surrey bc places to visit

16 Unique & Fun Things to do in Surrey, BC

From niche museums and beautiful beaches to lush trails and quaint historic escapes, there’s actually many things to do in Surrey, BC that most visitors don’t expect.

Growing up in the Lower Mainland, Surrey wasn’t often considered a destination to visit or do day trips. But things are quickly changing. In fact, Surrey is one of the fastest growing cities in Canada, not to mention the largest city in Metro Vancouver where land mass is concerned.

So, what is there to do in Surrey? Read on for a roundup of our favourites activities and places to visit!

Head to Crescent Beach

We know that beaches aren’t often what come to mind when you think of Surrey, but this sprawling city is indeed home to a beautiful waterfront, and one of the best places to watch sunset in Metro Vancouver.

We’re talking of course about Crescent Beach, a picturesque beach and residential community in South Surrey that makes for a perfect summer (or sunset) excursion.

With gorgeous views over Boundary Bay, and a walkable promenade lined with quaint houses, this is by far one of the most scenic places to visit in Surrey… with a much more laid-back feel than nearby White Rock.

Whether you want to sunbathe, enjoy some beach volleyball, or simply grab a bite at one of the Beecher Street hot spots, visiting Crescent Beach is definitely one of the best things to do in Surrey… so come see for yourself the next time you visit!

NOTE: The beach here is pretty rocky. If you prefer sandy beaches, then time your visit for low tide.

Explore Tynehead Regional Park

Just off of the Trans-Canada Highway, you’ll find another Surrey gem: Tynehead Regional Park, a large park in North Surrey with kilometres of scenic trails, a fish hatchery, a dog park, and even its own butterfly garden.

If you’re looking for outdoorsy things to do in Surrey, visiting this park is a must. The Tynehead Perimeter Trail is a popular pick for first timers, but you can easily choose your own adventure once you enter the park.

Be sure to pack a picnic too, because there’s several picnicking areas to choose from!

Enjoy some craft brews

Craft beer is practically a religion in the Lower Mainland these days, and Surrey is no exception. While you won’t find a microbrewery on every corner here like in Mount Pleasant , there’s still great options if you’re looking for some hyperlocal brews.

Central City Brewing has been around since 2003, and its signature Red Racer beer can be found in bars and restaurants all around the Lower Mainland. Their original brewpub is located conveniently by Surrey Central Skytrain Station, although their new 125,000 square foot facility on Bridgeview Derive (with tasting room) is well worth a visit.

There’s also Russell Brewing Co , which has been championing craft beer methods since 1995, making it one of the oldest microbreweries in Metro Vancouver. While their long awaited Tasting Room is set to open later this year, you can find their inventive pours in over 1200 locations across the country. Click here to find the closest location near you.

Head to the historic town centre of Cloverdale

Cloverdale may best be known for its annual rodeo, but it’s also a worthwhile place to visit year round thanks to several attractions (which we’ll cover below), like the Museum of Surrey, BC Vintage Truck Museum, and the Cloverdale Flea Market.

Often considered the historic heart of Surrey, Cloverdale is filled with heritage buildings and a quiet charm that feels worlds removed from the glass condos and shopping malls popping up elsewhere in the city.

Truth be told, the historic main drag of Cloverdale (176th Street) is pretty quiet these days, but it’s a spot where you can explore some independent shops, browse for antiques, admire some public art, and grab a bite to eat.

Pop culture fans might also recognize it as Smallville, or Greendale from the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Thanks to its historic charm, Cloverdale is a favourite for film crews.

Beyond Cloverdale’s main strip though, there are lots of worthwhile attractions in the neighbourhood. We’ll showcase some of our favourites below.

Stop by the Museum of Surrey

Yes, Surrey has a museum dedicated to Surrey! Who knew?

This underrated attraction is unknown to many Metro Vancouverites, but if you’re looking for something a little different/educational to do in Surrey, particularly with young ones in tow, then the Museum of Surrey makes a great choice… especially on a rainy day.

Located at the Heritage Campus in Cloverdale, the museum has a goal of “celebrating Surrey’s past, present and future through innovative, dynamic and delightful learning, storytelling, and creating shared experiences”.

They do this through interactive exhibits, events, and programs… and a pretty baller kids play area. Best of all, it’s free, making it one of the most budget-friendly Surrey activities you can enjoy.

