Burnaby Village Museum
Take a trip back in time at the Burnaby Village Museum
Step into the past at Burnaby Village Museum, a living history attraction that brings the 1920s to life. Located at the edge of Deer Lake Park, this 10-acre open-air museum features a recreated tram-stop community with costumed staff, historic buildings, and a beautifully restored vintage carousel, making you feel as though you’ve traveled back nearly 100 years.
Why Visit Burnaby Village Museum?
- Free Admission: It's one of the best free attractions in Metro Vancouver, offering a fun and educational experience for all ages.
- Immersive History: Wander through a 1920s village with over 30 exhibits, including a blacksmith shop, a general store, and a one-room schoolhouse.
- Ride the Carousel: A highlight for many is the beautifully restored 1912 C.W. Parker Carousel. For a small fee, you can take a spin on this historic ride.
- Live Demonstrations: Chat with costumed townsfolk and watch demonstrations of traditional trades like blacksmithing and printing.
What to See & Do
- Explore the Village: Walk the cobblestone streets and enter the historic and replica buildings to see over 50,000 artifacts.
- Visit the 1912 Tram: Step aboard the fully restored Interurban #1223 Tram to admire its rich hardwood interior and imagine regional travel in a bygone era.
- See the Love Farmhouse: Don't miss the 1893 Love Farmhouse, the oldest surviving home in Burnaby.
- Attend Seasonal Events: The museum hosts popular events like the Haunted Village at Halloween and Heritage Christmas during the holiday season, filling the village with festive lights and activities.
Food & Drink Options
- Ice Cream Parlour: Enjoy a vintage treat at the old-fashioned ice cream parlour, which serves light snacks, baked goods, and, of course, ice cream.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Check the Hours: The museum operates seasonally (typically May to September) but opens for special events like Halloween and Christmas. Always check the official website for current hours.
- Combine Your Visit: The museum is located within Deer Lake Park, making it easy to combine your trip with a walk around the lake or a visit to the Burnaby Art Gallery.
- Bring Change for the Carousel: While admission is free, the carousel ride is not. It's a must-do, so have a few dollars ready.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Deer Lake Park: The museum is part of this larger cultural and recreational park, which has walking trails and other arts venues.
- Metropolis at Metrotown: One of BC's largest shopping malls is just a short bus ride away.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Free gate admission. There is a nominal fee to ride the carousel.Burnaby Village Museum Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Address: 6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby, BC V5G 3T6, Canada
Phone: (604) 297-4565
Official Website: Burnaby Village Museum
Burnaby Village Museum Reviews
Rated out of 5
It is one of the best places to spend the day. Visited on weekends. The day was sunny and the place was beautiful. Loved the information shared by the employees there and stunning preserved heritage to be viewed.
ALIFAIZ SAIYED - a week ago
Fantastic during the holidays. The lights and decorations were wonderful. Very nice that it continued after Xmas through new years.
Sensational that it's free to the public. Really appreciate that families can enjoy this wholesome activity together without having to worry about costs. It was a vacation highlight for our visiting family from Australia.
K Q - 5 months ago
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Burnaby Village Museum, and it was a delightful experience that exceeded my expectations. This charming museum beautifully captures the essence of life in the early 1900s, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Vancouver's rich history.
The village is meticulously curated, with stunning heritage buildings and gardens that are full of character. Walking through the streets feels like stepping back in time, and the staff dressed in period costumes truly enhance the immersive experience. They are friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share fascinating stories about the different buildings and the history of the area.
One of the highlights was the interactive exhibits and demonstrations, which were engaging for both adults and children. The artisan demonstrations, such as blacksmithing and pottery, added a hands-on element that was both educational and entertaining. The carousel is a must-try—it's beautifully restored, and riding it was a nostalgic treat!
The overall atmosphere is family-friendly and welcoming, making it a perfect outing for people of all ages. The museum also features lovely picnic areas, making it easy to enjoy a leisurely lunch among the beautiful surroundings.
In summary, Burnaby Village Museum is a hidden gem that offers a wonderful blend of education, history, and fun. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this destination should be on your must-visit list. I can't wait to return for their seasonal events!
Bobby Bedi - 3 months ago
Free admission & parking. Exhibitions bring you back to 1850 to 1900. Worthy to spend 2 hr.
Dennis Kan - 2 weeks ago
I had heard this place was good, but I had no idea how good it actually was!
I followed my friend and her daughter to do what I thought would be a basic carousel ride.
NOT SO!
Nothing basic about this gorgeous, vintage carousel ride, complete with Wurlitzer Band Organ. If you love history, carousels, face aching grins, and/or killer pictures ops, DO NOT SKIP this part of the museum!
Speaking of losing your mind over a historic beauty, the rest of the grounds are a history-lovers Disney Land.
I spent the entire day here.
Definitely does not disappoint.
Brianna Niles - 6 months ago
Directions
| Skytrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Line | Metrotown Station | 1 Minute |
| Millennium Line | Sperling Station | 1 Minute |
How to get to Burnaby Village Museum by Skytrain
From Metrotown Station, take the #144 SFU bus from the bus loop and get off at the stop on Deer Lake Avenue for the museum.
From Sperling–Burnaby Lake Station, take the #144 Metrotown bus to the same stop. Note: if boarding at Sperling Station be sure to take the 144 Metrotown, not the 144 SFU - they both pick up in the same bay
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.
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Photo Gallery
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Old fashion Candyshop at Burnaby Village Museum cc licensed photo by Pentaboxes -
A banjo player entertains guests at the Burnaby Village Museum cc licensed photo by wlcutler -
Close up of beautifully restored horse on the 1912 Carousel cc licensed photo by hutoro -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: waferboard - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: waferboard - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: bchow - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr
