Richmond

Immediately south of the City of Vancouver, many visitors will start their visit in Richmond, home to Vancouver International Airport. An impressive public art program welcomes newcomers, with pieces that include the stunning Bill Reid sculpture, "The Spirit of Haida Gwaii."

But the City of Richmond has much more to offer visitors than just great air access! For over 100 years, the excited screech of seagulls has signaled the unloading of the day's catch of salmon on the docks of the fishing village of Steveston, Richmond's historic fishing community on the south arm of the Fraser River. Visitors can stroll the boardwalk and buy fish fresh off the boat, or opt for fish ‘n’ chips for lunch in view of the water. Or go looking for larger marine life with a whale watching tour. Nearby, the impressive Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site has been meticulously restored and is now an impressive museum dedicated to the fishing industry.

Steveston’s heritage homes and waterfront walks is in complete contrast to the bright lights and excitement of Richmond's city centre, which a vibrant Asian community has helped shape. Here you'll find the city's dramatic new city hall complex, an amazing array of shops and restaurants where award-winning dim sum, Vietnamese pho, and seafood with a twist will satisfy any appetite. The city's many malls - legendary for their size and variety - bring you a world of shopping not found anywhere else in the Lower Mainland.

Richmond's exciting cultural life is seen in its museums, galleries and professional theatre. The Asian influence is expressed in the magnificent Buddhist temple complex and gardens of the International Buddhist Society on Steveston Highway. For those looking for more natural attractions, the city’s parks provide a number of recreational opportunities from field sports, nature walks and golfing. The extensive network of dykes protecting the city from the river, have become popular walking and biking trails and provide the perfect place to observe bald eagles and other bird life of the tidal flats.

For more information, visit Tourism Richmond online, or call 1.877.247.0777.