places to visit in castlegar bc

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Castlegar

Things to do in castlegar.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castlegar Sculpturewalk

2. Doukhobor Discovery Centre

3. Syringa Provincial Park

4. Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park

5. Kootenay Gallery

6. Millennium Park & Ponds

7. CPR Station Museum

8. Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park

9. Nancy Greene Provincial Park

10. Brilliant Bridge

11. Castlegar Visitors Centre and Chamber of Commerce

12. Moonrise Boutique

13. Yes Please!

14. Kootenay Charters

15. kootenay cannabis-castlegar.

16. Castlegar Sports Centre & Fly Shop Flyfishing Tour

17. Tailout Brewing

18. Columbia River Fly Fishing

What travellers are saying

• Castlegar Sculpturewalk
• Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park
• Doukhobor Discovery Centre
• Syringa Provincial Park
• Millennium Park & Ponds
• CPR Station Museum

Top Things to Do in Castlegar - Castlegar Must-See Attractions

Things to do in castlegar.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castlegar Sculpturewalk

2. Doukhobor Discovery Centre

3. Syringa Provincial Park

4. Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park

5. Kootenay Gallery

6. Millennium Park & Ponds

7. CPR Station Museum

8. Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park

9. Nancy Greene Provincial Park

10. Brilliant Bridge

11. Castlegar Visitors Centre and Chamber of Commerce

12. Moonrise Boutique

13. Yes Please!

14. Kootenay Charters

15. kootenay cannabis-castlegar.

16. Castlegar Sports Centre & Fly Shop Flyfishing Tour

17. Tailout Brewing

18. Columbia River Fly Fishing

What travellers are saying

• Castlegar Sculpturewalk
• Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park
• Doukhobor Discovery Centre
• Syringa Provincial Park
• Millennium Park & Ponds
• CPR Station Museum

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• Gulf Islands
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• Sunshine Coast
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• Transportation

10 Amazing Things to Do in Castlegar BC Canada

Canadian road trip adventures, southern british columbia activities, parks and trails.

So many amazing things to do in Castlegar BC! Explore the outdoors while fishing, hiking, biking, birding or camping. Take a cultural dip into Castlegar's museum and art scene. Appreciate the confluence of two mighty Canadian rivers. It's a seamless backdrop for the meeting of some of British Columbia's most impressive natural and cultural adventures.

Things to Do in Castlegar BC & Why?

Castlegar is situated at the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers in Southern British Columbia . The city is located at the southern end of the Arrow Lakes in the Kootenay Rockies region. It is approximately 600 kilometres from both Vancouver, BC in the west and Calgary, AB in the east . Castlegar lies just 233 kilometres north of Spokane, Washington.

Mountains, lakes, rivers, and thousands of years of culture combine to make Castlegar and its surrounding regions one of the most perfect outdoor adventure getaways for hikers, bikers, anglers and RV travelers alike. Furthermore, there are prehistoric sites belonging to First Nations people. A more recent past is built on mining and logging as well as a unique Doukhobor heritage . The question shouldn't be 'why visit?' but rather ' why not go now ' with so many things to do in Castlegar BC Canada.

Not-to-Miss Castlegar Outdoor Adventures  

Fishing the mighty Columbia River is a dream for many. The Columbia River is the longest waterway in the Pacific Northwest area of North America . Trollers love the Arrow Lakes. All anglers enjoy both the Columbia and the Kootenay Rivers. Kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, bull trout and non-native Walleye can be found.

Cyclists will love pedalling up the gentle grade of the C&W Rail Trail – part of the Trans Canada Trail . This section of the trail goes all the way to Christina Lake and includes a variety of tunnels and trestles. You can go as far as you want, but I'd suggest going as least as far as the second tunnel before turning around and coasting back down to your starting point near the Hugh Keenleyside Dam.

Hikers will appreciate the short but steep climb up to Brilliant Overlook . Off in the distance you can not only see the City of Castlegar but also the Kootenay River flowing into the Columbia River and the start of Lower Arrow Lake above the Hugh Keenleyside Dam. Those looking for an easier walk might appreciate the more relaxed pace and superlative birding opportunities along the Waldie Island Trail . 

