5 happy places for city dwellers to check out in Metro Vancouver

Vancouver has so much to offer, it’s of little wonder that so many of us rarely venture beyond the city borders.

You’d be surprised at some of the great spots that aren’t far from the city (but definitely feel far from the city). Our friends at Honda Canada asked us to list our five happy places that are only a short drive away.

If you have your own happy place, share it on Twitter and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a $1,000 prepaid credit card. Simply follow @HondaCanada on Twitter and include #HondaHappiness in your tweet before May 10.

Steveston Village

A short drive away is Steveston Village in Richmond. It’s far different from anything else Richmond has to offer; it truly is a small town within the confines of a suburban city. There are plenty of parks, restaurants, shops and cafes to keep you busy the entire day.

• Distance from Vancouver City Centre (12th and Cambie): 18.3 km
• Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Parking: There are plenty of places to park for free in the village

Fort Langley National Historic Site

Take a trip back in time and experience life as a 19th century voyageur at Fort Langley, where the colony of British Columbia was born. You’ll be taken on a guided tour and hear stories about the gold rush, fur trade, learn how to become a blacksmith and much more.

• Distance from Vancouver City Centre (12th and Cambie): 45 km
• Travel Time: Approximately 44 minutes
• Parking: There are plenty of places to park for free in the village

White Rock Beach

Summer is just around the corner, and if you’re craving some beach action south of the mighty Fraser then White Rock Beach is the place for you. From the patios to the parks, this place is beaming with sunshine and people in the summer months. If you’re looking to snap that perfect sunset photo, this is a great spot to do so.

• Distance from Vancouver City Centre (12th and Cambie): 46 km
• Travel Time: Approximately 47 minutes
• Parking: You may have to park a few blocks away as parking near the beach gets snatched up quickly

Deep Cove

If you’re more of an outdoor enthusiast, then Deep Cove is for you. Just 30 minutes away from the city, its proximity to forests, mountains, parks, water and great local spots make it a great place to spend a day in.

• Distance from Vancouver City Centre (12th and Cambie): 18.4 km
• Travel Time: Approximately 28 minutes
• Parking: Plenty of free options

Deer Lake Park

If you don’t want to venture too far from Vancouver, Deer Lake Park is your best bet. Located near Metropolis at Metrotown, this park is an oasis in a suburb that continually reaches new heights when it comes to buildings.

It’s the cultural mecca for the suburb of Burnaby, and is home to the Burnaby Art Gallery, Shadbolt Centre for the Arts, Burnaby Village Museum and Hart House Restaurant. It’s also a great place to take in some live music, especially during the busy summer festival season.

• Distance from Vancouver City Centre (12th and Cambie): 10.3 km
• Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes
• Parking: Plenty of free options