RCMP Heritage Centre
Saskatchewan
The RCMP Heritage Centre is a prominent law enforcement museum located in Regina, Saskatchewan, dedicated to the history and heritage of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Opened in 2007, the museum replaced the earlier RCMP Centennial Museum and features a modern 6,000-square-metre building designed by Nick Milkovich Architects with design input from Arthur Erickson. Architecturally notable for its swooping roof inspired by windblown snow and historic encampments, the building integrates natural materials such as Manitoba limestone and Tyndall stone, blending with the landscape. Inside, visitors can explore permanent exhibitions that cover the formation and evolution of the RCMP, including themes like "Creating a Mounted Police," "Maintaining Law and Order in the West," and "Protecting the North." The museum also offers interactive experiences such as virtual reality exhibits, enhancing visitor engagement. Situated adjacent to the RCMP Academy, Depot Division, where Mounties have trained since 1885, the Heritage Centre serves as both a cultural landmark and educational resource, with a 124-seat lecture hall and rotating feature exhibitions. The centre is actively advancing plans to become Canada's newest national museum, aiming to present the full spectrum of RCMP history with authenticity and respect for diverse perspectives.
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Tip: The best time to visit the RCMP Heritage Centre is during the warmer months when outdoor activities at the nearby RCMP Academy are more accessible. Visitors are encouraged to check the official website for current exhibitions and to book tickets in advance, especially for special events and virtual reality experiences. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and children. The centre also offers educational programs and summer camps, making it ideal for families and school groups. Allow ample time to explore both the permanent and feature exhibitions for a full experience.
Interesting facts
- •The building's roof design is inspired by windblown snow and historic encampments used by First Nations and the North-West Mounted Police in the 19th century.
- •The Heritage Centre houses interactive virtual reality exhibits introduced in 2016, enhancing visitor engagement with the RCMP's history.
- •The museum's collection includes many artifacts transferred from the defunct RCMP Centennial Museum, preserving important historical items.
- •The centre features 21 oval-shaped exterior columns ranging from 9 to 17 metres in length, contributing to its distinctive architectural profile.
History
The RCMP Heritage Centre was constructed beginning in 2005 to replace the RCMP Centennial Museum, which had served as the original museum since 1933.
Located at the RCMP Academy, Depot Division in Regina, the Heritage Centre opened to the public on May 23, 2007.
The building project involved notable architects Nick Milkovich and Arthur Erickson, with construction completed by PCL Construction.
The Heritage Centre was established to preserve and showcase the extensive collections of the RCMP, reflecting over a century of Canadian law enforcement history and the evolution of the Mounties' role across the nation.
Place Guide
Permanent Exhibitions
The main gallery hosts permanent exhibitions exploring the RCMP's origins, law enforcement practices in Western Canada, northern protection duties, nationwide service, tradition preservation, and forensic investigations.
Feature Exhibition Hall
This hall displays specialty items from the Heritage Centre's collection on a rotating basis, offering visitors fresh perspectives and unique artifacts beyond the permanent exhibits.
Lecture Hall/Theatre
A 124-seat facility within the centre used for presentations, lectures, and special events related to RCMP history and law enforcement topics.
Contact
Phone: (306) 522-7333
