Steveston Village, Vancouver - For the longest time, this was the only photo I was actually proud of. Rediscovered it recently when I was sorting through my library. Took it entirely on accident at the time, and didn't know what made it work until I started studying landscape composition.
1 / 10

Steveston Village Vancouver

4.6
·491k reviews·Richmond, Canada

A charming historic fishing village near Vancouver, known for fresh seafood, quaint shops, and 'Once Upon a Time' filming locations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Steveston Village, Vancouver - For the longest time, this was the only photo I was actually proud of. Rediscovered it recently when I was sorting through my library. Took it entirely on accident at the time, and didn't know what made it work until I started studying landscape composition.

Steveston Village Vancouver

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming historic fishing village near Vancouver, known for fresh seafood, quaint shops, and 'Once Upon a Time' filming locations.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Steveston Village is a quaint historic fishing village with great seafood and charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking is a challenge

Arrive early or consider transit. Paid parking lots exist, but can fill up fast.

⏰ Shops close early

Most shops on Moncton Street close around 4 PM. Plan accordingly!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site

Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site

12138 4th Ave

Step back in time at this former salmon cannery, now a museum showcasing BC's fishing history.

Pajo's Fish and Chips

Pajo's Fish and Chips

124 Steveston Boardwalk

Iconic floating restaurant serving up classic, crispy fish and chips with harbor views.

Moncton Street Shops

Moncton Street Shops

Moncton Street

Explore charming boutiques, souvenir shops, and local eateries along the main village strip.

Garry Point Park

Garry Point Park

12760 Seventh Ave

Scenic park with waterfront trails, picnic spots, and stunning sunset views over the water.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Parking Pains

Steveston Village can get packed, especially on sunny weekends and during events like Canada Day. Parking is notoriously difficult, so consider transit or arriving early. Many shops close by 4 PM, so plan your exploration accordingly.

Embrace the Fishing Village Charm

Steveston is a historic fishing village with a unique charm. While it's a filming location for 'Once Upon a Time,' remember it's a living community. Enjoy the waterfront, fresh seafood, and local boutiques.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant strolls, some late eateries
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

such a classic spot in Steveston✨ #vancouverfoodie #vancouverfood #vancouverbc
@foodierrachel
19.4K likes • 373K views

🚗 Parking is a challenge

Arrive early or consider transit. Paid parking lots exist, but can fill up fast. Reddit

⏰ Shops close early

Most shops on Moncton Street close around 4 PM. Plan accordingly! Reddit

📍 Day Trip Idea: Steveston Village 🚗🐟 Need a little escape from the city? Steveston Village is just 30 minutes from Vancouver, packed with history, fresh seafood, and small-town charm! 🌊✨ 🏭 Visit the Gulf of Georgia Cannery – Once the heart of BC’s fishing industry, this spot lets you walk through old canning machines, explore interactive exhibits, and even hop inside a fisherman’s boat! 🎣 🍤 Hi...
vancouver.town
1.2K likes • 57.6K views
Este pueblito costero a 30 min de Vancouver parece sacado de una película… y literal lo es 🎬💙 Mariscos frescos, vistas hermosas y helado casero que es un 10/10. 📍 Steveston Village #latinosencanada #latinosenvancouver #steveston #vancouver #yvrfood #canada #recomendaciones #vancouverthingstodo
dianasofiamolinaa
44 likes • 3K views

🎣 Fresh seafood galore

Don't miss out on fish and chips, shrimp tacos, or fresh catches from local eateries. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the waterfront

Enjoy scenic walks along the harbor and Garry Point Park. InstagramReddit

Steveston Village - a fishing village but with shops and restaurants. A small town feel in Richmond, where you can grab a bite to eat with views of the sea and the fishing boats. Have you been? . . . . . . . #richmondbc #vancouver #vancouverbc #travelcouple #travelphotography #traveler #canada #travelcanada
i_m.alicia
27 likes • 336 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking is a challenge

Arrive early or consider transit. Paid parking lots exist, but can fill up fast. Reddit

