Top Things to Do in New Westminster
Things to Do in New Westminster
- Traveler favoritesThings to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.
- Traveler rankingHighest rated attractions on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
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70 places sorted by traveler favorites
Speciality Museums • History Museums
Wineries & Vineyards
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What travelers are saying
- Chris DNew Westminster, Canada3,092 contributionsStill winter, but some wonderful trails here. Coming by car? Lots of parking. Coming by bus? Go to the Medical Centre just across McBride and take the pedestrian overpass, about five minutes. There are some developed areas, like the Rose Garden, or forested areas for those looking for something more adventurous. Paved cycle routes too. I had most of the park to myself, but the off-leash dog park area was busy.
So, walk, bike, sit and enjoy nature - it's up to you.Written 14 March 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Grace PAbbotsford, Canada3 contributionsAmazing show in an intimate setting where everyone feels a part of the show!! Can’t wait to go again!!Written 29 May 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- julsmavisVancouver, Canada132 contributionsThis is a tranquil, serene jewel in the midst of a busy neighbourhood, right behind New Westminster's City Hall. Hear birds sing, water burble, and children laughing. A meandering walk takes you down beside the little river, where you can cross a Chinese-type bridge at the bottom and walk back up on the other side. Or you can jump from stone to stone in the middle of the water feature. In springtime, smile at the glorious cherry blossoms. In summer, bathe in the greenery and watch the pond ducks do what ducks do. In autumn, walk through the gloriously coloured, crunchy leaves. In winter, feel the brisk stillness and watch the ice glow in the twilight. Whatever the season, it's a wonderful, rejuvenating break from the vicissitudes of life.Written 4 January 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Chris DNew Westminster, Canada3,092 contributionsMuch has been written about the many attributes that tourists look for: access to public transit, spots to sit and refresh after a walk or bike; great river views, and history. All of these are true. But, in addition to all this, the great autumn colours add even more to the experience. Start at the market area, walk west along the boardwalk and see what I mean.Written 8 November 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- ElaineToozeVancouver, Canada13 contributionsVery personalized tour from 'Robin' I would recommend him. He's not a bird, he's a fella!
Lovely bit of history of New Westminister. The first house ever built there.
As original buildings are thin on the ground in Vancouver, this is a must-see!
Step inside the airconditioned atmosphere and while away a very enjoyable hour. The house was built with some style and this is still reflected in the original wallpapers and carpets in some rooms and some furniture and bric-a-brac from the original family's collection.
Paid for by donationWritten 25 July 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Newbie_VacationerVancouver, Canada1,629 contributionsMy wife and I recently went to see It's A Wonderful Life musical. I've been here a few times at the convention center on the first floor and the new media. However, I didn't realize there's also a nice theater as well. The theater is narrow, it seems all of the seats have great view. The first row is at the same level as the stage, so during the musical, the actors are literally in front of you.Written 30 December 2019This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- tony lVancouver, Canada3,359 contributionsFinally ! the Pier Park re - open on April 2 , the City of New Westminster done a awesome job ,since the arsonist on September last year , ,now lest area them before , but still very relax , spacious , safe open feeling , magnificent views of Fraser River , ,lovely new play ground for the kids and lot of new benches and chairs ,still great family fun ,and jogging and walking or dog walking , every one excellent in Social Distance well follow the guidelines !Written 10 April 2021This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- PookyCakeVictoria, Canada13,664 contributionsEstablished in 1998, the Waterfront Esplanade is a 1.3 kilometer boardwalk that runs along the Fraser River. The city of New Westminster describes it as an “all-in-one sightseeing destination.” Reflecting on this statement, I cannot help but agree because the esplanade, if you think about it, is so much more than a boardwalk. It connects us to each other and the city around us; it functions as a link to history; and, in these pandemic times, it helps to keep us sane!
On warm summer days or crisp Fall mornings, the esplanade has proven to be a welcoming place to amble. With its unobstructed views of the Fraser River, public art installations and lovely hanging flower baskets, it’s easy to get “lost” here; the setting is peaceful and serene. In the Fall, one is further wowed by the lovely multi-coloured foliage on display.
In another sense, the esplanade connects us to history: It is here, on the banks of the Fraser, that BC was essentially born. In the 1860s, the Cariboo Gold Rush took flight and many was the eager prospector who began his trek here, towards Barkerville, in hopes of striking it rich. During this “boom,” and well after, the Fraser River served – and continues to serve – as a major economic artery in the Province. Interpretive signage is posted strategically along the boardwalk informing us of this rich history. In addition, the Fraser River Discovery Centre provides a more kid-friendly look at the Fraser and its role in shaping our beautiful Province.
