Hi everyone, David here! 👋
If you’re flying into Vancouver, the very first Canadian city you’ll set foot in is likely Richmond, because Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is located right here. But Richmond is much more than just an airport city. Known for its Asian cultural influence, amazing food scene, Pacific coastline, and vibrant attractions, Richmond is a place many tourists skip — and regret later!
As someone who travels often and loves experiencing culture through food, local stories, and nature, I can confidently say that Richmond is one of the most fascinating cities in British Columbia. Whether you’re a traveler on a short layover, a newcomer settling in Canada, or a student exploring Metro Vancouver, Richmond has something special to offer.
In this guide, I’ll share the best places to visit, must-try experiences, a few personal tips, and two useful tables to help you plan your visit — including distance from YVR and a ready-to-follow itinerary.
🌏 Why Richmond is a Must-Visit City
Richmond is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Canada, with over 60% of its population born outside the country. Its strong Asian influence is visible in the language, food, traditions, markets, and festivals.
Here’s what makes Richmond unique:
✅ It’s the food capital of Metro Vancouver — especially for Asian cuisine
✅ It’s a waterfront city surrounded by nature, trails, and ocean views
✅ It’s 15–25 minutes from Vancouver by SkyTrain or car
✅ It’s perfect for short stopovers because YVR is inside the city
Most visitors only see the airport and leave — but after reading this guide, you’ll definitely want to explore more!
📍 Top Places to Visit in Richmond
1. Steveston Village – A Seaside Gem
One of my favourite places in Richmond! Steveston is a charming historical fishing village located at the mouth of the Fraser River.
Why Visit:
- Beautiful boardwalks & ocean views
- Fishing boats and fresh seafood stalls
- Heritage buildings, boutiques, and cafés
Must-see spots in Steveston:
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site – Museum showcasing BC’s salmon-canning history
- Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site – 19th-century heritage site on the water
- Fisherman’s Wharf – Seafood, ice cream, and photo spots
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall.
2. Garry Point Park – Sunset Heaven
Located near Steveston, Garry Point Park is an open waterfront space perfect for picnics, kite-flying, and sunset photography.
What I love about it:
The ocean breeze here feels refreshing and calming — a great place to clear your mind after a long flight.
3. Richmond Night Market – A Food Lover’s Festival (Seasonal)
If you visit between May and October, don’t miss the famous Richmond Night Market, one of the largest night markets in North America.
Expect:
🍢 Asian street food
🎶 Music and live shows
🎮 Games and shopping
🧋 Bubble tea everywhere!
It’s busy, crowded, and absolutely fun! Arrive early to avoid long lineups.
4. Richmond Olympic Oval – Sports Meets Architecture
Built for the 2010 Winter Olympics, the Richmond Olympic Oval is now a world-class multi-sport venue where visitors can skate, climb, play sports, and explore the Olympic Experience museum.
It’s great for families, kids, and fitness lovers.
5. Aberdeen Centre & Asian Mall Experience
Richmond has a cluster of exciting Asian shopping malls around No. 3 Road, near the SkyTrain.
Top mall to visit:
- Aberdeen Centre – Asian-themed shops, lifestyle brands, and a large food court
Other malls: Parker Place and Yaohan Centre (if you want a deeper Asian market experience).
6. Iona Beach Regional Park – Near YVR
Located just northwest of the airport, Iona Beach offers long trails overlooking the ocean. You can walk or bike along the Iona Jetty, which stretches 4 km into the water — a truly unique experience!
7. International Buddhist Temple – A Cultural Landmark
Inspired by China’s Imperial Palace, this stunning Buddhist temple is peaceful, beautifully designed, and open to visitors. A great place to learn, meditate, or simply enjoy the architecture.
8. Minoru Park – City Oasis
Located near Richmond Centre, Minoru Park features gardens, ponds, walking paths, an arts centre, and the public library. Great for families, students, and anyone wanting a quiet, green break.
