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Journey through time in Steveston, one of Canada’s most historic fishing villages
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Richmond, BC Time travel may seem impossible but the small village of Steveston, just outside of Vancouver, will leave you with hope. If you’re looking to escape the urban crowds, it's the perfect afternoon getaway at just an hour by transit from downtown.
Steveston is a neighborhood in the south-west of Richmond, BC. It lies right at the start of the south arm of the Fraser River. Historically it is one of the most important fishing villages on the West Coast, highlighted by its salmon canning history, 1900s architecture and delicious seafood.
This rich fishing heritage is perfectly blended with a charming village atmosphere of local shops, restaurants and waterfront walks. So, whether you’re tired from daily life in the big city, or looking to plan a relaxed day as part of a bigger trip… here’s how to connect with the village's history and the modern day.
1) Learn through the Gulf of Georgia Cannery
Steveston holds a National Historic Site of Canada: The Gulf of Georgia Cannery. Built in 1894, it was the largest salmon canning facility in BC at the time, anchoring Canada's west coast fishing industry.
Fish canning employed thousands of BC workers and drove the province's exports.
Photo:
Darius Fuladi
The cannery's key exhibits include a salmon canning line, a herring reduction plant and a feature exhibit space.
Today the cannery has been preserved as a museum to recognize the village’s impact on Canada. You can explore interactive exhibits, workshops, films and tours to learn about the facility’s role in the country’s fishing industry.
Tickets are around $15 with a discount for seniors and free admission for children 17 and under.
*Admission to the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site will be FREE from through September 7, 2026.
2) Experience the Fraser River through a walk in Garry Point Park
Garry Point is a large public park at the end of the Steveston waterfront. It offers scenic views of the Fraser River and the Strait of Georgia.
It has a unique landscape of gently rolling open grasslands that make it perfect for a number of activities. You can walk or run the paths that loop around Garry Point, or fly kites, walk dogs and play sports in the open fields. There are also designated barbecue zones where families and friends can set up afternoon picnics.
Photo:
Darius Fuladi
The park occupies 30 hectares of grasslands that are looped by a 1.3km trail.
There is a lookout point at the end of the park that many consider one of the best places in Richmond to catch a sunset. Wild flowers dot the grounds, and blue herons are frequent visitors.
Garry Point honors Steveston's rich Japanese heritage through Kuno Garden, a Japanese memorial garden. It also features the Steveston Fisherman's Memorial, a monument dedicated to those who lost their lives working in the village's bustling fishing industry.
3) Overlook the harbour while dining in Steveston Landing
Steveston Harbour is the largest commercial fishing harbour in Canada. You can get up close to the action through Fisherman’s Wharf, a floating walkway that threads between the fishing boats, and the accompanying Steveston Landing boardwalk of shops and restaurants.
There are tons of boats with large offerings of different types of fish. Be sure to check out what’s in season here when planning your visit.
There is a lookout point at the end of the park that many consider one of the best places in Richmond to catch a sunset. Wild flowers dot the grounds, and blue herons are frequent visitors.
Garry Point honors Steveston's rich Japanese heritage through Kuno Garden, a Japanese memorial garden.
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It also features the Steveston Fisherman's Memorial, a monument dedicated to those who lost their lives working in the village's bustling fishing industry.
3) Overlook the harbour while dining in Steveston Landing
Steveston Harbour is the largest commercial fishing harbour in Canada. You can get up close to the action through Fisherman’s Wharf, a floating walkway that threads between the fishing boats, and the accompanying Steveston Landing boardwalk of shops and restaurants.
There are tons of boats with large offerings of different types of fish. Be sure to check out what’s in season here when planning your visit.
Photo:
Darius Fuladi
The wharf is a unique opportunity to purchase fresh seafood straight from the boat and into your hands.
But if cooking isn't on the agenda, you can dine at one of the Steveston Landing restaurants while overlooking the harbour as the sun sets. Some even sit right on the water! Keep an eye out too, if you’re lucky, you may spot a swimming sea lion or otter.
Finish the day with a scoop from one of the nearby ice cream shops, and pick up a souvenir from one of the local stores to remember your time in Steveston.
More about Steveston
- Japanese Canadians were a large part of Steveston’s original population. The Japanese influence has left a lasting impact on the village and there remains a sizable community throughout. For more about Steveston’s Japanese heritage visit the Steveston Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre website.
- Steveston is a popular filming location for both film and television. The village was a backdrop to hits such as ABC’s Once Upon a Time, Godzilla (2014) and Power Rangers (2017). If you spot a bunch of large white trailers you’ve likely found an active film set. Learn more on Tourism Richmond.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Tips for Steveston
- Public restrooms are scarce and hours are limited.
- Public parking is extremely limited, especially weekends.
- Some restaurants offer dog friendly patios.
For more info visit the Tourism Richmond website.
Getting to Steveston
Driving 45 minutes from downtown Vancouver via Highway 99 South and Steveston Highway
Transit 1 hour from downtown Vancouver via Canada Line and either 401/402/407 bus
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