The SkyTrain Expo Line is the simplest way from downtown Vancouver to New Westminster. Board at Waterfront Station or another downtown station and ride toward Production Way University. That branch runs through Burnaby and on to New Westminster.
Which Expo Line train to take
The Expo Line splits at Columbia Station. One branch crosses the Fraser River to King George in Surrey. The other goes through New Westminster toward Production Way University in Burnaby. For New Westminster, stay on the train heading for Production Way University, and check the sign on the front of the train.
Most of the line from Stadium Chinatown through to New Westminster runs on raised track, so you get a view of the city on the way. Plan on a ride of well under an hour from Waterfront, though the exact time depends on where you start and which station you want. The TransLink trip planner gives a time for your trip.
Paying and planning
Use a Compass Card or tap a contactless card at the gate. Fare zones decide the price, so check the current fare on the TransLink site. The same site shows service alerts, which matter on weekends when maintenance sometimes closes parts of the line.
Buses, bikes and taxis
TransLink buses also connect Vancouver and New Westminster, and they can suit you better if your stop is far from a station. Enter your address in the trip planner and it will list the options for that day.
Rules for bikes on SkyTrain are set by TransLink, so check their cycling page before you head out.
If you have luggage or arrive late, a taxi covers the whole trip in one go. The taxi fare estimator gives a rough idea of the price, and the Vancouver taxi page explains booking in the city.