· CA

Port Coquitlam

Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada

Escape the City Buzz in Port Coquitlam, BC: Where Nature Meets Small-Town Charm Nestled at the confluence of the Fraser and Pitt Rivers, Port Coquitlam, BC, offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle and bustle. D…

#Suburban#Residential#Family-friendly#Parks#Outdoor activities

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Port Coquitlam.

Top Hotels in Port Coquitlam

Top Flights to Port Coquitlam

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Port Coquitlam.

Tours

Historic Downtown Port Coquitlam

Stroll through the historic downtown area to explore local shops, eateries, and cultural sites.

Shopping

Shopping at Poco Place Mall

A convenient shopping destination offering a mix of clothing stores, groceries, and dining options.

Outdoor

Gates Park Exploration

Visit Gates Park for a day filled with sports, picnicking, and nature walking along the Coquitlam River.

Explore Colony Farm Regional Park

Visit Colony Farm Regional Park to experience beautiful landscapes, bird-watching, and walking trails.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Port Coquitlam.

Currency

$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar

Population

58,612

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Port Coquitlam

Jan

6°0°

Feb

8°1°

Mar

11°3°

Apr

14°5°

May

18°8°

Jun

21°11°

Jul

24°13°

Aug

24°13°

Sep

20°10°

Oct

14°6°

Nov

9°3°

Dec

6°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Port Coquitlam.

What people love

Port Coquitlam, located in British Columbia, Canada, offers several advantages for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Port Coquitlam:

Scenic Beauty: Port Coquitlam is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including parks, rivers, and trails. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking while taking in the stunning views of the area.
Outdoor Recreation: The city offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including kayaking, fishing, and golfing. With its proximity to the Pitt River and Coquitlam River, visitors can partake in water sports and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the waterfront.
Cultural Attractions: Port Coquitlam has a rich cultural scene, with various art galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing local talent and history. Visitors can explore the city's artistic offerings and immerse themselves in its vibrant cultural heritage.
Dining and Shopping: The city boasts a diverse culinary scene, with numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines to suit all tastes. Additionally, Port Coquitlam has a range of shopping options, from boutique stores to larger shopping centers, providing ample opportunities for retail therapy.
Family-Friendly Environment: Port Coquitlam is a family-friendly destination, with numerous parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities catering to visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy quality time together in a safe and welcoming environment.

Overall, traveling to Port Coquitlam offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, dining options, and a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a desirable destination for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway.

What to know

Port Coquitlam, located in British Columbia, Canada, is a beautiful city with many attractions and amenities. However, like any travel destination, there are some potential cons to consider:

Weather: British Columbia is known for its rainy weather, and Port Coquitlam is no exception. If you are not a fan of rain or cooler temperatures, this may be a downside for you.
Traffic: Port Coquitlam is a suburban city with growing population and development. This can lead to traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.
Cost of Living: British Columbia, in general, has a higher cost of living compared to other parts of Canada. Accommodation, dining out, and transportation may be more expensive in Port Coquitlam.
Limited Nightlife: If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, Port Coquitlam may not offer as many options compared to larger cities like Vancouver.
Limited Public Transportation: While there are public transportation options available, they may not be as extensive or frequent as in larger cities.
Distance from Major Cities: Port Coquitlam is located about 27 kilometers east of Vancouver. If you are looking to explore Vancouver frequently, the distance may be a drawback.

Overall, Port Coquitlam is a lovely city with much to offer, but it's essential to consider these potential cons before planning your trip.

Port Coquitlam is a city located in British Columbia, Canada, situated east of Vancouver. It is part of the Greater Vancouver Regional District and is bordered by the Fraser River to the south and the Pitt River to the east.

Early History

Indigenous Presence: Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Coast Salish peoples, including the Kwikwetlem First Nation, whose traditional territories encompassed the area around present-day Port Coquitlam. The name "Coquitlam" is derived from the Halkomelem word "Kwikwetlem," meaning "small red salmon."

European Settlement

Late 19th Century: European settlers began arriving in the late 1800s. The land was primarily used for agriculture, with many settlers drawn to the fertile soils of the Fraser and Pitt River floodplains.
Canadian Pacific Railway: The arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the late 1800s was pivotal in the development of Port Coquitlam. It provided a transportation link that facilitated economic growth and attracted more settlers.

Incorporation and Growth

Incorporation (1913): Port Coquitlam was officially incorporated as a city on March 7, 1913. It was developed as a planned community, with the layout designed to accommodate both residential and industrial growth.
Railway Significance: The city became an important railway hub due to its strategic location, which further spurred industrial growth. The Canadian Pacific Railway established a major railway station and repair facilities in the area.

20th Century Developments

World Wars: Like many communities in Canada, Port Coquitlam contributed to the war efforts during both World Wars, with local manufacturing supporting military needs and many residents enlisting in the armed forces.
Post-War Expansion: After World War II, the city experienced significant population growth and suburban development. The demand for housing increased, leading to the expansion of residential neighborhoods.

Modern Era

Terry Fox: One of the most notable figures associated with Port Coquitlam is Terry Fox, a Canadian athlete and cancer research activist. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, he was raised in Port Coquitlam. In 1980, Fox embarked on his Marathon of Hope, a cross-Canada run to raise money for cancer research. Although his journey was cut short when his cancer returned, his legacy lives on, and he is commemorated with a statue and the annual Terry Fox Run, which raises funds for cancer research.
Economic and Cultural Growth: Port Coquitlam has continued to grow economically and culturally, with a focus on balancing urban development with maintaining green spaces and community amenities.

Important Landmarks

Terry Fox Theatre: Named in honor of Terry Fox, this venue hosts a variety of cultural and community events.
Gates Park: A large park that offers sports facilities and natural spaces, reflecting the city's emphasis on active living and recreation.
Traboulay PoCo Trail: A 25-kilometer trail that encircles the city, offering scenic views and outdoor activities for residents and visitors.

Port Coquitlam continues to be a vibrant and growing community, known for its strong community spirit, green spaces, and its connection to the legacy of Terry Fox.