For this week’s Creative Communities feature, we’ve compiled a list of some our favourite things to do within New Westminster. From historic Queens Park, all the way to the Quay, New Westminster has something to offer people of all walks of life. Whether you’re looking for entertainment, arts and culture, or a culinary experience, you can use our list to experience “historical streets with a modern twist and enriched culture” (Tourism New Westminster). Become an explorer and witness all that makes up the #RoyalCity.
1. WOW Westminster
Spanning over 140 feet, WOW Westminster is one of the most beautiful features bordering the Fraser River. Comprising of four forty-foot shipping containers arranged to form a majestic “W”, the José Resende piece is the perfect encapsulation of both the arts and economic hustle bustle that makes New Westminster as the special transportation hub it is.
2. New Media Gallery
Following its highly acclaimed VOICING exhibition on the evolution, boundaries, and emotional territories of the human voice, the New Media Gallery in the Anvil Centre is back with a new exhibition. CORPUS, explores the ontological states of being and various artists interpretations on the changes in ones humanity based on the world transformed by new technologies.
3. River Market at Westminster Quay
Home of 15+ restaurants, shops, and institutes, the River Market at the Westminster Quay has offerings for just about anyone. International cuisine, BBQ, Mid-Century style décor, if you’re hungry and curious, this is the place for you! For unsure first timers, Art-BC recommends trying out Wild Rice Market Bistro. Self identified as a “socially conscious restaurant serving local cuisine”, Wild Rice prides itself on serving seasonal, and sustainable menu offerings with a Chinese influence. Wild Rice is an ethical choice that emphasizes the local aspect of its cuisine and décor through both its menu and featured curated art from Van Dop Gallery.
4. Samson V Maritime Museum
Just a quick walk from the River Market, Go visit the last steam-powered sternwheeler to operate in Canada at the Samson V Maritime Museum. After being retired in 1980, the vessel was sold to the City of New Westminster for one dollar on the understanding that the vessel would be preserved as a museum and that it occupy a unique place in the Province’s and City’s maritime heritage. The Samson V remains the only completely intact and floating wooden sternwheeler in North America, and it is something you can only visit in the #RoyalCity
5. Irving House Historic Centre
If there is a central heritage site in the Royal City, it’s the Irving house. Labelled as the “handsomest” house by the British Columbian newspaper back in 1865, the ornate ceiling plasterwork, elaborate fireplaces, formal dining room, and the classic parlour is sure to wow anyone. Well worth the visit? We think so!
6. Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame
Officially opening in 1966, the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame has been a keeper of the history of our national summer sport. From chronicling the deep roots lacrosse has in First Nations culture, the Hall features engaging exhibitions that present the games development from its inception to its transition into modern life. Other exhibits feature the evolution of the lacrosse stick, and the championship trophies. Located in the Anvil Centre, the Hall Invites those who are new or already a part of the #RoyalCity community to visit and walk down memory lane with through the history of lacrosse greats, box players, field players, builders, and teams.
We hoped you enjoyed our list! Let us know what your favourite places in the historic #RoyalCity are, and make sure to use both the #RoyalCity and tag @art-bc in your post so we can repost all of our favourite responses!
