Riverview Lands (səmiq̓ʷəʔelə) - Image 1
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Riverview Lands (səmiq̓ʷəʔelə)

4.2
·655 reviews·Coquitlam, Canada

Explore a vast historical site with rare architecture, once a sprawling hospital, now a unique filming location.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon dusk

Atmospheric and historical feel

CrowdMedium
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Riverview Lands (səmiq̓ʷəʔelə) - Image 1

Riverview Lands (səmiq̓ʷəʔelə)

Best Time

Late afternoon dusk

Atmospheric and historical feel

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a vast historical site with rare architecture, once a sprawling hospital, now a unique filming location.

4.2
(655 reviews)

"A spectacular and beautiful piece of history with phenomenal architecture, a must-visit for its unique atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

The site is much larger than expected; plan for several hours to explore fully. :clock1:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Throughout the grounds

Marvel at the rare, grand architecture of the many preserved buildings, a testament to a bygone era.

Expansive Grounds & Gazebo

Expansive Grounds & Gazebo

Central park areas

Wander through the large, scenic grounds and find a moment of peace in the still-intact, picturesque gazebo.

Filming Location Vibes

Filming Location Vibes

Various sets

Stumble upon movie and TV sets, experiencing the unique atmosphere of a working film location.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan for Exploration Time

Riverview Lands is vast, with many buildings and grounds to explore. Allocate several hours to truly appreciate the historical architecture and expansive views. Don't rush your visit; allow your imagination to wander and soak in the atmosphere.

Navigating the Grounds

The site can be disorienting with numerous buildings and winding paths. Pay close attention to signage and be aware of security patrols. Planning your route beforehand can prevent getting lost and ensure you see key areas.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon dusk
Why
Atmospheric and historical feel
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

The site is much larger than expected; plan for several hours to explore fully. :clock1:

Watch for Security

Security patrols are frequent; be mindful of traffic laws and designated areas. :police_car:

Imagination is Key

Let your mind wander to grasp the history and past atmosphere of the grounds. :brain:

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

The site is much larger than expected; plan for several hours to explore fully. :clock1:

Watch for Security

Security patrols are frequent; be mindful of traffic laws and designated areas. :police_car:

Imagination is Key

Let your mind wander to grasp the history and past atmosphere of the grounds. :brain:

Check for Filming

Main buildings might be inaccessible due to filming; check schedules if possible. :movie_camera:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(655 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Riverview Lands for its spectacular, beautiful, and historically significant grounds, noting the rare and phenomenal architecture. Many enjoy the expansive space for walking and photography, finding the atmosphere uniquely 'creepily beautiful.' However, some express disappointment over the lack of tours and the inaccessibility of main buildings due to filming.

"We spent a couple of hours walking around and took a lot of pictures and videos. Considering the history of the place and the state of mind that you're in when you're there visiting the grounds, you can get a sense of what it may have been like to visit the place when it was in full operation. If you're there at dusk and you let your imagination wander, it could be a different experience."

Tim E

"What a spectacular and beautiful piece of history, I so wish they still did tours.. for sentimental purposes.
Absolutely gorgeous property to walk around, come prepared with a lot of time on your hands because there's a lot distance to cover and everywhere you look there's something that catches your eye.
Couldn't go in the main building as they were filming so will have to go back, so worth the trip."

Marina B (Meenamarinara)

"This site was a whole lot bigger than I was expecting before I went. I mean, I was expecting one building and there were many more buildings than that! It was just amazing seeing all the old buildings, and imagining the history that took place in each one of them. The architecture is phenomenal; buildings this old are rare in British Columbia. Security patrols the whole area; it's rare to be somewhere on the lot and not have a security car within view. Go here and take a walk around, taking in the views and maybe relaxing for a bit in the large, still-intact gazebo. Riverview Hospital is just an incredible historical site overall, I highly recommend checking it out!"

Jared Bayley

What People Like

Spectacular historical architecture
Expansive and beautiful grounds
Unique, atmospheric vibe

What People Dislike

No regular tours
Building access restricted by filming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Riverview Lands is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options exist, but may require transfers and longer travel times. Planning your route is recommended due to the site's size and potential for getting lost. :bus: :car:

Yes, parking is available on the grounds. However, be aware that residents may monitor for traffic violations, so adhere to posted signs and speed limits. :parking:

The site is quite large and can be disorienting. Many visitors report going in circles. Pay close attention to road signs and consider using a map or GPS if available. :round_pushpin:

Driving requires careful planning. Be wary of numerous strange stop signs and be mindful of residents who may record license plates for violations. :warning:

While public transport can reach the vicinity, it often involves multiple bus routes and transfers. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. :bus:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, no tickets are required to walk around the grounds of Riverview Lands. It's an open historical site for public exploration. :ticket:

The grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours. However, specific building access may vary, especially if filming is in progress. :clock10: :movie_camera:

Access to the main buildings can be restricted, particularly when filming is taking place. It's best to check for any notices or be prepared for potential closures. :closedlockwith_key:

Unfortunately, dedicated tours are not regularly offered, which some visitors lament for sentimental reasons. Exploring independently is the primary way to experience the site. :walking:

