This blog was developed in partnership with the Peel Art Gallery, Museum, and Archives.
Looking for things to do in Brampton that mix art, culture and a dash of history? The Peel Art Gallery, Museum, and Archives (PAMA) is a must-visit destination for anyone curious about the stories that shape the Peel Region.
Whether you’re new to Canada, new to Brampton, or just looking for a local adventure, PAMA offers a welcoming space to explore, learn and connect. Thanks to Canoo, permanent residents and new Canadian citizens can enjoy free or discounted access, making it easier than ever to step inside this cultural treasure.
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“PAMA is exactly the kind of cultural destination that helps newcomers to Canada connect with their new home. By exploring PAMA’s galleries and archives, visitors can discover the stories that shaped this region and see how their own journey becomes part of that ongoing narrative. It’s more than just a museum when the doors are open for discovery, welcoming you as a part of the community.”
– Daniel Bernhard, CEO of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship
About Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives
Founded in the heart of Peel Region, PAMA has grown into a cornerstone of Brampton’s arts and culture scene. It combines the gallery’s fine art collection with historical archives, giving visitors a window into the region’s past and present.
Check out this quick YouTube video to learn more about PAMA’s history.
Over the years, PAMA has evolved with the community, from its early days of collecting local art and historical documents to becoming a modern museum with interactive exhibits, rotating programs, and community-driven events.
The building itself carries significant historical weight because it is home to the former Peel County Jail, which operated from 1867 to 1977. The jail’s preserved cells and architecture offer visitors a tangible connection to the region’s social and legal history, and PAMA’s Beyond Bars exhibition explores the stories of those who lived and worked within its walls.
Must-See Exhibitions and Collections
Today, PAMA’s mission centres on fostering a deeper understanding of Peel’s cultural landscape through exhibitions, educational programs, and public engagement.
PAMA is home to permanent collections that celebrate the arts, history and heritage of Peel Region, including historic photographs, contemporary Canadian and Indigenous artwork. But the experience doesn’t stop there, with changing exhibitions that always bring you something new to discover.
From art installations that spark conversation to historical exhibitions that trace Peel’s journey, PAMA has something for every curious visitor. For a full list of upcoming exhibitions, visit their website: Upcoming Exhibitions | PAMA.
Activities & Programs
Visitors of all ages can get hands-on with workshops, guided tours and educational programs. Families will find interactive activities perfect for kids, while people of all ages can take part in community events that encourage engagement with local culture. Seasonal programs add a fresh twist throughout the year, whether it’s a summer art camp, a winter heritage event or live music in the evenings and on weekends.
Exploring PAMA can also be a springboard for other things to do in Brampton, like nearby cultural walks and local arts events across the area.
Why PAMA is Perfect for Newcomers
For newcomers to Canada, PAMA offers a unique lens into Brampton’s history and culture. From the stories in its archives to the creativity on display in its galleries, every corner of PAMA helps visitors feel connected to the city and the wider Peel Region community.
Through Canoo, accessing PAMA is easier than ever. Free or discounted entry makes it simple to explore at your own pace while discovering the rich arts and culture scene Brampton has to offer.
“We invite Canoo members to visit and explore the history of their new home at PAMA. The museum and art exhibitions include hands-on activities for all ages, lively concerts, and creative workshops as a great way to learn more and build community.”
– Josie Premzell, PAMA Supervisor of Development and Marketing
Explore Brampton with Canoo
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for fun things to do in Brampton, PAMA has something for everyone. Housed in a building that tells its own story, PAMA’s architecture is as fascinating as the exhibits within its walls. Want to dive deeper into how this remarkable institution came to be? Click here to learn more about PAMA’s fascinating history and the evolution of its buildings.
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