Weekend trips you can easily take to the Fraser Valley

It’s easy to think city life has it all – restaurants, shops, theatres, and bars.

But sometimes, you just need to get away. Take a moment to slow down, relax, and take a breath of fresh air. And the perfect place to do that might be closer than you think.

Just a short drive over the bridges, the Fraser Valley’s got that natural BC beauty and a small town feel. It’s not all farm animals and berry fields – although you can experience those too if that’s your thing. 

The Fraser Valley’s collection of eccentric boutiques, unique eateries, and local breweries means there’s a wide range of ways to enjoy your visit.

We’ve compiled a list of five authentic Fraser Valley senses you can base your weekend trip upon when escaping Vancouver.

See

Escape the concrete jungle and take in snowy mountain peaks, open skies, and lush nature. Every spring, the Fraser Valley hosts two annual tulip festivals: Bloom and Tulips of the Valley. Both provide acres of bright, spring colour. If you’re looking for something a little more active, you can also catch a show at Thunderbird Show Park, one of North America’s premier equestrian show facilities.

Taste

Nothing helps you wind down more than a slow meal with friends. Restaurants like R62, Fat Cow Oyster Bar, and Curly Kale Eatery serve up locally-sourced cuisine that’s about as close to farm fresh as you can get. When it’s time to grab drinks after dinner, check out the Fraser Valley’s selection of unique breweries. Each location offers superior brews and an atmosphere that invites you to unwind and enjoy.

Touch

You can’t leave the city and not get your hands a little dirty. Chilliwack river is the perfect place to pull out a fishing rod and try sturgeon fishing. Or, if you’re looking for something with a sweeter reward, try out one of the u-pick berry farms like Krause Berry Farm, Taves Farm, or Chilliwack Corn Maze. Then stop in at EcoDairy to meet a few of our favourite farm friends.

Smell

Whether trekking through epic trails or fishing along the Chilliwack river, the Fraser Valley’s endless options for outdoor adventures allow you to take in the smell of fresh pine and mountain air. If your nose is itching for the smell of something you can sip on, take in the aroma of locally-brewed coffee like Republica Roasters, or the bouquet of valley wines by visiting Chaberton Winery, Township 7, Maan Farms Estate Winery, Backyard Vineyards, or SingleTree Winery.

Hear

Nothing captures the soundtrack of the valley more than the local music scene mixed with the natural sounds of the outdoors. Grab a pint and take in The Field Sessions, live music by local favourites, set under twinkle lights and the crackle of the campfire. Get wrapped up in the sounds of nature with the buzz of the bees at Chilliwack River Valley Natural Honey Ltd. Farm Store or Campbell’s Gold Honey Meadery.

Whether it’s tasting the local ingredients of valley restaurants or taking in the spectacular vistas – a visit to the Fraser Valley will engage all your senses.

To find out more information, check out The Fraser Valley on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.