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New
Westminster
New Westminster is located 20 km (12.5 miles), from Vancouver
upstream along the Fraser River.
First
Capital of BC
Beginning as British Columbia's first capital and oldest incorporated
city, New Westminster has played a key role in the development of
British Columbia's history.
Gold Rush in 1800's
During the gold rush era of the 1800's, New Westminster was used
as a terminal for the riverboats travelling from Victoria
to Yale on the Fraser River. Today, New Westminster
and the Fraser River still play an important role as a key port,
trading centre and tourist destination.
Panoramic
View
New West (as the locals call her), is located on a hill that rises
from the waterfront to the slopes of Royal Avenue. The view is great,
with a panorama that sweeps from Golden Ears Park in the north to
the islands in the Strait of Georgia in the south. As you walk along
its streets, it might remind you of San Francisco and all its glory.
Heritage
Buildings
There are lots of heritage buildings throughout New Westminster,
especially along historic Columbia Street and Antique Alley. Take
advantage of the walking tours that have been set up by the city.
You will be able to spot various examples of Victorian and Edwardian
architecture throughout this city.
River
Market at Westminster Quay
Besides the shops on Columbia Street and Antique Alley, make sure
you get to the River Market at Westminster Quay, two blocks from
the Skytrain Station at Columbia. With a major building renovation
starting in early 2009 the new market is going through a transformation
and will bring together the community with culture and commerce
in mind. Expect to see these changes in late 2009.
Fraser
River Boardwalk
After you visit this market, take a short walk along the river boardwalk
that borders the River Market. Here you can see the Fraser River's
action in progress as various boats and ships ply the waters. For
a really good view, the area from the hotel at the quay is just
great.
Free
Parking
If you're coming by car, there is some free parking along the
streets and adjacent to the River Market; otherwise, our advice
is to take the Skytrain into New Westminster. The trip is exciting
and you will not have to worry about the parking hassles.
Skytrain
Skytrain can be picked up in Surrey, Burnaby,
Vancouver, Coquitlam and North
Vancouver via the Sea Bus. There are five Skytrain stations
throughout New Westminster with convenient bus connections going
to most areas and attractions.
Antiques
and Curio Shops
You can check out Columbia Street with all its restored buildings.
Walk along Antique Alley, browsing amongst all the curio stores.
You will save lots of money as these have some of British Columbia's
best selection and lowest prices for antique furniture and collectables.
HOPS
A Northwest Pub
New Westminster has lots of fine places to eat. But, just for the
atmosphere alone, HOPS A Northwest Pub is a real favourite. It is
close to the Westminster Quay Public Market just below New Westminster
skytrain station at 48 - 8th Street.
M.V.
Native
For something different you have to ride the M.V. Native
on the mighty Fraser River up to the historic site at Fort
Langley.
Festivals
Hyack Festival - held every year since 1971, during the Victoria
Day-long weekend at the end of May.
New
Westminster Salmonbellies
If you're a sports fan, experience the New Westminster Salmonbellies
and the game of lacrosse. This team was established in 1887 and
has a proud heritage of being one of the oldest sport teams in North
America. This game is very similar to hockey except for the ice
and the amount of body protection.
Information
on New Westminster
Local
Attractions
Accommodation
Gaming
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