Boardwalk and River Market in New West

New Westminster's riverfront is one of Metro Van's quietly great free dates, and the secret is that it's two things in one. Walk Westminster Pier Park's long boardwalk right along the working Fraser River: tugboats, gulls, the old rail bridge, and a late-day glow that's genuinely underrated. Then duck into the River Market at the Quay, a free-to-enter indoor hall of food stalls, makers, and the occasional very specific shop where you can graze without committing to an actual menu. Browsing costs nothing; a shared snack costs very little. It's walkable straight from the SkyTrain, so no car required, and the whole thing has a small-town riverside feel about ten minutes from the city. Part of the park is mid-expansion through 2026, but the boardwalk and Market are open. Golden hour on the river is the move.

Duration

1½–2 hours

Best time

Daytime

Price / person

~$8–18 / person

Setting

Indoor / Outdoor

Neighbourhood

Westminster Quay / Pier Park

Best season

spring, summer, fall

Estimated ~$8–18 / person for a typical spend, as of 2026-06-22. A ballpark, not a quote. Call ahead or check the website for exact pricing.