Cool down after your more strenuous outdoor adventures by dipping your toes in the lake at Syringa Provincial Park . The park is near the southeast end of the Lower Arrow Lake. The lake was formed by one of the many dams on the Columbia River. Syringa was established on the lake in 1968. Specifically, the park is popular for fishing, boating and swimming. Did you know that "Syringa" or Mock Orange is a shrub with beautiful-scented flowers that is indigenous to the area?

Syringa Provincial Park makes an excellent base for exploration, but we chose Passcreek Campground  for our adventures as it was closer to the boat ramp for the anglers. Adjacent to our site were a mixture of tents, small trailers and a couple of larger RVs. There is a nice walk up the creek and the campground also provides easy access for activities in and around the city. There are a few other options for RV camping in Castlegar including Syringa Provincial Park, Kootenay River RV Park  and the Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park .  

Must-Do Castlegar Cultural Quests  

Head downtown and wander through the Castlegar Station Museum . Over a century old, it is one the best-preserved rail stations in the province of British Columbia. Read through the newspaper archives from the time period. Climb creaky wooden stairs up to the station agent's residence. Step outside and head back in time as you ride the rails in a perfectly-preserved caboose.

By the time you're done touring the Station Museum, you'll be ready to pick up a pamphlet and take a sculpture walk. The City of Castlegar has been dubbed the "Sculpture Capital of Canada." Sculpturewalk  is an annual outdoor exhibit of original sculptures held every year from May to October. Therefore local and international artists vie for the win as chosen by public ballot. It's a feast for the eyes – as well as a fun quest as you follow the map to find all 30+ sculptures scattered throughout town!

The Doukhobor Discovery Centre offers a unique glimpse into the Doukhobor lifestyle in the Kootenay region from 1908 to 1938. The Doukhobors were a Russian religious group. Many fled the Czarist government in the late 1800s and settled in Western Canada. The museum with its 10 historical buildings is set on the banks of the Columbia River near the original settlement of Brilliant.

Another fascinating cultural site is Zuckerberg Island . History here goes back thousands of years to when the Lake Salish people fished the Columbia River and built winter pit houses on the island. Today you can across on a suspension bridge, past one of the pit house depressions and enjoy the wonder of the Chapel House. Decades ago, Alexander Zuckerberg built this one-of-a-king Russian Orthodox Chapel House for his residence on the tiny island. He came to Castlegar in 1931 at the request of Doukhobor leader Peter Verigin II to teach Doukhobor children. Wander the paths and soak up the peace of this unique site.

Lastly, Check Off These Things to Do on Your Next Canadian Road Trip Adventure!

• Fish the mighty Columbia River
• Take a Sculpturewalk
• Wander Through the Castlegar Station Museum
• Cycle the C&W Rail Trail
• Go Birding Along the Waldie Island Trail
• Hike Brilliant Overlook
• Visit the Doukhobor Museum
• Dip Your Toes in the Lake at Syringa Provincial Park
• Cross a Suspension Bridge to Zuckerberg Island
• Experience RV Camping in the Kootenays

Even  More Fun in Castlegar Area

If you are road-tripping in Southern British Columbia, don't miss a side trip to nearby Nelson for an historic, self-guided walking tour  or a visit to see the Salmo Stone Murals ! 

  10 Amazing Things to Do in Castlegar BC Canada

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Nice blog post, Megan! The chapel house on Zuckerberg Island has such interesting architecture, I'd love to see it in person someday.

Thx Janel - and I hope you do get out this way to see the chapel house!

Nicely written Megan. Brought back many memories. Did not know of these tunnels though. Good one.

Zuckerberg Island and the Suspension bridge are so neat. I did some geocaching there last summer. And I only went to the 1st tunnel on my bike ride on the trestle trail, but I was pregnant... and it was raining haha. I need to go back and go further And now I definitely have some new things to check out next time I'm in that area! Thank you for this great article.

The rail trail seems to be missed by many - but it'll be a highlight for your next trip.