Visit the BC Vintage Truck Museum

When we said Surrey had niche museums, we meant it… and if you’re looking for a quirky Surrey activity to check off your list, then why not consider a visit to Cloverdale’s BC Vintage Truck Museum ?

Sure, their opening hours are fairly limited, but if you happen to catch them open, you’ll be treated to a hefty collection of vintage cars dating back to 1914, alongside tons of memorabilia and signage.

Rummage for goodies at the Cloverdale Flea Market

For almost 50 years, Cloverdale’s Flea Market has been one of the top draws for visitors from across the Lower Mainland who come in search of crafts, clothing, collectibles, and virtually everything you can imagine.

Held every Sunday, this “weekly treasure hunt” offers an array of eclectic goods as well as fresh produce, meaning there’s pretty much something for everyone here.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and unique activity to enjoy in Cloverdale, make sure you time your visit for a Sunday so you can enjoy this iconic weekly event.

Hop on the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway

If riding through Surrey on a vintage train sounds like your idea of fun, then be sure to add the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway to your list of things to do.

This historic attraction in Surrey offers two main experiences: the Sullivan Excursion, and the Discovery Centre Tour.

Departing from Cloverdale Station, the Sullivan Excursion allows visitors to experience commuter rail as it would have been a century ago.

This bookable experience involves a 55 minute roundtrip ride from Cloverdale to Sullivan Station (usually) on board the BCER 1225 , a train which worked in Vancouver, Burnaby and Steveston from 1913 – 1958.

On certain occasions though, special event trains will be used instead, so be sure to check their website for more details.

Besides train rides, visitors can also enjoy a one hour tour of the Discovery Centre, where you can see restoration efforts up close, learn more about the region’s rail history, and explore the Transit Museum set up at the (replica) Cloverdale Station.

Visit the famous Peace Arch

Visiting a border crossing isn’t usually a priority in most places, but the Peace Arch (found in South Surrey) is different.

This monument can be found at the Westernmost point of the US-Canada border, with a park that stretches across both countries, making it one of the few places in Canada where you can walk over to the US without clearing passport control (so long as you stay in the park, and leave via Canada, of course).

This bright white arch has stood for over 100 years as a symbol of peace between Canada and the US, and was even (fun fact) a hotspot for cross-border couples to get married during border closures throughout the pandemic.

Now open again, Peace Arch Park is well worth a visit if you’re looking for unique places to visit in Surrey… plus, it’s probably one of the coolest picnic spots that Metro Vancouver has to offer.

Look for famous filming locations

While Vancouver has a reputation for being “Hollywood North”, other cities of the Lower Mainland get their fair share of screen time as well, and Surrey is no exception.

The list of productions that have filmed in Surrey is extensive. As previously mentioned, Cloverdale has been used for shows like Peacemaker, Smallville, the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, and Supernatural.

Crescent Beach has also been featured in productions like Psych and Tron: Legacy.

And various parts of the Surrey Central area have been used in shows like The Flash, Supergirl and the 100.

So, if you’re looking for quirky and geeky Surrey activities, make sure to add “hunting for filming locations” to your list!

Visit the Historic Stewart Farm

The Historic Stewart Farm is a historic gem tucked away in Surrey’s Elgin Heritage Park, offering a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of dwellers who lived here in the early 1900s.

Consisting of eight heritage buildings, the farm is now considered one of the top heritage sites in Surrey, and a great place to immerse yourself in local history through a tour around the farm’s scenic grounds.

The crown jewel of the property is the Queen Anne Revival farmhouse, originally built in 1894. Today, it has been lovingly restored to its former glory, and can be explored via a guided tour from on-site staff, or on your own.

Walk around Green Timbers Urban Forest & Surrey Nature Centre

For another fun outdoorsy thing to do in Surrey, a visit to Green Timbers Urban Forest (and the nearby Surrey Nature Centre) is a great bet.

This park is one of the largest in Surrey, offering 10km of trails in a lush second-growth forest. It may be hard to believe, but back in 1929, this forest had been completely logged and bare. But, decades of replanting and regrowth later, it is now more beautiful than ever, with plenty of spaces and trails for visitors to enjoy.

Little wonder why it is often referred to as BC’s “Birthplace of Reforestation”.

Try out an escape room

Getting locked in a room and solving puzzles to escape may sound like a TERRIBLE thing to do in Surrey, but it’s actually a lot of fun… and a unique idea for a date night or outing with friends.

E-Exit in Surrey offers a variety of themed escape rooms where you get to solve puzzles and brave challenges in order to find your way out… perfect for a rainy day activity, or if you’ve exhausted all the other things to do in Surrey we’ve already mentioned.

