Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories
Legislative Assembly Building
A domed legislature set in the forest beside Frame Lake, with Indigenous artworks on display, known for its consensus government.
The Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories opened in 1993. Its domed design symbolises the circular gatherings of Indigenous peoples, and the seats in the chamber are arranged in a circle, reflecting the territory's non-partisan 'consensus government' with no political parties. The hall and corridors display artworks by various peoples as well as polar bear hides, and the Speaker's mace, crafted by Indigenous artisans, is inlaid with gold, diamonds and other northern resources. Visitors can usually walk freely through the public areas, and free guided tours run on weekdays (with more sessions in summer). When the Assembly is sitting, you can watch members debate from the public gallery. The building is surrounded by the Frame Lake shoreline trail, about 7 km long, which is good for strolling and spotting ducks in summer and for cross-country skiing in winter. It is about a 5-minute walk from the Heritage Centre.
Opening hours
Open weekdays approx. 07:00–18:00; tour times per official website
Nearby sights
- Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre
- Frame Lake Trail
- Twin Pine Hill Trail
- Tin Can Hill
- Ragged Ass Road
- Snowking Winter Festival Snowcastle
- Bullocks Bistro
- Wildcat Cafe