Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor soaking up the charm of New Westminster, this city is bursting with fun, flavor, and a little bit of magic. We asked the community to share their favourite ways to enjoy the city – and they delivered! From riverside strolls to hands-on creativity, here are 10 must-do activities in New Westminster, as voted by locals who know and love this city best.
1. Unlock the mystery at the Hidden Wonders Speakeasy Magic Experience
Step behind the velvet curtain and into a world of wonder. This intimate magic show blends sleight of hand with storytelling in a secret speakeasy-style venue. Hidden Wonders Speakeasy Magic Experience is not your average night out—it’s mysterious, mind-blowing, and totally unique to New Westminster. With limited seating and an amazing lineup of illusions, every performance is one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re a skeptic or a magic lover, prepare to be amazed.
📍Location is disclosed after tickets are purchased.
2. Craft Your Own Lamp at Mosaic Art Studio
Get your hands messy—in the most beautiful way possible! At Mosaic Art Studio, you’ll step into a colourful, calming space where creativity takes centre stage. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll design and craft your very own Turkish mosaic lamp, using hand-cut glass, intricate beads, and traditional techniques passed down through generations. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned crafter, the experience is both relaxing and rewarding—and you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind piece that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Perfect for a date, a solo creative escape, or a fun outing with friends, it’s a memorable way to connect with culture, art, and your inner artisan—right here in New Westminster.
📍332 Columbia Street
3. Take a Sunset Walk at the Westminster Quay
Golden hour hits different along the Fraser River—and it’s pure magic! As the sun begins to dip, the riverfront transforms into a warm, glowing canvas of pink, gold, and soft orange hues. Take a leisurely stroll along the New Westminster boardwalk, where the gentle breeze, the sound of lapping water, and the sight of boats drifting by set the perfect evening tone. Grab a gelato from one of the local spots at River Market, find a bench or cozy spot to pause, and simply soak in the view. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day of exploring or looking for a peaceful moment to yourself, this is New West at its most serene—and most stunning.
📍810 Quayside Drive
4. Experience a Chocolate Tasting at Origins Chocolate Bar
Calling all chocoholics—this one’s for you! Step into Origins Chocolate Bar, New Westminster’s cozy haven for true chocolate lovers. Specializing in curated tastings of ethically sourced, bean-to-bar chocolate, this spot is all about quality, sustainability, and flavour. Each tasting is a journey around the world, featuring craft chocolate from small producers who take pride in their process—from farm to finished bar. You’ll learn about cocoa origins, flavour notes, and what sets fine chocolate apart, all while sampling some of the best bites you’ve ever had. Whether you’re a curious newbie or a seasoned connoisseur, it’s a deliciously eye-opening experience you won’t want to miss.
📍538 Victoria Street
5. Marvel at the World’s Tallest Tin Soldier
Standing tall and proud along New Westminster’s picturesque waterfront, the World’s Largest Tin Soldier is hard to miss! At 9.75 metres (32 feet) tall and weighing in at over 4,500 kilograms (10,000 lbs), this whimsical giant holds the official Guinness World Record title and has become a beloved local landmark. But he’s more than just a photo op—this towering figure has stood for over two decades as a symbol of inclusion, kindness, and community spirit. Perched at the edge of the Fraser River boardwalk, he watches over the Quay, welcoming visitors of all ages with charm and pride. Whether you’re snapping a selfie or enjoying a riverside stroll, the Tin Soldier is a must-see piece of New Westminster’s heart and history.
📍810 Quayside Drive
6. Learn Something New at the Fraser River Discovery Centre
Dive into the stories, science, and spirit of the mighty Fraser River at the Fraser River Discovery Centre. This interactive, family-friendly museum brings the river to life through hands-on exhibits, engaging displays, and rotating features that explore the ecology, history, industry, and Indigenous cultures connected to one of British Columbia’s most important waterways. Kids can get curious at activity stations, while adults will appreciate the in-depth look at the Fraser’s environmental significance and its role in shaping communities along its banks. Whether you’re a local wanting to learn more about your own backyard or a visitor discovering the region for the first time, the Fraser River Discovery Centre offers a fun and educational experience for all ages—right in the heart of New Westminster’s waterfront.
📍788 Quayside Drive
7. Connect with Our Heritage at the New Westminster Museum and Archives
Step into the past and uncover the roots of the the city at the New Westminster Museum and Archives. Located inside the beautiful Anvil Centre, this thoughtfully curated museum offers a fascinating look into the people, events, and cultures that have shaped British Columbia’s original capital. From vintage artifacts and archival photos to interactive displays and personal stories from the community, every exhibit brings a piece of New Westminster’s rich and diverse history to life. Learn about the city’s Indigenous heritage, its early colonial days, the evolution of local industries, and the lives of everyday residents through the decades. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the place you’re visiting, the New Westminster Museum offers an insightful and meaningful way to connect with the city’s past—and better understand its present.
📍777 Columbia Street
8. Smell the Roses at Queen’s Park
Queen’s Park is a summer dream brought to life—where natural beauty, history, and culture come together in perfect harmony. This beloved green space in the heart of New Westminster is home to lush, meticulously maintained gardens, winding shady forested trails, and wide open spaces perfect for picnics, play, or quiet reflection. One of the park’s most meaningful landmarks is the Centennial Totem Pole, a striking and powerful tribute to Indigenous artistry and cultural heritage that invites visitors to pause and reflect. Whether you’re admiring the blooms in the rose garden, strolling beneath the towering trees, or simply soaking in the serenity, Queen’s Park offers a peaceful escape from the everyday. It’s a place to recharge your spirit, enjoy quality time with loved ones, or find a quiet moment to connect with the land and its stories.
📍3rd Avenue
9. Be Part of the Action at a Salmonbellies Lacrosse Game
Feel the energy, pride, and passion of a true New West tradition—catch a home game with the legendary New Westminster Salmonbellies!
Playing out of the iconic Queen’s Park Arena, the Salmonbellies are one of Canada’s oldest and most celebrated lacrosse teams, with a history that stretches back to 1888. Attending a game isn’t just about the sport—it’s about joining a vibrant, multi-generational fanbase and experiencing the fast-paced, hard-hitting action of box lacrosse up close. The atmosphere is electric, the players leave it all on the floor, and the crowd brings the noise. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time spectator, a Salmonbellies game is an unforgettable way to connect with the community and witness a piece of living sports history. Don’t forget to wear red and cheer loud—Go Bellies Go!
📍Queen’s Park Arena
10. Travel Back in Time at the Irving House
Step back in time at Irving House, the oldest surviving wooden home in British Columbia, built in 1865. Nestled in the heart of New Westminster, this beautifully preserved heritage home offers a rare and authentic glimpse into the early days of the province. Once the grand residence of Captain William Irving—a prominent shipbuilder and pioneer—and his family, Irving House features 14 meticulously restored rooms filled with period furnishings, intricate woodwork, and historical artifacts that bring the 19th century to life. Wander through elegant parlors, cozy bedrooms, and spacious kitchens, each telling a story about life, work, and family in B.C. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious, a visit to Irving House is a fascinating journey into the foundations of New Westminster and the wider region’s rich past.
📍302 Royal Avenue
New Westminster is full of surprises, stories, events and magic—and these top 10 community-voted activities are just the beginning. Whether you’re exploring hidden gems, diving into local history, or simply soaking up the sunshine by the river, there’s something here for everyone! Just 25 minutes from Downtown Vancouver by SkyTrain, your next adventure starts here.
📍 Explore New Westminster — Where Stories Meet.
