From Vancouver to New Westminster: A Sky Train Away

(Photo by Flickr user Shizhao)

After exploring downtown Vancouver, you may want to see more historic sites and explore neary cities. Where do you go?  And what is the best way to travel for a last minute trip?

A mere 20-minute Sky Train ride will bring you to Western Canada’s oldest city and once the capital of British Columbia (from 1858-1866), New Westminster. Known as the Royal City, it was named by Queen Victoria after her favorite London neighborhood, the Westminster.

This quick trip is about 12 miles southeast of Vancouver, located in the north bank of the Fraser River. First stop must be at New Westminster Museum and Archives. This place houses the history of the city’s old glory. After getting nostalgic with the museum’s extensive collection of memorabilia, continue your walk through history by visiting the Irving House. It was the once the home of Captain William Irving, known as the King of the River because he was the most successful of all the riverboat captains. Continue learning about this city by proceeding to the floating maritime museum, the Samson V Paddler Wheeler.

What comes next is shopping at the New Westminster Quay Public Market. This is where you can stock up on souvenirs, feast on salmon, or enjoy a coffee break while enjoying the sights.

From the market, join a walking tour to the Fraser Discovery Centre, where the cultural and historical significance of the Fraser River are explained to visitors along the way. Tackling more of the city sites depends on your timetable. Recommended places are the Antique Alley along Front Street, Columbia Street (because of its old buildings and interesting shops), Old Court House, City Hall, Armoury, Burr Block/Queens Hotel, churches, Queens Park and Stanley Park. This trip route goes back to central Vancouver which is just a few minutes away via Sky Train.

Comments

[Golf Rental]

i was there, very nice