

Tours are FREE for Gallery Members, Access Pass Holders or with admission.

1931 GALLERY BISTRO

1931 Gallery Bistro offers a unique dining experience within the iconic Vancouver Art Gallery. Named in honour of the Gallery’s founding year, the Bistro celebrates the history and cultural significance of the institution through a recently renovated, 120-seat licensed patio overlooking Robson Square, alongside a vibrant indoor dining space. Featuring contemporary cuisine, innovative cocktails and a menu inspired by the diverse cultural influences of Vancouver and the West Coast, 1931 Gallery Bistro brings together art, food and community in one of the city’s most distinctive settings.

Named by Daily Hive as one of Vancouver’s best patios, 1931 Gallery Bistro has hosted a range of cultural experiences, from openings and artist events to live music, comedy shows and community gatherings. Today, it continues to offer a dynamic space where visitors can combine their Gallery visit with a quick bite, a mid-exhibition coffee or a leisurely lunch.

GALLERY STORE
The Gallery Store is one of Vancouver’s greatest treasures. Shop our Exhibition, Canadian, International and Design gifts. Proceeds from all retail operations support the Vancouver Art Gallery’s exhibition, education and public programs. You can browse works online or in person, during the Gallery’s opening hours.

ART RENTAL AND SALES
The Gallery operates a long-standing Art Rental & Sales program — a not-for-profit initiative supporting emerging and mid-career British Columbia artists by offering original artwork for both rental and purchase. Located in the Gallery’s Showroom on the first floor, the collection features over 1,000 contemporary works by a juried selection of local artists, including paintings, photography and other media. You can browse works online or in person and choose originals ranging from affordable pieces to standout collection highlights. Art Rental & Sales is open Monday – Friday, 10am – 5pm. Appointments are encouraged.