Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Irving House
★4.6(151 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1-1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 6-14. School-age children and tweens will appreciate the interactive elements and historical storytelling, while the hands-on activities keep them engaged. Younger children may enjoy the dress-up opportunities but might find the guided tours too long.🧡 Saved by 8 families
About
Irving House is a beautifully preserved 1865 Victorian mansion that brings history to life for young visitors through hands-on period activities and engaging guided tours. Children can explore authentic rooms filled with original furnishings, try on Victorian costumes, and participate in heritage crafts that make learning about 19th-century life fun and memorable.
Highlights
- ✓Trying on authentic Victorian-era clothing and accessories in the dress-up area
- ✓Exploring the preserved bedrooms, parlor, and kitchen with original 19th-century furnishings
- ✓Participating in hands-on heritage crafts and period activities
- ✓Learning about the Irving family and early New Westminster history through storytelling
- ✓Seeing toys and games that children played with in the 1800s
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during one of their special heritage events or holiday celebrations when they offer extra activities like Victorian tea parties or craft workshops.
- 2.Free street parking is available along Royal Avenue and nearby residential streets, making access easy for families.
- 3.Call ahead to confirm tour times, as the venue operates limited weekend-only hours and tours may require advance booking for groups.
- 4.The home has stairs and narrow hallways typical of Victorian architecture, so strollers are not practical. Plan to use a baby carrier for infants.
- 5.Located in historic downtown New Westminster, combine your visit with a walk along the nearby Fraser River waterfront boardwalk just a few blocks away.
Best Time to Visit
Saturday or Sunday afternoons between 12:00-3:00 PM work best, arriving early in their operating window to avoid any groups. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer comfortable weather for exploring the surrounding historic neighborhood.
What to Know
Admission is budget-friendly ($ rating), and the venue is open only Saturday and Sunday from 12:00-4:00 PM, so plan accordingly. The historic home has multiple floors accessed by stairs, which may be challenging for visitors with mobility limitations.
Seasonal Notes
The museum offers special programming during Victorian Christmas in December and heritage-themed events during BC Day long weekend in August. Open year-round on weekends only, with potential holiday closures, so check their website before visiting.
Nearby Eats
The River Market (5-minute walk) offers multiple casual dining options including pizza, sushi, and a food court perfect for families. For a treat, consider Pier 73 Restaurant nearby with waterfront views and a kids' menu featuring typical favorites.
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