Hands-On History
The VIP Guided Experience.
Embark on an enthralling journey into the depths of early Colonial life in North America, where a remarkable site awaits to reshape our understanding of history.
Begin your journey at our Visitor Centre, where you’ll be captivated by an introductory film and exhibit that set the stage for the remarkable story of the Colony. Ascend to the Archaeology Lab, a hub of activity where our dedicated staff diligently process the multitude of artifacts unearthed every week. Then, venture out with a friendly local guide who will unlock the ongoing excavations, providing fascinating insights into our remarkable findings. If you visit on weekdays, you might even have the chance to meet our passionate archaeologists in action. Don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll through our heritage gardens and immerse yourself in the sensory experience of our recreated 17th-century kitchen, allowing you to touch and savor the daily life of Ferryland’s first settlers.
Families and youth visitors can also take advantage of our Baltimore Backpacks, available for free rental, adding an extra element of excitement and education to their visit. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, self-guided tours are always available, and upon request, we can arrange bilingual guided tours, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience for all.
We have kept our admission rates the same this year to encourage you to visit
Times
Tours Available: 7 days a week
Tour Times: 9.00am, 10.30am, 12.00pm, 3.00pm
Gift Shop Hours: 9.00am – 5.00pm, 7 days a week
Admission Fees
Adult: $16.00
Senior: $13.00 (65+)
Student: $12.00
Family: $37.00 (2 Adults and up to 4 Children under 18)
Members & Children under 5: FREE
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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We had a wonderful visit!
We had a wonderful visit! Lulu and Lori were so knowledgeable and kind. The made us feel like family.
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You aren’t done exploring NL if this isn’t on your list!
Really knowledgeable + fun tour guides. you aren't done exploring NL, if this isn't on your list. We got a family pass which averaged out to $14 p/p which is amazing value- considering all the knowledge the tour guides would have learnt to present it in a easily digestiable way for tourists, well done!
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I was fascinated by this history
The Museum Center is very easy to get to just off the main road. The people are phenomenally polite. The museum admission price is reasonable and the staff has done an amazing job put together the history of the site. The combination of artefacts and document research shows a vibrant community of various faiths living together in a new land. As someone from Maryland I was fascinated by this history and the connection of Maryland to this place. Go - it is worth the time and energy.
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Very cool active archaeological site
Very cool active archaeological site with tons of interesting history on the settlement and power struggles of NFLD. Walking through the cobblestone paths was a treat, and the sweeping shorelines and waves are amazing to enjoy. Would recommend a visit for sure when travelling along the Irish loop!
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One of the best places to visit…
We completed the Irish Loop and stopped in for a visit to explore the artifacts and items on display. This was one of our best places to visit on the Irish Loop. -
So fascinating!
And the walk up to the lighthouse was worth it! The museum there, the ladies were very helpful and shared some very cool stories and full of knowledge! I’m jealous of where they live and their jobs. History is just so fascinating for this tiny little area on the planet, you won’t be let down by coming here just to see it first hand. It’s a small little museum but very interesting!