Head out to spend a day at White Rock

With a central location in the Lower Mainland, Surrey makes a great base for various day trips across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

One of our favourites is White Rock, a gorgeous waterfront town with chill beach vibes, a variety of restaurants, and a lovely promenade with sweeping views over Semiamhoo Bay.

From walking the longest pier in Canada to enjoying sweet patio time, there’s tons of great things to do in White Rock. .. which is why we’d highly recommend the trip there from Surrey.

Hit the casino

Another rainy day activity to enjoy in Surrey is a visit to the casino!

While it’s not exactly Vegas, Elements Casino  in Surrey has hundreds of slot machines, a variety of fun table games, and a few different spots to grab a bite.

They also often host special events and live music, making it a fun entertainment venue if you’re looking for something a little different to do in Surrey.

Attend Surrey Fusion Festival

Lastly, we couldn’t write a list of cool things to do in Surrey without mentioning the annual Surrey Fusion Festival!

This epic festival bills itself as the “ultimate celebration of food, music and culture”, and takes place every July. You can think of it as an amalgamation of food, music, and culture from dozens of countries around the world, with varied pavilions and tents showcasing the diversity that Surrey is known for.

If you happen to be in Surrey during the summer, be sure to add this event to your list. After all, it’s the largest free multicultural festival that British Columbia has to offer.

Did we miss any of your favourite things to do in Surrey?

Let us know in the comments so we can add more recommendations to our list!

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Things to Do in Surrey (Canada)

15 Best Things to Do in Surrey (Canada)

Part of Metropolitan Vancouver, Surrey is a suburban city that sits along the coastline of British Columbia’s Boundary Bay. It is a fast growing city that is made up of hills and flatlands, in which 35 per cent of it is an Agricultural Land Reserve.

Surrey is a haven for nature lovers, having a plethora of parks and greenbelts. It is also great for city lovers, as it is home to galleries, museums, shopping centres and heritage sites. If you are visiting Vancouver, it is worthwhile to spend a couple of days exploring Surrey, or, make it a destination to see all on its own.

Lets explore the best things to do in Surrey :

1. Spend the day at the park

Surrey’s most popular park; Bear Creek Park is great for everyone. It is home to lovely hiking trails, sports fields, picnic areas, a running track and even a swimming pool.

In the summer, Bear Creek Park is a hot spot for families, what with its miniature train, outdoor pool and mini-golf course. If you are a nature lover, venture along one of its walking paths.

The gardens here are quite spectacular, being home to cottonwoods, western red cedars, conifers and azaleas. The park also has a pavilion that hosts regular events.

2. Visit Smallville

This popular American television series was filmed in the historic enclave of Cloverdale. The area is also home to numerous historic sites that date back to the 1880s.

The former farming community is now a highly visited neighbourhood. Not only is it known in the television and film industry, but also in the antiques world. In fact, Cloverdale is known as being the ‘Antiques Capital of BC’.

Wandering around the area is a must for any history buff or fan of a small town community. As well, every year in May, it hosts the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair.

3. Go to the beach

This is of course a summer thing to do, although it is possible to walk along the oceanfront walkway all year. You will find Crescent Beach in South Surrey, along the coast of Boundary Bay.

People have been visiting this beach for centuries. In its ancient history, it was home to a summer camp for the aboriginals. Today, it is a popular place for swimming, sailing and water-polo.

If you are a nudist, there is a designated nudist beach on the southern end of the beach at the bottom of Crescent Rock boulder. If bird watching is your thing, head to the northern end of the beach.

• 4.  Play a round of golf

There are numerous gold courses in Surrey, some of which have hosted PGA tournaments. The city is home to eight full courses and two executive courses, as well as a number of driving ranges.

The Arnold Palmer designed Northview Golf & Country Club is one of the most popular in the city, followed closely by the Morgan Creek Golf Course. Other well-known courses in the city include the Guildford Golf & Country Club and the Peace Portal Golf Course.

Adam Sandler fans may recognise Surrey and some of its golf courses from the movie ‘Happy Gilmour’, which was filmed here.

5. Go back in time

The picturesque Historic Stewart Farm tells the story of how a pioneer family lived from 1880 to 1944. The Victorian farmhouse is truly picturesque, as is its surrounding gardens and farmland.

Go back in time and learn what it was like to live on and run a farm long-ago. Staff are dressed in period costumes and will take you on a tour of this historic site.

