A guide to my favorite spots in British Columbia, focusing on Vancouver and Chilliwack. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer adventure, here’s what you need to know. These recommendations come from my personal experiences over multiple trips - you can read about some of them in my summer 2024 adventures, Yellow Deli expedition, and various time off adventures:
Vancouver
Vancouver is a vibrant city that perfectly blends urban life with natural beauty. Here are some must-visit spots from our recent family adventures:
Stanley Park
The crown jewel of Vancouver, Stanley Park offers:
- A beautiful seawall perfect for walking, biking, or running
- Dense forest trails in the heart of the city
- Vancouver Aquarium
- Stunning views of the city and mountains
Denman Street
A food lover’s paradise with:
- Diverse international cuisine
- Cozy cafes
- Easy access to English Bay Beach
- Great people watching
Granville Island
A cultural hub featuring:
- Public Market with fresh local produce
- Artisan shops and galleries
- Live performances
- Brewery and restaurants
Food Highlights
Vancouver’s food scene is incredible:
- Poutine on BC Ferries (surprisingly good!)
- Diverse Asian cuisine
- Fresh seafood
- Food trucks
Let me provide a detailed section about suspension bridges near Vancouver.
Hotels I like
I love staying on the water. I think English Bay
- The Sylvia - Weird eclectic Hotel
- Best Western Sands - They have a dual queen suite - I’m a fan if I can get it booking early.
Suspension Bridges
Vancouver area offers several spectacular suspension bridges:
- Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
- Free alternative to Capilano
- Less crowded, more natural setting
- Great hiking trails nearby
- 50 meters high over rushing water
- Connected to ecological center
I think I went to some of these pre-COVID, it’s time to go again.
-
Capilano Suspension Bridge
- Most famous and touristy
- 140 meters long, 70 meters high
- Includes treetop adventure and cliff walk
- Beautifully lit during holidays
- Admission is pricey but worth it
-
Sea to Sky Gondola Suspension Bridge
- Located in Squamish (1 hour from Vancouver)
- Spectacular mountain and ocean views
- Combined with gondola experience
- Multiple viewing platforms
- Year-round accessibility
-
Cascade Falls Suspension Bridge
- Located in Mission (1.5 hours from Vancouver)
- Short hike to reach the bridge
- Beautiful waterfall views
- Less touristy experience
- Free admission
Victoria
Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, offers a perfect blend of British charm and Pacific Northwest beauty. Read about our summer 2024 Victoria adventure for more details!
Getting There
The journey is part of the experience:
- BC Ferries from Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Victoria (Swartz Bay)
- Amazing views during the 90-minute sailing
- Pro tip: The ferry food is surprisingly good - try the poutine! (Trust me, I was surprised too)
- Reservations recommended during peak season
Food Scene
Victoria’s food scene is a delightful mix of traditional and modern. Here are some highlights from our summer 2024 visit:
- High Tea options:
- The Empress (iconic but pricey)
- More affordable alternatives available (we tried one - it was pretty meh)
- Peanut Butter Ramen - A unique local specialty (waited an hour in line!)
- Quebec Special Dipped Cone - The only location west of Ontario
- Local seafood restaurants
- Craft breweries and coffee shops
Attractions
Must-see spots in Victoria:
- Inner Harbour - Beautiful waterfront area
- Parliament Buildings - Especially stunning at night
- Butchart Gardens - World-famous gardens
- Fisherman’s Wharf - Floating homes and food kiosks
- Royal BC Museum - Provincial history and culture
- Beacon Hill Park - Perfect for walks and picnics
Chilliwack
The Yellow Deli Experience
The Yellow Deli is more than just a restaurant - it’s an experience. You can read Zach’s detailed review for the full story, but here are the highlights:
- Run by the Twelve Tribes community
- Incredible sandwiches and house-made chips
- Extensive tea selection (their brewing station looks like a cocktail bar!)
- Unique rustic ambiance in a converted schoolhouse
- Worth the 3-hour drive from Seattle
- Surprisingly affordable, especially with USD
What I like to order there
- They never have the cold Matte - I’m looking fowrad to getting it!
- I like the Reuben, and the Deli Rose (Amelia prefers Deli Rose)
- Tori Enjoys The yellow Submarine
Hotel: Hampton Inn
Has a water slide, great gym, and a really “Happines” Theme
Waterfalls
Let me search for waterfalls near Chilliwack to provide accurate information.
I’ll use the web_search tool to find the other major waterfalls in the area.
There’s a great water fall super easy to Drive+Walkt to:
- Bridal Veil Falls
There are 3 others, I’ve yet to go there though:
- Bosumarne Falls
- Cascade Falls
- Flood Falls
Nature and Outdoor Activities
Chilliwack offers beautiful outdoor experiences:
- Hiking trails
- Lakes and rivers
- Mountain views
- Agricultural tours
Travel Tips
Border Crossing
- Bring proper documentation (passport or NEXUS card)
- Be prepared for questions about your visit
- Check border wait times before departing
- Remember duty-free limits
Notable BorderCrossings
- What you’re coming for a sandwidch?
- Why are you coming (angry), then wait, are those flowers on your car? Yes. And bunnies. Suddenly smiling
Getting Around
- Vancouver has excellent public transit
- Consider renting bikes in Stanley Park
- Parking can be challenging in Vancouver
- Having a car is essential for Chilliwack
Where to Stay
Vancouver:
- Downtown for urban experience
- West End for beach access
- Kitsilano for local vibe
Chilliwack:
- Several chain hotels
- B&Bs for local experience
- Consider staying in Vancouver and making it a day trip