Things to Do in Steveston, BC: A Perfect Blend of History, Shopping, and Coastal Charm
Looking for a way to pass the day that allows you to easily escape the urban life to a small village along the water?
Or maybe you’re visiting the Vancouver area and looking for something a little different. Check out this historic corner of Richmond for shopping, food, water & history.
Steveston is just 12 km (7.5 miles) from the Vancouver airport (YVR) so it is an easy excursion. A village feel within reach of urban life.
Fast Facts
- Population: 4600 (Steveston Village, approx)
- Accommodations: B&B, Vacation rental, hotels in Richmond
- How to Get Here: Car, City Transit
- Dining: Seafood, Asian, Pub
Today I’m sharing the best things to do in Steveston, BC where there is a little something for everyone.
1. Exploring Steveston Village
Moncton Street
Start out by strolling down Moncton Street to get a feel for the village. The main retail area is only a few blocks long so you can always come back later for a second look.
As you walk along, you’ll find charming shops, cafes, and restaurants that showcase the unique character of this quaint fishing village.
There’s a couple of bookshops, a big toy store, souvenir shops and more. Be sure to wander the side streets too.
2. Explore Steveston’s History
Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site
Next, head to the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site to learn about the area’s rich history in the fishing industry.
This interactive museum offers plenty of exhibits and hands-on displays, which let you dive into Steveston’s past as a major hub for salmon canning and later, herring reduction plants. Steveston’s location at the mouth of the Fraser River made it the perfect location for processing fish.
The cannery was in operation until the late 1970’s and re-opened as a museum in the 1990’s.
Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site
Another piece of Steveston’s maritime history can be explored at the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site. Here, you’ll get a glimpse into the lives of the people who worked and lived in the shipyard community during its heyday in the early 20th century.
Wander through restored buildings and homes to experience the stories of the diverse community that called the shipyards home.
Steveston Museum
Take a trip back in time at the Steveston Museum. Located in a restored heritage building, the museum shares the stories of the village’s early beginnings as a salmon canning center.
With exhibits featuring photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays, this small local museum offers a fascinating look into Steveston’s history.
Steveston Tram
These days Steveston is easily accessible from Richmond and Vancouver, but in the early 1900’s it was quite the journey. The Steveston tram was an important part of the village’s history making it possible to make the trip in just 45 minutes.
This beautifully restored tram is housed in a building in a park like setting. Admission is free and docents are available to answer questions.
For example, we learned that the wooden seats in the foreground of this photo were for the smoking section. The section in the front of the tram had what looked like woven straw seats. More comfortable but also seriously more flammable, so they were only in the non-smoking section.
For more information on visiting Steveston’s historic sites visit: Steveston Heritage Sites
3. Shopping and Entertainment
Best of British
While exploring Steveston, you’ll come across a variety of unique stores and art galleries. One such gem is the Best of British, a gift shop offering a taste of the UK right here in British Columbia.
Being Anglophiles, we were giddy browsing through their selection of classic British items, such as teas, chocolate (like Cadbury’s!), biscuits, jams, and memorabilia.
Splash Toy Shop
If you have young ones in your life, you will want to stop at Splash Toy Shop. They have an impressive selection of toys, play sets and puzzles. This independently run shop will appeal to all ages with wonder for the little ones and nostalgia for the grown ups.
What has been filmed in Steveston
Steveston has also gained fame as a filming location for several popular TV shows and films. ‘Once Upon a Time,’ a show set in the fictional town of Storybrooke, was primarily filmed here. As you stroll through the streets, you can enjoy the familiar sights like “Granny’s Diner” and Fisherman’s Wharf.
Special Events
You’ll find live music events, art exhibitions, and festivals taking place regularly in the village, making it a lively and vibrant destination. The Richmond Tourism board has a calendar of events across the city, including Steveston.
If you are looking to avoid the crowds, you may want to double check the events calendar to know when not to go 😀.
4. Strolling The Waterfront
Steveston’s Boardwalk and Fisherman’s Wharf
If the weather is nice, or you have a hankering for fresh seafood right off the boat, then you will want to stroll down to Fisherman’s Wharf, which buzzes with activity as you stroll along the iconic wooden boardwalk.
You can stroll the boardwalk along the river, and then head under the arched sign down to the dock where the boats are parked.
The boardwalk has a few restaurants along here, many with some outdoor seating. One famous spot for seafood is Pajo’s, which floats in the water.
Garry Point Park
From the boardwalk, head around the Gulf of Georgia cannery and continue west. It looks like you are walking down and alley, but keep going and you will reach Garry Point Park.
This park offers an expansive green space along the Fraser River, perfect for picnicking, kite-flying, or just taking in the stunning views over the Strait of Georgia and Gulf Islands.
This park is located where the Fraser River and Strait of Georgia meet. We were lucky enough to see a cargo ship closer to shore than I have ever seen one.