The Historic Stewart Farm can be visited all year, with activities and events being offered during certain times of the year. It is great for the whole family, and is a good place to escape the thriving city centre for a couple of hours.

6. Stroll through a garden

The horticultural paradise that is Darts Hill Garden contains thousands of plants from around the world. The garden is set on three hectares of land, which was a gift to the city by the Darts family.

The award-winning orchard is absolutely beautiful and has been in the making for the past 70 years. It is only possible to visit the Darts Hill Garden on Saturdays in the months of April, May, June and September.

Stroll along the winding paths throughout the garden and enjoy its open meadows. Be sure to bring your camera, as you are unlikely to find anything else like this in Surrey.

7. Ride a ferry

Barnston Island ferry is a small ferry that runs across the Parsons Channel from Port Kells in Surrey to Barnston Island. The ferry is free, with the ride being only five minutes.

The ferry is a barge that can take 52 passengers and five vehicles across the channel. It runs on demand, meaning there is no set time. Just turn up and wait for it to leave the port.

The island itself is small, made up mostly of farmland. There is not a lot to do there, although some of the farms are open to the public and, together with the ferry ride, makes for a unique experience.

8. Tour a winery

If you are a wine connoisseur, don’t miss the chance to visit a winery and sample some of its finest wines.

The Vinoscenti Vineyards is the perfect place for some wine tasting and a tour through the vineyards and beautiful spots around the winery.

You cannot enjoy Surrey’s wine without also enjoying its food. And there are plenty of superb places to eat in the city.

The Old Surrey Restaurant is somewhat of an icon, as it has been run by a local family for the past two generations. The restaurant is set in an old farm house, with the atmosphere being as good as the classic French cuisine that is served.

There are also plenty of other places to enjoy a good meal in Surrey, having everything from Indian food to comfort foods like hamburgers and chips. Whether you want to splurge or are on a tight budget, there are some great restaurant options in the city.

10. Explore an old fort

Fort Langley is a former trading post that is located in Langley, just east of Surrey. The fort is a National Historic Site that dates back to 1827.

There are numerous historic buildings onsite, including the servant’s quarters, the Big House and the blacksmith shop. The oldest building at Fort Langley is the storehouse, which dates back to 1840.

Today, it is a museum that tells the story of Canada’s fur trade industry. It also has exhibits that show the history of the colonisation of the area.

11. Go on an art walk

Even if you are not an art lover, this is a fun and interesting thing to do. There is public art all over the city that is just waiting to be seen and photographed.

Maps are available online to show you exactly where all of the public art can be seen. These impressive pieces are done by both local and international artists, and can be seen in parks, along walkways, on streets and on pillars throughout the SkyTrain.

There are around 60 pieces of art spread across the city, though this number keeps growing. You can see them at your leisure, either all in one day or over your entire Surrey holiday.

12. Visit a local farm

With around 35 per cent of Surrey being an Agricultural Land Reserve, it should be of no surprise that you can visit some of the local farms. Fresh fruit farms, honey farms, pumpkin patches and more can be discovered while in Surrey.

If you are an adventurer, there is a fun corn maze that is great for testing your navigational skills. If you would rather see and taste organic food, visit the Zaklan Heritage Farm.

The Honeybee Centre is a working honey farm complete with an onsite store. You can watch the bees busy at work here. OR, head to Rondriso Farms, a cattle farm and pumpkin patch.

13. Enjoy a festival

Surrey does not have as many annual festivals as neighbouring Vancouver, but what it does have is quite excellent. All of these are family friendly and, in one way or another, celebrate the culture of the diverse city.

Arguably the most popular festival in Surrey is the Cloverdale Rodeo and County Fair, which features barrel racing, a petting zoo, bull riding and fair rides. The Surrey International Children’s Festival is a fun one if you are visiting Surrey with the kids.

For something different, head to the Vaisakhi Day Parade, which celebrates the Sikh New Year. It is one of the largest in the world, with up to 200,000 people attending the parade each year.

14. Watch the sunset

The sunset can be seen everywhere, but there are some beautiful spots in Surrey to snap photos of the sun setting over the city. This is especially true in the summer.

One of the best spots to watch the sunset is Crescent Beach. In fact, the beach is famous for them. Mud Bay Park, which overlooks the beach, is another great spot.

If you are in the northeast part of the city, watch the sunrise at Surrey Bend Regional Park, where you can also see the sun setting over the Fraser River. If you want to watch the sun setting along the river, head to Brownsville Bar Park.

