Steveston Tram Richmond
Step aboard a beautifully restored 1922 tram car and journey back in time at the free Steveston Tram museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Engaging volunteers are present
Steveston Tram Richmond
Best Time
Engaging volunteers are present
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step aboard a beautifully restored 1922 tram car and journey back in time at the free Steveston Tram museum.
"A free, charming glimpse into Richmond's past, brought to life by passionate volunteers."
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help preserve this piece of history. :moneybag:
🚂 Railfan Paradise
Perfect for train enthusiasts! Dive deep into the history of interurban rail travel in BC. :train2:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tram Car 1220
Main exhibit hall
Explore the meticulously restored 1922 tram car that once served Richmond and Vancouver.
Interactive Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Engage with displays detailing the tram's history and its impact on Richmond's development.
Volunteer-Led Tours
Museum floor
Gain deeper insights from passionate volunteers who share fascinating stories and historical context.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big History
Best for Train Enthusiasts & Families
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help preserve this piece of history. :moneybag:
🚂 Railfan Paradise
Perfect for train enthusiasts! Dive deep into the history of interurban rail travel in BC. :train2:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Kids love ringing the tram bell and participating in scavenger hunts. :child:
⏳ Quick Visit
Allow about 30-60 minutes for a thorough exploration, longer if you chat with volunteers. :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help preserve this piece of history. :moneybag:
🚂 Railfan Paradise
Perfect for train enthusiasts! Dive deep into the history of interurban rail travel in BC. :train2:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Kids love ringing the tram bell and participating in scavenger hunts. :child:
⏳ Quick Visit
Allow about 30-60 minutes for a thorough exploration, longer if you chat with volunteers. :clock:
📍 Steveston Village Charm
Combine your visit with exploring the historic Steveston Village and its waterfront. :fishingpoleand_வத:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Steveston Tram for its free admission and the quality of its restoration. The passionate volunteers are a highlight, offering engaging historical insights. While small, it provides a valuable and nostalgic look into Richmond's past, particularly for families and train enthusiasts.
"One of only 5 trams of this type in preservation. Has been done to a high cosmetic standard. Unknown if still in working order. There are tracks leading out of the car barn but clearly not in general use. Good history of the trams. This is free to enter."
Geoff Hoad
"Free, tiny museum that exhibits the preserved tram car that used to run along Railway Avenue. Not a lot of exhibits but it's about the quality rather than quantity. Some tourists just stay for like 10 minutes, but if you're a railfan or history enthusiast, reading all the history, you can spend at least 30 minutes here. Staff (volunteers?) are also really friendly, actively giving tours and explanations. (Maybe too friendly for an introvert like me)"
natahnナターン
"Little museum to see a preserved tram that was in operation till 1952. It used to have a track from Steveston to Downtown Vancouver.
Kudos to Rob, who explained the history and map back then. How Richmond was called Lulu Island and he recalled farm lands that are now filled with buildings.
Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
We went on a weekend rainy day in April, hence no wait time. They operate from 10 to 5 from April to October.
There are two more museums around the area and that also can be visited, if interested.
Great job by the volunteers and donors for their efforts to give life to history !"
Sathiyaseelan Suhashini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Steveston Tram is located at 4011 Moncton Street in Richmond, BC. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options include various bus routes that stop within walking distance of Steveston Village.
Yes, there is parking available in and around Steveston Village. Street parking and some paid lots are accessible.
Absolutely! Several TransLink bus routes serve Steveston Village, making it accessible via public transit from various parts of Richmond and Vancouver. Check the TransLink website for specific route information.
The museum is generally accessible, with the main tram car and exhibits on the ground level. However, specific accessibility details may vary, so it's best to contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information.
Many visitors find it convenient to drive to Steveston Village. Alternatively, public transit is a viable option, with buses connecting to the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Steveston Tram is typically open Tuesdays to Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM. It's closed on Mondays and statutory holidays. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's always a good idea to check their official schedule. 
Admission to the Steveston Tram is free! However, donations are gratefully accepted to support the preservation and operation of this historic site. +1
No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. You can typically walk in during operating hours.
Yes, the Steveston Tram often hosts special events, such as holiday scavenger hunts during winter and new exhibit unveilings. Keep an eye on their announcements for upcoming activities.
The Steveston Tram operates seasonally, typically from April to October, with special hours or events sometimes extending into winter months. It's best to confirm their current operating schedule.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a beautifully restored 1922 tram car, learn about the history of interurban rail travel in Richmond through exhibits, and engage with knowledgeable volunteers. +2
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour at the Steveston Tram, depending on their interest level and engagement with the exhibits and volunteers.
Yes, children often enjoy the interactive elements, such as ringing the tram bell and participating in scavenger hunts. It's a great spot for train-loving kids.
Yes, you can enter and explore the interior of the restored tram car, imagining what it was like to travel on it decades ago.
The tram car represents the interurban rail system that was a vital mode of transportation connecting Steveston to downtown Vancouver from 1913 to 1958, significantly shaping Richmond's development.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside and around the Steveston Tram. It's a great spot for capturing historical and nostalgic images.
The exterior of the tram car, the interior details, and the historical exhibits offer excellent photo opportunities. The surrounding Steveston Village also provides charming backdrops.
While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas if indicated.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most public areas and historical sites to ensure safety and preservation. It's advisable to check local bylaws and museum policies before flying a drone.
You can capture detailed shots of the vintage tram, historical artifacts, and the overall atmosphere of a bygone era.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Special events like scavenger hunts add an extra layer of fun. +1 Combine your visit with a stroll through historic Steveston Village for a complete family day out. 🚂 Train Enthusiasts & History Buffs
🚶 Day-Trippers from Vancouver
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Interurban Rail in Richmond
+2Tram Car 1220, the centerpiece of the museum, is a testament to this era. Its restoration allows visitors to step inside and imagine the daily journeys of commuters, farmers, and families who relied on this efficient mode of transport. The exhibits at the Steveston Tram delve into the operational details, the routes, and the profound impact these trams had on shaping the urban and suburban landscape of Metro Vancouver.
Understanding this history provides context for the development of Richmond and highlights the importance of preserving such heritage sites. It’s a reminder of how transportation infrastructure has always played a crucial role in community development and connectivity.
A Family-Friendly Experience
Many visitors highlight the joy their children experience, from the thrill of ringing the tram's bell to participating in special scavenger hunts organized by the museum. These activities add an element of fun and discovery, making the historical learning process enjoyable for younger visitors.
+2Beyond the tram itself, the surrounding Steveston Village offers additional family-friendly attractions, including the historic cannery and waterfront, making it a perfect spot for a day trip filled with exploration and learning.
The Role of Volunteers
Visitors frequently praise the volunteers for their friendly demeanor and their willingness to share in-depth knowledge about the tram, its history, and the broader context of interurban rail travel in British Columbia. They provide guided tours, answer questions, and bring the exhibits to life with personal anecdotes and historical facts.
This personal touch elevates the museum experience from a simple viewing of an artifact to an engaging historical journey. The volunteers are instrumental in making the Steveston Tram a memorable and educational destination for all who visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit