Doors Open Richmond: The insider's Guide

Metro Vancouver locals and visitors will be flocking to Richmond on the weekend of June 7-8 for the much-anticipated return of a hugely popular annual event. Running since 2008, Doors Open Richmond showcases the community’s arts, culture, diversity and civic facilities. And this year it’s bigger than ever––with more than 50 attractions and organizations offering special behind-the-scenes access and experiences.

The event is a great opportunity to explore the city’s multifaceted features and hidden gem sites. And best of all, this family-friendly, all-ages extravaganza is free. If you’re a Doors Open first-timer or you’re already planning a return visit this year, read on for our exclusive 2025 Insider’s Guide. Then, start planning your own tailor-made, weekend-long itinerary.

WHEN AND WHERE IS THIS EVENT?

Doors Open Richmond runs from 10:00am to 4:00pm on June 7-8. Keep in mind that each of the 50+ participating sites––located throughout the city––might have their own hours or scheduled activities during these times. Also, some may only be open on one of the two event days. Don’t forget that many of the sites operating as attractions throughout the year will be offering special programming for Doors Open. For further details, visit the event’s 2025 website.

Volunteers ready to take on questions from Doors Open Richmond attendees. — The Richmond Cultural Centre will have plenty of programming. PHOTO CREDIT: City of Richmond.

WHAT WILL I SEE?

With dozens of Richmond sites participating during the weekend, there are countless things to see and do. History buffs will enjoy exploring the Steveston Tram, Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site and the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site––as well as learning about the work of the Sea Island Heritage Society and the Richmond Artefact Collection.

Art fans will also love visiting with engaging creatives at Branscombe House, FT Art Studio, the Textile Arts Guild of Richmond and many more. There is even a guided tour of some of the city’s public art installations, concluding with a curator tour at the Richmond Art Gallery. Visit the online map to see exactly what’s on offer at each of the participating sites.

Exterior of Britannia Shipyard Building. — Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site is a popular Doors Open location. PHOTO CREDIT: Tourism Richmond.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST BEHIND-THE-SCENES PLACES?

That depends on what you’re interested in! Last year, we loved checking out the aforementioned Richmond Artefact Collection, a treasure trove of museum-like local history exhibits. This year, we’re looking forward to visiting Minoru Chapel, a heritage site that doesn’t often open to the public. We’re also keen to take the behind-closed-doors tour at Richmond City Hall. And we’re hoping to make it to the Richmond RCMP, BC Ambulance Services and Richmond Fire-Rescue sites for lots of insider info on how these essential services work.

Head inside Minoru Chapel during this year’s event. PHOTO CREDIT: John Lee.

ARE THERE ANY OUTDOOR SITES?

Yes! Consider visiting regenerative farm Athiana Acres, sustainable agriculture specialists KPU Farm, The Sharing Farm at Terra Nova or historic London Farm, where you can explore the antique-lined farmhouse and its bucolic grounds. Thirsty? Lulu Island Winery is offering June 8-only tours and tastings, while Sanduz Estate Wines will also be serving delicious samples to Doors Open tipplers throughout the weekend.

Go on an exclusive winery tour at Lulu Island Winery. PHOTO CREDIT: Tourism Richmond.

WHAT ABOUT LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS?

One of the great features of Doors Open is the opportunity to learn about the work of some of the city’s most dedicated community organizations. This year, that includes the chance to meet the friendly folks at the Richmond Caring Place and the Richmond Family Place. A wide array of faith-based sites is also inviting curious visitors to drop by, including Lingyen Mountain Temple and more. In addition, groups such as the Turkish-Canadian Society and the Ukrainian Community Society of Ivan Franko will be showcasing their cultures and communities to Doors Open participants.

Lingyen Mountain Temple is participating in this year’s Doors Open Richmond. PHOTO CREDIT: John Lee.

WHICH SITES WILL KIDS ENJOY MOST?

Doors Open is a family-friendly event. But some sites are particularly popular with children. Many junior participants will love the aforementioned emergency services facilities. Sporty kids will enjoy the exhibits and simulator rides at the Richmond Olympic Experience. And the Richmond Recycling Depot is a great Doors Open experience for families. The Richmond Nature Park is also a top spot for kids, complete with naturalist talks, hands-on exhibits and up-close encounters with local birds and wildlife.

Book ahead for a visit to the Richmond Olympic Experience. PHOTO CREDIT: Richmond Olympic Oval.

DO I HAVE TO REGISTER IN ADVANCE?

Most Doors Open sites operate on a drop-in basis; check specific opening hours via the event’s website. But some experiences must be reserved ahead of time––and these spaces can fill up quickly. There are two free bus tours that must be reserved ahead of time––Sacred Spaces and Discover Doors Open––and while these are currently full, waitlists are in operation.

HOW DO I GET TO THIS EVENT?

Doors Open Richmond is operating at more than 50 sites around the city. Many of these are accessible via transit or by bike. Visit the event’s website map for specific site locations then cross-reference this with the TransLink website to plot your itinerary. If you are planning to drive, keep in mind that parking at some of sites may be limited.

Last Updated on June 2, 2025 by Tourism Richmond

Doors Open Richmond: The insider’s Guide