Story Centre at Capilano – The History Behind the Bridge

Most people visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park for the bridge itself. But before you cross, there’s a hidden gem that brings the history of this incredible place to life—the Capilano Story Centre.

Through historic photos, life-sized cutouts, and fascinating tales, the Story Centre shows how the bridge transformed from a simple rope crossing into one of Vancouver’s most famous landmarks.

Who built it? Why here? And what role did Indigenous communities play in its story?

Let’s dive into the past.

Story Centre at Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Story Centre is an open-air exhibit near the entrance of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

It offers a deep dive into the history of the bridge, the early settlers, and the Squamish First Nation, whose connection to the land goes back thousands of years.

Unlike a typical museum, this exhibit is interactive.

You can walk among life-sized historical figures, read personal stories, and compare modern Capilano to what it looked like in the 1800s.

• ✅ See rare historic photos. Early images show the original bridge—just a few wooden planks and hemp ropes.
• ✅ Learn about the people behind the bridge. Meet George Grant Mackay, the adventurous Scottish engineer who built the first version in 1889.
• ✅ Discover Indigenous history. The park is located on the traditional lands of the Squamish Nation, and their stories are an essential part of Capilano’s past.

This is perfect for history lovers, families, and anyone curious about the story behind the bridge.

One small downside? Many visitors rush past it to get to the bridge. But taking just 10 minutes here makes your visit much more meaningful.

💡Looking to visit Vancouver’s top two attractions together? Check out our list of the top Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge tours

What to See While You’re at the Story Centre

• Historic Bridge Photos – See how the bridge has changed over the past 130+ years.
• Early Settler Stories – Learn about the adventurous pioneers who shaped this area.
• Indigenous Art & History – The Squamish Nation’s connection to Capilano runs deep.
• Life-Size Historical Figures – Walk past cutouts of early explorers and settlers to make history feel more real.

Where is the Story Centre in Capilano Suspension Bridge Park?

The Story Centre is located just past the entrance, before you reach the bridge itself. It’s included with your general admission ticket, so there’s no extra cost.

Since it’s right at the start of the park, it’s the perfect place to begin your visit, giving you historical context before crossing the bridge.

🚎 Looking for transport tips? Check out our article on how to get to the Capilano Suspension Bridge from downtown.

Grouse Mountain + Capilano Suspension Bridge

See Vancouver’s top two attractions with one ticket (transport included)

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What is the Story Centre Like? My Experience

I expected to breeze through this exhibit, but I found myself stopping at almost every display.

The old bridge photos were especially fascinating – seeing those early, rickety versions of the bridge made me appreciate the engineering of today’s structure even more.

The highlight? The Indigenous history. The Squamish Nation’s connection to this land goes far beyond the bridge itself, and their stories add so much depth to the experience.

My tip? Don’t skip it. Even if you’re eager to get to the bridge, take 10 minutes to walk through. It’ll make your visit way more meaningful.

My Tips for Visiting the Story Centre

• Stop here first. It sets the stage for everything else in the park.
• Look closely at the old bridge photos. It’s amazing to see how much has changed.
• Read about the Squamish history. Their connection to Capilano is an important part of the story.
• Take your time. Even a quick visit adds depth to your experience.

🎟️ Still on the fence? Let’s answer the question, Is the Capilano Suspension Bridge worth it?

Story Centre at Capilano Bridge FAQ

Is the Story Centre indoors or outdoors?
It’s an open-air exhibit, with covered sections for weather protection.

How long does it take to go through?
Most people spend 10-20 minutes, depending on how much they read.

Is it included in the park ticket?
Yes, no extra charge—it’s part of general admission.

What’s the best time to visit?
Anytime! Since it’s near the entrance, it’s easy to fit into your visit.

Is the story centre kid-friendly?
Yes! The life-size historical figures and vintage photos make it engaging.