Robert WebbI love seafood and some of the best I’ve had were from Steveston Village. It’s just a short hop in Richmond (richmond vancouver) from Vancouver, but the food experience there is something else.
The thing is, Steveston Village isn’t only about delicious seafood. So, if you’re up for a fantastic trip, I’ve got all the info you need right here!
What is Steveston Village known for?
Steveston Village in Richmond, BC, is best known for being a historic fishing village and a base for the whale-watching industry.
Here, you’ll find an interesting historic cannery district that keeps the memory alive of when they used to can a lot of salmon here.
There’s also the iconic fisherman’s wharf where you can watch boats unloading the day’s fresh catch.
Because of its unique charm, Steveston earned its pop culture stripes as the real-life setting for the hit TV show “Once Upon a Time,” masquerading as the enchanting Storybrooke.
Beyond the history stuff, Steveston is a popular place to start whale-watching adventures. Often called “Gateway to the Orca” as it’s close to the Fraser River and the big ocean, it’s a perfect spot to see orcas, humpback whales, and cool sea creatures.
Walking by the water, you’ll see lots of nice seafood restaurants. They serve up the fresh catches of the day, adding a tasty touch to the whole fishing vibe.
What is the story behind Steveston Village?
Steveston Village has a fascinating history dating back to the late 1800s when Manoah Steves, the early settler, and his family arrived. At first, it was mainly a farming area, but everything changed when the salmon canning industry took off.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Steveston became known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” because it was a buzzing center for salmon canneries.
Many people from different parts of the world came here to work. However, tough times came with the Great Depression and a decline in salmon numbers.
Despite challenges, Steveston adapted and became a major fishing port. The village has a mix of people connected to the sea and the land.
The fishing industry here has kept up with the times, using modern technology while holding onto its maritime traditions.
If you visit, you can explore the historic cannery district, where old buildings and museums tell the story of Steveston’s journey from a small settlement to a lively fishing community.
Today, Steveston Village is a living reminder of its tough and interesting past, blending history, maritime vibes, and a lively present.
Things to Know
Location: Steveston Village is located in Richmond, BC. It is approximately 20 km south of Downtown Vancouver.
Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Language: English is the primary language spoken in Steveston Village.
Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Traffic: The number of people walking around can change depending on the time of day and the season but generally, lots of people walk around Steveston Village, especially near the water.
On weekends or during special events like the Steveston Salmon Festival, even more people show up, and things get more crowded. The historic cannery district and seafood spots bring in visitors, making the village feel dynamic and active.
Parking: There are several parking options near Steveston Village. The ones in Garry Point Park and Steveston Community Park are public free parking lots, while the lots along 4th Avenue and Bayview Street are for pay parking.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Steveston Village is during the summer months (late June to early September) for milder weather that’s great for exploring outdoors. Canada Day also falls on a day in summer so expect a lot of celebration and visitors from all over.
Spring and fall are also good, offering pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Winter (November to March) may not be ideal due to colder temperatures and reduced outdoor activity options.
For prime whale watching, summer is the peak season, making it an excellent time for nature enthusiasts to plan their visit.
How to Get around Steveston Village
- Cars: Steveston Village is easily accessible by car, and there is ample parking available throughout the area, allowing visitors the flexibility to explore at their own pace.
- Buses: Richmond’s public transit system includes buses that connect Steveston Village to other parts of the city. The bus service provides a convenient and cost-effective option for those without a personal vehicle.
- Trains: While Steveston itself doesn’t have a train station, visitors can use the SkyTrain system, connecting to Richmond’s Aberdeen Station, and then take a bus or taxi to reach the village.
- Taxis or Ride-hailing Services: You can hail or reserve a taxi from Richmond Taxi or use the Lyft app to go around the city.
- Bikes: Steveston is bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and racks. Cycling is a popular option for exploring the village, as Richmond gets a 96/100 according to Walk Score.
What to Do in Steveston Village
Taste Fresh Seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is where fishing boats come in every day with their fresh catches. It’s a lively place where you can try seafood straight from the source.
Keep an eye out for salmon, rockfish, halibut, albacore tuna, sea urchins, and other fresh catches, and if you visit between mid-May and June, look out for the big and fresh prawns.
This spot really captures the feeling of life by the sea and is a great place to begin your Steveston adventure especially if you swing by on a weekend!
Wander and Wonder through Steveston Village
Steveston Village invites leisurely walks through its picturesque outdoors. Along the waterfront boardwalk, historic streets, and Garry Point Park, visitors can experience a serene ambiance.
The historic cannery district adds an extra layer of charm, making it a delightful spot to wander and a perfectly Instagrammable destination just outside of Vancouver.
And…while the main areas are fantastic, don’t hesitate to wander down the quieter side streets. There are local art galleries, quaint cafes, and nice boutiques that are worth checking out!
Pedal through Steveston Village and Beyond
The village, with its bike-friendly lanes, offers a delightful cycling experience through historic streets and scenic waterfront views. Extend your adventure along the Richmond Dyke Trail, which promises expansive vistas along the Fraser River.
If you need to rent a bike while you’re there, you can visit Village Bikes!
Enjoy a Picnic by the Waterfront
Pack a picnic and enjoy it by the waterfront. Garry Point Park has lovely picnic spots, providing a perfect setting to savor local treats while taking in the scenic views of the Fraser River.
As you’re preparing your food, check the tide schedule too for some beachcombing. During low tide, Garry Point Park’s shoreline reveals fascinating treasures like shells, driftwood, and marine life, making for a unique coastal exploration.
