New Westminster
City · Canada

New Westminster

New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada

Step Back in Time, Step into Adventure: Discover New Westminster Nestled on the banks of the mighty Fraser River, New Westminster isn't just another…

#Historic city#Waterfront#Cultural hub#Royal City#Transit-friendly
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Top Hotels in New Westminster

Top Flights to New Westminster

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Top Activities in New Westminster

Highlights

Things to do in New Westminster

What travellers talk about most.

Tours

Explore New Westminster Quay

Take a stroll along the scenic New Westminster Quay, featuring shops, eateries, and beautiful views of the Fraser River.

Historic Downtown Walking Tour

Discover the rich history of New Westminster with a guided walking tour of the city's downtown area.

Outdoor

Queen's Park

A vast green space offering walking trails, gardens, and recreational facilities.

See it for yourself

Location videos

Reels and longer watches.

Featured for New Westminster

Traveller clips picked out for this place.

Watch & explore

Good to know

Practical info

Weather, costs and getting around.

New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada Open in Google Maps
When to go

Scored from each month’s typical high and its usual conditions.

GoodMixedAvoid
Best monthsApr – Sep
Worth avoidingOct – Feb
September · cloudHigh 20°C Low 10°C
Good

New Westminster, located in British Columbia, Canada, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cool and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F), and frequent rainfall. Snowfall is rare but possible. Spring (March to May) brings milder temperatures, ranging from 7°C to 15°C (45°F to 59°F), and gradually decreasing precipitation. Summers (June to August) are warm and dry, with temperatures typically between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and occasional heatwaves. Autumn (September to November) sees cooling temperatures, from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F), and increasing rainfall. Overall, visitors should be prepared for rain, especially in fall and winter, and enjoy mild, pleasant weather in spring and summer.

All 12 monthshighs, lows and conditions
Jan
rain
6°1°
Feb
rain
8°1°
Mar
cloud
11°3°
Apr
cloud
14°5°
May
cloud
18°8°
Jun
cloud
21°11°
Jul
sun
24°13°
Aug
sun
24°13°
Sep
cloud
20°10°
Oct
rain
14°6°
Nov
rain
9°3°
Dec
rain
6°1°
Currency
$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar
Population
Not Available
Density
5,052 / km²
Local time
Languages
English mainly · French
Also known as
New West, The Royal City, Fraser River Settlement, Salish village of Qayqayt, Queen's Park

Know before you go

Local guide

A deeper read on New Westminster.

What people love

New Westminster, located in British Columbia, Canada, offers a unique and charming travel experience with a variety of attractions and activities. Here are some pros of traveling to New Westminster:

  1. Historic Charm: As British Columbia's oldest city, New Westminster is rich in history and heritage. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Irving House, the New Westminster Museum, and the Fraser River Discovery Centre.

  2. Waterfront Location: New Westminster sits along the scenic Fraser River, providing opportunities for waterfront walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. The Westminster Pier Park offers stunning views of the river and city skyline.

  3. Shopping and Dining: The city boasts a vibrant downtown area with a mix of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy shopping for unique finds or dining at local eateries serving a variety of cuisines.

  4. Arts and Culture: New Westminster has a thriving arts and cultural scene, with galleries, theaters, and events showcasing local talent. The Anvil Centre is a hub for arts and cultural activities in the city.

  5. Outdoor Recreation: The city is surrounded by parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Nearby destinations like Burnaby Mountain and Barnet Marine Park offer additional outdoor activities.

  6. Convenient Location: New Westminster is centrally located within the Greater Vancouver area, making it easy to access other attractions and destinations in the region. It is well-connected by public transportation and major highways.

Overall, traveling to New Westminster offers a blend of history, nature, culture, and convenience, making it a great destination for visitors looking to explore the beauty of British Columbia.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada, include:

  1. Weather: New Westminster experiences a temperate climate with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers. Travelers who prefer consistent sunny weather may find the frequent rain and grey skies during the winter months off-putting.

  2. Traffic congestion: Like many cities in the Greater Vancouver area, New Westminster can experience heavy traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. Navigating through traffic jams may be frustrating for travelers relying on road transportation.

  3. Cost of living: British Columbia, including the Greater Vancouver region, is known for its relatively high cost of living. Travelers may find that accommodations, dining, and other expenses are more expensive compared to other destinations.

  4. Limited attractions: While New Westminster has historical sites, parks, and cultural attractions to explore, some travelers may find that the city offers fewer tourist attractions compared to larger cities like Vancouver or Victoria.

  5. Noise pollution: Being a city with urban development and infrastructure, New Westminster may have higher levels of noise pollution compared to rural areas. Travelers seeking a quieter, more serene environment may not find New Westminster to be the ideal destination.

It's important to note that these cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel expectations. It's recommended to research further and consider personal preferences before planning a trip to New Westminster.

New Westminster, located in British Columbia, Canada, is a city rich in history and significance. Here is a detailed account of its history, notable events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History and Founding

  • Indigenous Peoples: Before European settlement, the area where New Westminster is now located was inhabited by the Coast Salish peoples, particularly the Qayqayt First Nation. They utilized the land for fishing, hunting, and gathering.

  • Establishment: New Westminster was founded in 1858 during the Fraser River Gold Rush. It was established as the first capital of the Colony of British Columbia by Governor James Douglas. The city was strategically located on the Fraser River, providing an ideal position for trade and defense.

  • Naming: Queen Victoria named the city "New Westminster" after Westminster in London, giving it the nickname "The Royal City."

Development and Growth

  • 1859: New Westminster was officially incorporated as a city. It served as the capital of the Colony of British Columbia until the capital was moved to Victoria in 1866 when the mainland and island colonies were united.

  • Transportation Hub: The city's location on the Fraser River made it a significant transportation hub. The development of railways, including the Canadian Pacific Railway, further enhanced its position as a trade center.

Significant Events

  • Great Fire of 1898: On September 10, 1898, a devastating fire destroyed much of downtown New Westminster. The city was quickly rebuilt with more resilient materials, leading to a new era of growth.

  • 20th Century Development: In the 20th century, New Westminster continued to grow as a commercial and industrial center. The construction of bridges, such as the Pattullo Bridge in 1937, improved connectivity with other regions.

Historical Figures

  • James Douglas: As the governor who established New Westminster, Douglas played a crucial role in its founding and early development.

  • Richard Clement Moody: Moody was the first Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and was instrumental in the planning and development of New Westminster.

Important Landmarks

  • Irving House: Built in 1865, Irving House is one of the oldest intact homes in the Lower Mainland. It is now a museum showcasing the life of Captain William Irving, a prominent figure in the city's history.

  • The Royal Westminster Regiment: The regiment has a long-standing connection with the city, and its armory, constructed in 1896, is a significant historical site.

  • Westminster Quay: This area along the Fraser River has been revitalized and includes the River Market, a popular destination for locals and tourists.

  • Queensborough: This neighborhood represents a unique part of the city, located on Lulu Island, and has a distinct history connected to its European and Japanese settlers.

Cultural and Social Contributions

  • Cultural Diversity: Over the years, New Westminster has become home to a diverse population, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. The city hosts various cultural festivals and events celebrating this diversity.

  • Educational Institutions: New Westminster is home to institutions like Douglas College, which plays a vital role in the educational landscape of the region.

Modern Day

Today, New Westminster is a vibrant city known for its heritage, cultural diversity, and thriving community life. It continues to honor its rich history while embracing modernization and growth. The city is a blend of historical charm and contemporary living, making it a unique place within the Greater Vancouver area.