What’s 148,000 square feet, contains a 15,000 gallon freshwater aquarium set beneath a waterfall, boasts epic murals depicting BC natural life, showcases hundreds of taxidermied animals, features authentic artifacts from the Salish peoples, includes an underwater-themed bowling alley and restaurant, and is packed to the gills with everything an outdoors-enthusiast needs? It’s the brand new Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, the first in the chain to open in British Columbia.
Part of the ambitious Tsawwassen Mills shopping mall in South Delta (it’s the key anchor, and the first thing you’ll see coming in from the mainland off Highway 17), Bass Pro Shops‘ 5th Canadian location and 80th overall store is pretty damn epic.
See also
- Huge indoor skate park coming to Tsawwassen Mills
- 1,000+ positions to fill at Tsawwassen Mills shopping centre job fair
Divided into area of outdoor interest, from fishing to hunting and clothing to boating, during a sneak preview pre-opening tour, it’s easy to see why Bass Pro Shops’ managers attest that shoppers often travel great distances to spend an hour or two, at least, roaming the aisles and drinking it all in.
“It’s a lot to see, and you’re never gonna see it all in one trip,” says Bass Pro Shops’ Joe Buatte.
The Bass Pro Shops come in two genres: The Outpost (smaller) store and the more expansive Outdoor World version. The Tsawwassen Mills location is unique in that it is the only location in Canada to be home to the restaurant connected to the store, Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill, a nautical-themed eatery with 12 bowling lanes, a massive bar, and multiple dining rooms.
Each store takes care to become integrated into the community by researching local natural life, taking an active role in conservation, and reflecting the region back in the store design and decor. That’s why there’s a mural in the BC shop showcasing Fraser Valley salmon, and mounted taxidermied birds, fish, and animals that mostly came from right in the region.
Additionally, vintage photos, antiques, and other artifacts similarly were culled from local sources for display. “We want to make it something the community can be proud of,” notes Buatte.
Other impressive features include a 6,800 square foot boat showroom, an archery counter and range for trying out the gear, and a cash wrap and customer service area that is actually a real trapper cabin rebuilt inside the shop.
The store will open on Tuesday, October 4, 2016 at 6 pm.
Check out more photos from inside the new Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World:
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World – Tsawwassen
Address: 5000 Canoe Pass Way, Tsawwassen
Facebook: Bass Pro Shops (Tsawwassen)