Discover Revelstoke: Art, Railway History and Trails

Revelstoke combines public art with themes such as railway and forestry history, as well as trails through the city. A seasonal market is also part of what the area has to offer. Which of these interests matter to you can help shape your stay: Would you like to see exhibits, join a guided tour, explore on foot or plan a market day?

Art and Culture in Revelstoke

The Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre is home to Revelstoke’s only public art gallery. Its large main gallery and three adjoining side galleries host solo and group exhibitions. A gallery visit therefore takes in several exhibition spaces under one roof. The centre also offers hands-on art workshops for children, teens, adults and families. Participants can explore different media, so the workshops cater to a range of ages and interests.

The Revelstoke Museum & Archives includes the Heritage Garden, considered the only green space in downtown Revelstoke. More than 20 public artworks are also distributed throughout the city. The gallery, garden and public art offer different experiences: you can focus on exhibitions or include artworks in different locations as you explore Revelstoke.

Railway and Forestry History

The Revelstoke Railway Museum is located at 719 Track Street West. It offers guided group tours year-round for schools, tour groups, clubs and organizations. The tours cover the history of Canadian railways, the people who built and operated them, and Revelstoke’s role in connecting the country. Advance booking is required for these group tours, so booking is part of the preparations if you’re planning a group visit.

The BC Interior Forestry Museum focuses on forestry, past and present. Alongside indoor exhibits, it features a large outdoor display of equipment and a viewpoint with the “Best Dam View” of Revelstoke Dam. The museum therefore highlights both historical and contemporary aspects of forestry, with exhibits indoors and out. The named viewpoint is another part of what the museum offers.

Explore the City on Foot

The paved Revelstoke River Trail runs from the Revelstoke Community Centre to the Mark Kingsbury Bridge over the Illecillewaet River. Eight heritage information panels line the route. These details give you clear landmarks for the route described: its starting point at the Community Centre, its end at the bridge and the panels along the trail. Revelstoke also has a variety of trails, multi-use pathways and sidewalks for pedestrians.

The Revelstoke Museum & Archives also offers a guided city tour lasting about an hour. It focuses on the architectural heritage of the historic downtown and is suitable for children. Its approximate duration and architectural theme make this tour a distinct option alongside the riverside route: the tour focuses on the historic downtown, while the trail follows a paved path with heritage information panels.

Market and Surroundings

The Revelstoke Farm & Craft Market takes place every Saturday from May to October at Grizzly Plaza. Vendors bring together farm produce, baked goods and handmade items. If you’re planning to visit the market, keep in mind both its seasonal dates and Saturday market day. As dates can change, it’s a good idea to check the latest market information before your visit.

Mount Revelstoke National Park is just outside Revelstoke. The Meadows in the Sky Parkway lets you drive from the river valley up into the alpine landscape. This distinguishes the city’s attractions from a destination nearby: the city focuses on art, museums, markets and trails, while the parkway takes you from the river valley into alpine scenery.

Discover more destinations: Anglemont, Scotch Creek, Tappen, Sicamous, Celista, Sorrento, Squilax, Parson.

Back to the regional travel overview: Columbia-Shuswap.