Watch Whales for an Exciting Adventure
Situated near the Pacific Ocean, the village provides a prime location for spotting orcas and humpback whales. Especially during the summer months, visitors have the best chances of witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Seabreeze Adventures is stationed at Steveston, and you can allot three to five hours for their Zodiac or Semi-enclosed whale watching tour.
Travel Back in Time at Britannia Shipyards
Preserving the village’s rich heritage, Britannia Shipyards located at the eastern end of Imperial Landing features rare buildings, residences, and shipyards that go all the way back to 1885.
Interactive displays and guided tours provide insights into Steveston’s bustling past as a fishing and shipbuilding community. It’s a National Historic Site and it’s just a few minutes away from the village centre.
Tips when Visiting
- Feast on freshness. Indulge in the freshest catches by trying seafood from local vendors. Steveston is renowned for its seafood, and sampling it directly from the wharf ensures a delicious and authentic experience.
- Embrace village time. Slow down and savor the village pace. Steveston’s relaxed atmosphere encourages visitors to take their time, enjoy the scenic beauty, explore local shops, and immerse themselves in the maritime ambiance.
- Check out the local events calendar. Steveston hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, offering a chance to experience the village in a festive and lively atmosphere.
- Stop by the Tourist Information Centre. If you’re visiting Richmond’s city center, you can get maps, event schedules, and insider tips to enhance your visit to Steveston Village from the Tourist Information Centre.
- Leave your car in Vancouver. Opt for public transportation from Vancouver to Steveston to save on parking fees and enjoy a scenic ride. Some buses and trains link Vancouver to Steveston for cost-effective travel.
Where to Stay near Steveston Village
Panda Pod Hotel
Address: 6940 No. 3 Rd, Richmond, BC V6Y 2C5, Canada
Phone: +1 778-308-4083
Price: $$
Panda Pod is the first capsule hotel in Greater Vancouver. They provide a private bed that’s about 6.6 feet long, 43 inches wide, and 43 inches high, plus a shared living area for guests.
It’s a great choice if you’re traveling alone (solo travel vancouver) and want to meet fellow tourists. Plus, it’s just a quick 9-minute drive to Steveston Village!
Executive Hotel Vancouver Airport
Address: 7311 Westminster Hwy, Richmond, BC V6X 1A3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-278-5555
Price: $$
Another hotel just about 8 minutes away from Steveston is the Executive Hotel Vancouver Airport. With 290 rooms, 16 conference rooms, and plenty of multipurpose space, it’s an excellent choice for when you’re visiting for leisure or business.
This hotel has cool stuff like a heated pool, rooftop garden, and jogging trail. Plus, there are three restaurants right there that you might really enjoy!
Hilton Vancouver Airport
Address: 5911 Minoru Blvd, Richmond, BC V6X 4C7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-273-6336
Price: $$$
The Hilton Vancouver Airport is approximately 7.2 kilometers away and just a quick 9-minute drive to Steveston Village.
This hotel is one of the nice recommendations in the area and is conveniently located, being only five minutes away from the CF Richmond Centre and other exciting attractions.
AMTD Versante Hotel
Address: 8499 Bridgeport Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 1R7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-242-7777
Price: $$$
AMTD Versante Hotel is 11 minutes away from Steveston Village – or around 30 minutes if you’re biking. If you’re feeling lucky and want to add a casino night to your plans, you can easily swing by the River Rock Resort from here.
This hotel not only gives you comfy rooms and all the things you need but also has a bright and lively personality.
The designs are fancy and luxurious, which makes for a cool contrast with the laid-back vibe of Steveston Village, giving you an interesting time.
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Vancouver Airport
Address: 8640 Alexandra Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 1C4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-276-2711
Price: $$
La Quinta Inn is a great place for families and is close to lots of recommended restaurants and cool places like the Richmond Art Gallery.
If you want to go to Steveston Village, it’s only about a 30-minute bike ride from the hotel. And if you’re exploring other parts of Richmond or going downtown, the inn is just one block away from the SkyTrain station!
Where to Eat
CAVU Kitchen Bar
Address: 5911 Minoru Blvd, Richmond, BC V6X 4C7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-232-5001
Price: $$
CAVU Kitchen Bar is in the Hilton Vancouver Airport Hotel, and they’re famous for their delicious burgers, tiramisu, waffles, and French toast. They also serve locally roasted coffee that goes great with their food.
If you’re up for it, you can check out their breakfast buffet to taste even more of their yummy offerings.
Memory Corner
Address: 4651 Garden City Rd #1110, Richmond, BC V6X 2K4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-284-5434
Price: $$
Richmond, known for its diverse community and delicious Asian flavors, has a gem called Memory Corner, a restaurant that specializes in Taiwanese food.
Here, you’ll find their famous crispy popcorn chicken served in big portions. But whether it’s the beef stew, lamb hot pot, or fried noodles, Memory Corner has a variety of dishes that might just become your new favorites!
Acre Through The Seasons
Address: 8400 West Rd #115, Richmond, BC V6X 0S7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-242-2760
Price: $
If you’re up for something fancy, check out Acre through the Seasons. They have special menus that change with the seasons, showing off the chefs’ cool technical skills.
They make dishes with wild game, tasty harvests, and fresh seafood. The best part is they get these ingredients from their very own farm on Cortes Island, so everything is super fresh!
LA Grill and Bistro
Address: 8100 No 2 Rd #128, Richmond, BC V7C 5J9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-277-8355
Price: $$
Great service and affordable prices – that’s what’s keeping LA Grill and Bistro top of mind for many of its patrons.
If you’re into it, their popular steak and garlic prawns are a hit and can easily compete with other restaurants in the area in terms of value.
And, if you like tasty cocktails, they’ve got some pretty strong ones here too – just what you might be looking for after a day of exploring at the fisherman’s wharf!
