It’s vibrant. It’s beautiful. It’s culture-rich. And it has a lot to offer. Frankly, there are plenty of reasons why Vancouverites continue to frequent Richmond. But just in case you were wondering, there are so many ways to experience Richmond’s raw beauty and real character. And immersing yourself in its authentically Pacific cultural, culinary and natural offerings is the best place to start.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. With the help of Tourism Richmond, we rounded up six uniquely Richmond experiences that you need to try RN.

Tourism Richmond - Boat on Harbour
Photo by Tourism Richmond

STEVESTON STORIES & COMMUNITY TREASURES

Steveston Village is one of Metro Vancouver’s most culturally rich neighbourhoods with a long and strong legacy. And the best way to understand this legacy is by taking a walk down memory lane. And that’s what this tour of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site does. You get to talk to people and get insider info on the working fishing village. Plus, you get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how treasures and artifacts are collected.

When: August 9 and 23, 2 pm

VOYAGE OF THE GIKUMI: EXPLORING THE FRASER RIVER ESTUARY

Another truly pacific experience is to explore the mighty Fraser River in true Steveston style… in an authentic BC wooden work boat. This is a 3-hour voyage that begins at Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site. And it goes on to unravel some really engaging stories, lore and legends. These stories and legends are what make the Fraser River an integral life-supporting force here.

When: August 6, 7, 19, 22 and 23

Lady eating in Richmond
Photo by Tourism Richmond

DINE LIKE A CRITIC

Richmond’s exquisite Chinese cuisine is no secret. And you can now embark on an exceptional culinary journey of authentic and authentically innovative Chinese cuisine with Globe and Mail food critic, Alexandra Gill. Your premium dining experience will include three award-winning restaurants serving up Cantonese, hot pot and regional Chinese cuisine. This is a delicious discovery of Richmond’s Asian-influenced foodscape.

When: Custom Tour

WILDLIFE SPECTACULAR

The West Coast has more to offer than just history, stories and legends. It also has stunning marine wildlife. And marine safari of sorts will take you up close to the amazing aquatic animals and birds here. From the majestic Humpback Whale to the magnificent Orcas to cute Sea Lions to the many beautiful birds, there’s plenty to enjoy here.

When: Daily, August 1 – 30

Tourism Richmond Whale Watching Tour
Photo via Tourism Richmond

ATHLETES INSPIRING EXCELLENCE

Of course, we are talking about the Richmond Olympic Oval. This is a behind-the-scenes tour of the world-class training facility of Canadian Olympic athletes. But there’s more. You actually get to meet with Olympians and learn about their personal journeys. Plus, you can channel your inner Olympian by participating in a sports demonstration facilitated by these athletes.

When: Custom Tour

BIRDING 101

Richmond is known to be one of the best places in North America for birding, thanks to the range of species that call it home (sometimes temporarily). From warblers to wigeons and sandpipers to swallows, you’ll find some spectacular birds here. And now you can go on a Pacific Flyway migratory route exploration with a local ornithologist and expert birder.

When: August 7

If you’ve missed out on any of these experiences, you haven’t really experienced Richmond or even the authentic Pacific. And frankly, it would be a shame to be this close to Richmond and miss out on all these amazing experiences.

TOURISM RICHMOND