Frequently Asked Questions
When is Fort Steele open?
Fort Steele Heritage Town is now open year-round.
Summer Hours (until September 30):
Thursday to Monday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fall and Winter Hours (starting October 1):
Thursday to Monday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Please check our Hours of Operation Page or Instagram and Facebook for holiday hours and any unexpected changes to our schedule.
How much is admission?
You can find current admission rates and CAMAL Membership details on our Admissions Page.
Members receive discounts on guided tours and other benefits.
Can I bring my pet?
No. Pets are no longer permitted on site at Fort Steele Heritage Town.
This policy aligns with standard heritage site practices and is in place for the safety and comfort of all guests, staff, and animals. The town is home to a variety of working livestock, including horses, pigs, sheep, and poultry, and the presence of pets could lead to unsafe or stressful interactions.
In addition, Fort Steele includes indoor interpretive spaces and many young visitors, which may not be suitable environments for pets.
Licensed service animals are welcome. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping the site safe and accessible for everyone.
Is the steam train running?
The 1077 Steam Locomotive is not currently in operation.
Its condition is under review by the Province of British Columbia, and we will share updates as they become available. We understand it’s an important Fort Steele experience and hope to see it return in the future. We are sharing updates as they happen on Facebook and Instagram.
What’s happening at the Wildhorse Theatre?
The Wildhorse Theatre is open, but at the moment it is operating as a cooling station and film space. We’re currently showing free short films throughout the day — a great way to take a break and enjoy some local history on screen. You can also purchase popcorn, candy, and cotton candy while you're there.
While the theatre building is in use, the stage itself requires repairs before we can bring back live theatre productions. Restoring this space for performances is one of our top priorities, but it will require significant investment.
We’ll share updates as soon as that work begins.
When is Fall Fair or Spooktacular happening?
As this is our first year managing Fort Steele, we’re taking the time to reevaluate and reimagine how these events can return in a way that’s sustainable, engaging, and true to the spirit of the town.
Rather than focusing on just one or two large-scale events, we’re planning to roll out more frequent, month-by-month programming and events throughout the year. This allows us to build capacity and create meaningful experiences without the challenges of hosting one very large, logistically difficult event. That said, it doesn’t mean these events won’t return in the future, they just may look a little different when they do.
Stay tuned to our Events Page and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates on what’s coming next.
Is the Candy Store open?
Yes. Kershaw & Sons General Store is open and stocked with classic candies and more. You’ll also find handmade Fort Steele products, jams and jellies, candles, books, and other locally inspired gifts.
Is the Photo Studio open?
There is currently no photo studio operating at Fort Steele.
We are in the process of re-evaluating the experience and exploring what a future photo studio could look like and where it might be located on site.
What kinds of demonstrations and activities are currently happening?
Our team of interpreters brings history to life with a range of hands-on experiences throughout the site. Depending on the day, you might encounter:
-
Gold panning
-
Leather stamping and crafting in the Leather Shop
-
Tin whistle making in the Tin Shop
-
Historic printing press demonstrations
-
A visit to the one-room schoolhouse — listen for the bell and head to class
-
Laundry demos, storytime, and other domestic activities at the Lambi House
-
Wagon rides, farm demonstrations, and opportunities to meet our livestock
Activities vary day to day, and some may have a small fee. Check the Activities & Daily Schedule Page or inquire at the Visitor Centre when you arrive.
What guided tours are available?
Fort Steele offers a variety of guided walking tours that explore different aspects of the town’s history:
-
Town Foundations – Learn how businesses and bold ideas shaped Fort Steele.
-
House to Home – Discover how families built community on the frontier.
-
Modern Comforts – Explore the innovations that brought early conveniences to the town.
-
Artifact Discovery Tour – Go behind the scenes into collections storage for a rare look at our archives.
Tours are $12 per person. CAMAL Members receive a 20% discount.
Ask at the Visitor Centre for daily schedules and availability.
Can I see animals at Fort Steele?
Yes. Fort Steele is home to a variety of working livestock, including:
-
Horses
-
Chickens
-
Cotswold sheep
-
Pigs
-
Quails and ducks
You’ll see them around the barns, fields, and during farm-related activities and demonstrations.
Is there food available on site?
Yes! There are now two food options available at Fort Steele Heritage Town:
-
Rick’s Iron Kettle, located in the International Hotel Restaurant, serves a variety of homestyle meals, snacks, and gluten-free options. This is counter service only and a great spot for a hearty lunch or quick bite.
-
The City Bakery is now open and offering a selection of fresh baked goods, treats, and hot beverages. Be sure to stop in early — items often sell out!
Are there accommodations on site?
No, there are currently no accommodations available at Fort Steele Heritage Town.
The Windsor Hotel is not available for booking at this time, and while the Barracks is occasionally used for school and group bookings, it is not open to the general public.
If you’re looking to stay nearby, there are two local campgrounds just minutes from the site:
-
Fort Steele RV Park & Resort
-
Fort Steele Campground
Please note: Overnight parking is not permitted in the Fort Steele parking lot.
Can I donate an item to Fort Steele?
Fort Steele Heritage Town welcomes inquiries about potential artifact donations, especially those connected to the history of the town or the East Kootenay region.
However, not all items can be accepted — donations must meet specific collections criteria and be reviewed in advance by our collections team. Please do not drop off items without prior authorization.
For all collections and archives inquiries, please contact:
Jessica VanOostwaard
Collections & Archives Supervisor
j.vanoostwaard@fortsteele.org
More information about what we collect and how to donate will be available soon on our Museum Collections and Archives Page.
Who manages Fort Steele?
Fort Steele Heritage Town is owned by the Province of British Columbia and has been operated by the Cranbrook Archives, Museum and Landmark Society (CAMAL) since April 1, 2025.
While the site is provincially owned, Fort Steele is managed by a small non-profit organization, and we rely heavily on donations, memberships, and community support to keep the town vibrant and accessible. Your support helps us offer programming, events, interpretation, and interactive experiences — and contributes to the care of livestock, daily operations, and the ongoing preservation of over 60 historic buildings and artifacts.
If you love Fort Steele and want to help us grow, please consider making a donation or becoming a CAMAL member.