These range from the dominant Kinh to the smallest minorities in the highlands of the north and center. Exhibits in the main building include the elaborate and colorfull hill-tribe costumes, weaving designs, musical instruments, fishing implements, work tools, and other functional objects. The displays continue on to the extensive grounds outside, with fascinating examples of minority housing from the Central Highlands, such as communal houses, steep pitched roofs, and elaborately carved tombs. A highlight here is the re-creation of a Black Thai house.

The museum also serves as a research center for Vietnam’s 54 recognized ethnic groups.