Charles Hoey Park - Image 1
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Charles Hoey Park Duncan

4.3
·143 reviews·Duncan, Canada

A vibrant community hub and the starting point for Duncan's renowned totem pole trail, featuring historical monuments and event spaces.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends during events

Experience vibrant community life

CrowdMedium
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Charles Hoey Park - Image 1

Charles Hoey Park Duncan

Best Time

Weekends during events

Experience vibrant community life

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant community hub and the starting point for Duncan's renowned totem pole trail, featuring historical monuments and event spaces.

4.3
(143 reviews)

"Great place to start your Totem tour of Duncan!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Follow the Totem Feet

Look for painted feet on the sidewalks to guide you on the city's extensive totem pole tour. :foot:

Check Event Schedules

The park hosts many events; check local listings to catch festivals or ceremonies. :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Duncan Cenotaph

Duncan Cenotaph

Charles Hoey Park

A poignant memorial honoring fallen heroes, central to Remembrance Day ceremonies.

Totem Pole Displays

Totem Pole Displays

Throughout Charles Hoey Park

Admire the intricate carvings of the Centennial Pole and Kwag'l Chief Tlasutiwalis, marking the start of the city's totem trail.

Historic Train Caboose

Historic Train Caboose

Adjacent to the park

A charming landmark and useful waypoint for directions, adding a touch of nostalgia.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Totem Trail

Charles Hoey Park is a gateway to Duncan's famous Totem Pole collection. Start your exploration here and follow the painted feet on the ground to discover over 20 more poles scattered throughout the city. It's a unique way to experience local Indigenous art and history.

Event Hub & Community Space

This park is a central gathering spot for Duncan. Check local listings for events like Remembrance Day ceremonies, music festivals, or community markets. Be aware that public washroom access can be limited outside of organized events, with the museum washroom being the primary option.

Best Times

When
Weekends during events
Why
Experience vibrant community life
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quiet exploration of totems
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Charles Hoey Park, home to the Cenotaph, was named after Major Charles Ferguson Hoey. Major Hoey was from Duncan and served in WWII. The park is right next to the Duncan Train Station that houses the Cowichan Valley Museum. #CharlesHoeyPark #DowntownDuncan #ExploreCowichan TOTEM POLES PICTURED Centennial Pole Kwag’l Chief Tlasutiwalis (Calvin Hunt) Kwagu’l Bear holding a Seal Gwe-la-y-gwe-l...
downtown.duncan.bia
143 likes • 2.2K views

Follow the Totem Feet

Look for painted feet on the sidewalks to guide you on the city's extensive totem pole tour. :foot: Reddit

Check Event Schedules

The park hosts many events; check local listings to catch festivals or ceremonies. :calendar: Instagram+1

Gathering in Downtown Duncan's Charles Hoey Park before the march for Palestine to local NDP MP's office Alistair MacGregor to call for ceasefire. #freepalestine #freegaza #ceasefirenow #solidarity #jewsagainstzionism #downtownduncanbc
comrade.chumsa
18 likes • 181 views
Come see me at the Charles Hoey Park in Duncan today! I’ll be here until 4🖤🍄
mistywatersjewellery
17 likes • 204 views

Washroom Access

Public washrooms can be limited; the museum washroom is the main option outside events. :toilet: Reddit

Start Your Totem Tour

This park is the perfect starting point for exploring Duncan's renowned totem pole collection. :camerawithflash: Reddit

In honour of International Overdose Awareness Day, please save the date for Cowichan’s Purple Ribbon Day. Saturday, August 30th 11am - 3pm Charles Hoey Park, Duncan Food | Music | Speakers| Service Providers | Art | Memorial | Education Training Come together to remember loved ones, hold space, and look to the future with hope. 💜
cowichancatpeers
5 likes • 115 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Follow the Totem Feet

Look for painted feet on the sidewalks to guide you on the city's extensive totem pole tour. :foot: Reddit

Check Event Schedules

The park hosts many events; check local listings to catch festivals or ceremonies. :calendar: Instagram+1

Washroom Access

Public washrooms can be limited; the museum washroom is the main option outside events. :toilet: Reddit

Start Your Totem Tour

This park is the perfect starting point for exploring Duncan's renowned totem pole collection. :camerawithflash: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(143 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Charles Hoey Park as a central community space and a key starting point for exploring Duncan's famous totem poles. Its role in hosting events and its historical markers like the Cenotaph are frequently highlighted as positive aspects.

"Duncan is the city of Totems and you will not be disappointed. There are a number in the park and right around the same area. If you follow the feet on the ground you can find a path that takes you to at least 20 more."