That viewpoint is incredible! Makes me want to drive the 4 hrs to go there!

Top Things to Do in Castlegar, Canada

Places to visit in castlegar.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castlegar Sculpturewalk

2. Doukhobor Discovery Centre

3. Syringa Provincial Park

4. Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park

5. Kootenay Gallery

6. Millennium Park & Ponds

7. CPR Station Museum

8. Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park

9. Nancy Greene Provincial Park

10. Brilliant Bridge

11. Castlegar Visitors Centre and Chamber of Commerce

12. Moonrise Boutique

13. Yes Please!

14. Kootenay Charters

15. kootenay cannabis-castlegar.

16. Castlegar Sports Centre & Fly Shop Flyfishing Tour

17. Tailout Brewing

18. Columbia River Fly Fishing

What travellers are saying

• Castlegar Sculpturewalk
• Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park
• Doukhobor Discovery Centre
• Syringa Provincial Park
• Millennium Park & Ponds
• CPR Station Museum

Top Things to Do in Castlegar

Things to do in castlegar.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castlegar Sculpturewalk

2. Doukhobor Discovery Centre

3. Syringa Provincial Park

4. Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park

5. Kootenay Gallery

6. Millennium Park & Ponds

7. CPR Station Museum

8. Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park

9. Nancy Greene Provincial Park

10. Brilliant Bridge

11. Castlegar Visitors Centre and Chamber of Commerce

12. Moonrise Boutique

13. Yes Please!

14. Kootenay Charters

15. kootenay cannabis-castlegar.

16. Castlegar Sports Centre & Fly Shop Flyfishing Tour

17. Tailout Brewing

18. Columbia River Fly Fishing

What travellers are saying

• Castlegar Sculpturewalk
• Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park
• Doukhobor Discovery Centre
• Syringa Provincial Park
• Millennium Park & Ponds
• CPR Station Museum

Explore Castlegar

Plan your trip to castlegar: best of castlegar tourism.

Essential Castlegar

Castlegar Is Great For

Eat & drink.

The great outdoors

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 First Nations history
• 1.3 Doukhobor history
• 1.4 Climate
• 2.2 By plane
• 3.1 By rental car
• 3.2 By public transit
• 3.3 By taxi
• 9.1 Brewery
• 9.2 Pubs and bars
• 9.3 Coffee shops and cafes

Castlegar is a city of 8,000 people (2016) in British Columbia on the southern tip of the Arrow Lakes chain. It sits at the confluence of the Kootenay and Columbia Rivers, and is a perfect base for a wide range of outdoor activities. The surrounding lakes and mountains offer unlimited outdoor possibilities. There is tremendous fishing on both big rivers and on the Arrow Lakes, and Syringa Creek Provincial Park is nearby.

Understand [ edit ]

The city's population includes a large number of Doukhobors, who were largely responsible for much of Castlegar's early development and growth.

A sizeable Portuguese community grew as workers, mainly from the Azores islands, moved in to take up employment in the area. The area which was to become Castlegar was an important centre for the Sinixt (Lakes) Peoples. Outside the city limits are the small surrounding communities of Ootischenia, Brilliant, Robson, Robson West, Raspberry, Tarrys, Thrums, Glade, Shoreacres, Fairview, Genelle, Pass Creek and Krestova. There are also the much smaller communities of Deer Park, Renata, and Syringa on Lower Arrow Lake.

Taken together, these outlying areas comprise an approximate population of a further 8,000 people.

History [ edit ]

On 5 September 1811, David Thompson arrived at the location where Castlegar now sits, where he camped near the mouth of the Kootenay River. A plaque dedicated to David Thompson can be found on the east bank of the Columbia River overlooking the present day site of Castlegar.

The first settlement in the area was West Waterloo, now known as South Castlegar. There was widespread provincial interest in gold prospecting in the late 19th century, and by 1895 there were 40 houses in Waterloo. The town boomed until the end of the century when interest in the local mines declined.

