Burnaby Central Railway
Ride a miniature railroad through the beautiful Confederation Park in Burnaby
Operated by volunteers from the BC Society of Model Engineers, the Burnaby Central Railway is a charming 1/8 scale miniature railroad that the whole family will love. This hidden gem, located in Confederation Park since 1993, offers a delightful experience for railway enthusiasts and families looking for a fun day out.
Why Visit Burnaby Central Railway?
- A Unique Ride: Climb aboard a miniature train for a 15-minute journey along two miles of track, passing through tunnels, over bridges, and around the scenic 7-acre site.
- Volunteer-Run Passion: The railway is run by passionate volunteers who build and maintain the engines and tracks, adding a special charm to the experience.
- More Than Just Trains: In addition to the main ride, you can see smaller garden-scale model trains, visit a small museum, and enjoy a picnic.
- Affordable Fun: With a nominal fee for rides and free admission to the grounds, it's an inexpensive and memorable outing.
What to See & Do
- Ride the Rails: The main attraction is the ride itself, a delightful trip through the forested parkland.
- Garden Railway: Watch the smaller G and O gauge model trains (both steam and electric) operate on an intricate outdoor layout.
- Concession & Gift Shop: Grab a light snack or pick up a railway-themed souvenir to remember your visit.
- Explore the Park: The railway is part of the larger Confederation Park, which has walking trails, a playground, and a swimming pool.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Check the Schedule: The railway is run by volunteers and operates weather-permitting. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media before you go.
- Bring Cash: While they may have other payment options, having cash on hand for tickets and the concession is recommended.
- Special Events: The railway hosts special events throughout the year, like Halloween and Christmas-themed rides, which are very popular.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- The Amazing Brentwood: A world-class shopping and entertainment complex, a short bus ride away.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes, there is a nominal fee for rides. Admission to the grounds is free.Address: 120 N Willingdon Ave, Burnaby, BC V5C 1H6, Canada
Phone: (604) 291-0922
Official Website: Burnaby Central Railway
Burnaby Central Railway Reviews
Rated out of 5
This is such a great place for kids and kids in heart to visit!
The small train ride is well worth the wait and the admission ticket. There’s also other toy train on display and you can control them with the remote control.
We spent about 2 hours there and the kids loved every second of it!
Kevin Lee - 2 months ago
Once a place where one worried it might quietly vanish for lack of funds, Burnaby Central Railway now feels thoroughly revived.
Miniature freight trains dashed about with all the earnestness of a Victorian timetable, and to the great delight of small humans (and their taller, equally enchanted counterparts), there were little engines available for children to operate. Yes, truly, pint-sized engineers commandeering locomotives, puffing through the sun-dappled grounds like Lords of the Line.
If you’d once feared its days were numbered, fret no more. The railway is thriving. Bring a child. Or borrow one. Or simply surrender your adult dignity and queue up yourself. No judgment here.
Splendid outing. Long live tiny trains.
Le Duc des Critiques Malicieuses - 2 months ago
Beautiful park with a long train ride through the woods. Real steam locomotives pulling a dozen or more people. Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable volunteers. A delightful experience!
Neil Mayhew - 2 weeks ago
Confederation Park, 120 N Willingdon Ave, Burnaby
Hours
Weekends & holidays, 11 AM–5 PM, Easter to Thanksgiving
Ride Duration
~10 minutes through scenic 2-mile track
Cost
$4.50 per ride; $40 for 10-ride pass; under age 3 free
Extras
Garden railway, museum, concessions, parties available
Season 2025
Opens April 18, weekend-only until
Parking is near by or u can park on the sides.
Nick Singh - a month ago
Great place for miniature train rides. My daughter loved it .. They have different trains and tracks. Go early to avoid crowds
Yogesh Gotarkar - 4 months ago
Directions
| Bus Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| #130 Bus | From Metrotown Station | ~20 Mins |
| #134 Bus | From Brentwood Station | ~10 Mins |
How to get to Burnaby Central Railway by Bus
From Metrotown Station, take the #130 bus from the bus loop. Get off at Willingdon Avenue and Penzance Drive, then walk east into Confederation Park to the railway entrance.
From Brentwood Town Centre Station, take the #134 bus from the bus loop. Get off at Willingdon Avenue and Penzance Drive, then walk east into the park.
From downtown Vancouver, you can also take the R5 Hastings St RapidBus to Willingdon Avenue and walk about 10 minutes north to the park entrance.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Burnaby Central Railway:
Photo Gallery
-
Old fashion Candyshop at Burnaby Village Museum cc licensed photo by Mike W. -
Photo Credit: Daniel 19 Mmo -
Photo Credit: Adhham Farook -
Photo Credit: Derek Chen -
Photo Credit: 吉达星 -
Photo Credit: Mounika P