Things To Do
in Richmond
Richmond, British Columbia sits on Lulu Island just south of Vancouver, bordered by the Fraser River and the Pacific. It is famed for Steveston Village, a preserved fishing harbour steeped in maritime history and a thriving Asian-influenced dining scene. The city blends urban amenities with expansive parks, scenic dyke trails, and easy access to Vancouver via SkyTrain or bridges.
Its mild maritime climate and welcoming neighborhoods make it a convenient base for exploring the wider region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Richmond Museum to learn about the city's rich history and diverse culture. Afterward, take a stroll through Minoru Park, enjoying the lush greenery and beautiful gardens. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a local café, featuring freshly brewed coffee and pastries.
In the afternoon, head to the Steveston Village, where you can explore the quaint shops and historic sites along the waterfront. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants, sampling the catch of the day. After lunch, visit the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site to discover the area's fishing heritage.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the Steveston boardwalk, soaking in the scenic views of the harbor. Choose a charming bistro for dinner, where you can savor fresh Pacific Northwest cuisine. Cap off the evening with a visit to a local pub for some live music and a taste of Richmond's vibrant nightlife.
Begin your culinary adventure with a visit to the Richmond Public Market, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Attend a cooking class at a renowned local culinary school, immersing yourself in the flavors of Asian cuisine. Enjoy your self-made lunch, featuring dishes you've prepared during the class.
In the afternoon, embark on a food tour exploring Richmond's diverse culinary scene, including dim sum and bubble tea stops. Visit the famous Fisherman’s Wharf for more seafood delights, tasting dishes from various food stalls. Engage with local chefs who share their tips and traditions behind their recipes.
Dine at a high-end restaurant known for its fusion dishes, where you can experience the innovative blend of flavors. After dinner, take a guided dessert tour to indulge in Richmond’s best sweet treats, from artisan ice creams to decadent pastries. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city as you stroll through the streets, savoring your desserts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 CAD |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 CAD |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $120-250 CAD |
| 🚌Public transit (one-way) | $3-5 CAD |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city centre, monthly) | $2,000-2,900 CAD |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Vancouver and the Fraser Valley via SkyTrain, bridges, and highways.
- Strong seafood and Asian cuisine; vibrant Steveston harbor and heritage sites.
- Some areas are more residential and car-dependent; nightlife is quieter than downtown Vancouver.
- Weather can be rainy outside summer months, requiring flexible plans for outdoor activities.
Places to Visit in Richmond
Visit one of these nice places.
A coastal park with sweeping Fraser River views, golden hour sunsets, and expansive green spaces perfect for wide-angle shots.
Colorful warehouses, historic storefronts, and a nostalgic wharf setting ideal for quintessential maritime photography.
Long boardwalk over the marsh and ocean; great for expansive horizons and bird photography, plus occasional aircraft passes.
Active harbour with fishing boats and nets, offering dynamic daily life and waterfront light.
A tranquil urban park with ponds, bridges, and seasonal blossoms suitable for composition and portrait work.
Food in Richmond
Richmond Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Popular across Steveston and Aberdeen Centre, featuring fresh shrimp dumplings, siu mai, and delicate steamed items.
Must-Try!
Seasonal salmon preparations, often grilled or lightly glazed, reflecting the region’s coastal bounty.
Comforting bowls with seafood, greens, and hand-pulled noodles found in many Chinatown-adjacent spots.
Noodles, fried rice plates, and milk tea found at casual eateries around Richmond.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal open-air market with a wide array of street food stalls, grilled specialties, and crepes; great for late-night bites in summer.
Casual waterfront stalls offering freshly shucked seafood, fish and chips, and local snacks with a maritime vibe.
A hub for a variety of Asian street-food-inspired options, from dim sum to noodle bowls and bubble tea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Canadians value politeness and orderly queues; wait your turn in lines and greet staff with a simple hello or thank you.
Respect personal space in public and on transit; keep noise reasonable and avoid loud conversations in confined spaces.
Richmond is diverse; show respect for different cultural norms, especially in family and dining settings.
Safety
Tipping in Richmond
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a standard 15-20% before tax is customary for good service. For take-out or quick-service, tips are optional. Taxis and rideshares typically expect 10-15%.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Cash is also accepted, and many places use Interac for local transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild and gradually warming with frequent showers. Cherry blossoms and plum trees bring color to parks like Minoru and Steveston waterfront.
Warm and relatively dry, with long days and lively outdoor markets (including the Night Market). Pack sun protection and a light rain layer for occasional showers.
Cooler and more unpredictable weather; vibrant foliage along riverfront parks and dyke paths. Great for golden-hour photography before sunset.
Mild by Canadian standards but wet; rain is common and snow is rare. Ensure waterproof footwear and layers for damp conditions.
Richmond at Night
Hiking in Richmond
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal boardwalk with expansive views and birdlife along the marshes.
Wetlands and forest trails suitable for easy hikes and wildlife viewing.
Scenic dyke trails offering water views and long-distance walking options.
A pleasant waterfront route ideal for sunset shots and relaxed strolls.
Airports
How to reach Richmond by plane.
Main international airport serving the Vancouver area; quick access from Richmond via transit or car; extensive international and domestic flight options.
Alternative regional airport northeast of Vancouver; smaller but serves several domestic and international routes; typically used for cheaper or regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the largest demographic groups in Richmond; contributes to a rich culinary and cultural landscape.
Active cultural presence with diverse eateries and events.
A mix of residential neighborhoods and easy access to urban centers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple Canadian sport with local leagues and community rinks nearby.
Widely played at youth and adult levels; local clubs and municipal fields available.
Coastal and suburban courses offer scenic rounds with mild winter access.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Richmond.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Richmond spots offer vegetable-forward dishes; look for tofu, mushroom-based mains, and veggie dim sum. Chinese eateries can accommodate vegetables with rice or noodle bases; ask for no meat or dairy where needed.