Castlegar takes its name from Castlegar, County Galway, Ireland, the ancestral home of townsite founder Edward Mahon. (Castlegar is on the eastern boundary of the city of Galway.) The city was planned in 1897. Around 1902, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) built the bridge at Castlegar and laid the wide gauge railway tracks to Trail. There was little in Castlegar until after the completion of the CPR bridge.

First Nations history [ edit ]

Castlegar is in the border area between the Sinixt (Interior Salish) and the Ktunaxa Indian bands. Experts cannot agree where the Ktunaxa range ended, and where the Sinixt began. There was much overlapping of cultural and territorial activity between the two peoples. The Sinixt were the original people in the area, and that the Kootenai arrived several hundred years ago from central Canada.

"Qepitles" was a site on the north side of the Kootenay River, just above the junction with the Columbia River. Native implements (arrowheads, pestles, etc.) have been found along the nearby Arrow Lakes. A reconstructed kekuli dwelling was established on Zuckerberg Island, at the confluence of the Kootenay and Columbia rivers.

Doukhobor history [ edit ]

The Doukhobors put a ferry into operation near Brilliant on the Kootenay River in 1910 and the Christian Community of Universal Brotherhood (CCUB) made an application to the CPR for a railway station and siding to this point. Brilliant was the centre of the CCUB commercial enterprises. Located on the site was the Brilliant Jam Factory, a grain elevator, and a flax seed mill.

Climate [ edit ]

Hot days and cool nights in summer, with moderately dry weather and cold winters with heavy snowfall due to the mediterranean tendencies of high winter precipitation. Castlegar is wetter than most places in the Southern Interior of BC, as the city receives around 400 mm more precipitation than nearby Kelowna, Penticton and Kamloops (which are in the dryer Okanagan region of British Columbia, while Castlegar is in the Kootenay region).

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

• Castlegar is about 600 km from Calgary and from Vancouver on Highway 3.

By plane [ edit ]

• Nearby airports include Trail Airport ( YZZ  IATA ), which is 40 km to the south. Pacific Coastal Airlines operates flights between Vancouver and Trail. This airport is less prone to flight cancellations caused by fog.

By bus [ edit ]

• Mountain Man Mike's Bus Service , ☏ +1-778-382-7729 , [email protected] . Twice per week service between Kaslo and Vancouver with stops in Balfour , Nelson , Castlegar, Christina Lake , Grand Forks , Greenwood , Rock Creek, Osoyoos , Keremeos , Princeton , Manning Provincial Park , Hope , Chilliwack , Abbotsford , Langley , and New Westminster . Travel time to Castlegar from Kalso is 1.75 hours, from Nelson is 40 minutes, from Grand Forks is 1.75 hours, from Osoyoos is 2.75 hours, from Princeton is 4.5 hours, from Hope is 6.25 hours, from Abbotsford is 7.5 hours, and from Vancouver is 8.75 hours. This service provider also offers a weekly route between Kalso and Calgary via Nelson. ( updated Mar 2022 )
• Silver City Stagelines Limited , [email protected] . Multiple days per week bus service between Trail and Kelowna with stops in Nelson , Castlegar, Christina Lake , Grand Forks , Greenwood , Midway, and Rock Creek. Travel time to Castlegar from Trail is 1.75 hours, from Nelson is 40 minutes, from Grand Forks is 1.5 hours, and from Kelowna is 4.25 hours. ( updated Mar 2022 )

Get around [ edit ]

By rental car [ edit ]

• 49.30983 -117.65997 1 Practicar , 1335 Columbia Ave , ☏ +1 250-365-1980 , [email protected] . ( updated Apr 2023 )

By public transit [ edit ]

• Route 33 travels between Castlegar Community Complex and Selkirk College via West Kootenay Regional Airport (10 minutes). Route operates Monday to Saturday.
• Route 99 travels between Nelson and Castlegar (40 minutes). From Castlegar Community Complex (the main bus exchange), take bus 33 to Selkirk College (10 minutes) and transfer to route 99. These routes operate from Monday to Saturday.
• Route 98 travels between Castlegar and Trail (25-30 minutes). Route operates Monday to Saturday.

By taxi [ edit ]

• Castlegar Taxi , ☏ +1 250-687-0133 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Cedar Taxi , ☏ +1 250-521-0511 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Trail Taxi , ☏ +1 250-921-6921 . ( updated Jul 2022 )

See [ edit ]

• 49.32499 -117.66611 1 Castlegar Sculpturewalk . The sculpturewalk is an annual, rotating exhibition of sculptures and artwork by international artists. In 2017, works of 330 artists were brought to the town to compete for a $25,000 prize. The art is located in the downtown area of the city, generally within about 0.5 km of city hall. Many of those sculptures along Columbia Street. ( updated May 2018 )
• 49.31573 -117.65734 2 Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park , 901 7th Avenue . Suspension bridge to wooded island where you can see the confluence of two of the greatest rivers in British Columbia: the Columbia and the Kootenay. Picnic areas and nature walks. ( updated May 2018 )
• 49.297297 117.640017 3 Doukhobor Discovery Centre , 112 Heritage Way , ☏ +1 250 365-5327 , [email protected] . May-September: M-Sa 10AM-5PM, Su noon-5 PM; off-season by appointment only . Outdoor displays, interactive educational exhibits and historical artifacts illustrating Doukhobor life in the Southern Interior of British Columbia (1908-1938). The Doukhobors came to Canada from Russia in the late 1890s because the Russian government persecuted them for their pacifist beliefs and their refusal to participate in the military. Adults $10, seniors $8, students: $5, children (under 5) free . ( updated May 2018 )
• 49.32621 -117.66765 4 CPR Station Museum , 400 13th Ave , ☏ +1 250-365-6440 . Apr-Oct: Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM; Jul-Sep: daily 10AM-5PM . 1906 Canadian Pacific Railway station with perfectly preserved caboose. Gift shop offers a variety of handmade gifts crafted by local area artisans, including paintings and pottery. Suggested donation of $2 . ( updated May 2018 )
• 49.29515 -117.63994 5 Kootenay Gallery , 120 Heritage Way ( across from the Castlegar Regional Airport, just past the Doukhobor Discovery Centre ), ☏ +1 250-365-3337 , [email protected] . Mar-Nov: Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM; Dec 1-2: daily 10AM-5PM . A principal gallery for the visual arts within the West Kootenay region. Has a gift shop. ( updated May 2018 )

Do [ edit ]

Summer [ edit ].

• Climbing : an up-and-coming climbing area with the potential to grow, great rock around try the "waterline" and some other local spots,

• Hiking and mountain biking : some unreal trails and secret spots that will blow your mind. Locals are friendly and helpful.
• 49.30694 -117.61862 1 Castlegar Golf Club , 1602 Aaron Rd , toll-free: +1-877-352-1750 . 18-hole championship course. Non-members welcome. ( updated May 2023 )
• 49.27658 -117.6373 2 Little Bear Golf Course , 872 Waterloo Rd , ☏ +1 250-365-2353 . A 9-hole golf course. ( updated May 2023 )
• 49.3432 -117.82963 4 Scotties Marina , 5220 Broadwater Rd , ☏ +1 250-365-3267 . Located on Arrow Lake. Has moorage, fuel, food, burger bar, bait, and free boat launch. ( updated May 2023 )
• 49.5189 -117.6297 5 Floating the Slocan River ( take Hwy 3A eastbound, then take Hwy 6 north ). A popular summer activity is a 2- to 3-hour float down the Slocan River from Slocan Park to Crescent Valley. Tubes available for purchase at Canadian Tire. The drive from downtown Castlegar to Slocan Park is nearly 40 km, taking about 35 minutes. ( updated May 2023 )
• 49.32707 -117.66275 6 Castlegar Sunfest . Includes a parade, fireworks, and a festival with food and live music. The festival portion of the even is held at Kinsmen Park in the downtown area. Held the first weekend in June. ( updated May 2023 )

Winter [ edit ]

• Downhill skiing near Rossland or Nelson .
• Valhalla Powder Cats . Based in Crescent Valley, cat-skiing in deep untracked powder, single day and packages available. ( updated May 2023 )
• 49.3807 -117.434 7 Snowwater Lodge , ☏ +1 250-359-7665 , [email protected] . Alpine lodge with cat-skiing and heli skiing in the Selkirk Mountains close to Castlegar. ( updated May 2023 )
• Snowmobiling : Hundreds of kilometres of groomed and ungroomed trails located around Castlegar.
• Cross-country skiing

Learn [ edit ]

Buy [ edit ].