15. Get lost in nature

This is easy to do, as there are over 600 parks, green spaces and trails in Surrey. Put on your trainers, bring some water and a camera, and get lost exploring Surrey’s great outdoors.

Climb steps, walk along trails or explore some forests. No matter which you choose, you will be amongst Surrey’s natural beauty.

The 52 hectare Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest is perfect if you love trees, birds and flowers. Mud Bay Park is another great spot for birdwatchers, while the 1,001 steps in South Surrey are fantastic if you want a good outdoor workout.

15 Best Things to Do in Surrey (Canada):

• Spend the day at the park
• Visit Smallville
• Go to the beach
• Go back in time
• Stroll through a garden
• Ride a ferry
• Tour a winery
• Explore an old fort
• Go on an art walk
• Visit a local farm
• Enjoy a festival
• Watch the sunset
• Get lost in nature

18 Best Things to Do in Surrey

Best things to do in surrey, bc: a local’s guide to exploring the city.

Nestled in the heart of British Columbia, Surrey stands as a vibrant city teeming with a variety of activities and attractions that cater to every interest. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of family fun, Surrey, BC, offers a rich tapestry of experiences. This guide will take you on a journey through the best things to do in Surrey, showcasing the city’s diverse offerings and hidden gems.

Table of Contents

Exploring the great outdoors, crescent beach and its charms.

Crescent Beach provides a serene getaway with its picturesque views and tranquil waters. Ideal for a day of relaxation or a scenic stroll, this beach is a cornerstone of Surrey’s natural beauty.

White Rock Beach: A Scenic Seaside Escape

White Rock Beach, known for its stunning pier, expansive promenade, and the iconic white rock, offers a picturesque setting for beach-goers. Whether you’re interested in soaking up the sun, enjoying waterfront dining, or exploring the local shops, White Rock Beach is a must-visit. The area’s scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for a day trip or a leisurely evening walk, with the promise of breathtaking sunsets over the water.

Redwood Park’s Hidden Trails

Redwood Park is a treasure trove of towering trees and winding trails. Explore the forest’s secrets and enjoy a picnic amidst the majesty of nature.

Surrey Bend Regional Park Adventures

Offering sprawling landscapes and diverse wildlife, Surrey Bend Regional Park is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature’s splendor.

Cultural Hotspots and Heritage Sites

Surrey museum: a journey through time.

Dive into the rich history of Surrey at the Surrey Museum. With engaging exhibits and interactive displays, it’s a cultural experience not to be missed.

Historic Stewart Farm

Step back in time at the Historic Stewart Farm, offering a glimpse into Surrey’s agricultural past through beautifully preserved buildings and gardens.

Surrey Art Gallery: A Modern Exploration

The Surrey Art Gallery is a hub for contemporary art lovers, featuring dynamic exhibitions and creative workshops.

Family Fun and Activities

Fun at the surrey festivals.

Surrey’s calendar is packed with festivals celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture, providing endless entertainment for the whole family.

Bear Creek Park Train & Mini Golf

Bear Creek Park offers endless fun with its miniature train rides and mini-golf course, making it a favorite among families.

Shopping and Local Markets

Central city shopping center.

Central City Shopping Center is the go-to destination for shoppers, with a wide range of stores and dining options.

Surrey’s Farmers Market: Local Goods

Discover local produce and artisan goods at Surrey’s Farmers Market, a perfect spot to support local farmers and craftsmen.

Dining and Culinary Experiences

A taste of surrey’s diverse cuisine.

Surrey’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering a taste of global cuisines that tantalize the taste buds.

Local Breweries and Wineries

Explore Surrey’s local breweries and wineries for a taste of the region’s best beers and wines, crafted with passion and precision.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking in green timbers urban forest.

Green Timbers Urban Forest offers miles of trails for hikers of all levels, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful lakes.

Fishing in Serene Surrey Lakes

Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of spots in Surrey to cast their lines, from serene lakes to flowing rivers.

Art and Entertainment

Live performances at bell performing arts centre.

Experience the thrill of live entertainment at the Bell Performing Arts Centre, hosting a variety of shows from music to theater.

Public Art Walks in Surrey

Discover Surrey’s vibrant art scene with public art walks, showcasing the city’s creativity and cultural heritage.

Relaxation and Wellness

Surrey’s spa retreats.

