New Westminster

Day Trips

Start your day with a steaming cup of coffee at a cozy café in the River Market before exploring the historic Columbia Street district on foot. Admire the 19th-century architecture and pop into independent boutiques that line the avenue. This immersive stroll offers a glimpse into New Westminster’s storied past.

Head to the New Westminster Museum and Archives to dive deeper into the city’s heritage through interactive exhibits. Wander next door to the Anvil Centre to appreciate its modern design and public art installations. End with a leisurely lunch on a shaded patio overlooking the Fraser River.

Dine at a local bistro serving Pacific Northwest cuisine and fresh river fish specials. After sunset, wander along Westminster Pier Park to capture the city lights reflecting on the water. Top off your evening with a nightcap at a riverside lounge where you can soak in the serene ambiance.

Begin with a hearty breakfast overlooking the Fraser River at a waterfront café as tugboats pass by. Stroll along the scenic riverfront walkway, keeping an eye out for migrating birds and stunning water views. The fresh morning air and gentle river sounds set the tone for a relaxing day.

Make your way to Westminster Pier Park to rent a kayak or paddleboard for a closer look at the river’s edge. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grass or dine at a food truck offering local fare. The sun-dappled water and vibrant park atmosphere bring this urban oasis to life.

Dabble in craft cocktails at a trendy riverside bar before checking out live music at the adjacent outdoor stage. Savor small plates that highlight regional ingredients against the backdrop of twinkling river lights. End the night with a leisurely walk along the promenade, breathing in the cool evening breeze.

Catch the quaint pedestrian ferry across the Fraser River to Queensborough and enjoy crisp river views. Stop at a family-run café for homemade pastries and rustic breakfast specials. The ferry ride and charming streets introduce you to a distinct local character.

Join a guided walking tour to explore heritage homes and hear stories of the early settlers. Wander through Seth Thomas Park, where riverside paths offer peaceful spots for reflection. Savor a casual lunch at a riverside pub with outdoor seating that captures the tranquil vibe.

Return to New Westminster by ferry as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in pastel hues. Relish a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant known for fresh Fraser River catches. Cap the evening with a glass of local wine while enjoying panoramic river views.

Kick off the day with a behind-the-scenes brewery tour, learning about the brewing process from grain to glass. Sample freshly crafted ales while chatting with passionate local brewers. This immersive experience celebrates New Westminster’s vibrant craft beer scene.

Hop between taprooms in the Brewery District, trying signature flights and seasonal specials at each stop. Refuel with gourmet tacos or artisanal pizza from nearby eateries that pair perfectly with your draft selections. The afternoon buzz of beer lovers creates a lively and friendly atmosphere.

Join an evening tasting event featuring food pairings and barrel-aged brews for a gourmet twist. Enjoy live music or trivia nights hosted in the industrial-chic taproom. Conclude your brewery hop at a late-night spot where specialty cocktails round out the evening.

Start with a sunrise yoga session on the manicured lawns of Moody Park followed by a healthy picnic brunch beneath towering trees. Watch local birdlife flit among the branches as you stretch and breathe in fresh air. This serene morning ritual connects you with nature in the heart of the city.

Explore the historic Old Cemetery within the park grounds, discovering ornate mausoleums and reading the stories of early pioneers. Join a guided heritage walk to learn about notable local figures buried there. Pause for a light lunch at a shaded picnic table, reflecting on the past.

Attend a performance at the Massey Theatre or catch an outdoor community concert when available. Dine at a nearby bistro offering farm-to-table dishes that celebrate BC’s seasonal harvest. The blend of culture, history, and culinary delights makes for a memorable evening.

Begin your day with a leisurely botanical tour through the rose garden and Fountain Plaza at Queens Park. Sip coffee from the park kiosk as you admire manicured flower beds and ornate statuary. Photographers will delight in capturing the vibrant blooms and tranquil ponds.

Enjoy a picnic lunch near the playground, then take a spin on the seasonal mini train that winds through the park’s pathways. Visit the duck pond and watch families and wildlife coexist in harmony. The playful afternoon atmosphere brings out a childlike wonder.

Settle in for an open-air movie screening or live concert under twinkling lights during summer months. Treat yourself to ice cream from a nearby vendor as the sky transitions through sunset hues. The park’s evening ambiance feels both festive and intimate.

Fall in with the early crowd at the River Market’s bustling stalls, sampling artisanal pastries, freshly baked breads, and specialty coffee. Chat with local farmers and producers to learn about the region’s culinary heritage. The vibrant marketplace energy jump-starts your foodie adventure.

Enroll in a hands-on cooking class at the Market Kitchen, using fresh BC produce to craft a signature lunch. Learn chef tips and local recipes before sitting down to savor the meal you helped create. This interactive experience deepens your appreciation for farm-to-table cuisine.

Return to the River Market for a progressive dinner, hitting several food stalls for small-plate tastings paired with craft beverages. Cap off the night with a cocktail at the waterfront lounge, enjoying river breezes and soft jazz beats. The dynamic mix of flavors and sounds makes for an unforgettable evening.

Rent bicycles from a local shop near the waterfront station and set out along the Brunette-Fraser Regional Greenway for breathtaking river vistas. Stop at scenic overlooks to snap photos of the waterway and distant mountains. The morning sun dances on the river, providing perfect cycle conditions.

Transition to a hiking excursion through Queen’s Park trails, winding past ancient Douglas firs and hidden creek beds. Pack a trail-side lunch to enjoy in a clearing framed by towering evergreens. This peaceful trek offers a deep dive into the region’s temperate rainforest ecosystem.

Return your bikes and unwind at a cycle-friendly café with artisanal snacks and craft sodas. Reflect on the day’s adventures over a gourmet grilled cheese or house-made salad. Take an easy evening ride along the riverwalk to watch lights shimmer on the water.

Explore rotating art exhibitions at the Anvil Centre, taking in contemporary works by emerging British Columbian artists. Grab a latte at the gallery café while browsing art books and local prints. The bright, airy spaces inspire creativity and conversation.

Head to Columbia Street to discover independent galleries, studios, and artisan workshops. Watch live demonstrations in sculpture or painting and pick up handcrafted souvenirs direct from the artist. Pause for a light lunch at a street-side café known for its creative menu.

Attend an evening gallery opening or live art performance featuring local talent complemented by wine and cheese pairings. Mingle with artists, curators, and fellow art enthusiasts in an intimate setting. The charged cultural atmosphere fuels engaging conversations late into the night.

Treat yourself to a leisurely brunch at a waterfront café, choosing from fresh eggs benedict to decadent waffles as you watch river traffic drift by. Then, spend free time browsing boutiques downtown for unique souvenirs. The gentle morning pace lets you savor your final hours in New Westminster.

Relax with a spa treatment at a nearby wellness centre, indulging in a massage or rejuvenating facial infused with local ingredients. Enjoy downtime in the lounge with herbal tea and quiet views of the Fraser River. This restorative interlude prepares you for an unforgettable evening.

Set sail on a sunset cruise along the Fraser River, enjoying panoramic views as the sky glows in pastel hues. Dine aboard the vessel on gourmet small plates and toast your journey with a glass of BC sparkling wine. The gentle river lull and warm twilight create a magical farewell to New Westminster.