Britannia Mine Museum Vancouver
Explore BC's rich mining past at this National Historic Site, featuring immersive tours, gold panning, and the spectacular BOOM! show.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Britannia Mine Museum Vancouver
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore BC's rich mining past at this National Historic Site, featuring immersive tours, gold panning, and the spectacular BOOM! show.
"A must-visit spot with lots of history, amazing guided tours, and incredible views!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the BOOM! show and gold panning in advance to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
🧥 Dress in Layers
It can be cool inside the mine, even on warm days. Bring a light jacket. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The BOOM! Experience
Mill No. 3
An immersive, award-winning show that brings the history of the mine to life with stunning visuals and sound.

Underground Mine Tour
Mine Shaft
Journey deep into the earth on a guided tour, learning about mining techniques and the site's rich history.

Gold Panning
Outdoor Area
Try your luck panning for gold and discover fascinating gems in this fun, hands-on activity for all ages.

Mill No. 3 Exploration
Mill Building
Explore the massive, historic Mill No. 3, a filming location for movies and a testament to industrial might.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Experiences
Embrace the Underground Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the BOOM! show and gold panning in advance to avoid disappointment.
:ticket:🧥 Dress in Layers
It can be cool inside the mine, even on warm days. Bring a light jacket.
:cloud:👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfortable footwear.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the History
The historic mill and mine offer incredible photo opportunities, especially Mill No. 3.
:camerawithflash:Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the BOOM! show and gold panning in advance to avoid disappointment.
:ticket:🧥 Dress in Layers
It can be cool inside the mine, even on warm days. Bring a light jacket.
:cloud:👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfortable footwear.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the History
The historic mill and mine offer incredible photo opportunities, especially Mill No. 3.
:camerawithflash:💧 Be Prepared for Smells
The mill may have a sulfur smell; it's natural but can be strong for some.
:droplet:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Britannia Mine Museum for its engaging and informative tours, particularly the BOOM! Experience and the underground mine exploration. The gold panning activity is a highlight for families, and the historic Mill No. 3 offers a captivating glimpse into industrial heritage. While some note a sulfur smell in the mill, most find the overall experience highly recommended and a worthwhile stop.
"We had a truly amazing experience visiting this museum! The tour was very well organized, informative, and fun for both adults and children. Our guide was outstanding—engaging, knowledgeable, and made the whole visit enjoyable. The kids especially loved exploring and learning through the activities, and we all came away with great memories.
In the final part of the tour inside the mill, there was a noticeable sulfur smell. While it was a bit strong for my son, I’m sure this is part of the natural environment. With some additional ventilation, even visitors who are sensitive—especially children—would be able to enjoy that fascinating section fully.
The gold panning activity was a highlight! One idea that might make it even better would be to have a guide demonstrate the correct steps for the children—it would add an extra educational touch to an already fun experience.
Overall, this museum is a wonderful place to visit, and I highly recommend it to families and anyone interested in history and discovery. We truly enjoyed our time here and are grateful for such a memorable tour!"
Amir Safarkhah
"A must visit spot. Lots of history, amazing guided tour, and incredible views. I brought my son over (5yo) and he had a blast panning, visiting the mine, the mill, and the little gift shop.
Although we had no issues dropping in, I highly recommend booking in advance. Check the days they have panning, because some days they don’t have. There are lots to see, and I recommend take the tour first and then visiting the other attractions. It makes easier to understand the history behind each part of the museum."
Rodrigo Souza
"Great experience! We bought tickets in advance so there was basically zero wait. I would recommend getting there early so you can explore the museum, watch short films they have playing and also do some gold panning which was incredibly fun. The tour was nice and started off a little slow, but Tessa was a great guide and finishing of with the BOOM! Show was amazing!"
Vishnu Gattu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Britannia Mine Museum is located about an hour's drive north of Vancouver along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway. You can drive your own vehicle or take public transportation. Many visitors stop here on their way to Whistler.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the museum. It's convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While driving is the most common method, you can reach Britannia Beach via public transit from Vancouver, though it may require transfers and take longer. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! It's a highly recommended stop to break up the drive and experience local history. Many travelers find it a perfect addition to their Whistler itinerary.