Jolene Duran

"Went to the park for the 39 days of July music festival amd it was lovely. My kids got their first live music experience. They played in the grass, danced and loved exploring the train tracks. I also liked that they had port-a-potties on site during the festival. Any other time the only washroom open is near the museum amd is opened/locked up by the city (from what I've been told). Everytime I've tried to use it during the Saturday market or late afternoons it's never open."

Maggie Mae

"Nice little park with beautiful totem poles. Good that there’s a public washroom here."

椰子小熊

What People Like

Gateway to totem poles
Central event location
Historic Cenotaph

What People Dislike

Limited washroom access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Charles Hoey Park is conveniently located in downtown Duncan, right next to the Duncan Train Station. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transit also serves the downtown area, making it a straightforward destination to reach. TikTok

Yes, there are parking areas available in the downtown Duncan vicinity, close to the park and train station. Street parking and nearby lots are generally available, though they can fill up during major events. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Charles Hoey Park is a public park and does not have an admission fee. Entry is free for all visitors to enjoy the green space and its amenities. Instagram

As a public park, Charles Hoey Park is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific facilities like the museum washroom may have restricted hours, typically managed by the city. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Charles Hoey Park is home to the Duncan Cenotaph, several significant totem poles, and a historic train caboose. It's also a popular venue for community events, markets, and festivals, offering a central spot for gatherings. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The park features important totem poles, including the Centennial Pole and the Kwag'l Chief Tlasutiwalis. It serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Duncan's extensive 'Walk of Totems.' TikTokReddit

Public washroom facilities are available, primarily near the Cowichan Valley Museum. However, access can be limited outside of organized events, so it's advisable to check availability beforehand. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy the open green space for picnics and play. The park has also hosted family-friendly events like music festivals and Earth Day celebrations, making it a welcoming spot. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning photos of the intricately carved totem poles, the historic Cenotaph, and the charming train caboose. The park also offers lovely shots during community events and festivals. TikTokInstagram

Definitely! Charles Hoey Park is a prime location for photographing totem poles, serving as a visual introduction to Duncan's rich Indigenous art heritage. The detailed carvings make for striking images. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Charles Hoey Park offers a pleasant environment for families. The open green spaces are perfect for children to play and run around, especially during events like the '39 Days of July' music festival where kids enjoyed live music and exploring the nearby train tracks. Reddit

While the park itself is engaging, the real family draw is its role as a starting point for the Totem Pole tour. Following the painted feet on the ground can turn a simple walk into an exciting treasure hunt for kids, discovering the unique carvings throughout Duncan. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ History & Art Enthusiasts

For those interested in history and art, Charles Hoey Park is a must-visit. It's home to the Duncan Cenotaph, a significant site for understanding local wartime history, and serves as the introduction to the city's extensive totem pole collection. TikTokInstagram

Exploring the park and the surrounding 'Walk of Totems' provides a deep dive into the Indigenous art and cultural heritage of the region. Each pole tells a story, offering a rich narrative that resonates with visitors keen on learning about local traditions and ancestral connections. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Totem Pole Heritage

Charles Hoey Park is a significant starting point for experiencing Duncan's renowned Totem Pole heritage. The park itself showcases impressive poles like the Centennial Pole and the Kwag'l Chief Tlasutiwalis, offering a glimpse into the artistry and stories of local First Nations. Many visitors find it a captivating introduction to the city's cultural landscape. TikTok

Beyond the park, the city of Duncan is famously known as the 'City of Totems.' A unique feature is the 'Walk of Totems,' where painted feet on the sidewalks guide you to over 20 more totem poles scattered throughout the downtown area. This interactive element makes exploring the art a fun and engaging experience for all ages. Reddit

These totem poles are not just decorative; they represent a vital connection to the history, traditions, and spiritual beliefs of the Coast Salish and other Indigenous peoples of the region. Each pole tells a story, often depicting ancestral figures, animals, and significant events, making a walk through Duncan a journey through living history. TikTok

Community Events and Gatherings

Charles Hoey Park serves as a vital community hub in Duncan, frequently hosting a variety of events that draw locals and visitors alike. From solemn Remembrance Day ceremonies at the Cenotaph to lively music festivals and vibrant markets, the park is a central stage for civic life. Instagram+2

These events offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the local culture and spirit of Duncan. Visitors can enjoy live music, browse artisan stalls, participate in educational activities, or simply soak in the atmosphere of a community coming together. The park's central location makes it easily accessible for attendees. InstagramReddit

It's worth checking the local event calendar before your visit to see what's happening at Charles Hoey Park. Whether it's a seasonal festival, a cultural celebration, or a public gathering, attending an event can significantly enhance your experience and provide a deeper connection to the community. Instagram+1

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