In the ongoing quest to discover British Columbia’s finest roadside attraction, the first semifinal vote introduced Cathedral Grove and the Othello Tunnels, both nestled in provincial parks, emphasizing nature and our bond with it. The subsequent semifinal contender, Barkerville, stands as a grand heritage village from the gold rush era, showcasing period characters and interactive performances related to the town’s history, including gold panning demonstrations.
Contrasting Barkerville is the Enchanted Forest, an expansive display of fairy-tale characters and scenes tucked away along Highway 1, featuring whimsical treehouses, Winnie-the-Pooh replicas, and mythical creatures blending harmoniously in a forest setting. While not entirely natural, these attractions hold a special place in the hearts of visitors.
Design professor Bonne Zabolotney from Emily Carr University praises the appeal of kitsch, noting its ability to evoke positive and playful experiences that linger in our memories, urging us to relive those moments. The matchup between Barkerville and the Enchanted Forest captures the essence of roadside attractions, showcasing a mix of natural wonders and man-made recreations, attracting diverse audiences seeking different experiences.
The question remains: Which of these two contenders, Barkerville or the Enchanted Forest, deserves the title of the best roadside attraction? As the competition progresses, the winner of this semifinal will face off against Cathedral Grove in the ultimate showdown before a victor is crowned just before Labour Day.
Blair Johnson, the owner of the Enchanted Forest, values the unique charm of his establishment, highlighting its longevity, family-owned legacy, and diverse offerings like treehouses, giants, and pirates. Conversely, Barkerville, with its rich history and immersive experiences, aims to transport visitors back to the bustling days of the gold rush, providing an authentic glimpse into the past.
Voting for this matchup continues until 8 p.m. PT on Wednesday, offering participants a chance to support their favorite roadside attraction. The road to victory is open, and may the best attraction emerge triumphant in the end.