Like the frontier gateways of Canada’s historic Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, or New York’s Ellis Island, many of the Nelson region’s first founders and countless families took their very first steps into the city on the planked arrival platform of the historic CP Rail Building.
This is where your journey should begin too.
Over 120 years old, the building is home to both the Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce and its beautiful Nelson’s Visitor Information Centre. It’s perfectly located at the west end of historic Baker Street — the city’s colourful main corridor of retail, hospitality and business.
Following an extraordinary $4 million, five-year restoration effort the station is an homage to the region’s passion for its history, heritage and entrepreneurial get-‘er-done attitude.
But the jewel within this community crown is the Visitor Information Centre.
Local travel experts are on hand with all the information and friendly advice you’ll need to see and do it all — maps, up-to-the-minute event listings, brochures, road conditions and help planning any itinerary for travels around BC, western Canada or the US Pacific Northwest.
It’s the Station Gallery and Gift Shop that make the CP Rail Building a must-stop.
The beautiful space, defined by natural light, viewscapes and beautiful post and beam design offer racks of distinctly local artisan wares, art, literature and garments.
There’s more to see and utilize outside. Two mammoth Fairbanks-Morse locomotive engines highlight the Chamber’s new square, along with electric vehicle and e-bike charging, bike racks, public washrooms and visitor parking with room for RVs too.
The Station and the surrounding Railtown neighbourhood include a great cafe, deli, and a mix of longtime and brand new businesses — all a quick stroll away from Cottonwood Falls Park.
We have implemented enhanced cleaning services in the centre with hand sanitizing at the door and a maximum of 10 people in the centre at one time.
VISITOR CENTRE AMENITIES
- Station Gallery & Gifts
- Historic Locomotives
- EV charging
- Electric bike charging – coming soon
- Benches and seating
- Public washrooms
- Visitor day parking with room for RVs – see staff inside for your parking pass
- Railtown Coffee House
HOURS & LOCATION
91 Baker Street Nelson BC V1L 4G8
250-352-3433
info@discovernelson.com
VisitNelsonBC Instagram
Nelson Visitor Centre FaceBook
Open for Service:
Monday thru Friday 8:30AM-5:00PM
Saturday 9:00AM-4:00PM
