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Railway Museum of British Columbia

Located in Squamish, the Railway Museum of British Columbia is home to one of the largest collections of heritage trains and railway artifacts in Western Canada. It’s perfect for families, train lovers and history buffs. This unique museum brings the golden age of rail travel to life with interactive displays, vintage railcars, and special seasonal events.

For the museum’s official website, visit wcra.org.

 

Location & Directions

The Railway Museum of BC is located at 39645 Government Road in Squamish in the Sea to Sky Region. It’s best to use GPS, but traditional directions say to drive about 2 km past the McDonald’s in Squamish, turn left at Industrial Way, then right at Queens Way. Continue following the signs, and you’ll find the entrance just after the BC Rail tracks.

Note: If you’re traveling the Sea to Sky Highway between October and March, ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter-approved tires for safe travel. They are mandatory.

 

What to Expect at the Museum

The museum’s standout attractions include the iconic Royal Hudson steam locomotive and a 3-kilometre miniature railway ride. There is also an impressive collection of cabooses, passenger cars, and locomotives. Visitors can step inside various restored railcars and explore historic buildings, all arranged to resemble a mid-20th-century rail yard.

The museum is a sprawling indoor-outdoor space with so much to see and do. Kids can enjoy the miniature train rides, while adults will appreciate the rich history on display. There are also vintage vehicles and a fully furnished heritage home open for self-guided tours.

 

Events at the Railway Museum

The museum hosts several popular events throughout the year. Some of the highlights are below.

  • Sea to Sky Model Train & Hobby Show: A springtime favourite, this event brings together model train enthusiasts, hobbyists, and vendors for a weekend of miniature railway fun.
  • Buddy and Friends: Usually held in late May or early June, the Buddy & Friends Festival features live entertainment, learning activities, and train rides on the BC-21 Budd Rail Diesel Car. Designed for young families, the event is a hit with both kids and adults!
  • North Pole Express: Inspired by the beloved Polar Express movie, the North Pole Express is a Christmas-themed train experience where children can meet Santa, enjoy holiday treats, and marvel at festive decorations. This magical ride typically runs on the last weekend of November and the first couple of weekends of December.

For the museum’s official website, visit wcra.org.

 

Other Information

In summary, whether you’re a lifelong train enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational family outing, the Railway Museum of BC delivers a memorable experience. From steam engines and scenic train rides to festive holiday events, it’s one of the top heritage attractions in the Sea to Sky region.

For more information about the attraction, check out the Railway Museum of British Columbia‘s website.

To learn about another nearby historical place of interest, see our article about Britannia Mine Museum.