⏰ Shops close early

Most shops on Moncton Street close around 4 PM. Plan accordingly! Reddit

🎣 Fresh seafood galore

Don't miss out on fish and chips, shrimp tacos, or fresh catches from local eateries. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the waterfront

Enjoy scenic walks along the harbor and Garry Point Park. InstagramReddit

🎬 'Once Upon a Time' filming spot

Recognize iconic spots like Granny's Diner and Mr. Gold's. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Steveston Village is widely praised for its charming historic fishing village atmosphere, delicious fresh seafood, and scenic waterfront. Visitors enjoy exploring the unique shops and the connection to 'Once Upon a Time.' However, parking can be a significant challenge, and many shops close early in the afternoon.

What People Like

Charming historic atmosphere
Fresh seafood and fish & chips
Scenic waterfront views

What People Dislike

Difficult parking
Early shop closing times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take the Canada Line from Waterfront Station to Brighouse Station, then transfer to a bus like the 401, 410, or 402 which will take you directly to Steveston Village. Reddit Driving is an option, but parking can be very difficult, especially on weekends and during events. Reddit

Yes, Steveston Village is well-served by public transit. The Canada Line connects to buses that run frequently to the village. Reddit

From Brighouse Station, buses like the 401, 410, or 402 are good options. The 402 (2 Road) and 410 (Railway) are often recommended. Reddit

Yes, parking is a significant challenge, especially during peak tourist season, weekends, and special events. Many visitors find it difficult to secure a spot. Reddit

While not a formal park-and-ride, taking transit to a station like Brighouse and then transferring to a bus is the most recommended approach to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Steveston Village itself is a public area and does not require tickets to enter. However, specific attractions within the village, like the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, may have admission fees. Instagram

Most shops on Moncton Street typically close around 4 PM. Some restaurants and cafes may stay open later. It's best to check individual business hours. Reddit

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site has an admission fee. Other areas like the waterfront and parks are free to access. Instagram

Yes, Steveston Village is considered very safe to walk around in the evening. There are restaurants and cafes that remain open, and the atmosphere is generally peaceful. Reddit

Steveston hosts various events throughout the year, including a popular Canada Day celebration and a farmers market in the summer. These events can draw large crowds. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You absolutely must try the fish and chips, famously served by Pajo's Fish and Chips. Other popular options include shrimp tacos, burgers, and fresh seafood from various restaurants. TikTokInstagram+1

Pajo's Fish and Chips is a legendary spot, known for its floating restaurant setup. Many other eateries also offer delicious fish and chips. TikTokInstagram

While Steveston is known for seafood, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff for specific choices. Instagram

Besides Pajo's, consider Britannia Brewing Company for pub fare and craft beer, or explore the various cafes and diners along Moncton Street for a casual bite. Reddit

Yes, you'll find several cafes offering coffee and pastries, as well as places like Timothy's for gelato and froyo, perfect for a sweet treat. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the charm of the fishing boats in the harbor, the historic buildings on Moncton Street, and the scenic views from Garry Point Park. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery also offers unique photographic opportunities. Instagram

Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for photography, especially along the waterfront. Early mornings can also be lovely with fewer people. Instagram

The iconic Pajo's Fish and Chips boat, the historic cannery, and the various storefronts that were used in 'Once Upon a Time' are popular photo subjects. Reddit

If you're lucky, you might see filming for shows like 'Once Upon a Time.' While you can observe, be respectful of the production crew and their space. Reddit

A versatile lens for landscapes and street photography is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the harbor and park views, while a standard zoom is great for street scenes. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Steveston Village is a fantastic destination for families. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site offers interactive exhibits that can engage children, and the open spaces at Garry Point Park are perfect for running around. Instagram Many of the restaurants, like Pajo's Fish and Chips, are casual and kid-friendly. TikTok The village's walkable nature makes it easy to explore with little ones, and the variety of shops, including toy stores like Splash Toy Shop, can be a hit. Reddit

Consider visiting during the summer for the farmers market, which often has activities for children. While parking can be a headache, taking transit can make the journey smoother. The overall atmosphere is safe and welcoming, making it a stress-free outing for families looking for a charming day trip. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Steveston Village offers several budget-friendly options. While some attractions have fees, simply exploring the waterfront, parks, and main street is free. Instagram For affordable eats, Pajo's Fish and Chips offers good value for a classic meal, and many other eateries have reasonably priced options. TikTokInstagram Look for happy hour deals at places like Britannia Brewery for discounted food and drinks. Reddit

Opting for public transit instead of driving can significantly save on costs, especially considering the parking challenges and fees. Reddit Packing a picnic to enjoy at Garry Point Park is another excellent way to save money while enjoying the scenic views. Many of the shops offer souvenirs at various price points, allowing you to find a memento without breaking the bank. Reddit

couples

Steveston Village provides a charming and romantic backdrop for couples. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand along the waterfront, taking in the picturesque views of the harbor and boats. Instagram+1 The village's quaint streets, lined with unique boutiques and cafes, offer opportunities for relaxed exploration and discovery. Instagram

Share a delicious seafood meal at one of the many restaurants, perhaps followed by a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop. Reddit For a truly memorable experience, catch the sunset at Garry Point Park, which offers stunning views over the water. Reddit The peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekday evenings, makes it an ideal spot for a romantic getaway or a relaxed date.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Steveston's History

Steveston Village began as a humble fishing settlement and grew into one of the most significant fishing ports on Canada's West Coast. Its history is deeply intertwined with the salmon canning industry, which once dominated the local economy. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site stands as a testament to this era, offering visitors a chance to explore the preserved machinery and learn about the lives of the cannery workers. Instagram

Beyond the cannery, the village retains its maritime charm with a working harbor filled with fishing boats. This heritage is actively preserved, with efforts to highlight historical sites and fishing traditions. Walking through Steveston feels like stepping back in time, with its quaint streets and waterfront views that evoke a bygone era. Reddit

For those interested in the village's past, exploring the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site (though not explicitly mentioned in provided content, it's a key historical area) offers further insights into the lives of shipbuilders and fishermen. The village's commitment to preserving its heritage makes it a unique destination for history buffs. Reddit

Culinary Delights: From Fish & Chips to Local Cafes

Steveston Village is a paradise for seafood lovers, with its most famous offering being fish and chips. Pajo's Fish and Chips, a unique floating restaurant, is a must-visit for its classic take on this beloved dish. TikTokInstagram Many other eateries in the village also serve up delicious versions, often with a light, crispy batter that reviewers rave about. Beyond fish and chips, you can find fresh shrimp tacos, burgers, and other seafood specialties. TikTok

For those seeking a more relaxed dining experience, Steveston offers a variety of charming cafes and restaurants. Britannia Brewing Company is a popular choice for its pub fare and craft beers, while places like Coast to Toast are recommended for brunch. Reddit You can also find international flavors, with mentions of Thai and Japanese cuisine. Reddit

Don't forget to save room for dessert! Timothy's is a go-to for gelato and froyo, providing a sweet end to your culinary exploration. Reddit Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Steveston's dining scene offers something for everyone, with many establishments open late enough for an evening stroll. Reddit

Filming Location Fame: 'Once Upon a Time' Magic

Steveston Village gained international recognition as the filming location for the popular ABC series, 'Once Upon a Time,' where it served as the fictional Storybrooke. Fans of the show can wander through the village and recognize many of the iconic storefronts and locations. Reddit

Key spots include the building that housed Granny's Diner (which is actually a fish and chips place in reality), Mr. Gold's Pawn Shop, and the library. Visiting these spots can be a surreal and exciting experience for fans, offering a tangible connection to the magical world of the show. Reddit

While the show has concluded, the 'Once Upon a Time' connection still draws visitors. Some Redditors mention finding Storybrooke maps and merchandise, adding to the immersive experience. It's worth noting that not all filming for the show took place in Steveston, but the village itself is the most recognizable representation of Storybrooke. Reddit

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