From Aboriginal cultural centres to maritime museums, Vancouver Island’s rich past is reflected in its historic and heritage sites.
Aboriginal people have lived on Vancouver Island for centuries; learn about their culture and traditions at sites like the U’Mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay or the Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre in Duncan.
European settlement didn’t begin here until the early 18th century, but that history is manifested today in stately architectural monuments, such as the Fairmont Empress Hotel, Craigdarroch Castle, the BC Parliament Buildings and the Bastion in Nanaimo.
Other sites on Vancouver Island celebrate the region’s rich natural resources. Fishing, forestry, and logging are industries that helped build this island and are featured at the McLean Mill in Port Alberni and the Marine Heritage Centre in Campbell River.
Aboriginal Historic Sites
On northern Vancouver Island, the U’Mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay is famous for its potlatch ceremonies and celebrates Kwakwaka’wakw culture.
On southern Vancouver Island, the Quw’utsun’ people are the largest tribe in British Columbia and have inhabited this area for more than 4,500 years. Duncan’s Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre highlights the history of the Cowichan peoples. Visitors enjoy live dancing and demonstrations, learn about culture and history, and feast on barbecued salmon by the Cowichan River.
Notable Buildings and Structures
The Bastion is Nanaimo’s oldest building. A curious, octagonal building of three floors, it was constructed in 1852 without the use of nails, using squared cedar timbers that were notched and fitted together with dowels. Saluting the history of this Hudson's Bay Company fort, a cannon is fired daily at noon.
Nicknamed "Bungee Jump Bridge," the steel, 66m/217ft Saunders Bridge spans the Nanaimo River in a classic arch style. It was the first bridge in North America custom built for bungee jumping and rises approximately 44m/143ft above water level. Visit WildPlay Nanaimo to experience bungee jump bridge firsthand.
Many historic buildings and structures exist in Victoria. These include the famous Empress Hotel, Craigdarroch Castle, the BC Parliament Buildings, and numerous Edwardian houses. Fort Rodd Hill, an 1890s-built artillery fort designed to defend Victoria and the Esquimalt naval base, lies just west of downtown, along with historic Fisgard Lighthouse.
Fishing History
Vancouver’s rich fishing traditions come to life at the Marine Heritage Centre in Campbell River, where the wooden fishing vessel BCP 45 – immortalized on the back of Canada’s five-dollar bill – is on permanent display. It’s a national historic site.
Logging and Forestry
Vancouver Island’s significant logging history is well-represented at Port Alberni’s McLean Mill. This national historic site boasts the only steam-operated sawmill in Canada, plus restored logging equipment, a steam donkey, and assorted heavy machinery.
For a unique experience, ride a restored 1929 Baldwin steam locomotive from Port Alberni to the McLean Mill. This scenic 35-minute rail trip winds through the town and surrounding forest, and stops at a local winery. While touring the mill, visit the blacksmith shop to forge a piece of wrought iron, or attend a show by the site’s interpretive actors, the Tin Pants Theatre Company.
Historic West Coast Trail
The West Coast Trail is among the world’s top hiking routes. Originally designed as a telegraph route and lifesaving trail that saved hundreds of lives from the treacherous stretch of coastline known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific,” the West Coast Trail is now a rugged and challenging hiking trail that draws travelers from around the world.
Historic Settlements
While searching for the Northwest Passage in 1778, British explorer James Cook landed at Yuquot (Friendly Cove) on Nootka Island and became the first European to visit what’s now British Columbia. In 1789, Spain established a fort in Friendly Cove in an attempt to gain sovereignty. The only Spanish settlement in Canada, it was abandoned in 1795. However, numerous Spanish names for the islands, bays and inlets testify to the area’s international history.
Today, visitors to Gold River (89km/50mi west of Campbell River) can board the small coastal freighter MV Uchuck III and enjoy spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing on a day trip to historic Friendly Cove. It’s also the starting or ending point of the Nootka Island Trail, one of Vancouver Island’s best hikes.
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