Things To Do
in Richmond

Richmond, Canada, is a vibrant city located just south of Vancouver, known for its multicultural community and thriving culinary scene. It is home to the Vancouver International Airport, making it a key gateway for travelers. Richmond boasts stunning waterfront views and a rich history, reflected in its preserved heritage sites.

The city is also famous for its expansive parks and recreational areas, offering visitors a blend of urban and outdoor experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Richmond's Culture and Cuisine
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Steveston Village, a historic fishing village with charming shops and cafes. Enjoy breakfast at a local bakery, sampling fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, explore the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site to learn about the fishing industry. Then, head to the Richmond Night Market for lunch, sampling various street food options.

evening
:

For dinner, visit a local restaurant specializing in dim sum. Conclude your day with a stroll along the Richmond waterfront, enjoying the sunset views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the Richmond Nature Park, where you can enjoy the lush trails and wildlife. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy in the park.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site to delve into Richmond's maritime history. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Terra Nova Rural Park, where you can explore the gardens.

evening
:

Finish your trip with a dinner at a local sushi restaurant, experiencing Richmond's renowned fresh seafood offerings, followed by a visit to the local brewery for a nightcap.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$20-$40
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Public Transit Ticket$2.50
🏨Hotel Night (Mid-range)$100-$200
🍕Pizza$15-$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse culinary options, especially Asian cuisine.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Proximity to Vancouver and the airport.
  • Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to Vancouver.
  • Rainy weather during the winter months.

Places to Visit in Richmond

Visit one of these nice places.

Steveston Village

A picturesque fishing village with historic buildings and scenic waterfront views.

Richmond Marina

Offers stunning views of the marina and surrounding mountains, perfect for sunset photography.

Terra Nova Rural Park

A beautiful park with expansive fields, gardens, and trails, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Richmond

Richmond is a culinary paradise, renowned for its diverse food scene that reflects its multicultural population. From Asian street food to local delicacies, food lovers will find an abundance of options to satisfy their palates.

Richmond Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dim Sum

A traditional Cantonese meal consisting of small plates of dumplings and other snacks, best enjoyed with tea.

Must-Try!

Pho

A Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and fresh herbs.

Sushi

Freshly prepared sushi and sashimi, highlighting the local seafood offerings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Richmond Night Market

A bustling night market featuring a variety of food stalls offering street food from various cultures.

Aberdeen Centre Food Court

A food court in a shopping mall that showcases a range of Asian cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

Richmond has a temperate oceanic climate, with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers. Winter temperatures range from 0 to 8 °C (32 to 46 °F), while summer temperatures can reach 20 to 30 °C (68 to 86 °F). Rain is common in the fall and winter months, while summers are typically sunny. The city's proximity to the ocean moderates temperature extremes and provides a pleasant climate year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians are known for being polite; use 'please' and 'thank you' regularly.

Queuing

Respect the queue; Canadians value orderly lines.

Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance during conversations, as personal space is valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Richmond is generally considered a safe city for residents and tourists alike. However, it is always advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911, and there are local hospitals and clinics available for healthcare needs. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and be cautious when walking alone at night.

Tipping in Richmond

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of 15-20% is customary in restaurants and bars; rounding up is common in cafes.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit/debit cards, and mobile payments are also widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather draws crowds, especially to the beaches and outdoor markets; it's a vibrant time to visit.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage offer stunning landscapes for exploration.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; ideal for indoor activities and enjoying festive events.

Nightlife Guide

Richmond at Night

Richmond's nightlife offers a mix of bars, lounges, and night markets. The city features a variety of venues where you can enjoy live music, karaoke, or simply unwind with friends. The Richmond Night Market is a popular evening destination during the warmer months, showcasing food, games, and entertainment. Additionally, you can find several pubs and breweries that offer a lively atmosphere and local craft beers.

Hiking in Richmond

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lighthouse Park

Located a short drive from Richmond, this park features trails with beautiful coastal views.

Brunswick Point

A scenic spot offering trails along the river and opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Airports

How to reach Richmond by plane.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Located in Richmond, YVR is the primary international airport serving the Vancouver area, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Richmond is relatively walkable, especially in areas like Steveston Village and the city center. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many neighborhoods have amenities within walking distance. However, some areas are more suburban, requiring a car for longer distances. Public transport options like buses and the Canada Line SkyTrain make it easy to navigate the city without a vehicle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Asian Communities

Richmond has a significant Asian population, particularly Chinese, which influences the local culture and cuisine.

Immigrant Populations

The city is home to diverse immigrant groups from various countries, contributing to its multicultural atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A beloved sport in Canada, with several local teams and community leagues.

Soccer

Growing in popularity, with many youth and adult leagues available throughout the city.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Richmond can be heavy during rush hours, particularly on major routes leading to Vancouver. Public transportation options, including buses and the SkyTrain, are available and provide convenient access to various parts of the city and beyond. Cycling is also a popular alternative for short distances, with dedicated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Richmond.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in Asian cuisine.

Gluten-Free Options

Some restaurants provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to inquire specifically.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Richmond has a robust healthcare system, with access to several hospitals and clinics for residents and visitors. The city is served by the Richmond Hospital, which provides emergency services and various medical facilities. Pharmacies are also widely available for prescription and over-the-counter medications. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance to cover any medical needs during their stay.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide