Kilby Historic Site – A Farm Museum in Harrison Mills
Nestled at the edge of the Fraser Valley, Kilby Historic Site is a beautifully preserved heritage farm and museum. Located in Harrison Mills, it’s just under two hours east of Vancouver in good traffic. Operated by the Fraser Heritage Society, this family-friendly destination offers a glimpse into rural life in the early 1900s. The attraction has heritage buildings, farm animals, engaging events, and a nearby scenic riverside campground.
For current hours, event details or to book a camping site, visit the official Kilby Historic Site website.
Location and When to Visit
Kilby Historic Site’s address is 215 Kilby Road. It’s just off the Harrison River in Harrison Mills, British Columbia. The place is roughly 20 minutes from Agassiz (which is where the world-famous Harrison Tulip Festival takes place in the spring). It’s also less than a 25-minute drive from Harrison Hot Springs.
While the museum and historic site are seasonal (open from April through December), the Kilby Park Campground welcomes visitors year-round.
About Kilby Historic Site
The Kilby Historic Site spans 3 hectares and includes original farm buildings, a working heritage farm, orchard, and children’s playground. Guests can visit the Kilby General Store Museum, Manchester House Hotel, and other well-preserved structures dating back to the early 20th century. Interpreters dressed in period clothing bring the site to life, offering insights into pioneer life and the story of the Kilby family.
Inside the General Store, you’ll find original merchandise displays and vintage packaging from the 1920s and 30s. Upstairs is the restored Manchester House Hotel, furnished to reflect what life was like in the 1920s. The store features the original Kilby Post Office, once run by the Kilby family starting in the early 1900s.
Kilby Farm is also home to a variety of animals including chickens, turkeys and rabbits, some of which wander around freely. Visitors can walk through the orchard, enjoy lunch in the rose garden, or relax at one of the picnic tables on the front lawn. There’s also a small café and gift shop on-site for snacks and souvenirs.
Events at Kilby
Throughout the year, Kilby Historic Site hosts a variety of themed events and seasonal celebrations, making it a popular destination for families and history enthusiasts alike. Some of the most popular events include the following (recognizing that each year is slightly different):
- Easter Long Weekend – Springtime fun with themed activities, scavenger hunts, and photo opportunities.
- Mad Hatter Tea Party – An Alice in Wonderland-themed tea service with desserts and whimsical décor.
- All Things Spring – A family-friendly day of seed planting, egg hunts, and springtime treats.
- Mother’s Day – A weekend with special activities, historical presentations and seasonal café menu options.
- Father’s Day – A weekend where families can do crafts and other activities.
- Bats in Our Belfry – Evening viewings of bats feeding on mosquitoes.
- Thanksgiving Weekend – Traditional apple pressing demonstrations and harvest-themed programming.
- Bumps in the Night – A spooky, paranormal-themed Halloween event inside the General Store.
- Christmas by the Railway – Festive decorations, ginger cookies, and holiday cheer.
For current hours, event details or to book a camping site, visit the official Kilby Historic Site website.
Kilby Park Campground – Stay by the Water
Just down the road from the historic site, Kilby Park offers 41 scenic campsites near the junction of the Fraser and Harrison Rivers. The campground features a boat launch, picnic area, beach, walking trails and beautiful fall colours.
Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or just a day of exploration, Kilby Park is a peaceful and picturesque place to connect with nature.
Other Information
In summary, Kilby Historic Site combines education, entertainment, and scenic beauty in one engaging destination. Perfect for families, history buffs or anyone exploring the Fraser Valley or Harrison Hot Springs area, this unique farm and museum brings BC’s rural past to life in a hands-on and memorable way.
To learn more about the attraction and its camping facilities, visit the official Kilby Historic Site website.
For information about other museums in the Fraser Valley, see our articles about Fort Langley and Sasquatch Museum.
Other websites you might also find of interest are VancouverForKids.ca, VancouverSightseeingTours.ca and VancouversBestPlaces.com.