9. Terra Nova Rural Park – Farm Meets Nature
A large nature park with wildlife, walking trails, community gardens, and one of the best playgrounds in Metro Vancouver. Perfect for kids, picnics, and casual cycling.
✈️ Table A: Distance & Travel Time from YVR to Major Richmond Attractions
| Attraction | Distance from YVR | Travel Time (Car) | Travel Time (Transit) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steveston Village | ~14 km | 20–25 min | 35–45 min |
| Garry Point Park | ~15 km | 22–28 min | 40–50 min |
| Richmond Night Market | ~5 km | 8–12 min | 14–18 min |
| Richmond Olympic Oval | ~6.5 km | 10–15 min | 18–24 min |
| Aberdeen Centre | ~5 km | 8–10 min | 12–15 min |
| Iona Beach | ~6 km | 10–12 min | 20–25 min |
| International Buddhist Temple | ~10 km | 15–18 min | 25–30 min |
| Minoru Park | ~6 km | 10–14 min | 18–22 min |
| Terra Nova Park | ~10 km | 15–18 min | 30–35 min |
🍽️ Food in Richmond – A Culinary Experience
Since you asked for only a few recommendations, here are 5 safe, highly-rated, culturally diverse places to enjoy:
| Food Type | Suggested Place | Why Try It |
|---|---|---|
| Dim Sum | Kirin Seafood Restaurant (Richmond) | Authentic Cantonese dim sum |
| Asian Food Court | Parker Place Food Court | Affordable dishes & variety |
| Shanghainese | Shanghai River | Famous xiao long bao (soup dumplings) |
| BBQ Meat | HK BBQ Master | Known for roasted pork & BBQ duck |
| Seafood by the Water | Steveston Harbour spots | Fresh fish & chips with ocean views |
Tip from David: Richmond is one of the best cities in Canada for Asian food. If you love trying new flavours, this place is a paradise.
🚶 Short on Time? Here’s a Quick Guide
If you have 3–5 hours
- Visit Steveston Village
- Walk to Garry Point Park
- Grab fish & chips and enjoy the view
If you have 6–8 hours
- Explore Steveston Village
- Visit the Cannery Museum
- Dinner at Aberdeen Centre or Steveston
If you have 1 full day — see itinerary below ⬇️
🗓️ Table C: Suggested Itinerary for Richmond
1-Day Itinerary (Perfect for Visitors or Layovers)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:30 AM | Breakfast in Steveston Village |
| 10:30 AM | Explore Gulf of Georgia Cannery |
| 12:30 PM | Walk to Garry Point Park |
| 1:30 PM | Lunch in Steveston (seafood) |
| 3:30 PM | Visit Richmond Olympic Oval or Minoru Park |
| 6:00 PM | Dinner at Aberdeen Centre (Asian cuisine) |
| 7:30 PM | Richmond Night Market (if seasonal) |
2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Steveston + Garry Point + Night Market
Day 2: Aberdeen Centre → Buddhist Temple → Iona Beach sunset
🧭 Getting Around Richmond
Best ways to travel:
- SkyTrain (Canada Line) connects YVR → Richmond → Vancouver
- Buses are frequent but slower
- Cycling is great near the water
- Walking works for city centre attractions
🧑🎓 Tips for Students & Newcomers
- Richmond is safe, clean, and multicultural
- Housing can be pricier than average, but shared rentals help
- Great for students studying at:
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University
- Colleges in nearby Vancouver
⏰ Best Time to Visit
| Season | Why Visit |
|---|---|
| May–Oct | Night Market + best weather |
| Nov–Apr | Quiet, lower prices, indoor attractions |
Final Thoughts by David
Richmond is one of those cities that surprises you in the best way. You arrive expecting an airport town — but you discover oceanside sunsets, world-class food, cultural landmarks, and warm communities.
Whether you’re here for a stopover, a weekend trip, or a longer stay, Richmond will give you memories worth keeping.
If you’re landing at YVR soon — don’t rush away. Stay, explore, taste, and enjoy Richmond.