AV Museum & Maritime Discovery Centre

Maritime Discovery Centre

The Intrigue of the sea surrounds you...as you explore the "port" in Port Alberni.

Feel the raw adventure, beauty and danger of Vancouver Island's rugged west coast. Take part in seafaring activities and find out how the original 1900 Chrome Island light sends out its beacon as you explore the lighthouse. Watch the activity of a modern harbour at work. Look into the harbour depths through our underwater camera. Head over to the Quay and see the actual 1951 Banfield lifeboat and read about the dramatic rescues on this stormy coast.

Alberni Valley Museum

Take your shoes off & set a spell! Learn a little about our past!

Become an explore for the day. Time travel as you wander through our industrial roots from logging to fishing and farming. Artifacts tell the stories of life in a simpler time. Memories of those who were drawn to this valley. Hear about the west coast trail and how early trans Pacific communication linked the world. Lots for kids to touch! Feel what it was like when the famous 1964 tsunami swept up the inlet.

The Hummingbird is built upon the original Howitt Homestead on River Rd. Notice John Howitt standing in rubber boots in the front of the flooded yard, which happened every winter. Now, you'll understand why Hwy 4/River Rd has been built up so high and why you come so far down into our driveway.