New Westminster
Quick Facts
- Population (2006 Census)... 58,549
- Distance from Vancouver... 18 km (11 mi)
- Distance from Richmond... 22 km (13 mi)
- Distance from Whistler... 141 km (85 mi)
New Westminster is located at the geographic centre of Greater Vancouver. This charming city overlooks the Fraser River, with stunning views of Golden Ears Mountain and Washington State's Mount Baker.
New Westminster was the province's capital for two years in the 1860s, and is famous for its heritage buildings and the historic Fraser River waterfront, which played a significant role in the gold rush.
Today the community is very conscious of keeping this rich history alive and its many museums include the New Westminster Museum and Archives, the Irving House Historic Centre and the New Westminster Police Museum. Walking tours and paddlewheel riverboat tours are popular ways to explore the city's heritage past.
New Westminster boasts a wealth of arts, culture, entertainment and shopping opportunities, and is a centre for antiques and bridal shopping.
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2010 Host Cities
Venues & Visitor Centres
Transportation
Transportation to 2010 Winter Games Venue Cities
Visit www.travelsmart2010.ca for the latest information on travel during the 2010 Winter Games.
There will be no spectator parking at any Olympic venue.
To Richmond:
Richmond is approximately a 20-minute drive from New Westminster.
Public buses link New Westminster and Richmond. Travellers can also take the SkyTrain rapid transit system from New Westminster into downtown Vancouver then board the Canada Line for direct service into Richmond, including Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
To Vancouver:
Driving to Vancouver from New Westminster takes approximately 30 minutes.
The SkyTrain rapid transit system offers direct routes into Vancouver with five access stations in New Westminster. An extensive public bus network connects the two communities.
During Games time it’s best to take public transit as there will be road closures and limited parking. Extended transit service hours will be in place during February, 2010.
To West Vancouver:
West Vancouver is a 45-minute drive from New Westminster.
The SkyTrain rapid transit system offers direct routes into Vancouver with five access stations in New Westminster. From there, passengers can transfer to public buses to West Vancouver.
Tickets holders can only access Olympic events on Cypress Mountain via the Olympic Bus Network. View travel information and reserve bus tickets here.
To Whistler:
It takes approximately two hours to drive from New Westminster to Whistler with stunning views along the Sea to Sky Highway portion of the trip. Note that there will be driving restrictions in place along the Sea-to-Sky Highway during peak Games times.
Ticket holders to Olympic events in Whistler will be transported to and from their event location via the Olympic Bus Network. This bus network features departure points in Vancouver, Burnaby and North Vancouver.
It is possible to get to Whistler on public transit by taking the SkyTrain rapid transit system into Vancouver. From Vancouver, direct motorcoach service to Whistler is available from a variety of locations.
New Westminster has limited hotel accommodation located downtown.
Bed and breakfasts are spread throughout New Westminster and include several lovely heritage houses from the early 1900s.
Want to talk to an accommodations expert? We'll be happy to help you with your search over the phone. Call us directly at 1-800-HelloBC or 1-800-435-5622. If you're calling from overseas, dial 1-604-435-5622.
Things To Do
New Westminster is a history scholar's delight with seven museums offering unique collections focused on local history and sports.
Visitors can also see history in the streets while on a walking tour of heritage buildings dating from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s. Those who wish to take a piece of history home can seek their treasure in the antiques stores of Vintage Row.
New Westminster won't disappoint other shopping enthusiasts with the Westminster Quay Public Market by the Fraser River offering everything from produce and seafood to books and jewellery.
Walkers can explore inviting walking trails in 48 community parks in New Westminster. Snow sports beckon from the North Shore Mountains' three renowned ski areas which are just over 60-minutes drive from New Westminster.
Fans of performing arts can experience New Westminster's thriving arts community at one of the three local theatres.
Read more about what's happening in New Westminster.