If you time your visit right, you might even catch the lovely sunsets that Garry Point Park is known for.
Be sure to find the small Japanese garden as well. The park was very dry in August but this area was a little oasis.
5. Best Places to Eat in Steveston
One of the biggest dilemmas as you explore Steveston is where to eat. There are so many good looking choices. When you are ready to take a break, here are some ideas.
Seafood Delights
A popular destination among seafood lovers has long been Dave’s Fish and Chips, offering up fresh and crispy fish and chips. In operation since 1978, it’s a Steveston institution at this point.
For another option, make your way to Pajo’s for some delicious and satisfying fish and chips by the water.
Steveston Pizza Co.
Aside from seafood, Steveston has another popular option in the village – the Steveston Pizza Co.. Their mouthwatering pizzas are topped with an array of unique ingredients like seafood, shrimp, caviar, wasabi teriyaki chicken, and seaweed julienne. Of course there are more traditional toppings available as well for the pickier eaters in your crew.
Ice cream
Be sure to leave room for dessert. Head over to Timothy’s Frozen Yogurt & Gelato for a variety of gelato flavors made on site and served in freshly made waffle cones. Mix and match flavors, and enjoy a sweet treat with a view of the Richmond waterfront.
6. Outdoor Activities
Once your food has settled, you may want to burn off a few calories to make room for ice cream before heading home.
Whale Watching
Steveston, BC, offers amazing whale watching opportunities for you and your family. Hop aboard a tour with Vancouver Whale Watch or Steveston Seabreeze Adventures and keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales, orcas, seals, and eagles. These guided tours provide a unique and exciting experience, but only operate mid spring to early fall (you probably don’t want to be on an open boat the rest of the year anyways, brrr).
Walk or Bike South Dyke Trail
Another popular outdoor activity in Steveston is exploring the South Dyke Trail. This scenic path is perfect for walking or biking, offering a chance to enjoy nature while staying active. As you follow the trail, you’ll be treated to picturesque views of the water and agricultural land.
One thing I appreciate about Richmond is despite being one of the nearest suburbs to Vancouver, there are still acres and acres of farmland.
Catch the trail at the east end of Steveston along the water near No. 2 road. You can also download a map from Richmond Parks and Rec website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Steveston Village?
Getting to Steveston Village is quite easy. If you’re coming from Vancouver, you can take the Canada Line Skytrain towards Richmond-Brighouse and get off at the Richmond-Brighouse Station. From there, you can catch a bus (No. 401 or 402) to take you directly to Steveston Village.
By car, from Vancouver take Granville street to the Arthur Laing bridge. Take the exit for Russ Baker Way, which will turn into No. 2 road. Turn right on the Steveston Hwy. Turn left on No. 1 road, and right on Chatham.
From the US border/Hwy 99. Right after the tunnel, take the Steveston exit. Turn left on Steveston Hwy and follow it to No. 1 road. Turn left on No. 1, and then right on Chatham.
What’s the best time to visit Steveston?
Steveston is still a residential area, but attracts a fair share of tourists. Weekends can be busy, especially if the weather is good or there is an event happening.
If your schedule is flexible, a weekday visit will be more low key and relaxed. We recently explored on a Monday in August and had no trouble finding parking.
As with many tourist towns, a few shops may be closed on Mondays.
The best time of year to visit is generally May through September. Since much of your time will be spent strolling outside, this is when temperatures are warmest, and there is less chance of rain.
Where can I park?
There is plenty of street parking along Chatham street just west of the Gulf of Georgia cannery, as well as some pay parking lots.
If you start your stroll in Garry Point park you will find a decent sized parking lot there as well.
More about the History and Heritage of Steveston
Steveston has a rich history as a fishing village in British Columbia. It was named after Manoah Steves, who arrived in 1877 with his family and purchased the land that would become Steveston Village.
The village soon developed a thriving fishing industry, with many Japanese, Chinese, and European immigrants settling in the area and working on the numerous canneries that once lined the waterfront.
The Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site played an essential role in the history of the West Coast fishing industry. Steveston at the turn of the century (the 19th century that is) attracted a large number of Japanese immigrants drawn by the abundant fish of the Fraser River.
The Japanese community was an important part of Steveston’s history, including funding the first hospital in the village.
The Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site is a living reminder of the fishing and boat-building industries that were once the lifeblood of the community. You can explore the preserved wooden structures and take a step back in time to experience the lives of the Japanese, Chinese, and First Nations workers who contributed to Steveston’s early development.
The Steveston Museum offers another glimpse into the past, with exhibits highlighting the area’s early settlers, including Manoah Steves, who played a crucial role in the development of Steveston.
The museum also presents important stories of other settlers as well as the internment of Japanese Canadians during WWII.
The City of Richmond produced this video on the history of Steveston and it explains its history in more detail.