• 49.32682 -117.66509 1 Yes Please! , 277 Columbia Ave , ☏ +1 250-365-7665 . Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM . Art by local artists. ( updated May 2018 )

Eat [ edit ]

• 49.31609 -117.66441 1 Cuisine of India , 908 Columbia Ave , ☏ +1 250-365-0999 . Inexpensive, authentic Indian food served as spicy as you like. Lunch buffet and dinner. ( updated May 2023 )
• 49.32583 -117.66593 2 Grateful Table , 400 Columbia Ave , ☏ +1 250 365-2311 , [email protected] . Popular Greek spot downtown, summer patio, closed Mondays. ( updated May 2023 )
• 49.31894 -117.66455 3 Chopsticks Chinese and Japanese , 789 Columbia Ave , ☏ +1 250-365-5330 . Sushi bar and table service, good sushi and relatively authentic Chinese cuisine. ( updated May 2023 )
• Lions Head Pub , 2629 Broadwater Rd ( across the bridge from downtown Castlegar in Robson ), ☏ +1 250-365-2739 . Neighbourhood pub with 12 beer taps of BC microbrews, summer patio and fire pit, lunch and dinner. See listing under Drink. ( updated May 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

Brewery [ edit ].

• 49.29999 -117.65787 1 Tailout Brewing , A-1810 8th Ave , ☏ +1 250-608-9056 . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Pubs and bars [ edit ]

• 49.3003 -117.65601 2 Black Rooster Bar, Grill and Restaurant , 651 18 St , ☏ +1 250-365-7779 . In the Super 8 hotel. Outdoor patio, lounge atmosphere, numerous plasma TVs, good food and drink, moderately priced. ( updated May 2023 )
• 49.33323 -117.67692 3 Lions Head Pub , 2629 Broadwater Rd , ☏ +1 250-365-2739 . 11:30AM-1AM . In Robson, North Castlegar: turn left on Broadwater Road after the Brilliant Bridge at the north end of town. Smoked BBQ meats, house made menu. Specializing in BC craft brewed beer -- 12 taps. Between the Historic Lions Head Rock and the Mighty Columbia River, this 2-floor, Tudor-style building is one of a kind in the Kootenays. Expect some live bands, daily free pool and foosball everyday. ( updated May 2023 )

Coffee shops and cafes [ edit ]

• 49.29633 -117.65303 4 Bagels and Brew , 1983 Columbia Ave , ☏ +1 250-304-2030 . Specialty coffee drinks, fresh roasted coffee beans, and loose teas. Bagels are boiled and baked, and a variety of cream cheeses are available. Sandwiches, melts, soups and salads are also featured on the menu.  
• 49.29948 -117.65636 5 Common Grounds , 692 18 St , ☏ +1 250-365-3883 . Coffee shop.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• 49.29728 -117.65436 1 Canadas Best Value Inn and Suites , 1935 Columbia Ave , ☏ +1 250-365-2177 . Pets are allowed. From $110 . ( updated May 2018 )
• 49.30064 -117.65624 2 Super 8 by Wyndham Castlegar , 651 18 Street , ☏ +1 250-365-2700 . Free continental breakfast and WiFi. Pet-friendly, non-smoking hotel with themed rooms, accessible rooms, and executive and Jacuzzi suites. Each comes with a microwave, refrigerator, 42-inch flat-screen TV, and access to guest laundry facilities. Heated indoor pool and hot tub. From $137 . ( updated May 2018 )
• 49.30354 -117.65889 3 Flamingo Motel , 1660 Columbia Ave , ☏ +1 250-365-7978 , [email protected] . Free shuttle service from Castlegar Airport and Bus Terminal. Non-smoking rooms, TV, fridges, stoves and microwaves and High Speed Internet access. ( updated May 2018 )
• 49.29632 -117.65561 4 Sandman Hotel Castlegar , 1944 Columbia Ave , ☏ +1 250-365-8444 . Large indoor atrium pool, whirlpool and fitness centre, nearby forest trails, high-speed internet, business centre, exercise gym, free parking, on-site restaurant, pets allowed in some rooms, pool, wheelchair accessible, whirlpool. From $135 . ( updated May 2018 )

Cope [ edit ]

• The nearest hospital is in Trail .