The drive is along the stunning Sea-to-Sky Highway, offering beautiful coastal and mountain views. It's a scenic route that adds to the overall experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary by age. Adults are around $41.95, seniors and students are $36.95, youth are $31.95, and children (5-12) are $23.95. Children 4 and under are free. Family passes are also available for $147. It's recommended to book online.
While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for the BOOM! show and gold panning, to guarantee your spot and avoid long waits.
General admission typically includes access to the historic Mill No. 3, the BOOM! Experience, and the underground mine tour. Gold panning may be an additional activity or included depending on the ticket package.
Summer hours (late June to early September) are usually daily from 9 am to 6:30 pm. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours, as they can vary seasonally.
Discounts are typically offered for seniors, students, and youth. Check the museum's website for any special promotions or group rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The must-sees include the immersive BOOM! Experience, the fascinating underground mine tour, gold panning, and exploring the historic Mill No. 3.
The underground tour is generally not considered scary. While the underground train ride might make some younger children uneasy initially, most find the experience educational and exciting.
The BOOM! show is an award-winning, immersive experience within Mill No. 3 that uses multimedia to tell the story of the mine's history. It's a highlight for many visitors.
A visit can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend on each activity, including the tours, gold panning, and exploring the exhibits.
Yes, the museum offers a rich historical and scientific experience that appeals to all ages, from younger children to adults interested in industrial history.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the museum is incredibly photogenic! Mill No. 3, with its industrial architecture and light filtering through windows, is particularly stunning. The surrounding landscape also offers beautiful shots.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, including the mine tour, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage. The unique atmosphere inside the mine makes for dramatic photos.
Mill No. 3, the exterior of the mine entrance, the gold panning area, and the scenic views along the Sea-to-Sky Highway on your way there are all excellent photo locations.
Yes, the museum, particularly Mill No. 3, has been a filming location for movies like 'Okja' and 'The Last of Us,' adding to its cinematic appeal.
Industrial photography, historical site exploration, and landscape shots of the surrounding coastal mountains are all well-suited for the Britannia Mine Museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking your tickets in advance to streamline your visit, and be prepared for the cool temperatures inside the mine by bringing a light jacket. The museum's blend of history, science, and interactive elements makes it a memorable and enriching experience for the whole family.
🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers
This award-winning museum provides a fascinating glimpse into British Columbia's mining heritage, making it a worthwhile detour. Combine it with a stop at the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish for a day packed with adventure and stunning views.
🎬 Film & TV Enthusiasts
Beyond specific movie connections, the museum's authentic and dramatic setting makes it a compelling destination for anyone interested in the cinematic arts. It’s a chance to appreciate how real-world historical sites contribute to the visual storytelling of film and television.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Mining History
The guided tours are essential for understanding the scale and complexity of the operation. You'll learn about the different mining methods, the challenges faced by workers, and the eventual transition of the site into a museum. The BOOM! Experience within Mill No. 3 is a highlight, using multimedia to vividly recreate the past and showcase the sheer power of the machinery.
Beyond the industrial aspect, the museum also touches upon the environmental considerations and the community that grew around the mine. It’s a comprehensive look at a vital part of British Columbia's history, making it an engaging visit for anyone interested in industry, engineering, or local heritage.
Family Fun and Educational Activities
The underground mine tour is another key attraction for families. While the initial underground train ride might be a bit daunting for very young children, the tour itself is designed to be informative and exciting. Guides often tailor their stories to be engaging for younger audiences, making the history of mining accessible and fun.
Many reviews highlight how children, even those initially hesitant, end up thoroughly enjoying their visit, especially after experiencing the BOOM! show. The museum's commitment to creating interactive and memorable experiences makes it a worthwhile stop for families traveling along the Sea-to-Sky corridor.
A Cinematic Setting: Britannia Mine in Film
More recently, the museum's eerie and evocative setting was utilized in the popular HBO series 'The Last of Us.' The unique architecture and historical resonance of the mine provide a compelling visual element for storytelling, adding another layer of intrigue for visitors.
For film buffs, exploring the museum offers a chance to walk through sets that have appeared on screen, connecting the real history of mining with the magic of cinema. It’s a testament to the site's enduring visual appeal and its ability to transport visitors to different worlds, both historical and fictional.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit