The Britannia Mine Museum, formerly the B.C. Museum of Mining, is an independent non-profit located in Britannia Beach, 55 km north of Vancouver. Set on the site of the former Britannia copper mine (1904–1974), it features Mill No. 3—a 20-storey gravity-fed concentrator now a National Historic Site—and preserves extensive mining infrastructure.

History & Industrial Heritage
Operating from 1904 to 1974, the mine was once the world’s largest copper producer, with over 210 km of tunnels and 52 million tonnes of ore extracted. Mill No. 3, built in 1923, pioneered bulk froth flotation technology and is a cultural landmark.

Main Attractions & Exhibits

Underground Mine Train Tour: A guided trip through shallow historic haulage tunnels used since 1914.
"BOOM!" Show: A multi-sensory light-and-sound theatrical experience inside Mill No. 3 that brings mining history to life.
Gold-panning Pavilion: A fun, interactive area where visitors pan for gold and keep what they find.
Terra Lab & Mineral Galleries: Educational exhibits on sustainable mining, mineralogy, environmental remediation, and local ecology.
Visitors Centre & Family Zone: Includes the Mining Hall of Fame, kids’ space, café, gift shop, and picnic areas.

Programs & Community Events
Annual events include BC Day celebrations, live music, and seasonal programs. Educational STEAM camps and guided tours support learning for all ages.

Visitor Info & Practicalities
The museum operates year-round with seasonal hours; typical museum hours are 9 AM–6:30 PM (last tour 4 PM). Admission covers exhibitions, train tour, BOOM!, gold-panning, and a short film. Free onsite parking and shuttle options from Squamish available.

Environmental & Cultural Significance
The site underwent extensive environmental remediation, restoring salmon and trout runs to Britannia Creek—an example of successful ecological renewal on a former industrial site. The museum acknowledges the unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation.

Assessment
A compelling blend of industrial heritage, immersive storytelling, and family-ready interactivity. The underground train and BOOM! show are highlights, though scheduling is essential during peak seasons. The site’s environmental restoration adds contemporary relevance. Calling it a "mine turned educational adventure park" wouldn’t be far off.