Go next [ edit ]

Check out cities of Nelson and Rossland nearby.

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Navigation menu

Explore Castlegar

Plan your castlegar holiday: best of castlegar.

Essential Castlegar

Castlegar Is Great For

Eat & drink.

The great outdoors

Top Things to Do in Castlegar - Castlegar Must-See Attractions

Things to do in castlegar.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castlegar Sculpturewalk

2. Doukhobor Discovery Centre

3. Syringa Provincial Park

4. Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park

5. Kootenay Gallery

6. Millennium Park & Ponds

7. CPR Station Museum

8. Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park

9. Nancy Greene Provincial Park

10. Brilliant Bridge

11. Castlegar Visitors Centre and Chamber of Commerce

12. Moonrise Boutique

13. Yes Please!

14. Kootenay Charters

15. kootenay cannabis-castlegar.

16. Castlegar Sports Centre & Fly Shop Flyfishing Tour

17. Tailout Brewing

18. Columbia River Fly Fishing

What travellers are saying

• Castlegar Sculpturewalk
• Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park
• Doukhobor Discovery Centre
• Syringa Provincial Park
• Millennium Park & Ponds
• CPR Station Museum

Top Things to Do in Castlegar - Castlegar Must-See Attractions

Things to do in castlegar.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castlegar Sculpturewalk

2. Doukhobor Discovery Centre

3. Syringa Provincial Park

4. Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park

5. Kootenay Gallery

6. Millennium Park & Ponds

7. CPR Station Museum

8. Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park

9. Nancy Greene Provincial Park

10. Brilliant Bridge

11. Castlegar Visitors Centre and Chamber of Commerce

12. Moonrise Boutique

13. Yes Please!

14. Kootenay Charters

15. kootenay cannabis-castlegar.

16. Castlegar Sports Centre & Fly Shop Flyfishing Tour

17. Tailout Brewing

18. Columbia River Fly Fishing

What travellers are saying

• Castlegar Sculpturewalk
• Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park
• Doukhobor Discovery Centre
• Syringa Provincial Park
• Millennium Park & Ponds
• CPR Station Museum

• Events Calendar

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The 7 Best Beaches In Castlegar

Summer is a magical time in Castlegar when the air temperature is warm but the water is cool. It’s the perfect season to bury your toes in the sand while watching the kids frolic on the shore and luckily the city has many areas to do just that. In fact, Castlegar has some of the highest numbers of beaches near its downtown core in the entire Kootenay region.

Whether your preferences lean toward the active, like beach volleyball and swimming laps, or you prefer something more mellow such as book reading and napping, here are seven beaches in Castlegar and area that are our favourites. The qualifier for this list is that each one of these can be accessed via car. If you have a boat at your disposal, then there are myriad of choices available to you from camp-worth sandy beaches up Arrow Lakes to secluded rocky pull-outs on the Columbia. It should also be noted that many of the beaches listed below, such as Syringa and Sandy Beach, are located near some of the best waterfalls in the area. You can find out more about those by reading our story, “ 6 Of The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Castlegar. ”

Millennium Park and Ponds

Located five blocks from downtown Castlegar and sprawling over 23 hectares, Millennium Park is not only one of the largest urban parks in the province, it’s also the most convenient to reach. And it boasts multiple sandy beaches that front the Columbia River. There are also kid-friendly swimming ponds connected directly to the river so water is constantly recirculated, beach volleyball courts, soccer fields, tennis and pickleball courts and multiple playgrounds for the kids. The largest bike park in the Kootenays is also located here so in between your lounge sessions in the sand, you can hit the pump track or take part in any number of other activities nearby. For more about all the amenities offered at the park, check our our story “ 18 Reasons Why Millennium Park Is The Best Urban Park In The Kootenays. ”

