Things to Do In and Around New Westminster, BC

Posted by Guest on Dec 6th, 2011 in Featured, Vacation | 0 comments

New Westminster, also known as the “New West”, is the oldest city in western Canada and was also British Columbia’s first capital. The city was named by Queen Victoria and is dubbed as the “Royal City”. If you are planning to spend your well-deserved vacation in New Westminster, you will never regret the decision because it offers a wide selection of activities that you can do to keep boredom at bay. Sports, entertainment, outdoor recreation, arts—there is definitely something for every kind of tourist visiting the city. You will also find heritage sites, museums, festivals, art galleries, waterfront shopping spots, casino nightlife and even pad wheeler cruises in the area.

Reminiscing the Past with a Tour around the City

New West’s museums and heritage sites were able to preserve the city’s history. If you are inclined to history, why not take a tour in the metro’s several historic sites such as the Irving House which was the home of William Irving, a steamboat captain and hailed as “the king of the river”. The structure has authentic furnishings and adorned with Gothic Revival architectural designs. The New Westminster Museum and Archives, on the other hand, displays vintage photos, coins and other historic artifacts.

Stroll on the City’s Parks

You may also embark on a tour around New Westminster’s parks such as the Queen’s Park, the biggest city park especially designed for families with children. It has a zoo, water spray park, sports field and adventure playgrounds. The Friendship Garden located in the park is a popular background for wedding photo shoots. Never miss out your chance to view the scenic beauty of the Fraser River along the Westminster Quay.

New West’s Annual Festivals

The city hosts several year-round festivals to celebrate the community’s hospitable and tight-knit history and culture. First of these is the Hyack Festival held every May. This features traditional rose planting, carnival rides and 21-gun salute ceremonies. The FraserFest held every July features a parade of mascots, live musical and theatrical productions about the Fraser River’s history and also food stalls which offer the bounty of the city. Other well-known events in New Westminster include the Urban Farmers Fall Fair, the Hyack Santa Claus Parade of Lights as well as the Show and Shine vintage car festival.  Guests who want to have loads of fun can participate in any of these activities which will surely give them loads of enjoyment.

Shopping and Nightlife

Shoppers will find great buys in the city especially if they visit the downtown Columbia Street. Boutiques and specialty stores abound the metro to provide shoppers with a unique experience. When the sun sets, bars and clubs begin to come alive and offer tourists an exciting night of music, drinks and chatting with new found friends.  Therefore, when you visit New Minster, be sure to have a taste of its vibrant nightlife. After touring the city, you can dance the night away with your friends and family in one of the top bars and coolest hangouts in the area.