Westminster Pier Park Vancouver
Waterfront park with a playground, sports facilities, and a scenic boardwalk along the Fraser River.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for playground & sports
Westminster Pier Park Vancouver
Best Time
Best for playground & sports

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Waterfront park with a playground, sports facilities, and a scenic boardwalk along the Fraser River.
"A perfect blend of natural beauty and fun activities for the whole family!"
🚶♀️ Evening Stroll Safety
Stick to the River Market & Esplanade after dark; Pier Park itself can feel unsafe.
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking is available but not free. Factor this into your visit budget.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Boardwalk
Along the Fraser River
A revitalized walkway offering scenic river and bridge views, perfect for a stroll or fitness.

Kid-Friendly Playground
East end of the park
A large, engaging play area with a thrilling slide that kids absolutely adore.

Fraser River Views
Waterfront promenade
Stunning panoramic vistas of the Fraser River and the iconic Pattullo Bridge.

Shine Bright Installation
Various points along the park
Unique nighttime light installations, including the 'Pile Forest' replicating historic dock structures.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Boardwalk
Evening Safety Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Evening Stroll Safety
Stick to the River Market & Esplanade after dark; Pier Park itself can feel unsafe.
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking is available but not free. Factor this into your visit budget.
☀️ Daytime Family Fun
The playground is a huge hit with kids; bring them for an afternoon of play!
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the bridge and river, especially during golden hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Evening Stroll Safety
Stick to the River Market & Esplanade after dark; Pier Park itself can feel unsafe.
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking is available but not free. Factor this into your visit budget.
☀️ Daytime Family Fun
The playground is a huge hit with kids; bring them for an afternoon of play!
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the bridge and river, especially during golden hour.
💡 Nighttime Ambiance
Check out the 'Shine Bright' installations for a magical evening experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Westminster Pier Park for its beautiful waterfront views, engaging playground, and well-maintained facilities, making it a great spot for families and recreation. While the park offers a pleasant atmosphere, especially during events, some users note that parking is not free and express concerns about safety in certain areas after dark.
"This park is a fantastic place to visit, offering both scenic views and meaningful architecture. You can enjoy stunning sights of the bridge and Fraser River, making it a great spot for photography. The playground is a highlight, with a large slide that kids absolutely love. It's a perfect blend of natural beauty and fun activities for the whole family!"
Maxwell W
"Westminster Pier Park is a fantastic place to spend quality time with your family and enjoy a game of basketball. The park is well-maintained, and the facilities are in excellent condition. The basketball court is a great attraction for those who enjoy playing the sport, and there is plenty of space for everyone to participate.
The park also has ample parking, making it convenient for visitors to park their vehicles. However, it should be noted that parking is not free and may be a minor inconvenience for some visitors.
Overall, Westminster Pier Park is a must-visit for families and sports enthusiasts. The park provides a fun, safe, and enjoyable environment for people of all ages to enjoy. If you are looking for a place to spend quality time with your loved ones, Westminster Pier Park is an excellent choice."
Salar Sedigh
"I recently experienced the vibrant atmosphere of New Westminster Pier Park, and it was fantastic! The park hosted a free music show that brought the place to life. Families gathered, and children played on the grassy area while enjoying the tunes. The presence of food trucks and a snack shop offered a variety of delicious treats to satisfy any craving. What I loved most was the opportunity to chill out by the sea, feeling the cool breeze and admiring the panoramic views. It's a perfect spot to relax, enjoy live music, and create lasting memories in a beautiful waterfront setting."
Tommy Chan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Westminster Pier Park by car, public transit, or even ferry. Driving from Vancouver typically takes around 30-40 minutes via BC-1 E. Public transit options include SkyTrain to New Westminster Station, followed by a short bus ride or walk. The Aquabus also offers ferry service to the nearby River Market.
Yes, there is parking available at Westminster Pier Park. However, it is important to note that parking is not free and may incur charges. Visitors have mentioned that finding free parking nearby can be challenging.
Currently, the direct waterfront connection between River Market and Westminster Pier Park is under construction. While there are short extensions open, you cannot walk directly along the water for the entire stretch. Check local updates for the latest on the boardwalk's completion.
Absolutely! New Westminster SkyTrain station is a short distance away, and from there, you can take a bus or enjoy a pleasant walk to the park. The Aquabus ferry also provides a scenic route to the River Market, which is adjacent to the park.
For those without a car, taking the SkyTrain to New Westminster Station is a convenient option. From the station, it's a manageable walk or a short bus ride to the park. The Aquabus ferry is another excellent choice for a scenic arrival at the nearby River Market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Westminster Pier Park is a public park and does not have an admission fee. Entry to the park itself is free for all visitors.