There is no admission fee to explore the public areas of Riverview Lands. It's a free historical site to visit and wander. :moneywithwings:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore numerous historic buildings, walk the expansive grounds, enjoy the views, and relax in the gazebo. It's a great spot for photography and imagining the past. :camerawithflash: :park_park:

Absolutely! The rare architecture and atmospheric grounds make it a fantastic location for photographers. Dusk can offer particularly dramatic lighting. :camerawithflash:

The atmosphere is often described as 'creepily beautiful' and unique, with a strong sense of history. It's a place that sparks the imagination. :ghost: :thought_balloon:

Yes, the site has a surprisingly large number of buildings, far more than many visitors expect. Each offers a glimpse into its past. :building_construction:

Riverview Lands is an incredible historical site, especially for those interested in British Columbia's past. The architecture alone is a significant draw. :scroll:

📸 📸 Photography

The grand historic buildings, the gazebo, and the expansive grounds offer numerous picturesque opportunities. Look for unique architectural details and atmospheric corners. :camerawithflash:

Yes, you might encounter active movie sets. Be respectful of filming operations and crew, but capturing the unique environment is part of the experience. :film_projector:

Late afternoon and dusk are highly recommended for their atmospheric lighting, creating a dramatic and historical feel. :city_sunset:

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be mindful of private property, active filming, and security personnel. :noentrysign:

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the grounds and details of the architecture. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions at dusk. :camera:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Riverview Lands offers a unique outdoor adventure for families, combining history with exploration. The vast grounds provide plenty of space for kids to run around, and the numerous buildings can spark their imagination about the past. It's a great opportunity for a history lesson disguised as a fun outing. Reddit

Key recommendations for families:
* Pack snacks and drinks: There are no immediate food services on site.
* Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking.
* Engage their imagination: Encourage kids to imagine what life was like here decades ago.
* Be mindful of filming: If sets are up, explain to children that it's a working movie location and to be respectful of the crew.

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

For photographers and content creators, Riverview Lands is a dream destination. The rare, grand architecture, the atmospheric grounds, and the potential for encountering film sets offer endless visual opportunities. The site provides a dramatic and historic backdrop that is hard to find elsewhere in the Lower Mainland. Reddit

Tips for photographers:
* Visit during golden hour or dusk: The light is exceptional for capturing the mood.
* Bring a versatile lens: To capture both wide vistas and architectural details.
* Scout locations: Plan your shots beforehand to maximize your time.
* Be aware of filming schedules: If a specific building is your target, check if it's accessible.

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

Riverview Lands is a treasure trove for those fascinated by history and architecture. The site boasts a significant collection of rare, well-preserved buildings that showcase architectural styles from different eras. It offers a tangible connection to British Columbia's past, particularly its history of mental healthcare. Reddit

What to focus on:
* Architectural details: Look for unique facades, window designs, and structural elements.
* Historical context: Research the hospital's past to enrich your understanding during your visit.
* Preservation efforts: Appreciate the efforts made to maintain these historical structures.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rich History of Riverview Lands

Riverview Lands, originally Riverview Hospital, holds a significant place in British Columbia's history. Opened in 1913, it was once the largest mental hospital in Canada, designed to provide a therapeutic environment with its sprawling grounds and impressive architecture. The site reflects evolving approaches to mental healthcare over the decades, from early institutional models to more community-focused philosophies. Its sheer scale and the variety of buildings, from patient wards to administrative offices and recreational facilities, offer a tangible connection to this past. Visitors can sense the weight of history as they walk the grounds, imagining the lives of those who lived and worked there. Reddit

Today, Riverview Lands is undergoing a transformation, with plans for redevelopment that aim to preserve its historical significance while creating new community spaces. It's a place where the past is palpable, offering a unique opportunity to reflect on social history and architectural heritage. The rare, well-preserved buildings are a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. Reddit

The site's historical context is crucial for understanding its current state and future potential. It’s a place that evokes a range of emotions, from curiosity to a sense of solemn reflection. The ongoing discussions about its preservation and redevelopment highlight its importance as a landmark. Reddit

Experiencing Riverview Lands as a Film Location

Riverview Lands has become a highly sought-after location for film and television productions, earning it the nickname 'Hollywood North's historic cousin.' Its diverse range of architectural styles and expansive, atmospheric grounds provide a versatile backdrop for countless movies and series. Visitors often report stumbling upon active film sets during their explorations, adding an unexpected element of excitement to their visit. Reddit

This frequent use for filming means that access to certain buildings or areas might be temporarily restricted. While this can be a slight inconvenience, it also offers a unique glimpse into the world of filmmaking. The presence of film crews and equipment can transform the familiar landscape into something entirely new, and sometimes, visitors can even catch a behind-the-scenes peek. Reddit

The opportunity to walk through areas that have been featured in popular media adds another layer of intrigue to Riverview Lands. It’s a chance to connect with the site not just through its history, but also through its contemporary role in entertainment. The sheer scale of the property allows for multiple productions to film simultaneously, contributing to its vibrant, ever-changing atmosphere. Reddit

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