Hands-On History
Annual Dig Programs.
Join our dedicated crew as they delve into the excavation site, meticulously unearthing, sifting, identifying, and documenting the remnants of Baltimore’s captivating colony..
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in a hands-on experience with history. We’ll provide all the necessary tools and comprehensive training – all you need is a burning desire to be a part of this extraordinary journey.
Space is limited, so make sure to secure your spot in our half and full-day dig programs by registering in advance. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity – contact us to reserve your place.
Get ready to unearth the past and make history alongside our passionate team. The adventure awaits!
Something special
Dig and Dig In.
Immerse yourself in history as you spend a captivating morning as a valued member of our esteemed archaeological crew.
Roll up your sleeves, dig deep, and get hands-on with the fascinating remnants of the past. Experience the thrill of unearthing secrets buried for centuries.
After your exciting archaeological adventure, freshen up and embark on a scenic hike to the breathtaking Ferryland Lighthouse. Indulge in an award-winning gourmet picnic, savoring delectable flavors amidst the stunning coastal scenery.
Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot by registering in advance. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to be a part of history.
Reserve your place today and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Your Trip
What To Expect
The Colony of Avalon VIP Guided Experience is the best way to immerse yourself into the surprising history of Lord Baltimore’s settlement. Gain exclusive access to the stories, artefacts and local knowledge that truly brings the experience to life.
FAQs
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Q: Will there be an archaeologist on site when I visit?+-
Maybe. Our archaeologists work under strict permits given by the provincial government. We try to have archaeologists on site for 8 weeks during the season, usually from early July to the end of August. If you want to know if there are archaeologists on site, reach out to us at info@colonyofavalon.ca or check out our social media.
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Q: Can I participate in the dig?+-
Absolutely! We offer a variety of programs where visitors can dig alongside the archaeologists. Choose from a full-day, half-day, or even an hour and get your hands dirty. While we can’t guarantee you will find an artifact, we haven’t had anyone come up empty handed!
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Q: Do you offer sensory friendly tours?+-
Unfortunately, due to our limited opening time, we do not offer sensory friendly tours. If you would like to book a private tour outside of regular operating hours, we will make every accommodation for you to have a good visit.
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Q: Is your site accessible?+-
We have a large site. The bottom floor of the museum is accessible for those with mobility issues, and we do have an elevator on site to visit the Conservation Lab. The dig site is along a road with sections that are unpaved, and can cause some issues for those in wheelchairs. The Gift Shop has a ramp, though there are two small bumps that need to be navigated to enter the 17th Century Kitchen.
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Q: How long does a tour take?+-
Our tours can be customised to your schedule, just let us know what you need! Typically, our tours last an hour and a half. This is to allow time to see the dig site, explore the museum, and check out our 17th Century Kitchen.
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Q: What else is there to do in Ferryland?+-
There is so much natural beauty in Ferryland! Located right beside the East Coast Trail, Ferryland has a lot to offer. In the Spring, icebergs are a common sight. Come June, the whales will be playing right off our shores. If you want to take in all the beauty that Ferryland has to offer, why not try a Lighthouse Picnic? If you are in the mood for a road trip, Mistaken Point UNESCO World Heritage site is only an hour drive away.
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Q: How do I get there?+-
The fastest way to get to The Colony of Avalon via St. John’s is by taking the NL-10 South. There are signs that will point the way! We are directly off the main road coming to Ferryland.
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Q: Are you open year round?+-
We are open from mid-June to mid-September each year. School groups are encouraged to reach out prior to opening if you would like to book a tour before we open for the season.
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Q: What bus parking is available?+-
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Q: Is there a chaperone policy / chaperone number limits+-
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Q: DO chaperones/teachers receive free admission+-
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Q: What is the price per student for groups+-
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Q: What is the maximum group size allowed?+-
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Q: Can I bring my own food and drink?+-
Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy the Colony’s grounds.
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Q: Can I take photos of the site?+-
The Colony of Avalon welcomes photographers. Please share your photos with us on Facebook and Twitter.
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Q: Is there on-site WiFi?+-
Paid admission gives all visitors free access to WIFI while you enjoy your visiting the Colony of Avalon.
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Q: What do I need to wear?+-
Weather in Newfoundland is unpredictable. No matter what the temperature or state of the sky, pack a warm layer and a raincoat. Skip the sandals. Sneakers or walking shoes work best on site.
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Q: Is the site accessable for those with limited mobility?+-
Blue Zone parking is available immediately outside our Visitor Centre. A chair lift is available to our second floor. While most visitors walk from the Visitor Centre, parking is also available next to the archaeological site. Please ask staff for directions. Access around the archaeological site is uneven but fairly level.
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Q: Parlez Vous Francais?+-
Please inquire about availability of French-language guided tours. Printed versions of our tour are available in French at Reception.
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Q: Is the site dog-friendly?+-
We dig dogs! Leashed pets are welcome on site. Sorry, service dogs only inside buildings.
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Q: What are your open hours?+-
The Colony of Avalon is currently CLOSED for the season.
During the summer, the site is open 7 days a week for tours at 10.30am, 12.00pm, 3.00pm, 4.30pm from mid-June to mid-September.
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Hidden Treasure…
Loved our visit. Informative museum plus took the wonderful guided tour led by Tish. Learned so much about the colony, Lord Baltimore, and life from then until current archaeology work. Not too far from St. John’s and well worth the one hour trip. Nice Tea Room for lunch too. Nice people all around.
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They have a wonderful museum at the centre and excellent guided tours.
I highly recommend taking a guided tour if you’re interested in archeology or life in a 16th - 17th century colony.
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Definitely worth a visit. An interesting archeological site with a bit of everything in a quaint town.
A very friendly staff, a great gift shop, and interesting artifacts. Added bonus of nearby hiking, bird watching and whale watching.
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A must for history and archaeology buffs
It is hard to believe Europeans settled in North America over 400 years ago. This tour will give insight and a human side to these settlers, their hardships and their lives. One of our favourite things to see in Newfoundland after more than three weeks on the road. Ask for Isabella who is both knowledgeable and articulate.
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Brilliant!
What an amazing place, highly recommend!! We opted to do the guided tour, Evan did a fantastic job showing us around the sites and was lovely to chat with! Lori showed us the recreated kitchen at the end of the tour, she was very kind and answered our many questions :) Can’t wait to visit again some day!
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Lots of local history!
A great place to learn about local history. Lots of outdoor exhibits and a small museum with interesting artifacts. And of course, incredible ocean views. There is parking, a cafe and guided tours.
