Jan 23, 2025
Discover Port Moody: A Guide to Neighbourhoods, Work, and Recreation
Port Moody, BC, is a charming city in Metro Vancouver. Known as the “City of the Arts,” it offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Located at the eastern end of Burrard Inlet, Port Moody is surrounded by stunning mountains, lush parks, and scenic waterfronts. This guide will explore Port Moody’s neighbourhoods, history, and lifestyle, as well as why it’s an excellent place to live, work, and visit.
A Bit of Port Moody’s History
Port Moody was originally inhabited by the Coast Salish peoples, including the Tsleil-Waututh and Kwikwetlem First Nations. These communities lived along the Burrard Inlet for thousands of years, relying on its abundant natural resources for fishing and trade.
The city was named after Colonel Richard Clement Moody, who played a significant role in establishing British Columbia as a colony in the mid-1800s. Port Moody became a hub for industry and trade when it was chosen as the original terminus of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1886. Over time, the city transformed from an industrial port into a vibrant, family-friendly community with a strong arts and culture scene.
Neighbourhoods in Port Moody
Port Moody is made up of several distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking waterfront living, quiet family-friendly areas, or vibrant hubs with shops and restaurants, Port Moody has something to offer. Here’s an overview of its key neighbourhoods:
Moody Centre
Moody Centre is the heart of Port Moody. It’s home to shops, restaurants, and community services, as well as the Evergreen SkyTrain Line and the West Coast Express, making it well-connected to the rest of Metro Vancouver. Housing here includes a mix of condos, apartments, and single-family homes. With its proximity to the waterfront and Rocky Point Park, it’s a vibrant area for both living and recreation.
Heritage Mountain and Heritage Woods
Heritage Mountain and Heritage Woods are peaceful residential neighbourhoods located on the northern slopes of Port Moody. These areas are perfect for families seeking a suburban lifestyle surrounded by nature. The neighbourhoods feature spacious homes, excellent schools like Heritage Woods Secondary, and easy access to hiking trails and parks. Heritage Woods, in particular, offers panoramic views of the city and mountains, making it one of Port Moody’s most desirable places to live.
Newport Village and Suter Brook Village
Newport Village and Suter Brook Village are vibrant, walkable communities. They combine residential living with commercial amenities, including shops, cafes, restaurants, and fitness centres. These modern neighbourhoods are popular among young professionals and downsizers looking for a convenient, community-oriented lifestyle. Their proximity to public transit and recreational spaces adds to their appeal.
Ioco
Ioco, short for “Imperial Oil Company,” is a historic neighbourhood on the western edge of Port Moody. Once the site of a thriving oil refinery, Ioco is now a quiet and scenic residential area. It offers a mix of heritage homes, newer developments, and stunning waterfront properties. The neighbourhood’s proximity to Buntzen Lake and Belcarra Regional Park makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who want easy access to hiking, kayaking, and other recreational activities. Ioco’s unique character and tranquil setting attract those looking for a slower-paced lifestyle.
Pleasantside
Pleasantside is located along the southern shore of Burrard Inlet. This waterfront neighbourhood offers a relaxed vibe with scenic views and opportunities for water-based activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The area has a mix of older homes and newer developments, giving residents a variety of housing options. Its proximity to Rocky Point Park and the Shoreline Trail makes it a great choice for nature lovers.
Anmore and Belcarra
Located on the outskirts of Port Moody, Anmore and Belcarra provide a rural, village-like feel. These neighbourhoods are known for their large properties, quiet surroundings, and close access to nature. Residents enjoy outdoor activities at nearby Buntzen Lake and Belcarra Regional Park, including hiking, swimming, and picnicking. These areas are perfect for those seeking a serene, nature-filled lifestyle while staying close to the amenities of Port Moody.
With its mix of urban conveniences, quiet suburban areas, and scenic waterfront living, Port Moody’s neighbourhoods offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, Port Moody has a neighbourhood to suit your needs.
Work Opportunities in Port Moody
Port Moody offers a variety of work opportunities across several sectors. While many residents commute to neighbouring cities like Vancouver or Burnaby, the city itself has a growing job market.
Arts and Culture: As the “City of the Arts,” Port Moody has many jobs in creative industries, including galleries, performance venues, and events management.
Tourism and Recreation: Attractions like Rocky Point Park, Brewery Row, and waterfront activities create jobs in hospitality, retail, and recreation.
Brewery Row: Port Moody’s Brewery Row is home to several craft breweries. It provides employment in brewing, hospitality, and tourism.
Retail and Services: Neighbourhood hubs like Newport Village and Suter Brook Village are home to shops, restaurants, and service-based businesses.
Technology and Business: The city’s proximity to Vancouver’s tech and business hubs also makes it an appealing location for remote workers and entrepreneurs.
Parks, Recreation, and Lifestyle
Port Moody is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Its location on the Burrard Inlet and surrounded by parks and forests provides endless opportunities for recreation.
Rocky Point Park: This waterfront park is one of Port Moody’s most popular destinations. It features walking and biking trails, a spray park, picnic areas, and a boat launch. The park is also home to festivals, events, and a local favourite, Rocky Point Ice Cream.
Buntzen Lake: Located just outside the city, Buntzen Lake is a favourite spot for hiking, swimming, and kayaking. Its scenic trails and picnic areas are perfect for family outings.
Shoreline Trail: This picturesque trail connects Rocky Point Park to other parts of the city, offering stunning views of the Burrard Inlet. It’s great for walking, jogging, or cycling.
Belcarra Regional Park: This park is ideal for nature lovers, with trails, beaches, and picnic spots. The area is popular for fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching.
Port Moody also has a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Port Moody Arts Centre hosts exhibitions, workshops, and performances. The city’s annual events, such as Golden Spike Days and the Car-Free Day, bring the community together. For craft beer lovers, Brewery Row is a must-visit, with its collection of unique breweries offering tastings and tours.
Education
Port Moody has excellent schools, making it a great place for families. The city is part of School District 43, which operates well-regarded public schools, including Heritage Woods Secondary and Eagle Mountain Middle School. French Immersion programs are also available in several schools.
For post-secondary education, Port Moody is close to institutions like Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Burnaby and Douglas College in New Westminster and Coquitlam, making it convenient for students pursuing higher education.
Transportation and Connectivity
Port Moody is well-connected to the rest of Metro Vancouver. The Evergreen SkyTrain Line and West Coast Express provide quick access to downtown Vancouver, Burnaby, and Coquitlam. The city is also served by major roads, including Barnet Highway, making commuting by car easy.
Port Moody’s bike-friendly routes and pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods make it simple to get around locally. Public transit, combined with its walkable communities, adds to the city’s convenience and appeal.
Conclusion
Port Moody is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant arts scene, outdoor adventures, or welcoming neighbourhoods, it’s a place where natural beauty meets modern living. With excellent schools, strong community vibes, and easy access to Metro Vancouver, Port Moody is an ideal place to live, work, and explore.
If you’re planning to move to Port Moody or simply visiting, take the time to experience its charming neighbourhoods, beautiful parks, and rich cultural life. For short-term accommodations in Port Moody or the surrounding areas, contact Highstreet Accommodations. We provide fully furnished, serviced housing to suit your needs. Let us help you find the perfect place to stay!
