MONOVA

MONOVA (Museum of North Vancouver) is now open in the heart of North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale The Shipyards District.

The museum is transforming the way the community experiences North Vancouver’s stories. Stories are the threads that weave us together and form the fabric of the community. At MONOVA, you’ll find yourself drawn into landscapes you knew nothing about, meeting people from different eras, and contemplating what it all means for the present as we move towards our collective future.

At MONOVA, guests can explore interactive exhibits that showcase North Vancouver’s transformation—from its Indigenous roots with the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations to its development into a vibrant urban community. Highlights include the restored Streetcar 153, a symbol of the city’s early public transit, and exhibits on shipbuilding, outdoor recreation, and local industries. The museum also features a Welcome Circle that honors Indigenous cultures and a poignant section dedicated to Residential School survivors and their families.

MONOVA’s programming caters to all ages, offering guided gallery tours, educational sessions, and family-friendly activities like “Campfire Capers” for young children.

Sensory Friendly Sundays on the third Sunday of each month, providing a calm and inclusive environment for neurodivergent individuals, their families, and caregivers. These sessions run during regular museum hours, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and are included with standard admission.

During Sensory Friendly Sundays, the museum implements several adaptations to create a comfortable atmosphere.

For those interested in delving deeper into the area’s history, the Archives of North Vancouver in Lynn Valley provides access to a wealth of photographs, maps, and oral histories.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, MONOVA offers a compelling experience that connects you to the stories and spirit of North Vancouver.

The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, with extended hours on Thursdays.

Exhibits

You can expect powerful stories of North Vancouver through high-quality exhibitions in the Permanent and Feature Galleries, exhibits at the Archives of North Vancouver in Lynn Valley, and mobile exhibits with partnering organizations. The Permanent Gallery will focus on the themes of Passion for Place, Connections, and Industry and Enterprise. The exhibits incorporate all of the senses and blend physical artifacts with digital content. The Feature Gallery offers temporary and travelling exhibits. There are also educational programs for K-12 students, and public programs for general audiences – on and off-site.

Features of the core exhibit gallery include:

• Touched by Nature, including an Amazing Animals display with discovery drawers designed for children to explore
• The changing face of outdoor recreation
• A Connections section exploring the many ways people are connected in our community
• Sports: past and present, including Olympic athletes
• Women in Wartime
• History of shipbuilding on the North Shore
• North Vancouver’s waterfront and port operations
• Innovative industries that took shape in North Vancouver
• Two hands-on learning zones for children

MONOVA is well-situated adjacent to Quay Market & Food Hall, The Polygon Gallery, The Shipyards and the SeaBus Terminal.

MONOVA
115 West Esplanade
North Vancouver, BC
604. 990. 3700 (ex 8016)