Museum of Surrey

Quick Info

Location 17710 56A Avenue, Cloverdale, Surrey, BC
Category Museum & Local History
Admission Free, donations welcome
Hours & Holiday Closures Closed Mondays. See the official visitor page for current hours
Parking Limited free parking on site
Accessibility Wheelchair accessible, assistive hearing devices available

About the Museum of Surrey

The Museum of Surrey sits on the Heritage Campus in Cloverdale, one of the city’s oldest town centres, and tells the story of Surrey through the people, objects and events that shaped it. The space blends a traditional local history collection with rotating feature exhibits, making it a spot that rewards more than one visit over the years.

Inside, the permanent galleries move through Surrey’s development from early settlement to the fast growing municipality it is today. Cases of household items, tools, uniforms and equipment sit alongside interpretive panels that put each object in context rather than just labelling it.

Historical artifacts and display cases inside the Museum of Surrey

Galleries and Exhibits

The Surrey Stories Gallery forms the core of the permanent collection, walking visitors through the region’s history with a mix of artifacts and first person accounts. The Indigenous Hall focuses on the traditional and unceded territory of the Semiahmoo, Katzie, Kwantlen and Kwikwetlem peoples, sharing culture and history from a community perspective rather than a purely archival one.

A dedicated Textile Centre highlights sewing, weaving and clothing traditions with hands on stations, and a separate Kids Gallery gives younger visitors a play structure and interactive exhibits sized for them. Feature galleries rotate on a regular schedule, so the temporary exhibit on display changes throughout the year.

Vintage camera collection on display at the Museum of Surrey

Everyday Objects, Local Stories

Some of the most memorable parts of the museum are the small everyday items: antique tea sets, early firefighting uniforms, vintage radios and cameras, even an old rickshaw used for local deliveries. Together they build a picture of daily life in Surrey across different eras rather than focusing only on major historical events.

Getting There and Parking

The museum is on Highway 15 in Cloverdale, roughly forty minutes from downtown Vancouver by car via Highway 1 or Highway 91 and Highway 10. Limited free parking is available on site at the Heritage Campus.

By transit, take the SkyTrain Expo Line to King George Station and connect to a local bus into Cloverdale. A bus stop is within walking distance of the museum entrance, and TransLink’s trip planner can confirm the best route from your starting point.

Good to Know Before You Go

  • Admission is free for all ages thanks to community support, though donations are appreciated
  • The museum is closed Mondays and closes for a stretch over the winter holidays
  • There is no onsite cafeteria, but a vending machine and designated eating areas are available, and outside food is welcome
  • Self guided group visits for eight or more people can be booked in advance directly with the museum
  • Confirm current hours and any holiday closures on the official visitor page before you go, since hours can shift seasonally

Accessibility

The Museum of Surrey is built around accessibility as a core value rather than an afterthought. The building offers wheelchair access, braille and tactile signage, accessible washrooms and assistive hearing devices, along with multisensory exhibits designed for a range of visitors.

A small museum with a big range: local history, Indigenous storytelling and hands-on exhibits, all under one roof and all free to walk through.

Gallery

Interactive photo board exhibit at the Museum of Surrey Antique tea pot on display at the Museum of Surrey Historic firefighter uniform and hat at the Museum of Surrey Exhibit hall inside the Museum of Surrey Collection of vintage radios at the Museum of Surrey Historic rickshaw on display at the Museum of Surrey

Frequently Asked Questions

Is admission to the Museum of Surrey really free?

Yes. Community fundraising through the Friends of the Museum and Archives Society covers general admission, though the museum welcomes cash or card donations to help keep it free for everyone.

What days is the Museum of Surrey closed?

The museum is closed on Mondays and again for a stretch over the winter holiday season. Check the official visitor page for exact seasonal dates before planning a trip.

Is the Museum of Surrey good for young kids?

Yes. A dedicated Kids Gallery includes a play structure and exhibits scaled for younger visitors, and the museum regularly runs hands-on activities during school Pro-D days.

Is there parking at the Museum of Surrey?

Limited free parking is available on site at the Heritage Campus in Cloverdale.

Can I bring a large group to the Museum of Surrey?

Self guided visits for groups of eight or more can be arranged in advance by contacting the museum directly.

Plan Your Visit

Explore more Metro Vancouver museums, parks and attractions to round out your trip.

Explore More of Metro Vancouver

Hours, admission details and event schedules can change. Always confirm current information on the Museum of Surrey’s official website before visiting.