Three of Vancouver's most popular cultural institutions are joining forces to make their offerings more accessible to the public. The Vancouver Maritime Museum, the Museum of Vancouver, and the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre have announced a new monthly initiative designed to welcome more visitors by removing the cost of admission as a barrier.
A New Initiative for Greater Access
The collaborative program, revealed on Tuesday, will see the three neighbouring venues in Vanier Park introduce "pay-what-you-can" Sundays once a month, starting on February 1, 2026. This move is a direct effort to draw more people into the museums and space centre by allowing them to pay an amount they can afford, or even nothing at all, for entry.
In a joint statement, the organizations emphasized their commitment to community inclusion. "This initiative makes it easier for everyone to explore the incredible cultural offerings of Vanier Park, from maritime history and local heritage to science and space exploration — all in one vibrant waterfront setting," they wrote. The goal is to foster learning, discovery, and a stronger sense of community by ensuring financial constraints do not prevent anyone from experiencing their exhibitions and programs.
Significant Savings for Families
The financial impact of this new policy is substantial for families and groups. Under regular admission pricing, a visit for two adults and two youth to all three venues would cost a combined total of $267. The monthly pay-what-you-can day eliminates this significant expense, opening the doors for many who might otherwise be unable to afford a full day of educational and cultural exploration.
The museums are located side-by-side in the scenic Vanier Park on the Kitsilano waterfront, making it convenient for visitors to experience a diverse range of topics in a single trip. One can journey from the historic decks of the RCMPV St. Roch at the Maritime Museum, through the evolving story of the city at the Museum of Vancouver, and out to the cosmos at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre.
Building a More Inclusive Cultural Landscape
This initiative reflects a growing trend among cultural institutions in Canada to address affordability and ensure their spaces are welcoming to all segments of the population. By proactively reducing financial barriers, the Vanier Park trio aims to:
- Increase visitor diversity and attendance.
- Enhance community engagement and lifelong learning.
- Celebrate Vancouver's rich history, scientific innovation, and maritime legacy with a broader audience.
The monthly schedule for the pay-what-you-can Sundays is expected to be released by the individual institutions, allowing residents and visitors to plan their affordable cultural outings well in advance. This program stands as a model for how collaborative efforts between neighbouring attractions can significantly benefit the public they serve.