Westminster Pier Park is generally open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy its amenities throughout the day. Specific installations like the 'Shine Bright' lights may have their own operating times.
There is no need to book tickets in advance as Westminster Pier Park is a public space. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
The park occasionally hosts free music shows and other community events, especially during warmer months. It's a good idea to check the City of New Westminster's event calendar for any upcoming happenings.
The playground is an outdoor facility and is generally accessible year-round, weather permitting. Its popularity makes it a great spot for families any time of year.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a scenic walk or run on the boardwalk, play at the large playground, shoot hoops on the basketball court, have a picnic on the green spaces, or simply relax and enjoy the Fraser River views.
While the River Market area is considered safe, some visitors have reported feeling unsafe in Westminster Pier Park itself after dark due to its current disconnectedness and potential for loitering. It's recommended to stick to well-lit areas like the River Market or Esplanade for nighttime walks.
Yes, restrooms are available within Westminster Pier Park, making it convenient for visitors to spend extended periods enjoying the facilities.
Information about public Wi-Fi availability at Westminster Pier Park is not widely advertised. It's advisable to have your own mobile data plan for connectivity.
The 'Shine Bright' installations are nighttime light features, including the 'Pile Forest,' which creatively replicates the look of old telephone poles under historic docks. They add a unique ambiance to the park after dark.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Adjacent to the park, the River Market offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. There are also food trucks and a snack shop often present during events.
Near Pier Park, you can find diverse culinary choices at the River Market, including cafes, international cuisine, and local favorites. Angelina's Dutch Corner is also recommended for brunch.
Yes, the park features open green spaces perfect for picnics. You can bring your own food and enjoy a meal with scenic waterfront views.
Yes, there is a concession stand located within the park, offering snacks and refreshments for visitors.
Several restaurants within the River Market, located right next to Pier Park, offer excellent views of the Fraser River, enhancing your dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk offers fantastic vantage points for capturing the Fraser River, the Pattullo Bridge, and the city skyline. The 'Pile Forest' installation is also a unique subject, especially at night.
Absolutely! The western exposure along the Fraser River makes Westminster Pier Park an ideal location for sunset photography, with beautiful light reflecting off the water and bridge.
The park itself features modern architecture, including the revitalized boardwalk and playground. The 'Pile Forest' installation offers a unique, historical-themed photographic opportunity.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Daytime is great for capturing the vibrant colors of the playground and the activity on the river.
Yes, the 'Shine Bright' installations are designed to be visually appealing and are excellent subjects for night photography, creating a magical atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the park is great for daytime fun, be mindful of evening safety. Stick to the River Market area for nighttime strolls if you have young children. The ample parking, though not free, makes getting there with kids a bit easier.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid the midday crowds and enjoy the best light for your workout. The park's open layout encourages movement and exploration.
📸 Photographers
Be aware that direct waterfront access for photography might be impacted by ongoing construction. However, the existing viewpoints still offer excellent compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Revitalized Boardwalk
The boardwalk not only provides a pleasant space for walking and fitness but also offers stunning views of the Fraser River and the iconic Pattullo Bridge. It's a key feature that draws people to the park for both recreation and scenic appreciation.
It's worth noting that the boardwalk's connection to the Quayside Esplanade has been developed in phases. While parts of the connection are open, the full waterfront route may still be under construction, so it's wise to check for the latest updates on accessibility.
Family Fun and Play
Beyond the playground, the park offers ample green space for picnics and relaxation, making it easy for families to spend a quality day outdoors. The presence of a concession stand and nearby dining options at River Market further adds to the convenience for families visiting the park.
With its well-maintained facilities and engaging play structures, Westminster Pier Park provides a safe and enjoyable environment for children to explore and burn off energy while parents can relax and take in the scenic surroundings.
Evening Ambiance and Safety
However, visitors have raised concerns about safety in Westminster Pier Park after dark. Due to ongoing construction and its current disconnectedness from the main Quay area, some find it less secure than the River Market or Esplanade. It's often advised to stick to the more populated and well-lit areas for nighttime strolls.
Despite these concerns, the park's lighting and the 'Shine Bright' features do create a captivating atmosphere for those who choose to visit in the evening, offering a different perspective on the waterfront.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit