Burnaby Central Railway
Enjoy riding a miniature railroad and more during your visit to the Burnaby Central Railway
Operated by volunteers from the British Columbia Society of Model Engineers, Burnaby Central Railway is a 1/8 scale miniature replica railroad that the entire family will love. This hidden gem is located in Confederation Park in north Burnaby where it has been operating since 1993. Burnaby Central Railway offers a delightful experience for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a railway enthusiast or a family looking for a fun day out you will be sure to enjoy this attraction.
As you step into Burnaby Central Railway, you'll be greeted by the nostalgic sights and sounds of miniature trains chugging along the over 2 miles of 7.5" gauge track.
One of the highlights is going for a ride on one of the miniature trains. Climb aboard and embark on a journey around the railway's extensive track network. Feel the gentle breeze as you pass through tunnels, over bridges, and climb and descend gentle hills during the 15 minute ride that meanders through the large 7 acre site. It's an experience that's sure to delight both children and adults alike.
In addition to the train rides, Burnaby Central Railway offers a range of other attractions to enjoy. It is free to view the smaller G and O gauge model trains, both steam and electric, that operate along the garden railway. There is a picnic area where you can relax and soak in the scenery while enjoying light snacks from the concession, a gift shop where you can pick up railway themed souvenirs to commemorate your visit, and even a small museum where you can see pictures of full-sized and miniature locomotives along with other railway collectables.
Throughout the year, Burnaby Central Railway hosts a variety of events and special occasions. From themed train rides to holiday celebrations, there's always something exciting happening at the railway. Be sure to check their website or social media pages for information on upcoming events so you don't miss out on the fun.
Before you visit Burnaby Central Railway, it's a good idea to check their website for the latest information on hours of operation, admission prices, and any special requirements or restrictions that may be in place. They are normally open on weekends and statutory holidays from Easter until Thanksgiving. Ticket sales for rides on the trains cut-off at 4:30pm as all rides must be finished by 5pm.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes - There is a nominal fee for rides on the miniature railway, however visiting the sight and viewing the smaller scale garden railway is free.Burnaby Central Railway Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:45 PM
Address: 120 N Willingdon Ave, Burnaby, BC V5C 6K1, Canada
Phone: (604) 291-0922
Official Website: Burnaby Central Railway
Burnaby Central Railway Reviews
Rated out of 5
Absolutely fantastic experience! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The staff here made our day extra special. My son absolutely adores the trains, and they really added to the magic of our visit. Plus, the available free parking made our trip hassle-free. Conveniently located near everything we needed. Highly recommend!
Alireza Saeiddanesh - in the last week
What a beautiful place worth the ride in $4.50 each 15 minutes ride.Highly recommend for family gateways, for kids to enjoy. Plenty of car parking available.
For tickets you need to buy tokens on the spot no online reservations. I heard about long queue but when we visit on Saturday of long weekend it only took us 20 minutes wait.
Bring your mat with you just in case if there is a lineup. Food is available inside and outside food also allowed.
pooja chaudhari - 8 months ago
The Burnaby Central Railway has been here since I was a little kid and probably even before that. I remember the delight upon seeing the mini trains the first time my dad and I walked past Confederation Park, and this amazing place came to view.
I remember fondly riding the mini train with my dad and both of us thinking how cool the experience was. Sadly, dad has long passed.
Now, I found myself having the opportunity to take my little ones to experience the joy I remembered.
The Burnaby Central Railway has grown a lot since my childhood. There are more tracks and more structures than I remembered. There's an actual line of people the day I visited. It took 3 trains before our turn, though they run multiple trains in different directions at once, so the actual waiting time was not long.
The train experience was even better than I remembered. The price has gone up, but going from $2 to $4.50 is very reasonable. I'm not sure if the increase in tracks has made the experience longer or that I don't remember it that well. I'm just happy to take my kids to share this experience. I look forward to returning when I'm in town.
FYI, they open between Easter and Thanksgiving.
Victor Law - 9 months ago
Directions
| Skytrain and Bus Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Line | Metrotown Station | 1 Minute |
| Millennium Line | Brentwood Station | 11 Minutes |
How to get to Burnaby Central Railway by Skytrain and Bus
From Brentwood Station follow the walkway to the bus loop and take the #130 Kootenay Loopbus and get off as soon as the bus turns left onto East Hastings Street. Walk back to Willingdon Ave and go left (north) to Pensznce Drive, then go East to the entrance.
From Metrotown Station take the walkway and escalator to the bus loop and take the #130 Kootenay Loop bus and proceed as above.
If you are coming from downtown Vancouver it may be just as quick to catch the R5 Rapid bus from any of it's designated stops to Hastings and Willingdon and walk north as above. Whichever option you choose, you can also take a #131 bus north on Willingdon from Hastings to shorten the walk, however this bus is not very frequent, so check when the next bus is due. It may be just as quick to walk.
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Photo Gallery
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Old fashion Candyshop at Burnaby Village Museum cc licensed photo by Mike W. -
Photo Credit: Derek Chen -
Photo Credit: Yana Meledina -
Photo Credit: Daniel 19 Mmo -
Photo Credit: Adhham Farook -
Photo Credit: Victor Law
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