Overview
Here in the Cowichan region, there is both our human history, encompassing First Nations to European settlement, and the natural history of our region. Even as locals, we have much to learn and we welcome visitors to learn with us through the living history experienced in vivid storytelling and our spread of intriguing museums.
There are museums that offer a more traditional approach to historical exploration—providing timelines, stories, and artifacts from thousands of years ago to the present day. Then we have more specialized museums, such as the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre, where visitors can learn about our maritime hertiage and see wooden boat building demonstrations up close. Or the 100-acre open-air BC Forest Discovery Centre where visitors can ride a steam locomotive while learning about Cowichan’s forestry industry.
BC Forest Discovery Centre
Learn more100-acre, open air museum with an operational railway located in Duncan. Fun for the whole family!
Chemainus Valley Museum
Learn moreCome and learn about the rich history of Chemainus, located on the east coast of Vancouver Island.
Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre
Learn moreMuseum that preserves, exhibits and demonstrates the maritime heritage and culture of wooden boats.
Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre
Learn moreAn interpretive nature centre with hands-on learning for all ages about birds, marine life, the Cowichan Estuary, and its watershed.
Cowichan Valley Museum
Learn moreStep back in time and discover the fascinating multicultural history of the Cowichan Valley!
Hand of Man Museum
Learn moreMuseum of natural history, cultural arts & conservation. 15,000 square feet of discovery, education and wonder.
Kaatza Station Museum
Learn moreMuseum focused on logging, lumbering, railroading, mining & pioneer life in the Lake Cowichan area.
Ladysmith Museum
Learn morePermanent displays tell the colourful story of Ladysmith’s past. Admission is by donation.
Mill Bay Heritage Museum
Learn moreDiscover Mill Bay, Cobble Hill and Bamberton history. Step back in time!
Shawnigan Lake Museum
Learn moreLearn about the history of Shawnigan Lake, the Kinsol Trestle, EJ Hughes, and the E&N Railway.
Explore
Along with the authentic Indigenous culture Cowichan offers, check out what other quirky and unexpected things there are.
Explore Cowichan