Things To Do
in Coquitlam

Coquitlam is a vibrant city located in British Columbia, Canada, known for its beautiful parks and outdoor recreational opportunities. It boasts a diverse community with a blend of urban amenities and natural landscapes, including the stunning Coquitlam Lake and the picturesque mountains surrounding the area. The city is part of the Greater Vancouver area and offers a variety of cultural activities, shopping, and dining options.

With its rich history and commitment to sustainability, Coquitlam is a great destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Mundy Park, where you can enjoy the scenic trails and serene lakes. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a local café.

afternoon
:

Head to the Coquitlam Farmers Market to sample local produce and crafts. After that, visit the Evergreen Cultural Centre for an art exhibit or performance.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll around Lafarge Lake to catch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a breakfast at a cozy diner before heading to the Coquitlam Crunch, a challenging hiking trail that rewards you with stunning views.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax at the City Centre Aquatic Complex for some family fun in the water. Grab lunch at a nearby food truck offering delicious street food.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local brewery for craft beer tasting and enjoy live music if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$15
🚕Taxi fare (5 km)$15
🏨Hotel (per night)$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Diverse community with a variety of cultural experiences.
  • Family-friendly city with many parks and recreational facilities.
  • Public transportation options may be limited in some areas.
  • Traffic congestion can be an issue during rush hours.
  • Higher living costs compared to some other Canadian cities.

Places to Visit in Coquitlam

Visit one of these nice places.

Lafarge Lake

A picturesque lake surrounded by walking paths and beautiful gardens, ideal for sunset photography.

Mundy Park

An expansive park featuring lush forests and tranquil ponds, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Town Centre Park

A vibrant park with modern sculptures, fountains, and open spaces, offering various angles for creative photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Coquitlam

Coquitlam's culinary scene is diverse, offering a mix of international flavors and local delicacies that reflect the city's multicultural population.

Coquitlam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Poutine

A classic Canadian dish consisting of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.

Must-Try!

Sushi

With a large Asian population, Coquitlam boasts some of the best sushi restaurants in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Coquitlam Farmers Market

A weekly market where local farmers sell fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Food Trucks

Various food trucks can be found in downtown areas offering everything from tacos to gourmet burgers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Coquitlam experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and rainy with occasional snowfall, while summers are warm and dry. Spring and autumn bring mild weather and beautiful foliage. Average temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians are known for their politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated.

Personal Space

Maintain personal space during conversations, as Canadians value privacy.

Queuing

Follow the line and wait your turn when in public places, as cutting in line is frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Coquitlam is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables in plain sight. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Tipping in Coquitlam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up is common for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers; great for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying outdoor events; be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage; it's perfect for hikes and photography.

Winter

Cold, with the possibility of snow; ideal for winter sports in nearby mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Coquitlam at Night

Coquitlam's nightlife scene is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring a mix of bars, lounges, and live music venues. Many establishments offer craft beer, cocktails, and local wines. The area also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, making it a great place for socializing after dark.

Hiking in Coquitlam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pinecone Burke Provincial Park

A vast wilderness area with numerous trails for hiking, offering stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife.

Lynn Canyon Park

Located a short drive away, this park features scenic trails, a suspension bridge, and beautiful waterfalls.

Airports

How to reach Coquitlam by plane.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Located about 30 km from Coquitlam, this major airport serves international and domestic flights, making it the primary gateway for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Coquitlam is moderately walkable, with many parks and urban areas connected by sidewalks and trails. However, some neighborhoods may require a vehicle for easier access to amenities. The city is actively working on improving walkability with new developments and pedestrian-friendly projects.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Asian Community

Coquitlam has a significant Asian population, contributing to the city’s cultural diversity and culinary scene.

Young Families

Many families reside in Coquitlam due to its family-friendly amenities, schools, and parks.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A favorite pastime in Canada, ice hockey has a strong following, with local teams and community rinks.

Soccer

With a growing number of leagues and youth programs, soccer is becoming increasingly popular in Coquitlam.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Coquitlam can become congested during peak hours, especially on major routes like Lougheed Highway. Public transportation is available through TransLink, with buses and SkyTrain services connecting Coquitlam to surrounding areas. It is advisable to plan ahead when driving or using public transit.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Coquitlam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, offering a variety of plant-based dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Several eateries provide gluten-free menu items to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Coquitlam is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The city is serviced by Fraser Health, providing a range of medical services. Emergency care can be obtained at Royal Columbian Hospital, located nearby.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide