2015/16
Coquitlam TRAVEL & EXPERIENCE GUIDE
QUINTESSENTIAL COQUITLAM Must-do experiences
FESTIVALS & EVENTS What’s happening now
NOT YOUR EVERYDAY EXCURSIONS Six surprising stops
The Hotel With That Little Something Extra For Business or Pleasure, You’ll Love Our Fresh Renovated Guest Rooms, Extended Stay Suites & More! Complimentary Wireless Hi-Speed Internet Access Complimentary Travel Reward Points Complimentary Parking for You & Your Visitors Complimentary Local Phone Calls (Unlimited) Comfortable Beds by Sealy® Crisp White Duvets & Custom Bedding Accessories 32” Flat Screen LCD Televisions iHome Alarm Clocks with iPod & iPhone Docking Station Spacious Work Desk & Ergonomical Chair In-Room Seattle’s Best Coffee® & Herbal Teas Small Fridges & Personal “Laptop” Safes Signature Bath Amenities by Bath & Body Works® 2 Full Service Restaurants, Lounge & Room Service Dining Discount in The Pantry & Rockwell’s Ample Meeting & Event Space; Inhouse Catering Team Indoor Pool, Sauna, Whirlpool (9am—9pm) Walking Distance to Lougheed Town Centre
For Reservations , Call 1-800-668-3383 sales@bestwesterncoquitlam.com
COQUITLAM INN CONVENTION CENTRE 319 North Road, Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada V3K 3V8 Phone: 604-931-9011 Fax: 604-931-9077 For More Information, Please Visit BestWesternCoquitlam.com
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Each Best Western Hotel® Is Independently Owned & Operated
CityofCoquitlam
The Hotel With That Little Something Extra City of Coquitlam 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC V3B 7N2 Office: 604-927-3000 coquitlam.ca/tourism
PUBLISHER: Eric Kalnins EDITOR: Colleen M. Smith WRITER: Tiffany Sloan
For Business or Pleasure, You’ll Love Our Fresh Renovated Guest Rooms, Extended Stay Suites & More!
ART DIRECTOR: Ron Kozlowski PRODUCTION: City of Coquitlam Corporate Communications PHOTOGRAPHY: Property of City of Coquitlam unless otherwise noted PRINTING: Hemlock Printers Printed in Canada Published: April 2015
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce 1209 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam, BC V3B 7Y3 604-464-2716 info@tricitieschamber.com tricitieschamber.com Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Complimentary Wireless Hi-Speed Internet Access Complimentary Travel Reward Points Complimentary Parking for You & Your Visitors Complimentary Local Phone Calls (Unlimited) The view of Mount Baker from across theComfortable Beds by Sealy® Pitt River at DeBoville Slough – Page 11 Crisp White Duvets & Custom Bedding Accessories 32” Flat Screen LCD Televisions iHome Alarm Clocks with iPod & iPhone Docking Station Spacious Work Desk & Ergonomical Chair In-Room Seattle’s Best Coffee® & Herbal Teas Small Fridges & Personal “Laptop” Safes Signature Bath Amenities by Bath & Body Works® 2 Full Service Restaurants, Lounge & Room Service Dining Discount in The Pantry & Rockwell’s Ample Meeting & Event Space; Inhouse Catering Team Indoor Pool, Sauna, Whirlpool (9am—9pm) Walking Distance to Lougheed Town Centre
Mackin House 1116 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1G3 604-516-6151 coquitlamheritage.ca Hours: Tuesday - Friday 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Hard Rock Car Show – Page 21
For Reservations, Call 1-800-668-3383 DAVE MACKIE Flyin’ high at Town Centre Skate Park – Page 12 sales@bestwesterncoquitlam.com
CONTENTS Quintessential Coquitlam
Date Night
Experiences that define us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Indulge in some grown-up fun.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Get Outdoors Hiking, biking,
Dining
birding, playing – it’s all here. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
COQUITLAM INN COVER PHOTO: A hiking group Recreation encounters a bridge over Hoy Creek in Inside or outside, game on!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 CONVENTION CENTRE Ridge Park on Westwood Plateau.
Creative cuisine and favourites. . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Kid Approved
Not Your Everyday Excursions
Let them at it!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Wander off the beaten path . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
319 North Road, Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada V3K 3V8 Festivals Phone: 604-931-9011 Fax: 604-931-9077
More than 100 a year! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Environmental impact estimates were made using the Environmental Paper Network Calculator. For more information visit http://calculator.environmentalpaper.org
Shopping
For More Information, Please Visit BestWesternCoquitlam.com Four shopping districts and more. . . . . . . . . . . 28 Each Best Western Hotel® Is Independently Owned & Operated
Accommodations Comfortable choices while you visit. . . . . . . . 33
Note: See pages 36 & 37 for a City Map showing the many points of interest listed in this guide.
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Mayor Richard Stewart and Councillors Mae Reid Brent Asmundson Bonita Zarrillo Teri Towner Terry O’Neill Dennis Marsden Craig Hodge Chris Wilson
Rendezvous Coquitlam Make your way to Coquitlam – a grown-up metropolis at the foot of the Coast Mountains. This contrast delivers all that is best about our City – amenities of a 21st century, North American city alongside the rugged opportunities of the temperate rainforest. `` We are a complete community serving up excitement and splendor for those who love the natural flavour of our outdoors, while presenting a wealth of shopping, nightlife and entertainment opportunities for those with a more urban appetite. Contemporary culture, a rich heritage, new residents from around the world, indigenous peoples, bustling businesses, peaceful neighbourhoods – you’ll find it in Coquitlam. Our earliest residents were the Coast Salish - our name is derived from the Kwikwetlem people meaning “red fish up the river”. European settlement did not begin until the 1860s with the opening of a state-ofthe-art lumber mill on the north bank of the Fraser River. A contingent of French Canadians were recruited and Maillardville was established – it became the largest Francophone centre west of the Rockies. You can have a taste of that history by visiting Mackin House, an early 1900s heritage home with artifacts and displays. Spirit Square in our City Centre has the iconic Return of the Sockeye sculpture that tells the inspiring story of the Kwikwetlem people’s success in re-establishing the sockeye’s return to the Coquitlam River. Today, more than 30% of Coquitlam’s population speaks a language other than English – Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese, Persian or Farsi and Chinese. It’s an exciting time to be here – enjoy your stay.
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CityofCoquitlam
From Mayor and Council Welcome to our spectacular city! Whether you are a traveler from the other side of the world or a visitor from across the Fraser River, our Travel and Experience Guide has all the information you’ll need to make the most of your time in a city we are proud to call home. No matter how long your visit — be it a few hours, a few weeks — you’ll find everything you need right here to make your stay a memorable one. We’ve got tips on how to take advantage of our natural attractions, descriptions of the best shopping and nightlife opportunities, and information on exciting cultural festivals for you to attend. For those wanting something a bit different, check out our “not your everyday excursions”. And let’s not forget the kids; You’ll even find rainy-day activities suitable for the whole family. It’s an exciting time in Coquitlam, as the City is planning for its 125 anniversary celebrations in 2016 — the same year that will see the opening of the Evergreen Line rapidtransit system connecting us to Vancouver. But that’s not all. We’re also providing a host of new services and facilities for visitors and residents alike, including the thousands of newcomers who arrive here every year. Coquitlam is a people place, boasting a diverse population comprising scores of cultural backgrounds. What’s not to love! There is energy and an excitement in Coquitlam. And we are ready to make your visit a memorable one! We invite you to join us, spend some time and get to know our community better. We know you’ll want to come back!
Town Centre Park
uintessential Coquitlam Fifteen experiences you won’t want to miss ... keep reading for more. PRACTISE YOUR BACKHAND: Challenge your friends to a table tennis or foosball tournament at Town Centre Park’s outdoor tables. coquitlam.ca/parkfinder ARTFUL ENTERTAINMENT: Check out the latest artist exhibit at the Evergreen Cultural Centre art gallery and, while you’re there, see what’s playing in the theatre. evergreenculturalcentre.ca HOMEGROWN GOODNESS: Explore the Coquitlam Farmers Market – time your visit to the annual salmon bake, pie-baking contest or Kids Day festivities. makebakegrow.com
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uintessential Coquitlam A WORKOUT WITH A VIEW: Get your heart rate up on the Coquitlam Crunch – a hike up Eagle Mountain that includes 437 stairs and will have you climbing the equivalent of an 81-storey highrise! coquitlam.ca/trails RUN SALMON, RUN: Take in one of nature’s wonders at the Hoy Creek Hatchery where hundreds of salmon return home each fall to spawn. hsws.ca
AYE, LADDIE! Bagpipes, Highland dancers and haggis, oh my! Head to Percy Perry Stadium the third weekend in June for the BC Highland Games and a celebration of all things Scottish. bchighlandgames.com TUNE IN: Spend a Sunday afternoon admiring one of the largest collections of antique radios in North America at the SPARC Radio Museum on the Riverview grounds. www3.telus.net/radiomuseum CALLING ALL TREE LOVERS: Join a walking tour with the Riverview Horticultural Centre Society to explore an impressive 1,800-tree arboretum. rhcs.org CHIRP, CHIRP: Pack your binoculars, camera and bird guide to see how many species you can spot at Colony Farm Regional Park. metrovancouver.org FORE! Prove your skills with a round of disc golf (a.k.a. Frisbee golf) on the nine-hole course that meanders through scenic Mundy Park. coquitlam.ca/parkfinder ’TIS THE SEASON: Christmas in Coquitlam isn’t complete without a walk through the light display at Lafarge Lake, with more than 30,000 lights exuding holiday cheer. coquitlam.ca/lights
STEP BACK IN TIME: Transport yourself back to the early 1900s on a tour of Mackin House Museum, complete with hands-on exhibits, period decor and even a historic toy display. coquitlamheritage.ca BREAK A SWEAT: Get some exercise with a leisurely jog on the extensive network of trails in Mundy Park, then cool off with a dip in the outdoor Spani Pool. coquitlam.ca/parkfinder
LACE UP YOUR BOOTS: Pack a lunch and head to Minnekhada Regional Park and take time to visit the historic Minnekhada Lodge. minnekhada.ca TAKE IN THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS: Tee-off amid towering Douglas Fir, massive granite rock faces and rugged ravines above Coquitlam on Eagle Mountain at Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club. westwoodplateaugolf.com
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CityofCoquitlam
Casual Italian Dining 2754 Barnet Hwy, Coquitlam 604.464.7656 www.pastapolo.com coquitlam.ca/tourism | Rendezvous Coquitlam | 7
Get
Hike through dense mountain forests, test your courage on the fluid mountain-biking trails of Eagle Mountain, kayak down the Coquitlam River or pack a picnic for a peaceful afternoon at the park. Coquitlam is blessed with spectacular gifts from Mother Nature, home to five lakes, four rivers, dozens of creeks and three of Canada’s tallest trees. We’re a city in balanced harmony with nature, and a leader in environmental stewardship. Come see why we love to spend our time outdoors.
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CityofCoquitlam
outdoors coquitlam.ca/tourism | Rendezvous Coquitlam | 9
Over 400 timber stairs make up the lower section of the Coquitlam Crunch trail
CRUNCH TIME! Ridge Park
TAKE A HIKE!
On the street, on the trail or in one of our parks. `` If someone tells you to “go take a hike” in Coquitlam, it’s not an insult. The city’s 95-kilometre (59-mile) trail system features everything from flat, hard-surface paths to challenging climbs. The Trans Canada Trail makes up part of the trail system, showcasing river views, peaceful forest walks and familyfriendly paths through neighbourhoods and
parks. Multi-use trails for walkers, runners and cyclists can be found in many parks, including Mundy, Como Lake, Riverview and Town Centre, and along waterways such as the Coquitlam River and Hoy Creek. Learn more about the vast array of trails by downloading Coquitlam’s Trail Maps and Guide at coquitlam.ca/trails.
Looking for a real challenge? Step it up on the Coquitlam Crunch. This locally renowned trail climbs to the top of Westwood Plateau on Eagle Mountain, gaining 250 metres (820 feet) in elevation in just over 2.2 kilometres (1.4 miles) – the equivalent to climbing 81 storeys! Traversing a combination of natural areas and parks, the Crunch offers a great workout as well as scenic vistas over the City of Coquitlam and the Fraser River. And thanks to improvements in early 2014, over 400 timber stairs have been added to the steepest section of the trail, making it easier and safer to walk back down.
Along with trails in City parks, Coquitlam has an extensive network of trails that interconnect across Westwood Plateau through ravines and along creeks.
Como Lake Park
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CityofCoquitlam
Mundy Park
Cedar Waxwing
Colony Farm’s meandering waterways are an important salmon spawning habitat and also support a variety of mammals and reptiles.
Almost one hundred and fifty species of birds rely on DeBoville Slough for safe habitat.
Purple Martin
Lazuli Bunting
American Goldfinch
Marsh Wren
Great Blue Heron
FOR THE BIRDS
Pack your camera and binoculars and start practicing your bird calls – amateur enthusiasts and experienced birders alike will have the opportunity to add plenty of sightings to their list. Colony Farm Regional Park is a birdwatcher’s delight with over 400 hectares (1,000 acres) of grasslands, waterways and marshes crisscrossed by wide, flat trails. Set out on foot or bicycle in search of the large colony of nesting blue herons, purple martins, the elusive lazuli bunting and dozens of other species of birds and waterfowl. More than six kilometres (3.7 miles) of packed-dirt trails lead to scenic vistas and points of interest such as multiple bridges, community gardens and wildlife habitat areas, along with a picnic area and washrooms. The park’s meandering waterways are an important salmon spawning habitat and also support a variety of mammals and reptiles. metrovancouver.org DeBoville Slough is the perfect location all year-round for bird watching and is usually one of the first places where swallows are observed in early spring. One
of the first shrubs to bloom is Indian plum followed by salmonberry, whose bright pink blossoms attracts migrating hummingbirds arriving from Mexico. Violet green, tree and barn swallows all rely on the insects in this area for food. Thickets of shrubs along the waterways provide safe nesting habitat for a wide assortment of small songbirds. By late spring, DeBoville Slough is alive with the music of marsh wrens, American goldfinch, willow flycatchers, warbling vireos, common yellowthroats and many others. Osprey nest over the waters of the Pitt River at the mouth of the slough and can often be seen hovering in search of fish. By summer, the red fruits of the elderberry will be avidly eaten by cedar waxwings and band-tailed pigeons. The tall grasses provide protective cover for nesting American bitterns and great blue herons
stalking tiny fish. During the fall months, song sparrows, spotted towhees, juncos, bushtits and chickadees glean the late-ripening berries from the bushes while bald eagles come to feast on salmon. Finally, DeBoville Slough is an important over-wintering area for an array of waterfowl including mallards, buffleheads and mergansers and almost 150 species of birds rely on the slough for safe habitat. fodbs.org Common Merganser
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SINGLE TRACK, SKATE PARK & BMX TRACK – DAVE MACKIE; MUNDY BIKE SKILLS PARK – JAY SHAW
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GET ON YOUR BIKE!
There’s great riding year-round in Coquitlam with modern trail building practices that follow the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) and Whistler trail standards. Skills parks too! `Coquitlam ` has lots of options for cycling enthusiasts ranging from easy family trails to steep terrain for the experienced cyclist. Riders young and old can enjoy tranquil excursions along level grades at Coquitlam River Park and Colony Farm. Coquitlam River delivers a forested experience, while Colony Farm delivers sky and open space for those wanting views and a laidback pace. With Coquitlam’s location at the base of two popular mountain biking areas, Eagle and Burke Mountains, there’s lots to choose from for riders who want a more challenging experience. Eagle Mountain has upper intermediate to advanced riding with steep and
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technical climbs that then deliver rewarding and challenging descents. Nearby Burke Mountain delivers intermediate and advanced trails with natural courses and technical descents with both rocks and roots – the terrain that riders want from the West Coast. Learn more at torca.ca
Mundy Bike Skills Park Off-road cyclists can develop their abilities at a bike skills trail located in Mundy Park at the corner of Mariner Way and Chilko Drive. The skills park includes two different circuits – one is a beginner level, while the other is an intermediate level. The circuits feature nine different types of obstacles such as a timber
CityofCoquitlam
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teeter-totter, log stacks, bridges, and a boulder drop-off. coquitlam.ca/parkfinder
BMX Jump Track BMX riders can develop 4 their jump gap bike skills at the BMX Jump Track located on the south-east side of Town Centre Park. Formerly known as the ‘Pipeline BMX Bike Park’, the competition level BMX Track was redesigned in 2012 to include a new primary circuit, as well as, a beginner circuit within the existing track footprint. The redesigned free-style track now provides for a broader range of experiences. coquitlam.ca/parkfinder
1: Plenty of flowy single track and technical descents on the local Coast Mountains. 2: Getting big air at Town Centre Skate Park 3: Father and son test their abilities at Mundy Bike Skills Park. 4: A rider burns through a corner on the BMX Jump Track.
Lost Lake, Mundy Park
Colony Farm
Minnekhada Park
Blue Mountain Spray Park
GO GREEN
Como Lake
Spray parks, play parks, forested parks ... and more parks. `` Fresh air, scenic views and outdoor fun – with more than 70 parks totalling over 930 hectares (2,300 acres), you’ll find plenty to do! Ranging from neighbourhood green spaces to large wilderness areas, Coquitlam’s parks offer amenities such as fishing lakes, playgrounds, sports fields, spray parks, outdoor pools, skateboard parks, picnic areas and tennis courts – opportunities to simply get back to nature. __ Blue Mountain: Find tranquility in the heart of the city, get soaked in the spray park and wading pool, or practise your serve on the tennis courts. __ Colony Farm Regional Park: Explore open areas of natural wetlands and fields ideal for picnicking and birding. __ Como Lake Park: Stroll around the lake or cast a line for trout.
COQUITLAM PARK FINDER Looking for the perfect park with the amenities of your choice? Use Coquitlam’s Park Finder at coquitlam.ca/parkfinder.
__ Minnekhada Regional Park: Spy abundant wildlife along 10 kilometres (six miles) of trails and stop to admire the elegant Minnekhada Lodge heritage building. __ Mundy Park: Enjoy forested walking trails, a disc golf course, two lakes and an outdoor swimming pool. __ Pinecone-Burke Provincial Park: Enjoy excellent hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and wildlife-viewing opportunities on 38,000 sprawling hectares (94,000 acres). __ Riverview Forest: Admire the Fraser Valley’s last old-growth trees along several pleasant hiking and biking trails.
Mundy Park Off-Leash Hou rs Dog are perm itted to run off-leash from dawn to 10:00 a.m. da ily and must remain on trai ls. Dogs must be on leash af ter 10:00 a.m. in all areas of Mundy Park.
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Spray Parks: Let the little ones splash around at one of seven free spray parks throughout the City. Check locations at coquitlam.ca/parkfinder Travel Safe Outdoors and Watch for Wildlife! Coquitlam is home to bears as well as other urban wildlife – while enjoying the outdoors be aware, and remember to: __ Tell a friend where you are going and when you expect to return. __ Hike or bike with others rather than alone. __ Bring extra food and fuel so that you can wait out delays due to weather or an emergency. __ Show consideration for other trail users. __ Respect nature and stay on the trails. __ Know the off-leash regulations and clean up after your dog. __ Be courteous to pedestrians when bicycling. __ Look for posted signs about animal activity. __ Watch ahead for bears or their tracks. __ Make plenty of noise when moving through treed areas. __ Do not feed wildlife.
Pooch-friendly Parks
family, Pets are members of the m ber nu a s and Coquitlam ha areas h as of parks and off-le g can where you and your do er. enjoy the outdoors togethat Remember, however, thcan be small, unleashed dogs as prey for predators such ep coyotes and eagles, so ke them safe. Bramble Park 2775 Panorama Dr. Glen Park 1149 Westwood St. Miller Park 900 Oakview St. Mundy Park * 641 Hillcrest St. Ridge Park 1685 Parkway Blvd.
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Game on! Coquitlam is mad about sports. From Saturday street hockey to summer Little League, from ice dancing to water polo and seniors’ softball, Coquitlam invites everyone to come out and play. We’re also a proud member of the Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance and we welcome athletes from around the world for tournaments and special events. Everyone loves Coquitlam’s natural training grounds: the fields, the ice, the greens, the ball diamonds, the stadium and the pools. And whether it’s playing for fun, competing hard or cheering for the home team, we do it all with heart.
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CityofCoquitlam
Fans take in an evening baseball game at Blue Mountain Park.
TOWN CENTRE PARK
You’ll find something to do at this 100-acre park loaded with options right in the City Centre. `` The crown jewel among Coquitlam’s sports and recreation facilities, the 100-acre Town Centre Park is a destination for training athletes, competitive tournaments, weekend warriors and park users who just want to get out and have some fun. gg Percy Perry Stadium: This covered facility packs in more than 1,600 fans at a time for sports tournaments, track-and-field events and community festivals such as the BC Highland Games and Coquitlam’s Canada Day celebrations. gg Fields and Courts: Sports enthusiasts will find four lit synthetic turf fields and two grass fields in addition to basketball courts, three baseball diamonds, a roller hockey court, six beach volleyball courts and eight lit tennis courts for public use.
gg Trails: Four easy loop trails with paved surfaces are a popular destination for walkers, joggers, cyclists and inline skaters. gg Playground: The kids can have their own fun on a jungle gym of climbing equipment, bucket swings, large game boards and even a spray park. gg Exercise Equipment: Fitness fiends can work out on Air Walkers, elliptical cross-trainers, stationary bikes, rowing machines, a chest press and a sit-up/pushup bench. gg Table Games: Outdoor table tennis and foosball tables are a visitor favourite. gg Skate Park: Skateboarders will appreciate numerous quarter-pipes, banks, ledges and rails, as well as a 1.8-metre (six-foot) spine – all lit until 11:00 p.m. nightly.
gg Bike Skills Park: BMX riders can develop their jump gap bike skills at the BMX Jump Track. gg Lafarge Lake: This idyllic lake – home to ducks and geese and stocked with rainbow trout for avid anglers – makes for a picture-perfect picnic destination.
Lafarge Lake
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TAKE IT INSIDE!
Whether your motivation is getting fit or just having fun, Coquitlam’s recreational facilities are equipped for whatever you’re in the mood for. Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex (PSLC) is a sustainably designed facility home to ice sports, water sports and fitness training. Six full sheets and three half-sheets of ice for family skate sessions, lessons, drop-in curling and stick-ring-and-puck practice. Water lovers will appreciate the leisure and lap pools, swirlpool, steam room and sauna. Or, try your hand at yoga, kickboxing or indoor cycling at a drop-in class in the fitness centre. Whatever activity, reward your workout with a beer and a burger at the licensed Ice Water Café on site. Plus, don’t miss the Coquitlam Sports Hall of Fame to get to know Coquitlam’s sports
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heroes and special athletes. coquitlamshof.com
City Centre Aquatic Complex (CCAC) At CCAC, you can splash in the freeform wave pool, challenge yourself in the Olympic-size lap pool, or get the burn you want at a dropin aquafit class. Kids can’t get enough of the waterslide, zipline, rope swing, diving boards and tot pool, while adults can relax in the whirlpool and steam room. Or, drop in for a workout or sign up for a personal training session at the fitness centre – child minding is available. Afterward, treat yourself to a snack at the Aquatic Centre Café. CityofCoquitlam
Planet Ice As home rink for several minor ice sports associations and a wide range of hockey league play for adults, this four-rink facility has adult drop-in hockey, stickand-puck, and public skating sessions available at various times throughout the week - fullservice licensed restaurant too! planetice.ca/coquitlam
Poirier Forum Check out what’s going on at the Poirier Forum - the City’s newest multi-purpose facility for sports such as lacrosse, ball hockey, volleyball, badminton, and indoor soccer. At 23,000 square feet, any number of activities could be underway – a popular craft fair, Farmers market or cultural event. coquitlam.ca/poirierforum
SPORT FACILITY HOSTING GUIDE
Learn more about what Coquitlam recreation facilities have to offer at coquitlam.ca/prc
Planning your own sporting event? Check out our Sport Facility Hosting Guide for details on the state-of-the-art amenities we have available: coquitlam.ca/sporthosting
Work out, enjoy a skate, water aerobics, swimming or curling at PSLC. Top right: Kids enjoy CCAC’s water slide after swim lessons.
INSIDE/ OUTSIDE Tee Time Whether you’re a hacker or a scratch golfer, Coquitlam has the golf experience for you. Practice your swing at a driving range, perfect your game with instruction from a certified professional, or tee off against a backdrop of unforgettable mountain and city views.
Cheer on the Home Team! Prefer to cheer from the sidelines? Canada’s two favourite sports – hockey and lacrosse – can be seen live at the 2,000-seat arena at the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex. For exciting and affordable hockey action, check out a Coquitlam Express Junior ‘A’ Hockey Club home game from September to April. The Express, members of the British Columbia Hockey League, were the 2014 Fred Page Cup Champions and have produced many players who have moved up to the NHL. For high-energy lacrosse action, take in a Coquitlam Senior Adanac Lacrosse Club game between May and August. Members of the Western Lacrosse Association, the Adanacs have brought home four league championships and one national title – and always deliver an action-packed sporting experience that is bound to turn your family into fans. For tickets and game information, visit coquitlamexpress.ca and adanaclacrosse.com
Find a New Fishing Hole What better way to while away the afternoon than with a rod and reel? Grab your gear and cast a line at one of Coquitlam’s many popular fishing spots. The shoreline of Lafarge Lake in Town Centre Park is easy to access from the walking trail, or you can drop a line from the pier. You can fish year-round, but you’re most likely to hook a catch in spring or fall, when the lake is stocked with rainbow trout. You’ll also find excellent fishing at Como Lake, likewise stocked with thousands of rainbow trout on an annual basis, though you may find the occasional carp, catfish or cutthroat trout, too. The lake can be accessed from the shore, plus there are two floating docks for the benefit of anglers. If your interest runs to fly fishing, head to the Coquitlam River. This relatively calm tributary of the Fraser River is home to Coho Salmon, though you may also find Cutthroat, Dolly Varden and winter Steelhead Trout. Get Your Fishing License Fishing in BC waters requires a licence – buy yours online at fishing.gov.bc.ca. Or, take advantage of BC’s annual free fishing weekend in June at a community event like the Lafarge Lake Annual Free Fishing Day. For both Lafarge and Como Lakes, the latest stocking statistics can be found at: gofishbc.com
3D Golf Performance: Perfect your game with the help of state-of-the-art 3D video motion-capture technology popular with PGA tour professionals. 3dgolfperformance.ca Eaglequest Golf: Enjoy this fun, 9-hole, par 27 course with varied length holes for golfers of all abilities. A great place to work on your short-game year round. eaglequestgolf.com/coquitlam Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club: Tee off amid towering Douglas firs, massive granite rock faces and rugged ravines high above Coquitlam at Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club, named “best game in town” by Golf Digest. Play up to 6,770 yards on the 18 scenic holes on Eagle Mountain at this widely acclaimed course designed by Michael Hurdzan. westwoodplateaugolf.com Westwood Plateau Golf Academy and Driving Range: Improve your long ball drive, iron play or wedge shots at this practice facility, which includes a 12-hole practice course. Open to the public. westwoodplateaugolf.com Vancouver Golf Club Host of the 2015 Canadian Pacific Women’s Open, this private club’s challenging 18-hole championship course sprawls over a woodland park setting of over 176 acres. From August 17 – 23, 2015 the world’s best women golfers will compete for a $2.25 million purse, which is the fifth largest amount on the LPGA tour. More than 50,000 fans are expected to attend. vancouvergolfclub.com
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Kid Approved Wondering what to do with the kids in tow? We’ve got plenty of activities the whole family will love. Climb Base5 Kids climbing the walls is all part of the fun at Climb Base5. Take the family for an indoor climbing session (and seriously fun workout) where anyone – even kids as young as three years old – can learn to rock climb. You’ll have your pick of leadable routes and boulder problems, and the most auto-belay options in the Lower Mainland. climbbase5.com
City Libraries Pop by one of our two library branches – both provide a variety of materials and services. The City Centre branch has reading nooks, computer lab space, meeting rooms, a multicultural collection and even a cozy fireplace lounge! library.coquitlam.bc.ca
Mundy Park Disc Golf Course A cross between Frisbee and golf, disc golf is a game everyone can play – and the par-27 course at Mundy Park is a perfect introduction to the sport. Aim your disc into a series of nine baskets along the course, and take in views of one of the city’s prettiest parks along the way. coquitlam.ca/parkfinder
The Zone Bowling Centre Practice your wind-up and perfect your technique at Zone Bowling in the Schoolhouse Street entertainment district. Black lights and glow-in-the-dark bowls take 10-pin bowling to a whole new level during Cosmic Bowling nights. A state-of-the-art video arcade and craft beer from Big River Brewing Company for the adults round out the experience. Strike! zonebowling.ca
Family Golf Let the kids putt their way to glory on the mini golf course at Eaglequest Coquitlam. Budding golf stars can also try their hand at regular golf on Eaglequest’s 9-hole course or the 12-hole executive course at Westwood Plateau.
SilverCity Coquitlam & VIP Cinemas Make it the ultimate movie night at SilverCity Coquitlam! With comfy seats, a licensed lounge and 20 theatres – including nine primed for ultra-realistic 3D screenings – movies can be extreme at this multiplex
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CityofCoquitlam
cinema. Even the youngest members of the family are welcome – drop in for a Stars and Strollers show in a baby-friendly moviewatching environment. cineplex.com
Crash Crawly’s Let the kids go wild! With over 15,000 square feet of indoor adventures, Crash Crawly’s is one of the largest indoor playgrounds in the province. It features a two-storey crazy maze of tunnels, bridges, ball pits, slides and more. Other attractions include cars that kids can really drive, a miniature train ride, and a special play area for toddlers. crash-crawlys.com Outdoor Pools & Spray Parks Prefer swimming with the sun on your back? Take a dip in one of Coquitlam’s two outdoor pools – Eagle Ridge and Spani – or the wading pool at Blue Mountain Park. You’ll also find seven free spray parks located throughout the city. coquitlam.ca/outdoorpools
Itinerary
Get Active
and , refreshments ts or sp of y a d Enjoy a mpetition. some friendly co with a into the dayon se a ineE : ff o ce a • F c golf theanmini is d f o e m a g friendly at Mundy Park, or hole course rnament on the two new foosball tou wn Centre Park. e of tables in To tio: Head to oned a p a on t in p ch • Sip a any sun-dren Coquitlam’s pmatios to soak up some restaurant ver lunch and a local Vitamin D oor cocktail. microbrew s up your skatece a L e: ic e th d • Hit stick-ring-an for a drop-in at Poirier Sport & puck session plex (PSLC) – it’s an Leisure Com for both hockey and opportunity usiasts to sharpen ringette enthoring skills. their goal-sc greats: Beforte e th e ir m d A • C, check ou you leave PSgL stories of the the inspirin st athletes at the city’s greate ports Hall of Fame. Coquitlam S at d up the night • Strike! WinBowling Centre for The Zone of throwing bowls an evening with beer service – complete p house at the Big from the ta urant. River Resta
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Join the Festivities Coquitlam loves to celebrate, hosting more than 100 festivals, fairs and community events each year. From caber tossing at the Highland Games to foot-stomping francophone music at the Festival du Bois, Coquitlam welcomes visitors to celebrate our diversity.
FESTIVAL du BOIS MARCH: There’s no better way to immerse yourself in Coquitlam’s modern francophone culture than by rocking out to some of the most popular French Canadian musical acts in the country. The Société francophone de Maillardville’s annual Festival du Bois attracts more than 15,000 people from across the Lower Mainland 20 | Rendezvous Coquitlam |
for “un weekend de folie”. Expect three days of great music, engaging exhibitions by local artists and fun activities for the whole family. Plus, don’t miss sampling authentic French-Canadian delicacies, including tourtière, maple taffy on snow, maple sugar pie and, of course, poutine. festivaldubois.ca
CityofCoquitlam
BC HIGHLAND GAMES JUNE: To indulge in all things Scottish, head to Percy Perry Stadium on the third Saturday in June, when bagpipe music fills the air and kilts are the favoured fashion. Originating in Scotland, the Highland Games have been a BC tradition since 1931. Competitors from Western Canada and
the United States come to test their mettle in everything from bagpiping and Highland dancing to heavy events that include the caber toss, the stone put and the hammer throw. And for a tasty treat, don’t miss the shortbread competition! bchighlandgames.com
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CANADA DAY JULY 1: Canada Day is Coquitlam’s favourite annual celebration – and its biggest with crowds reaching 50,000! With nearly 150 community groups, artists and businesses joining in the festivities at Town Centre Park, July 1 is an all-day party. Check out musical acts, cultural performances and family 22 | Rendezvous Coquitlam |
entertainment performing throughout the day on three different stages, tour the exhibits and booths in themed “villages,” and don’t miss the amazing spread from local eateries at Taste of Coquitlam. The festival culminates in a dazzling display of fireworks at Lafarge Lake. coquitlam.ca/canadaday CityofCoquitlam
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Calendar of Events What’s Happening – When and Where! Many listed events are free and fun for the whole family – visit coquitlam.ca/events for more info unless otherwise noted.
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SPRING Evening Frog Song Enjoy an evening stroll in Minnekhada Regional Park and take in the night sounds and smells of the marsh to learn about frogs and other amphibians. metrovancouver.org Family Day at Place des Arts Gather up the family and tour Place des Arts’ current exhibitions, then participate in several all-ages art workshops. placedesarts.ca Salmon Leave Home Join Hoy Creek Fish Hatchery’s release of young Coho salmon into the creek to start their journey to the Pacific Ocean. hsws.ca Heritage Mother’s Day Tea Treat your mother to a classic high tea served in Mackin House Museum’s vintage 1909 parlour. coquitlamheritage.ca
International Migratory Bird Day Join the Colony Farm Park Association for displays, kids activities, a history tour and birding walks at Colony Farm Regional Park. bmn.bc.ca Como Lake Fishing Derby A free event for youth under 16 with prize giveaways and a pancake breakfast. festivalcoquitlam.ca
SUMMER Teddy Bear Picnic and Grand Parade Family fun, featuring a children’s concert and storytelling, puppet shows, rovers and gymnastics. Bring your teddy bear to watch the parade. festivalcoquitlam.ca Free Fishing Day Head to Lafarge Lake for a familyfriendly day of fun and prizes during BC’s free fishing weekend. festivalcoquitlam.ca
Treefest
Tree & Heritage Walks Join a guided walk through the trees on the Riverview Lands. rhcs.org Coquitlam Farmers Market Opening Day Come by for fresh local produce, kids’ activities and live entertainment. makebakegrow.com 24 | Rendezvous Coquitlam |
Daisy Day (Austin Heights) Austin Heights BIA sponsor this community event complete with face painting, crafts, children’s activities and a pancake breakfast. austinheights.ca BC Highland Games A traditional Highland games with competitions in piping, drumming, pipe bands, and Scottish heavy events as well as demonstrations. bchighlandgames.com CityofCoquitlam
St-Jean-Baptiste Day Be part of St-Jean-Baptiste day, a nationwide French Canadian day featuring music, activities, food and family fun. maillardville.com Coquitlam Celebrates Canada Day Take in multiple stages of live entertainment, the popular “Taste of Coquitlam,” a cultural village, an artisan village, and many adventure and creative activities, all topped off with fireworks. coquitlam.ca/canadaday Coquitlam Multicultural Fair Celebrate multiculturalism with a free, family-friendly summer fair where attendees have a chance to learn about the different cultures that make up our community. coquitlam.ca/events Play On! Vancouver Check out the street hockey tournament and festival – get a team together and join 340 other teams for an epic weekend tournament. playon.ca/events/ vancouver Coquitlam Adanacs Catch championship level lacrosse – exciting and affordable from May through August. adanaclacrosse.com 2015 Canadian Pacific Women’s Open The Vancouver Golf Club is hosting the LPGA Tour’s 2015 Canadian Pacific Women’s Open tournament. vancouvergolfclub.com
Coquitlam Crunch
Minnekhada Art in the Park Festival Enjoy artists’ work, listen to live jazz, indulge your taste buds at the outdoor café, and learn about the natural and cultural history of Minnekhada Regional Park. minnekhada.ca Evergreen Cultural Centre Check out Evergreen’s Music on the Grill events - topnotch musical acts and a sumptuous BBQ dinner served al fresco on the patio. evergreenculturalcentre.ca
FALL Coquitlam Crunch Challenge Hikers can trek the famed 2.2-kilometre (1.4-mile) trail to the top of Westwood Plateau once, or compete for the most round-trips in a 12-hour period. coquitlamcrunch.com Treefest A celebration of the trees on the Riverview Lands with hourly arborist-led walks. rhcs.org Coquitlam Terry Fox Run 35th Anniversary Celebrate the 35th Anniversary of this annual run in celebration of Terry’s Marathon of Hope. terryfox.org
Hard Rock’s Ultimate Car Show
Ultimate Car Show Check out hundreds of exotic, classic and muscle cars on display at the Hard Rock Casino. hardrockcasinovancouver.com
Coquitlam Heritage Society’s Open House Come by for burgers, cupcakes, crafts, music and more to celebrate the birthday of Mackin House. coquitlamheritage.ca
Salmon Come Home Rain or shine, this popular family event offers children’s activities and crafts, music, a concession, salmon viewing and live salmon demonstrations with Fisheries and Oceans Canada. www.hsws.ca
A Lantern Affair – Celebration of Light at Carré Heritage Square Drop in on a variety of arts and heritage activities for all ages and get into the spirit of the season with live musical and theatrical entertainment and more. placedesarts.ca
Heritage Halloween Pumpkin carving and harvest baking paired with heritage decorating and crafts make this Halloween event a traditional treat. Come in costume and win a prize. coquitlamheritage.ca Halloween Spooktacular – l’Halloween Fantomatique Come for scary stories, a puppet theatre, an ooey gooey table, crafts and games for children ages 2 to 8 at this bilingual event. placemaillardville.ca Remembrance Day Following remembrance and the laying of the wreaths, join the veterans at Coquitlam’s legion. coquitlam.ca/events
WINTER
Coquitlam Express Hockey Check out affordable, exciting, family-friendly entertainment. coquitlamexpress.ca Christmas at Mackin House Come see this heritage home decorated in the traditional style, and register for festive activities such as cookie ornament decorating and story time in the parlour. coquitlamheritage.ca
Seasonal Light Display Every year Coquitlam hosts one of the largest free outdoor light displays in the Lower Mainland around Lafarge Lake and City Hall – multiple themes and over 30,000 lights. coquitlam.ca/lights Coquitlam Christmas Craft Fair Head to Poirier Community Centre to shop for Christmas gifts among a selection of handmade art, jewelry, food, clothing and home decor items from more than 120 local crafters. coquitlamcrafts.com Nowruz Festival Mark Nowruz, the Persian new year, with festivities in Glen Park that include food, live music, performances, kids activities and the opportunity to leap over fire during Charshabe Souri, the prelude to Nowruz. coquitlam.ca/events Festival du Bois In March, attend Coquitlam’s premiere French Canadian festival with traditional food and the famous maple taffy on snow. World music, award-winning artists, dancing, crafts and more! festivaldubois.ca
Coquitlam and Hollywood – did you know? Filming Diary of a Wimpy Kid at Eagle Ridge Pool.
`` Coquitlam has great locations for TV series, movies and specials – our Film Office is busy with location bookings all year round. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid 3” movie created a set and filmed at Eagle Ridge Pool. The series, “Supernatural,” has filmed at many locations in Coquitlam Como Lake and Mundy Park are just two. Feature film “Hidden” filmed at Hoy Creek Tunnel.
TV series, “Once Upon A Time” and “Backstorm” filmed scenes at Upper Coquitlam River Park. TV Movie, “Grumpy Cat’s Worst Christmas Ever,” filmed scenes at Coquitlam Centre shopping centre. “iZombie” series filmed scenes in Minnekhada Park. Feature film, “Godzilla” filmed scenes off United Boulevard in the Fraser River Industrial Area. TV Series, “Arrow” has frequently filmed in the Fraser River Industrial Area.
Save the Date! In 2016, Coquitlam turns 125! You can look forward to yearlong, city-wide celebrations that will acknowledge our rich history and set the stage for a dynamic future. We have tons of events throughout the year to mark this special occasion! From a kick-off event to a historical picnic and a grand finale – and with 125 block parties, an arts festival, sports events and much more happening throughout the year – there will be opportunities for people of all ages and interests to come together and celebrate what makes our city and our people great. Visit our website for more information and updates: coquitlam125.ca
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2 2 Pioneer Spirit, Mackin Park A gift from the City of Coquitlam to commemorate the 1909–2009 Maillardville Centennial, this piece embodies the spirit of the pioneers who arrived in the area at the turn of the century. The kinetic work powers three listening stations where you can hear natural sounds from the immediate area collected by a parabolic microphone, archived recordings of the pioneers of Maillardville and a choral piece called “Ils rêvent d’un village” (“They Dream of a Village”). Spend a few hours in this area enjoying all the amenities of Mackin Park and Mackin House Museum. Pop by Place des Arts for its current exhibition.
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Artful Expressions Take a self-guided tour of Coquitlam’s public art installations – inspired by the city’s own history. 1 Return of the Sockeye, Spirit Square “Coquitlam,” taken from the First Nation word “Kwikwetlem”, means “red fish up the river”, referring to sockeye salmon. Once abundant in the Coquitlam River, the sockeye were nearly wiped out by a dam built in the early 1900s. Nearly 100 years later, the Kwikwetlem people have succeeded in re-establishing a
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small sockeye run in the river. This sculpture of a sockeye arching over a concrete dam tells the story of their return. Located in Spirit Square, it is walking distance to Town Centre Park to the north, and Coquitlam Centre to the south. Relax on a comfortable bench right in the City Centre and see the interactive water feature mimic the Coquitlam River’s fall spawning grounds.
CityofCoquitlam
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3 Migration, Coquitlam Public Library, City Centre Branch Coquitlam residents who had immigrated to Canada shared their experiences of integrating into the local culture – this mixed-media piece reflects their stories and celebrates the city’s diversity. Enjoy the shops across the street at Henderson Mall for a special item.
4 9 4 A Hommage Aux Pionniers, Our Lady of Lourdes This piece tells the story of Maillardville and was commissioned for the 75th anniversary of this important Coquitlam neighbourhood. The piece is in front of the Our Lady of Lourdes Church, which served as the backbone of the community at the turn of the century. 5 Bee Sculpture, Inspiration Garden The bee and flower on which it rests are a living sculpture constructed of a steel frame with fabric and filled with plant material to encourage growth. It blooms from June to early October then hibernates for the winter. More time on your hands? Wander around the corner and enjoy a stroll around Lafarge Lake or pop into the Evergreen Cultural Centre’s art gallery for its latest exhibition.
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8 Boarder Benches, Town Centre Park Originally part of the “Concrete Poetry” exhibit at Evergreen Cultural Centre, featuring benches with views of infamous skate spots throughout the world. Skateboarding vernacular is layered onto a series of three concrete benches located in Town Centre Park.
9 Coquitlam Columbian Centennial Totem, Dogwood Pavilion This 16-metre (52-foot) totem pole is one of a series of four commissioned in 1967 during Canada’s Centennial year. A tribute to the local First Nations, the pole is carved in the Kwakwaka’wakw tradition of Northwest Coast First Nations art. Cross the street and drop by the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex for all it has to offer including the Coquitlam Sports Hall of Fame, or a bite to eat and some libations at the Ice Water Café.
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6 Spirit Bear, Place des Arts The Coquitlam Spirit Bear (Stól:lô Spath) translates to River Bear and depicts the spirits of the animals and symbols that speak of growing up beside the mighty Fraser River. 7 Our Salmon, Our Children, One Earth, City Hall Created for the City to celebrate the millennium, this yellow cedar and glass piece is located in the foyer of City Hall. The piece tells the story of the importance of the salmon to the First Nations people.
coquitlam.ca/publicart
Arts & Culture Coquitlam offers a rich history and an emerging arts and cultural community. In fact, in 2009, Coquitlam was designated a Cultural Capital of Canada in recognition of the contribution of culture to the community’s identity, quality of life and economic development. Theatres, galleries, museums and cultural centres provide a wide array of cultural insights and adventure. Coquitlam has become a popular destination for festivals and events, with over 100 events occurring each year. coquitlam.ca/arts coquitlam.ca/tourism | Rendezvous Coquitlam | 27
Shopping Havens Indulge in some retail therapy at one of Coquitlam’s destination districts. Whether you’re on the lookout for an eye-catching home decor item, a one-of-a-kind gift for the hard-to-shop-for friend, or the perfect outfit for a special occasion, you’re bound to find it here. Coquitlam has four convenient shopping neighbourhoods, each offering a unique shopping experience all its own.
Austin Heights If you like browsing the boutique scene, head to Austin Heights, a bustling neighbourhood with a variety of delis and grocers, specialty gift shops, a quilter’s paradise and a one-stop angler’s shop. Start your day with a latte at the local coffee bar, stroll the streets and discover some hidden gems. Enjoy a break from the shops with a beauty treatment at one of the spas or salons, a meal at any of the fabulous restaurants, or a drink at the popular neighbourhood pub. austinheights.ca
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Coquitlam City Centre Shopaholics rejoice! With close to 200 stores offering everything from food to fashion all under one roof, Coquitlam Centre in Coquitlam’s dynamic City Centre is a prime shopping destination. You’ll find chains like Aritzia and Sephora, specialty sports stores such as Lululemon, Atmosphere and Golf Town, and small, oneof-a-kind shops along with mall anchors like The Bay, Sears, T&T Supermarket, H&M and London Drugs. Plus, don’t forget to explore the streets surrounding the mall for a varied collection of shops, restaurants and services. coquitlamcentre.com
CityofCoquitlam
North Road On the hunt for something different? Drop by BC’s largest Korean shopping district along North Road to search for interesting imported goods. From trendy clothing and handy housewares to novelty items you just can’t pass up, you’ll find it all. There’s also an unmistakable spirit of culinary adventure here, and enticing bakeries and cozy restaurants provide the perfect respite after a long day of shopping. United Boulevard Feather your nest at one of Metro Vancouver’s most flourishing retail destinations. Densely packed with an impressive range of all things home-related, from renovation and gardening supplies to electronics and home furnishings, this consumer corridor offers both convenience and choice – plus the world-class Hard Rock Casino to supply the evening’s entertainment. The area has recently seen billions of
dollars invested in infrastructure, resulting in easier access and new businesses. Whether visiting by vehicle, transit or bike, you can easily get around to the many retailers in this expansive shopping area.
Coquitlam Farmers Market Treat yourself to farmfresh fruits and vegetables, fresh-baked pastries or homemade jam – even knits, jewelry and handmade soaps! Each Sunday from May to October, vendors at the Poirier Street Farmers Market – the longestrunning suburban farmers market in the Lower Mainland – offer a tempting selection of items that are made, baked, grown or raised in B.C. makebakegrow.com
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t u o b A d n a Out
ting, y of shopping,. ea a d a r fo ls a p r Gather you eside fun and some tunes crafting, lak d to e catwalk: Hneaearly th r fo y d ea r • Get ping mecca – the city’s shop Coquitlam Centre – fors 200 stores inward finds at posh chain fashion-for tiques alike. and cosy bou fresh raze on farmd-ulge in G l: ca lo op h S • etables, in fruits and vegpastries and explore an fresh-baked lection of artisan knits, impressive seother locally made jewelry andthe Farmers Market delights at October. y from May to Take a leisurLelake : n su e th p u • Soak scenic Lafarge stroll aroundtre Park – keep your in Town Cendy for photo ops of the camera han enes around the lake. changing sc in touch withpet G y: ft a cr • Get neer at a soa your inner piokshop or other making woremed event at heritage-th se Museum, a Mackin Houd home from the staged perio early 1900s. y, fter a long dalocal A e: os lo et L • eam at a let off some stcreative cocktails lounge with even dancing to and maybe a live band.
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Date Night There’s plenty to do without the kids! Indulge in a night of grown-up fun at one of the city’s hottest after-dark scenes. `` Take in a rock concert at the only Hard Rock Casino in Canada, a popular stop for big name musical acts on tour. Crowd pleasers like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Chicago, Collective Soul and Peter Frampton, tribute bands and touring comedians all feature regularly on the stages. Drop into Unlisted Lounge where they have an award-winning wine list, creative cocktails, live music and a chilled-out, down-tempo vibe, or head to the up-close-and-personal Asylum Sound Stage for comedy, burlesque or anything in between. Enjoy dinner at the upscale Stake restaurant or one of the other six in-house dining venues, then try your luck at the
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casino – you’ll find all your favourite table games, plus nearly 1,000 slots. From classical Mozart and Brahms concertos to comedy favourites like The Odd Couple to bawdy musicals, the Evergreen Cultural Centre stages a staggering variety of live performances that range from classic to cutting-edge. Or, opt for the classic dinner and a movie – but make it a classy affair. The VIP Cinemas in the SilverCity Coquitlam complex (20 screens total) offers a licensed lounge, premium in-theatre service with comfy reserved seating and a specialty food menu. (VIP cinemas admission 19+)
CityofCoquitlam
The Asylum sound stage at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver; Live theatre at Evergreen Cultural Centre; Escape to the VIP Cinemas for some special treatment and a movie.
