The many museums of Regina

A look at places for learning, homes to art, historical artifacts in the Queen City
Holding art, history, and culture within their walls, museums are the heart of every vibrant city. They bring people together and promote important initiatives, allowing citizens to engage with their local community and show support. Without museums, our cities would lose much of its life. Museums are the soul of every city, especially our own vibrant Regina.
As the capital city of Saskatchewan, Regina is a treasure trove of history, culture, and creativity, all of which is reflected through its diverse museum collections. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or someone looking for an adventurous family outing, Regina’s museums offer something for every person. Below is a quick guide to the city’s museums, highlighting their unique features and what makes them special as must-visit attractions.
The Royal Saskatchewan Museum (RSM) focuses on natural history, Indigenous culture, and environmental science. It is located on 2445 Albert St and is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. It is a cornerstone of Regina’s cultural landscape and was the first museum in Saskatchewan. It includes the Life Sciences Gallery which focuses on the diverse ecosystems of Saskatchewan, the prairie grasslands, and the northern boreal forest. The RSM is also home to the First Nations Gallery which delves into the rich culture, history, and traditions of Indigenous peoples. This is presented through the use of stories, multimedia displays, and various remarkable artifacts.
Another must-see at the RSM is Scotty the T-rex. On Aug. 16, 1991, Robert Gebhardt, a high school teacher and paleontologist, joined an expedition to the exposed bedrock on the Frenchman River Valley. The expedition’s goal was, in part, to understand how fossils are identified and discovered. After half a day, Gebhardt discovered the base of a worn tooth and small bones from a tail, and theorized that these belonged to a T-rex who has now come to be known as the legendary “Scotty.”
Regina is also home to the RCMP Heritage Centre, which celebrates the Mounties and their roles in shaping and influencing Canada. It is located on the grounds of the RCMP Academy, and features a gift shop, small theatre, and a museum that offers visitors an in-depth glance at the history and traditions of the RCMP.
The RCMP Heritage Centre Museum includes interactive exhibits that allow visitors to try on Mountie uniforms and learn about forensics as well as the history of Canada’s law enforcement. There are also many opportunities to watch a demonstration video of the RCMP cadets as they go through their training. The museum is home to several historical artifacts including the first RCMP uniform, the first gender-neutral uniform, various medals, and tools utilized by the Mounties over the decades.
Next on the list is the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame (SSHF), a museum that celebrates the heritage of sports in Saskatchewan and is the best spot in the city for sports enthusiasts. The SSHF pays tribute to the athletes, teams, and iconic sports moments that have shaped the legacy of Saskatchewan sports. At the museum, you will find memorabilia displays that include jerseys, trophies, and equipment from athletes all over Saskatchewan. There are also interactive exhibits ready for visitors to experience and learn about the achievement of local heroes.
You can’t truly experience Regina without visiting the Saskatchewan Science Centre. It’s the perfect place for families and curious minds as well as the best place in the city for learning through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations. From hands-on exhibits and science shows to the Kramer IMAX Theatre, there is something here for every explorer with a curious mind.
The MacKenzie Art Gallery is Saskatchewan’s oldest public art gallery. It showcases a fantastic collection of works from international, national, and local artists. This gallery is the best place to find out what is new or trending in the art scene of Regina as well as globally. With rotating exhibitions, community workshops, and the outdoor sculpture garden, the MacKenzie Art Gallery is the place for art lovers.
The Civic Museum of Regina, simultaneously known as the Regina Plains Museum, is a hidden gem in the city that captures the heart of Regina through a collection made up of artifacts, photographs, as well as personal stories. It features highlights such as the Regina Cyclone Exhibit which educates the public about the 1912 tornado that transformed Regina.
Government House is a beautiful venue that allows visitors to take a look back in time and witness a beautifully preserved Victorian-era mansion. From period rooms that allow you to experience life in the nineteenth century to the Edwardian Gardens, this is the best place for you to live out your aesthetically pleasing Pinterest board in reality. Be sure to take advantage of their seasonal events such as the holiday tour, tea parties, and more. Bookmark Government House for the perfect outing once the weather cools down.
All in all, Regina’s museums are more than just buildings, they are a melting pot of art, history, and culture. From Government House to the SSHF to the MacKenzie Art Gallery and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Our city’s museums offer everyone the opportunity to take a dive into history while enjoying interactive learning experiences and it’s worth taking some time to explore these collections and discover the stories, events, and experiences that make Regina a beautiful place to live.