Perhaps most important – beyond the history (classic and contemporary) – is the esplanade’s ability to keep us sane during these challenging times. To walk out and breathe in the fresh air relaxes one’s body and refreshes the soul; to see people enjoying the sights – be it the working river or giant tin soldier – grows our appreciation for this place and space; and, to walk with those you care about enriches the experience tenfold.Written 12 December 2021This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - PookyCakeVictoria, Canada13,664 contributionsIt’s nice to see a public art sculpture on TripAdvisor in the double digits with respect to number of reviews. Most I’ve encountered and written about have been in the single digits which, when you think about it, is kind of sad. Public art, regardless of our own personal tastes, is typically designed to spur on debate; make us think about contemporary issues within the history of tradition; add complex social and cultural layers to our existing social milieu; and, make us smile or frown. Think of public art as a form of visual philosophy! It deserves our attention and critical comment.
Veronica and Edwin Dam de Nogales’ “Wait for Me Daddy” (2014), which was installed in Hyack Square, is one such piece; it encourages us to think and talk about significant issues like the true nature of war. And it works so well because, even if you’re totally ignorant of the source material, the sculpture still conveys its message without ambiguity: War isn’t some macho undertaking. It highlights the difficulties faced by families imposed by war. Will they be whole or reunited again when it’s all over? Indeed, unlike most monuments dedicated to remembering those who fought in war, the tone here is not one of glorification and that’s refreshing.
While I understand why this sculpture was placed in Hyack Square – the actual photo taken by Claude Dettloff was captured here – I have to agree with an earlier review by Chris D: The general location “leaves a LOT to be desired.” Not only is it difficult to take good pictures due to sun glare, but there’s also plenty of seedy hoodlums wandering about; or, at least that was the case during my visit.
That said, the sculpture is definitely worth visit. It combines history (an iconic picture) with contemporary art. In doing so, it creates a space within to contemplate the Good. Maybe, as we stand and observe it, we just might echo the words of Kurt Vonnegut’s bird: Poo-tee-weet.Written 7 October 2021This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Chris DNew Westminster, Canada3,092 contributionsHaven't been here for quite some time, but some of my friends who enjoy wine like nothing better than a bottle from here. So, dropped by to get purchase a birthday present. Friendly staff, fast service.
Tourists walking the Quay or locals wishing to support businesses that pay taxes in your area should pay at least one visit to this little place just behind Steel & Oak.Written 12 January 2020This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Chris DNew Westminster, Canada3,092 contributionsTourists should take a half hour, perhaps a bit more, to learn something about one of British Columbia's oldest cities. Difficult to find, it is in The ANVIL CENTRE at 8th and Columbia - across the street from the Skytrain Station and in the same building as the tourist bureau (which you should visit anyway). Learn about BC's first capital, the federal prison and the hostage takings, and the great fire; to name a few. I love the model of the Patullo Bridge!Written 18 December 2018This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- BHJR1Vancouver, Canada33 contributionsThis is an excellent museum. It's well curated, with a fine collection of artifacts. Informative and interesting. Wealth of material but not cluttered. Strongly grounded in local history going back well into the 1800s. Provides an excellent sense of what military life was like and how the military fit into the broader community over time.Written 22 September 2019This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Chris DNew Westminster, Canada3,092 contributionsNot much change since I came by and reported a little over a year ago. Great place to stop and snack, have a full meal, or imbibe after a walk. BUT, the rest of the tenant mix continues to struggle in its attempt to interest tourists and locals alike. Management - keep trying.Written 8 November 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Brad SNorth Vancouver, Canada1,274 contributionsIt's hard to actually figure out what exactly this place is meant to be...but regardless, it's an interesting stop to learn more about New Westminster and it's history, economy and topography. Do ask questions to the staff...they are very knowledgable about the city and environs.Written 1 January 2018This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- David SMaple Ridge189 contributionsBusy place. It really was once a brewery.Parking is a bit of a challange here. Nice new stores and shops. Worth while.Written 27 October 2019This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about New Westminster
- The top attractions to visit in New Westminster are: See all attractions in New Westminster on Tripadvisor
- The best outdoor activities in New Westminster according to Tripadvisor travelers are:
- Queen's Park
- Westminster Pier Park
- Friendship Gardens & Tipperary Park
- Brunette-Fraser Regional Greenway
- Hume Park
- The most popular things to do in New Westminster with kids according to Tripadvisor travelers are:
- Queen's Park
- New Westminster Quay
- Quayside Esplanade & Boardwalk
- Westminster Pier Park
- Hidden Wonders
New Westminster Attractions Information
| Attractions | 70 |
|---|---|
| Attraction Reviews | 1,829 |
| Attraction Photos | 1,281 |
| Local Time | Thursday 10:20 pm |