Best Arts and Culture Places in New Westminster

"Vancouver Art Gallery — one of the largest in Canada — is housed in the city’s former courthouse and is as impressive inside as it is out. An adult ticket usually costs CAD24 ($18.31), but if you come on a Tuesday evening between 5pm and 8pm you can get in for just a donation. The permanent collection boasts 11,000 items, including major works by the well-known Canadian artists Emily Carr and the Group of Seven, in addition to several rotating exhibitions."

"In terms of size and scale, the Vancouver Art gallery ranks as the largest museum in Western Canada and the fifth largest in all of Canada!. The Art Gallery was designed by two local guys Sharp and Thompson for just $40,000. It has moved locations and is undergoing exciting new changes but is still recognized as one of the most innovative buildings in the city."

"The Art gallery at Vancouver will take you to see the power of art. This art gallery is the most interesting and innovative visual art institution. There is no lack of culture in Vancouver."

"Vancouver's best museum is studded with spectacular First Nations totem poles and breathtaking carvings – but it's also teeming with artifacts from cultures around the world, from Polynesian instruments to Cantonese opera costumes. Take one of the free daily tours (check ahead for times) for some context, but give yourself at least a couple of hours to explore on your own. It's easy to immerse yourself here. "

"Go to the Museum of Anthropology to find out about the Northwest Coast First Nations people Try some candied salmon - locally caught, hot-smoked salmon glazed with maple syrup"

"An enormous totem pole greets visitors at the entrance to this historical building which has been redesigned to showcase indigenous culture and art. It gives a global platform to tribal artists, and its Fair Trade Gallery features original paintings, jewellery, pottery and wood carvings for sale. But even sleeping in one of the 18 unique suites is a 101 in First Nations folklore; designed by six local artists, each room tells a visual story through installations."

"The massive totem pole jutting out from the peaked roof gives you a hint why Skwachàys Lodge, Canada’s first aboriginal boutique arts hotel, occupies its own niche. Part visitor accommodation and part social housing, the property isn't just a place to stay, but rather a cultural experience unlike any other you’ll find in Vancouver. Skwachàys was once a rundown single-room occupancy hotel, but a CDN$10.5 million renovation gave it a brand-new life."

"This well-priced hotel reflects the artistic heritage of the Pacific Northwest. High above the front door, a 40-foot totem pole and striking carvings identify this First Nations’ project; the lobby gallery displays Aboriginal art; and all of the bedrooms are decorated by well-known tribal artists."

"Housed in the historic Wing Sang building (51 East Pender Street), which is Chinatown’s oldest building (1889), the Rennie Museum is a private collection owned by real estate mogul Bob Rennie. Local and international artists are showcased in the gallery and free tours are available to the public. Continue to 9 of 10 below."

"A private museum that you have to book to get into, but definitely worth the minimal effort required. Make a story out of the exhibition, and take a main page post on the roof, it’s a win-win scenario. Definitely one of the coolest buildings you can check out in Vancouver."

"Make sure to stop off for a drink at Keefer Bar and Fortune Sound Club and check out Rennie Collection at Wing Sang (which offers free entry). You can also visit some of the firm-favourites such as; Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and the Millennium Gate."

"Known previously as the Presentation House Gallery, this North Van gallery is the largest non-profit photographic gallery in Western Canada. Operating since 1981, The Polygon focuses on – but is not limited to – contemporary photography with an emphasis on Canadian work. The gallery itself is a modern and bright 25.000-square-feet (2322-square-metre) building with stunning water views."

"A modernist masterpiece that sits on the water in North Van. And, admission is by donation!. Ironically, this is one of two places on this list where Nemesis Coffee will be setting up shop."

"2928-2 Granville Street Vancouver, BC V6H 3J7 604 738 3510WEBSITE | MAP. We are pleased to offer you an exceptional inventory of paintings"

"2423 Granville Street Vancouver, BC V6H 3G6 604 685 1934WEBSITE | MAP. Now in its 35th year of operation, the Marion Scott Gallery"

"2342 Granville Street Vancouver, BC V6H 3G3 604 738 1077WEBSITE | MAP. The gallery showcases and promotes established and emerging Canadian talents"

"2233 Granville Street Vancouver, BC V6H 3G1 778-737-9888WEBSITE | MAP. We have the largest private collection of original fine art by Contemporary Artists and Old Masters in Canada,"

"Lined with logs for the sun spectators, this is the place to reflect on the day and take a few photos of some of the most vibrant sunsets you’ll probably ever see in your life. Sunset Beach Park is also home to an interesting art piece called Engagement, a 30 foot sculpture of two wedding rings. These were created by world famous artist Dennis Oppenheim, as part of the Vancouver Biennale."

"Sunset Beach is a popular destination, especially in the summer, but the green space behind the beach is equally as popular with locals looking for a place to play a game of soccer, meet friends and soak up the sunshine. Grab a drink from the concession stand and spread out on the grass - on a very hot day you might see someone bringing a slip N slide for everyone to slide down the hill."

"Sunset Beach Park does not put its name to shame, and the stunning sunsets you’ll see here while chatting with a friend over a few bites or brews will be worth the wait. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Kritsada Akkhapracha (@fedexfc)"

"Gastown, named after 'Gassy' Jack Deighton - a Yorkshire seaman, steamboat captain and barman who opened the area's first saloon in 1867 - Gastown is where Vancouver began. A self-guided walk will reveal the area's colourful history."

"Perched atop the city’s highest point are the lovely lush gardens and aviary of the Bloedel Conservatory. Located within Queen Elizabeth Park, its huge historic dome is a treat to explore with beautiful exotic plants, trees, and birds. Looking out over the city and its surroundings, the colossal conservatory was founded in 1969 and now contains three separate climatic zones and habitats."

"The easiest place to access the Lower Seymour Conservation Area in a place that’s perfect for portraits is near the Rice Lake parking lot. You can usually find a spot in the parking lot. Lower Seymour is for you if… you live on the North Shore and want a forest session."

"The oldest building that is still surviving in Vancouver is the Hastings Mill Store. It was once located on the South shore of the Burrard Inlet. Built in 1865 and dedicated to Captain Edward Stamp, Hastings Mill Store was used as a sawmill company under Edward’s possession."

"Uniquely restored heritage house in the heart of the West End of Vancouver. Built in 1893, Roedde House is the former home of Gustav Roedde, the city’s first bookbinder. Tour the Museum’s eleven rooms, faithfully restored with artifacts and period pieces to reflect the day-to-day life of a middle class, immigrant family at the turn of the 19th century."

"For a glimpse of what the West End looked like before the apartment blocks, visit this handsome 1893 Queen Anne–style mansion, now a lovingly preserved museum. Designed by infamous architect Francis Rattenbury,... Top ChoiceGardens in Fairview & South Granville"