Greater Vancouver, BC Tourism Guide with hotels, events and attraction in the historic city of New Westminster.
Relax at the Quay
At one time, the waterfront of New Westminster was definitely not a place for the public to visit. This area was completely industrial with warehouses, mills, industries, rail lines, cold storage buildings, fish plants, shipping, and ocean-going freighters at the dock. It’s hard to imagine all that now, since the Quay is an attractive and bustling, people-friendly neighbourhood with modern condominiums, flowers, beautiful walkways, market, restaurants, shops, boat cruises, museums and park areas.
Today many residents and businesses call the Quay home. Walkers take their daily stroll along the Quay boardwalk and fresh breads, produce and meats are purchased at the public market.
Tucked into the Quayside neighbourhood is well-loved Angelina's Café. Angelina's is a quaint location for breakfast or lunch. Enjoy delicious Panekoek (a Dutch version of pancakes) and Eggs Benedict, but be warned they are packed on the weekends. You're best trying your luck on a weekday before 2pm. Next door to Angelina's is Essence Home Décor where you'll find wonderful gifts and unique home adornments.
Nestled between Angelina’s and the River Market is New Westminster’s most intimate and luxe hotel: the Inn at the Quay. The newly renovated 126 guestrooms feature water views of the Fraser River, most with private balconies. At the foot of the hotel you’ll discover New Westminster’s Boathouse Restaurant which serves up an extensive seafood menu, excellent service and lovely waterside ambiance.
The Westminster Quay boardwalk is the perfect path for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy the view of the busy Fraser and afterwards, step aboard a moored heritage vessel to learn more of the history of this active waterway. The Samson V Maritime Museum is located aboard a moored riverboat: the last steam paddle wheeler to service Western Canada. For a unique way to explore the living, working river, consider taking a river cruise aboard Paddlewheeler Riverboat Tours, their office is located at 780 Quayside Drive.
On the east end the boardwalk you'll find the Fraser River Discovery Centre, a river museum that focuses on the environmental, economic, historical and cultural importance of the Fraser River. Begun as an interpretive centre in 1986, the newly renovated museum displays new exhibits where you can learn about the impacts of one of the world’s great rivers. Inside the Discovery Centre you'll also find the New Westminster Visitor Centre. Discover more about BC's six unique regions and let the knowledgeable staff help you plan your next British Columbia vacation.
The River Market (formerly Westminster Public Market) is a destination for the everyday foodie and the anchor of the Quay neighbourhood. With thoughtful marine elements, kid-size amenities and an open, spacious sensibility the Market has been designed with the community in mind. From a pick-it-yourself organic garden, communal tables, breathtaking installation art, and a line-up of select shops and delectable eateries, the market is indisputably New Westminster’s rising star. Here you will find the Vancouver Circus School, Paddlewheeler Pub and Liquor Store, Tiny Refinery, Pedagogy Toys, Bloom Art Studio, Donald’s Market, The Crab Shop, KJM Urban Gardens, The Great Wall Tea Company, Crepe Des Amis and opening soon Wild Rice 2, Pamola Bakery and Tre Galli Gelato Caffe. Rent a bike and cycle through the city with Fraser River Bike Rentals and Tours, tucked behind the River Market along Quayside Drive.
The Quay is an excellent location to visit as a family, a couple, or simply out on your own. The neighbourhood has seen a lot of change since it was built to coincide with Skytrain launch of Expo ’86, with its lasting riverside appeal the Quay neighbourhood will continue to play an important part of Royal City life.
