Discover the historic Van Horne Estates on Ministers Island, where coastline adventure meets cultural storytelling. Perfect for history lovers and outdoor explorers, this site offers tidal causeway crossings, scenic trails, and stunning ocean views.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, modest walking involved
Wildlife
History
Sir William Van Horne, a railroad magnate and Canadian Pacific Railway president, built the estate in the early 20th century as a private retreat, contributing significantly to the region’s heritage.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to preserve the island’s natural habitats and historic structures, promoting sustainable tourism.
Van Horne Estates On Ministers Island Inc
Discover the historic Van Horne Estates on Ministers Island, where coastline adventure meets cultural storytelling. Perfect for history lovers and outdoor explorers, this site offers tidal causeway crossings, scenic trails, and stunning ocean views.
Van Horne Estates On Ministers Island Inc preserves and operates the historic summer estate of Sir William Van Horne on Ministers Island, New Brunswick. The site is a designated National Historic Site of Canada and showcases well-preserved 19th-century architecture set against the Bay of Fundy shoreline. The estate offers a range of visitor experiences that highlight history, landscape, and local cuisine.
Visitors can book a 2-Hour Guided Tour that crosses the ocean floor at low tide to reach the island, explore the mansion and estate grounds, and learn about the site's history. The General Admission Day Pass enables self-guided exploration, access to trails, and participation in scheduled guided tours. On special event days, attendees can enjoy live music and local food; the Hypochondriacs Concert & BBQ features a performance plus a Char & Chowder barbecue menu with options including East Coast Sausage and Lobster Mac ’N Cheese.
Convenience options include Pre-Ordered Picnics with choices such as Chicken Salad or Ham & Cheese wrap, seasonal fruit, a chocolate chip cookie, and water. The Covenhoven Dinner Series offers an intimate dining experience in an Edward Maxwell–designed mansion; the series hosts ten guests per dinner and features chef Chris Aerni of the Rossmount Inn, who focuses on fresh, local ingredients and spontaneous cuisine.
Staff and interpreters on site provide historical context and visitor information. All activities and services operate from Ministers Island, New Brunswick, and adhere to site guidelines for preservation and safety. Operations and schedules vary seasonally based on tides and weather.
Location
Ministers Island, NB
Accessible via ocean floor at low tide
Historic Status
National Historic Site
Preserves Sir William Van Horne estate
Experiences
5 Experiences
Concerts, tours, dinners, picnics
Intimate Dining
10 Guests
Covenhoven dinners seat ten guests
Reserve guided tours, General Admission, pre-ordered picnics, concert tickets, or the 10-seat Covenhoven dinner; check tide schedules and event dates before travel.
Check tide timings
Visit during low tide to safely cross the causeway and access the estate.
Wear sturdy footwear
Trails and tidal flats can be uneven, so sturdy shoes help you enjoy the terrain safely.
Bring binoculars
Ocean and bird watching are rewarding along the coastline.
Pack sunscreen and water
Stay protected and hydrated while exploring outdoor areas.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provide good grip and support for walking on varied surfaces.
Water bottle
Keep hydrated during your exploration of the estate and shoreline.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during sunny days outdoors.
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife and marine viewing opportunities.