Historic

Downtown Fernie

The heart of Fernie's vibrant community is the small but perfectly formed Historic Downtown located on 2nd Avenue (Victoria Ave) between 3rd Street and 9th Street.

Fernie's Downtown Throughout the Ages

After the Great Fire of August 1st, 1908, Fernie City Council decreed that 'all buildings within a ten-block section are constructed of fireproof material'; and so it was that from the ashes rose an attractive town built from locally produced unique golden and rose coloured brick and local sandstone.

The architectural style is described as simplified Italianate, typified by rows of 3 storey, flat-roofed commercial brick buildings, enlivened with round-arched and rectangular windows decorated with hood mouldings or classical pediments and pilasters. Most of the buildings in the downtown core date from 1908/09 and emanate an air of permanence rarely found in small-town BC. In 1922, the wooden sidewalks and dirt roads were paved; these were widened in 2004 for the city's centennial revitalisation, creating the pleasant boulevard that we enjoy today.

People walking across a street in a small town with mountains in the background.

Historic Downtown Today

Today, Fernie’s historic downtown remains the vibrant heart of the community. Those same brick buildings now house a colourful mix of locally-owned shops, cafés, and restaurants where friendly faces and mountain-town charm greet you at every turn. Sidewalk patios spill onto the wide boulevard in summer, while winter brings twinkling lights and snowy mountain views. It’s a place where history and everyday life blend seamlessly; where locals gather, visitors linger, and Fernie’s character continues to shine through every storefront and side street.

While in Fernie be sure to visit the Museum to truly immerse yourself in the rich history of Fernie. During the summer, join one of their Guided Heritage Walking Tours. View our Events Calendar for dates and details, as well as other cultural events and programs.