Complete your World Chorfest 2018 experience by discovering some of the hidden (and not so hidden) gems of our host city! Richmond is a vibrant and growing suburb of Vancouver with its very own flavour and history. Approximately 218,307 people call the area home, including an immigrant population of 60 per cent – the highest in Canada. Richmond is also the location of Vancouver International Airport and was a host city for long-track speed skating events during the Vancouver 2018 Olympics. (Fun fact: The Richmond Olympic Oval has since been converted into a multi-sport facility for the community that boasts two hockey rinks, two running tracks, a climbing wall, a rowing tank and other amenities!)

Known as “the Island City, by Nature,” Richmond is located just 20 minutes south of Vancouver, British Columbia, Richmond is made up of a series of islands in the mouth of the Fraser River, including Sea Island, most of Lulu Island, and 15 smaller islands. Aside from your Chorfest-related commitments, there’s plenty to see and do while you’re here. Why not cycle the waterfront trails, go bird-watching in the wetlands, visit North America’s second largest Buddhist Temple, explore the gardens surrounding Minoru Chapel, or check out historic Steveston and Fisherman’s Wharf? Or, if you’ve got money to burn, check out the River Rock Casino Resort or one of the local malls, including Aberdeen Centre, Lansdowne Centre or Richmond Centre.

But whatever you do, be sure to use the official #Chorfest2018 hashtag on social media so we can follow along with your adventures!

Steveston

One of Richmond’s most popular destinations is the bustling fishing village known as Steveston. Breathe in the salt water air, watch the boats go by, and browse the shops and merchants along the boardwalk. This is a great place to pick up a handmade souvenir to take home!

Buddhist Temple

Constructed in 1981 by the International Buddhist Society in the traditional Chinese imperial style, this building is a magnificent piece of architecture to photograph and explore, above and beyond its religious significance. It is open to visitors of all faiths and cultural backgrounds.

Malls

Get an authentic Chinatown experience at Aberdeen Centre, an enclosed shopping mall with dozens of Asian-themed features and retail stores – plus a cinema and bowling alley. And while you’re there, make sure to visit Daiso for the ultimate shopping adventure. Yaohan Centre is another option – one of Richmond’s original Asian malls. Or, check out Richmond Centre and its $30 million Dining Terrace which opened in 2017, brimming with ample seating and 18 unique options for exotic dining. 

Minoru Park

Minoru Park is located in the heart of Richmond’s City Centre, featuring a lush green-space and a myriad of amenitities. We recommend taking a walk through the park and exploring its surrounding lakes, gardens and trees. Minoru Park is also the go-to place for major sporting events in Richmond, including soccer, baseball and beyond.

Garry Point Park

Garry Point Park is comprised of 75 acres of waterfront space adjacent to the historic Steveston Village. This is the place to go for picturesque vistas of the Fraser River and Gulf Islands, have a picnic, or watch the sunset. Garry Point Park also features the Kuno Garden, a Japanese-style memorial garden, and the the Fisherman’s Memorial Needle – an art installation on the south side of the park.

River Rock Casino Resort

BC’s largest casino is located right in Richmond! The River Rock Casino Resort is owned by Great Canadian Gaming Corporation and features 396 hotel rooms, a 450-seat show theatre, and a 144-berth marina.

Canada Line

The Canada Line is a two-line rapid transit system, connected to Vancouver’s SkyTrain network. One route operates between Waterfront (Downtown Vancouver) and YVR–Airport stations and a second route operates between Waterfront and Richmond–Brighouse stations. Using a mix of above-ground and tunnelled underground track, it will take you approximately 20 minutes to get from Richmond to Downtown Vancouver on the Canada Line, opening up a myriad of additional activities during your Chorfest stay.

Richmond Olympic Oval

The Richmond Olympic Oval was constructed as a venue for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and was home to the long-track speed skating events. The venue has since been reconfigured into a community sports facility for multiple uses but is more than worth checking out.

Richmond Dykes

For amazing views of the North Shore and Coastal Mountain ranges, be sure to visit the West Dyke Recreational Trail. This is another perfect place to watch the sun rise or set, or to go for a walk or a bike ride.

Richmond Nature Park

Enjoy 200 acres of wildlife habitat and four walking trails that will easily acquaint you with plants and animals in their natural setting of bogs, forests and ponds. Richmond Nature Park also features an interpretive centre located its entrance with interactive displays and games for all ages. Best of all, admission is free!

As you can see, there are a wealth of things to see and do on our beautiful island city. For additional options, check out some of the local blogs or even TripAdvisor for some of the top-rated suggestions.