This museum is fabulous…read more They have several cars from train sets on the tracks outside. A lot of these have been brought back to its original or as close as possible condition just using grant money, I understand, as it becomes available from the provincial government. One set of cars has now been named a "National Heritage" set and it is hoped a couple of other trains or the Royal Alex building receive that status soon as well. It then might make it easier for the museum to receive federal funding on a regular basis as most other museums do. Every time I go through the tour, I notice something different, something special. The staff do a good job in keeping them dustless for our benefit and the trains benefit and in protecting the cars as the tours go through. Guided tours through the cars are possible and are very interesting for the high school, adult range. The Museum is currently fundraising to finish off the rail shed and a miniature railroad (that was donated from Granville Island) set in the basement that all age kids would enjoy. The local HO club has also been trying to finish their display so as to have several miniature trains run along tracks in settings similar to around the southeast BC. One major item on their wish list I understand, is the funds to be able to construct a temperature-controlled, weather-controlled shed extending over all the cars and engines to fully keep all weather from deteriorating them any further - a very costly item. Once these trains are rusted through and can't be further restored, they are lost to our future as there aren't any other of these cars left. The Royal Alexandra is a beautiful hall with as many of the original parts as possible. She's now available for renting out for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, meetings, etc. I've had several functions in here from AGMs, Christmas parties, dance, violin, and singing recitals, masquerade party, plus other activities. It's special to look at the detailing in the roof and columns. Downstairs at the shed is a quilt about different items about Cranbrook's past. There are also many pictures taken showing the birth, growth, people, activities, all around the Cranbrook-Fort Steel area that are very interesting to read about and view.

From the outside I would never have guessed how beautiful this place is. Fabulous restorations, the…read moreCity has put a lot of money into this facility I am guessing, because it's really detailed and immaculate in quality. If you are into trains, this would be a highlight.

Still a nice historic town. There is a candy store and a great bakery. Both air conditioned…read more There are Clydesdale horse wagon rides. Large site with many buildings to visit. If it's hot out bring water. But water can be purchased. There was a live historic show in the theatre. Staff were very helpful in spite of being short staffed. You can pan for gold too. Prices are very reasonable for the sights and buildings. Lovely mountain backdrop makes for some good photos. Ample free parking.

A definite must see! Plan to spend the day there as there is a lot to see and do. Staff are very…read morefriendly and can be found in character and in costume. The town was larger than expected with many restored buildings, as well as some original buildings left at the site. Get the family pass and be sure to take a trip on the Steam engine and the covered wagon. There is an hour long play at the theatre that was quite enjoyable as well. They have taken pains to ensure the details are taken care of. You can watch a blacksmith using authentic tools to make various items in the shop. They have guided "gossip" tours where the staff explain the features of the town while adding in tidbits about some of the townsfolk. They grow crops on site that are tilled by a horse drawn tiller. They also have several animals to see including horses, a donkey, turkeys and lamb. Pets are welcome, so bring your dog. They even put out dishes of water for them to drink from. One caveat is that they aren't allowed in the theatre if you plan to see the play, or in the museum at the restored Wasa hotel. One undocumented feature is that if you play Pokemon Go, there are 2 gyms and several stops on the grounds. If you're in the area, it would be a shame to miss it!

Cool museum in a place you would not expect. Beautifully kept airplanes from WW1 through Vietnam…read more The tour was exceptional. Tristian is knowledgeable and accommodating. He was great. The Stonehenge full size replica is well done as well. Sits on a beautiful private golf course.

This place was great! We heard about it through word of mouth and our party of 27 loved it. It was…read moredefinitely worth the drive from Whitefish. Tristan did a great job with the tour, was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions. The planes were beautiful and it was fascinating to learn about their uses. We highly recommend it!

Visiting Fernie for the weekend, we decided to take a historical tour offered by the Fernie Museum…read more This isn't something that was on the top of my to-do list, but we're visiting with my in laws so more physical activities were off the table. We weren't expecting much to be honest - maybe some dry stories about founding fathers and local politicians, so we were pleasantly surprised with what turned out to be a fascinating story filled with drama and intrigue. Our guide, Lindsey, spun a well-crafted tale of Fernie's early settlers, a story complete with mayhem, mystery and even murder. Who would have guessed? I would highly recommend this tour if you've got an hour to spare. After you're done, drop by the Beanpod Chocolate shop down the street for a freshly roasted coffee and some wonderful gelato or some amazing artisan chocolate.

From the owner: The Fernie Museum highlights the story of Fernie and the Elk Valley from its use by the Ktunaxa as…read morea travel corridor to the Prairies to coal mining to the early development of tourism in its main floor exhibit, This Is Our Fernie. The Museum also features a gallery for rotating temporary exhibits, a museum shop and an archives. Located inside the Fernie Museum is the Trites & Wood Mercantile. Named after the famed Trites-Wood Department Store once located next door, the Fernie Museum's shop features a curated collection of jewelry, clothing and accessories, home décor, books, and stationary which represents Fernie's geography, culture and heritage.

It's fun to learn a bit about the history of a place. On the day we came, the indoor exhibits were…read moreclosed. But the outdoor exhibits are open everyday and don't require a guide.

showing old style cottage and items from the last 100 years. Inexpensive and worthwhile. I…read morerecommend.

Nice small town museum in Bonner's Ferry. The place doubled in size since last time I was here…read moreabout 8yrs ago. Volunteer workers are friendly. It's a nice history of the town.