Maple Ridge
Nestled between the sweeping Fraser River and the majestic Golden Ears Mountains, Maple Ridge, British Columbia, is a breathtaking blend of urban sophistication and untamed wilderness.
Maple Ridge is a charming city in British Columbia, Canada, approximately 45 km east of Vancouver. The city has a population of over 80,000 residents. It’s well-known for its stunning natural landscapes, a balanced lifestyle, and a vibrant community that is ideal for both families and individuals.
Schools
For families considering education options, Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows School District (SD42) offers quality education, with several elementary, secondary, and alternative schools. There are also opportunities for post-secondary education, including Ridge Meadows College.
Where urban sophistication meets breathtaking wilderness in the heart of British Columbia
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Location
Maple Ridge is surrounded by beautiful scenery, nestled between the Fraser River and the Golden Ears, one of British Columbia’s provincial parks. The city offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, golfing, fishing, boating, and even bird watching. The Golden Ears Provincial Park, in particular, is a wonderful location for camping and picnicking.
The economy of Maple Ridge is diverse, with sectors like health care, construction, and retail trade being significant employers. Agriculture also plays a significant role, given the city’s fertile lands and farming heritage.
Housing
The city provides a diverse real estate market that ranges from single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums to farmland. Despite its proximity to Vancouver, property prices in Maple Ridge tend to be more affordable compared to the Greater Vancouver area. This affordability, coupled with a semi-rural setting, has been attracting more people to move into the city.
Recreation
Maple Ridge has a strong community spirit with various festivals and events throughout the year, such as the popular Country Fest and the annual Christmas parade. The city also offers plenty of shopping options, restaurants, and cultural venues like The ACT Arts Centre.
Shopping & Restaurants
Maple Ridge offers a variety of shopping and dining options that cater to a range of tastes and budgets. From charming local boutiques to larger retail centers, and from cozy cafés to exquisite restaurants, the city provides a vibrant mix of options for residents and visitors alike.
Shopping:
Haney Place Mall: This is a major shopping destination located in downtown Maple Ridge. It hosts a variety of stores, including larger retail chains and smaller local businesses. Here, you can find clothing, electronics, home goods, and more.
ValleyFair Mall: Located in east Maple Ridge, ValleyFair Mall is another shopping center that offers a variety of retail stores, a supermarket, and other services.
Local Boutiques and Shops: Maple Ridge is home to many unique, locally-owned boutiques and shops. Here, you can find everything from handcrafted goods to boutique clothing. Some of these shops are scattered throughout the city, adding to the charm and uniqueness of Maple Ridge.
Restaurants:
Maple Ridge boasts a diverse dining scene that caters to different cuisines from around the world, as well as local Canadian fare.
Billy Miner Alehouse & Cafe: Located near Port Haney Wharf, this local favorite serves a range of food, from burgers and sandwiches to pastas and pizzas. They also offer a wide selection of beers.
Kingfishers Waterfront Bar & Grill: Situated on the banks of the Fraser River, Kingfishers offers an upscale dining experience with a menu featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine and local ingredients. The restaurant offers both indoor dining and a beautiful riverside deck.
Chameleon: This upscale restaurant in downtown Maple Ridge serves a contemporary menu with a range of dishes, offering an innovative and eclectic dining experience.
Paliotti’s Italian Restaurant: For those who love Italian food, Paliotti’s offers a variety of pasta, risotto, and other Italian classics. The warm and cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot for a comfortable family dinner.
Ban Chok Dee Thai Cuisine: Renowned for its authentic Thai cuisine, this restaurant serves a variety of flavorful dishes, from classic Pad Thai to Green Curry and more.
The Frogstone Grill: A locally owned and operated establishment known for its casual and friendly atmosphere. Their menu is diverse with offerings like steaks, fish and chips, burgers, salads, and more.
This is just a taste of the many shopping and dining options available in Maple Ridge. There are also many coffee shops, bakeries, food trucks, and farmers’ markets that contribute to the city’s lively culinary scene
Transportation
Maple Ridge is served by both TransLink (public transit) and the West Coast Express commuter train service, making it easy to commute to downtown Vancouver or other parts of the Greater Vancouver region. The city also has a good network of biking and walking paths for those who prefer active transportation.