Itinerary
e n i h S r o n i a R
ampen the fuinn ed d to d ee n ’t sn oe terta A little rain dm arm, dry and ivenity around w y il fa e th p ct – kee ploration and a with a day of ex the city. ouse to Mackin Hed in op r D ur : se ou • Play h scheduled or self-guid ittoh w a e ed to tak ian home stag of this Edwaitrdure and artifacts and period furn daily life in Maillardville learn about 1900s. in the early b ur n : Let the kids Centre sh la sp a e k a • M y at the City off some energplex, where the Aquatic Comand wave pool will keep waterslide ined for hours. them enterta od: Coquitlamts fo ew n a y Tr • restauran has dozens ogf cuisine from representin world. Dig into around the Vietnamese pho, a dinner of ialties or seafood Filipino spec Creole-style. for the home • Score! Roothockey game – the team at a xpress, the city’s Coquitlam E ockey Club, plays Junior “A” Hgame that will an exciting y with cheers! end your da
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LOUNGES - Sip in style For after-dinner drinks with atmosphere, check out a local lounge for a memorable evening with inventive cocktails, curated wine lists and ambient music that sets the mood. __ With a trendy, modern and relaxing vibe, The Wild Fig at the Executive Plaza Hotel Coquitlam hosts weekly live entertainment featuring local artists and a wide range of music. __ Plush leather chairs and dark oak interiors create an inviting atmosphere at Rockwell’s Bar & Grill, a contemporary, casual dining restaurant at the Best Western Plus Coquitlam Inn.
Taste the World Choices the whole family can enjoy, selections for the discerning palate and laid-back options when a refreshment is all you need. `Thanks ` to a fabulously diverse population, Coquitlam is spoiled when it comes to choices for dining out. Tantalize your taste buds with exotic menus from around the world, and visit a different country’s cuisine each day! Explore the unique flavours of Asia. Sample everything from seaweed-wrapped sushi rolls to traditional noodle dishes at the many Japanese restaurants in town. You’ll also find authentic Chinese delicacies, Vietnamese pho, as well as Korean and Thai favourites. European cuisine is also well represented here. Sit down to a
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CityofCoquitlam
From the Top: Enjoy dinner for two at Chada Thai; Feed the whole family at the Grand Palace Seafood Restaurant; Authentic cuisine at the Russian House or try Fred Soufi’s chicken linguini at Pasta Polo.
pint at a classic Irish or British neighbourhood pub, or indulge in fresh seafood at a fish-and-chip shop. Borscht, cabbage rolls and perogies are among the traditional Russian favourites on offer. Plus, Greek tavernas offer souvlaki and baklava to die for, while Italian restaurants feature all your pizza and pasta favourites, and of course gelato for dessert! Craving something a little more “familiar”? The John B. Neighbourhood Pub offers hearty pub fare and over 50 draft beer choices. Coquitlam is also home to several popular Canadian chains, including The Keg Steakhouse and Bar (a favourite among steak lovers) and Montana’s Cookhouse (famous for their ribs). Browns Socialhouse, Cactus Club Cafe, Sammy J’s Grill and Bar, Boston Pizza, Joey Restaurant and Milestones Grill & Bar all serve up delicious West Coast cuisine. And if you love brunch, don’t miss a Quebec-inspired “crêpomelette” or French toast at Cora Restaurant.
Where to Stay Hang your hat at one of Coquitlam’s many comfortable accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for the convenience of a full-service hotel with easy access to downtown Vancouver, the homestyle comfort and cooking of a family-run B&B, or affordable comfort for the whole family, you’ll find it here. With four hotels totalling nearly 400 rooms, one motel and several bed-and-breakfasts, Coquitlam has plenty of accommodation options to suit both your needs and your budget.
HOTELS
MOTEL
BED & BREAKFASTS
Best Western Plus Coquitlam Inn Convention Centre 319 North Rd. 604-931-9011 bestwesterncoquitlam.com
Coquitlam Sleepy Lodge 730 Clarke Rd. 604-937-7737 sleepylodge.ivancouver.com
Black Forest Bed & Breakfast 1467 Lansdowne Dr. 604-552-7466 blackforestbandb.com
Best Western Plus Chelsea Inn 725 Brunette Ave. 604-525-7777 bestwesternchelseainn.com Executive Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre Coquitlam 405 North Rd. 604-936-9399 executivehotels.net Ramada Coquitlam 631 Lougheed Hwy. 604-931-4433 ramadacoquitlam.com
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B&B Cliffrose 2967 Cliffrose Cres. 604-945-5945 www.cyanagitani.com Eagle Mountain Bed & Breakfast 2548 Trillium Pl. 604-941-8956 eaglemountainbb.com Fig Tree Bed & Breakfast 413 Mariner Way 604-464-4024 figtreebandb.com
French Quarters Bed & Breakfast 213 Laval St. 604-936-6616 frenchquartersbb.com Green Gables Bed & Breakfast 2242 Park Cres. 604-469-7105 green-gables.com
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EXECUTIVE PLAZA HOTEL COQUITLAM: RATED #1 BY TRIP ADVISOR Luxury suites, separate living areas and kitchenettes, sofa beds and multiple flat-screen TVs, the Executive Plaza is an instant fit for business and family travellers. The Wild Fig Restaurant, elegantly designed and crafted, features weekly live entertainment, drink and food specials and a relaxed-yet-vibrant feel. CONNECT WITH US
405 North Road, Coquitlam | 604.936.9399 | executivehotels.net/coquitlam | wildfig.ca
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CityofCoquitlam
1 SPARC Museum – Queen sang “Radio Ga Ga” and the Buggles claimed that “Video Killed the Radio Star” but radio is alive and well at the SPARC Radio Museum in Coquitlam. Check out this working museum with one of the largest collections of vintage radios in North America and a vintage broadcast booth where you can hear old radio programs. Experience the significant role radio played in historic world events. You can see a replica of the radio room that was on the “Carpathia,” the vessel that was first to receive the SOS signals from the Titanic. www3.telus.net/radiomuseum
2 Riverview Arboretum is a lovely hillside expanse where trees grown include 163 species and 113 varieties. The arboretum began with a collection of trees from all the world’s temperate zones. There are now an estimated 1,800 trees. Apart from their beauty, the trees are also a valuable gene pool. rhcs.org
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4 3 Robinson Memorial Park Cemetery walking tour offers visitors a chance to discover the stories of notable residents who are interred in the City cemetery including the Robinsons who originally donated the land, Jimmy Christmas, the City’s longest serving Mayor, Emery Barnes, one of BC’s first black politicians and Antonio Pare, the City’s Town Crier born in 1917. coquitlam.ca/cemetery
4 Centennial Rose Garden is tranquil, beautiful space and is one of Coquitlam’s hidden gems The garden is home to over 1,000 roses, has one of the widest ranges of Hybrid Tea Roses, and is one of the last of its kind in the Lower Mainland. Be sure to visit the Fraser Pacific Rose Society’s Annual Rose Show in July. fprosesociety.org 5 Thermal Drive – Drive up or down this steep grade hill in Coquitlam and ponder what it must have been like for Rick Hansen, a Canadian Paralympian who wheeled around the world. He’s known to have said the hill was one of the most challenging parts of his global trek.
