Railway Museum of British Columbia – Heritage Trains in Squamish
Located in the scenic town of Squamish, the Railway Museum of British Columbia (formerly known as the West Coast Railway Heritage Park) is home to the largest collection of heritage trains and railway artifacts in Western Canada. Perfect for train enthusiasts, families, and history buffs alike, the museum offers hands-on experiences, rides, and engaging seasonal events. It’s a top attraction along the Sea-to-Sky Highway and a great day trip from Vancouver or Whistler.
From late-November until Christmas, the railway celebrates the North Pole Express on Saturdays and Sundays. The event includes hot chocolates and other features from the classic movie. It’s a great little additional tidbit to the attraction.
Discover Historic Trains and Interactive Exhibits
The Railway Museum features a wide variety of vintage locomotives and railcars, including the iconic Royal Hudson steam engine. Visitors can climb aboard real train cars, explore authentic railway buildings, and even ride a 3-kilometre miniature railway through the grounds. The entire site is designed to resemble a mid-20th-century rail yard, offering a nostalgic and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Also on-site is a restored historic home with period furnishings, vintage vehicles, and both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Whether you’re a die-hard train fan or just looking for a fun family activity, this museum is a hidden gem in Squamish.
Where to Find the Railway Museum
The Railway Museum of BC is located at 39645 Government Road, Squamish, BC. From downtown Squamish, head past the McDonald’s and continue for about 2 km. Turn left at Industrial Way, then right at Queens Way, and follow the signs. After crossing the BC Rail tracks, you’ll see the entrance on the right. GPS directions also work well for locating the site.
Exciting Events at the Museum
The museum hosts popular seasonal events that attract families and rail fans from across the region:
Sea to Sky Model Train & Hobby Show – Featuring intricate model railroads and hobby displays, perfect for collectors and train lovers.
Day Out with Thomas – A beloved event for children, offering 20-minute rides aboard Thomas the Tank Engine and meet-and-greets with Sir Topham Hatt. Tickets sell out early each year.
Buddy & Friends Festival – A newer event that includes rides on the BC-21 Budd Rail Diesel Car, live shows, and hands-on learning.
North Pole Express – A magical holiday train ride inspired by The Polar Express movie. Families enjoy a 50-minute Christmas-themed ride, festive decor, and holiday fun.
Tips for Visiting the Railway Museum of BC
Tip 1: Book early for special events like Day Out with Thomas and the North Pole Express. These experiences are extremely popular and typically sell out months in advance.
Tip 2: Check road conditions in winter—from October to March, vehicles on the Sea-to-Sky Highway must be equipped with winter-rated tires.
Tip 3: Plan for a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions. Bring appropriate clothing, especially during cooler or rainy seasons.
Tip 4: Bring your camera! There are plenty of photo-worthy moments, from historic trains to festive event setups.
- Tip #5: While in the Sea to Sky region, visit the Britannia Mine Museum. It’s another interesting place to explore.