Syringa Provincial Park

Located 18 kilometres from downtown Castlegar on Broadwater Road, Syringa is a unique environment because on one hand it’s a protected grassland ecosystem featuring large Ponderosa Pine, huge boulders and an arid climate, but on the other hand it’s a lakeside paradise boasting three large beaches. All of them front Lower Arrow Lake, which tends to have warm water temperatures despite its size, and are easily accessible to both campers (there are over 80 sites in the park) as well as day-trippers. The Big Horn beach is the northern-most one and it’s also the sandiest, then there’s a smaller dog-friendly beach and the Main Beach is rockier and has a kid’s playground. There is lots of space to run, play, swim, picnic, and relax. For more about Syringa Park,

Sandy Beach

On the way to Syringa National Park there’s a popular local spot appropriately named “Sandy Beach.” It’s on the shores of Lower Arrow Lake, just past Scottie’s Marina, and is a public beach that welcomes everyone, including dogs. The size of the beach can fluctuate depending on water levels, which fluctuate in accordance to the Hugh Keenleyside dam downstream, but there is always somewhere to sit. There’s a pullout parking area across from Allendale waterfall, before the curve, or you can easily park on the side of the road to access the beach as well.

Nancy Greene Beach

Shoreacres Beach

Crescent Valley Beach

Glade Beach

The community of Glade is worth a visit not only for its beach but for its waterfall too. (You can find more information about that in our story “ Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Castlegar. “) Glade is located 19 kilometres north of Castlegar on Highway 3 towards Nelson but requires a free, three-minute cable ferry ride across the Kootenay River in order to access it. Once you depart the ferry, turn left at the first intersection and follow the pavement until it becomes a dirt road. This will take you to the shoreline where you’ll find a beautiful sandy beach that welcomes everyone, including dogs. It’s a great place to swim, fish and just take in the views. It should be noted that depending on the water levels of the Kootenay River, there can be a lot, or a little, bit of beach to play on.

Top Things to Do in Castlegar, Canada - Castlegar Must-See Attractions

Things to do in castlegar.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castlegar Sculpturewalk

2. Doukhobor Discovery Centre

3. Syringa Provincial Park

4. Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park

5. Kootenay Gallery

6. Millennium Park & Ponds

7. CPR Station Museum

8. Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park

9. Nancy Greene Provincial Park

10. Brilliant Bridge

11. Castlegar Visitors Centre and Chamber of Commerce

12. Moonrise Boutique

13. Yes Please!

14. Kootenay Charters

15. kootenay cannabis-castlegar.

16. Castlegar Sports Centre & Fly Shop Flyfishing Tour

17. Tailout Brewing

18. Columbia River Fly Fishing

What travellers are saying

• Castlegar Sculpturewalk
• Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park
• Doukhobor Discovery Centre
• Syringa Provincial Park
• Millennium Park & Ponds
• CPR Station Museum

Top Things to Do in Castlegar - Castlegar Must-See Attractions

Things to do in castlegar.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castlegar Sculpturewalk

2. Doukhobor Discovery Centre

3. Syringa Provincial Park

4. Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park

5. Kootenay Gallery

6. Millennium Park & Ponds

7. CPR Station Museum

8. Castlegar Golf Club & RV Park

9. Nancy Greene Provincial Park

10. Brilliant Bridge

11. Castlegar Visitors Centre and Chamber of Commerce

12. Moonrise Boutique

13. Yes Please!

14. Kootenay Charters

15. kootenay cannabis-castlegar.

16. Castlegar Sports Centre & Fly Shop Flyfishing Tour

17. Tailout Brewing

18. Columbia River Fly Fishing

What travelers are saying

• Castlegar Sculpturewalk
• Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park
• Doukhobor Discovery Centre
• Syringa Provincial Park
• Millennium Park & Ponds
• CPR Station Museum