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6 Terry Fox Training Run Route Terry Fox is a Canadian hero – a young cancer patient who decided to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. His journey was called the Marathon of Hope. You can run in Terry’s footsteps along his 10-mile (16km) route that he used to train for his cross-Canada trek. The route is marked with signs, some including facts and trivia about Terry Fox, as well as inspirational quotes. terryfox.org
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coquitlam.ca/tourism | Rendezvous Coquitlam | 35
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Abbotsford International Airport Coquitlam City Hall 3 Coquitlam River 4 Coquitlam Station (Westcoast Express) 5 Dogwood Pavilion 6 Glen Pine Pavilion 7 Greyhound Bus Terminal 8 Library (City Centre) 9 Library (Poirier) 10 Vancouver International Airport 11 Visitor Centre at Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce 12 Visitor Centre at Mackin House
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PLACES OF INTEREST
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Northeast Coquitlam
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Centennial Rose Garden Evergreen Cultural Centre 3 Heritage Square/Mackin House 4 Historic Maillardville 5 Kwikwetlem First Nation 6 Place des Arts 7 Place Maillardville 8 Riverview Lands/Arboretum 9 SPARC Radio Museum 10 Thermal Drive 2
Victoria Drive
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Pitt River
PUBLIC ART 11
Coast Meridian Road
PARKS AND RECREATION AQUATICS Indoor Pools 1 2
City Centre Aquatic Complex Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex
Outdoor Pools
ACCOMMODATIONS Hotels 1
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Best Western Plus Coquitlam Inn Convention Centre Best Western Plus Chelsea Inn Executive Plaza Coquitlam Ramada Coquitlam
Motels 5
Coquitlam Sleepy Lodge
GOLF 1 2 3 4 5
3D Golf Experience Eaglequest Vancouver Golf Club Westwood Plateau Golf & Country Club Westwood Plateau Golf Academy & Driving Range
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Eagle Ridge Outdoor Pool Spani Outdoor Pool
Spray Parks 5
Blue Mountain Wading Pool & Spray Park 6 Burns Spray Park 7 7 Galloway Spray Park 8 Mackin Spray Park 9 Norm Staff Spray Park 10 Panorama Spray Park 11 Town Centre Spray Park
DOG PARKS 1 2 3 4 5
Bramble Park - Off Leash Park Glen Park - Off Leash Park Miller Park - Off Leash Park Mundy Park - Off Leash Park & Trails Ridge Park - Off Leash Trail
PARKS AND TRAILS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Blue Mountain Park Colony Farm Regional Park Como Lake Park & Trail Coquitlam Crunch Trail DeBoville Slough Trail Hoy Creek Park Trail & Hatchery Maquabeak Park Minnekhada Regional Park Mundy Park & Trails Riverview Forest Park & Trails Robinson Memorial Park Cemetery Pinecone-Burke Provincial Park Town Centre Park & Trails Trans-Canada Trail
Additional information is available online at coquitlam.ca/parkfinder
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Planet Ice Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex Poirier Forum
BIKE SKILLS & SKATE PARKS 1 2 3 4
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SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5
ARENAS 1
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Mackin Skate Park Mundy Bike Skills Park Town Centre BMX Jump Park Town Centre Skate Park Off-road Mountain Bike Trails
A Hommage Aux Pionniers, Our Lady of Lourdes, Maillardville Bee Sculpture, Inspiration Garden Boarder Benches, Town Centre Park Coquitlam Columbian Centennial Totem, Dogwood Pavilion Migration, Coquitlam Public Library, City Centre Branch Our Salmon, Our Children, One Earth, City Hall Pioneer Spirit, Mackin Park Return of the Sockeye, Spirit Square Spirit Bear, Place des Arts
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Austin Heights City Centre Coquitlam Centre Shopping Centre Henderson Mall North Road United Boulevard
ATTRACTIONS 1 2 3 4 5
Climb Base 5 Crash Crawly’s Hard Rock Casino Vancouver Silvercity Cineplex VIP Cinemas Zone Bowling
coquitlam.ca/tourism | Rendezvous Coquitlam | 37
Getting Here and Getting Around
Coquitlam
Vancouver YVR Richmond YXX Abbotsford
Regional Info About Coquitlam Population 141,000
BY AIR There are two international airports located conveniently close to Coquitlam. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is situated in Richmond, about 30 km (19 mi) southwest of Coquitlam. YVR is Canada’s second busiest airport, and a major international gateway between North America and the Asia Pacific region. It is accessible by public transportation via the Canada Line. yvr.ca Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) is situated in the Fraser Valley about 50 km (31 mi) east of Coquitlam. It offers visitors easy access to many regional and national destinations. abbotsfordairport.ca
BY PUBLIC TRANSIT Coquitlam is served by various transit routes including the 97 B-Line express bus and the West Coast Express Commuter Rail, in addition to an extensive local bus network. Plan your trip at translink.ca BY BIKE TransLink’s buses and Skytrain accept bicycles so you have the option of completing a portion of your trip by bicycle. Free printed copies of Coquitlam’s Bike Route Information Guide are available at City facilities and from TransLink, or find it online at coquitlam.ca/cycling
Weather Coquitlam enjoys a mild climate with warm summers and minimal snowfall in winter.
BY CAR Coquitlam is just a 30-minute drive from Vancouver, with convenient access via the Trans-Canada Highway. The tolled Port Mann Bridge connects Coquitlam to Surrey in just minutes; for toll information and vehicle registration visit treo.ca Border Crossings There are four border crossings from the US that can be used to enter Canada all within a 1-hour drive to Coquitlam: YY Abbotsford-Huntingdon/ Sumas, WA 24-hour service yearround. YY Aldergrove/Lynden, WA Daytime-evening service year-round (8:00 a.m. - midnight)
Thank you for picking up Coquitlam’s 2015 Travel Guide. This guide is not an official statement and is intended only to give you general information about the City. While the City used reasonable efforts to publish accurate and complete information, the City does not guarantee this to you. If there is an error, or if you have a suggestion of something to be added in the next issue, please contact us at 604-927-3442. The City of Coquitlam is not responsible for any loss, damage, or injury that you may have as a result of your use of this information.
38 | Rendezvous Coquitlam |
CityofCoquitlam
Languages The top five languages spoken most commonly at home: __ English __ Korean __ Persian (Farsi) __ Chinese __ Tagalog (Filipino)
Douglas - Peace Arch – Surrey/Blaine, WA 24-hour service yearround. No commercial vehicles.
YY Pacific Highway ,Truck Crossing – Surrey/Blaine, WA 24-hour service yearround. Commercial vehicles must use this crossing. Visit th.gov.bc.ca/ATIS for details and border wait times.
BC Ferries BC Ferries is an essential transportation link that provides year-round vehicle and passenger service connecting coastal communities with the Lower Mainland – there are 25 routes operating to 47 terminals, with a fleet of 35 vessels. Visit bcferries.com or call toll free 1-888-BC FERRY (223-3779)
R · · P · y · "T · · n
With a Fabulous Trip!
Hey ... CeeCee here. If you're in the area, make sure to take a shopping trip to visit one of the Tri-City's favourite attractions, Coquitlam Centre! Coquitlam Centre is the only shopping centre in Metro Vancouver offering Hudson’s Bay, London Drugs, Sears, Sport Chek, T&T Supermarket, H&M, Aritzia, Sephora, Bath & BodyWorks, Lululemon, Atmosphere, Golf Town, Old Navy, Urban Barn and Apple all in one convenient location. Tell them CeeCee sent you. Coquitlam Centre is in the heart of downtown Coquitlam, at the intersection of the Barnet Highway (7A) and the Lougheed Highway (7) at 2929 Barnet Highway, Coquitlam BC, and offers loads of free parking.
Insta
Barnet and Lougheed Hwy I 604.464.1414 I coquitlamcentre.com
Job Number: CQC14552
Prepared by Suburbia Studios 250.744.1231
leigh@suburbiastudios.com
Job: Travel Guide Ad
Finished Size: 7.625"w X 9.875h”
Printer: TBA
*
PAUL DROULIS
OWNER, CANADIAN TIRE COQUITLAM 1200 SEGUIN DRIVE (LOUGHEED HIGHWAY AND SCHOOLHOUSE STREET)
INGMAR WILKENS
OWNER, CANADIAN TIRE PORT COQUITLAM FREMONT VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE (LOUGHEED HIGHWAY AND MARY HILL BYPASS)
*20% discount on any auto service. Cannot be redeemed at PitStop or Canadian Tire Petroleum locations. Coupon has no cash value and must be presented at time of purchase. Coupon valid for one-time use only at participating Canadian Tire stores. Not valid in conjunction with other coupon, offer or discount. Limit one (1) coupon per person. Offer ends September 30, 2015. Altered or modified coupons will not be accepted. Where applicable by law, taxes may be charged on the total value of the transaction before deducting the coupon value. To Auto Service Staff: When processing coupon: 1) Add customer-requested service and labour to “Repair Order.” 2) Select the drop-down arrow on an “Item Line” and select “Other Services.” 3) Enter “S20CLAB” into “Item Code” field and click “Search.” 4) Select special item “S20CLAB” and click “OK.” 5) Determine 20% of labour on Repair Order for discount. 6) Enter value in “List” column and click “Enter.” 7) Enter “-1” in “QTY” column and click “Enter” to apply discount. Canadian Tire name, logos and trademarks are owned by Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited. All rights reserved.