Unwind at one of Surrey’s luxurious spa retreats, offering a range of treatments for a rejuvenating experience.

Yoga in the Park

Partake in a tranquil yoga session in one of Surrey’s beautiful parks, blending fitness with the beauty of nature.

Best Things to Do in Surrey

Surrey is a city that truly has something for everyone. From its lush parks and scenic beaches to its rich cultural heritage and bustling markets, Surrey invites visitors and residents alike to explore its many wonders. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, you’ll find it here in Surrey.

What is there to do in Surrey, BC for free?

Surrey offers a plethora of free activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Nature enthusiasts can explore the vast networks of trails in parks such as Green Timbers Urban Forest and Tynehead Regional Park. Art lovers will appreciate the Surrey Art Gallery, which features contemporary art exhibitions without any admission fee. Families can enjoy the spacious playgrounds and picnic areas in Bear Creek Park. The Surrey Fusion Festival, a celebration of cultural diversity with music, food, and dance, is another fantastic, free event to attend during the summer months.

Can you explore White Rock Beach and its attractions?

White Rock Beach is renowned for its picturesque promenade, stretching along the coastline offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The iconic white rock, after which the city is named, is a must-see landmark. The area is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and outdoor murals showcasing local talent. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, beachside dining, and the pier, which provides a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or fishing. The annual White Rock Sea Festival is a highlight, featuring fireworks, live music, and family-friendly activities.

Are there any hidden gems in Surrey ?

Surrey is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Redwood Park, with its unique collection of exotic trees and fairy tale-themed tree houses, offers a magical escape from the city. The Historic Stewart Farm provides a glimpse into Surrey’s rural past, with beautifully preserved buildings and gardens. Blackie Spit Park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, offering serene views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Another lesser-known spot is the Surrey Bend Regional Park, which offers peaceful walking paths along the Fraser River.

What are the best outdoor activities in Surrey ?

Outdoor enthusiasts will find Surrey’s diverse landscapes perfect for a variety of activities. Hiking and biking trails abound, with popular spots like the Serpentine Fen Nature Trail offering opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Watersports such as kayaking and paddleboarding can be enjoyed at Crescent Beach. Golfers will find several scenic courses, including the Peace Portal Golf Club. For families, the numerous parks with playgrounds and sports fields, such as Cloverdale Athletic Park, provide ample space for outdoor fun.

How can I experience the local culture in Surrey ?

Surrey is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of activities suitable for all ages. The Bear Creek Park Train and Mini Golf offers fun rides and games in a beautiful park setting. The Surrey Museum and Surrey Libraries offer educational workshops and events for children. The Urban Safari Rescue Society provides an up-close look at exotic animals and conservation efforts. For outdoor adventures, the Honeybee Centre offers interactive tours to learn about bees and their importance to our ecosystem. Lastly, the many parks and recreational centers in Surrey provide playgrounds, swimming pools, and sports facilities for endless family fun.

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20 Perfect Things to Do in Surrey This Summer

Surrey, British Columbia is a fantastic destination in the summer due to its perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural events. The city boasts several beautiful parks, including the renowned Bear Creek Park, which offers scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and a mini-golf course. In addition, the nearby beaches and lakes provide opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and boating. Surrey also hosts a variety of summer festivals and events, such as the Fusion Festival, the Canada Day celebration, and the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair. These events showcase the city’s diverse cultural heritage and offer a chance to enjoy live music, delicious food, and exciting entertainment. Overall, Surrey’s combination of natural attractions and cultural activities makes it a great destination to visit during the summer months.

20 Things to Do in Surrey in Summer

In This Article

• 1.1 Crescent Beach
• 1.2 Splash Around at Bear Creek Park
• 1.3 Visit Redwood Park’s Fairy Gardens
• 1.4 White Rock Beach
• 1.5 Explore the Growing Local Wineries
• 1.6 Get some Local Honey at the Honeybee Centre
• 1.7 Brownsville Bar Park
• 1.8 Enjoy a Pint at Central City Brewers
• 1.9 Walk in Tynehead Regional Park
• 1.10 Swim at Port Kells Pool
• 1.11 Look for Wildlife at Surrey Lake Park
• 1.12 Explore Historic Stewart Farm
• 1.13 Take the Ferry to Barnston Island
• 1.14 Hit a Round of Golf
• 1.15 Port Kells Nurseries
• 1.16 Explore Surrey Nature Centre
• 1.17 Shop at Morgan Crossing
• 1.18 Shop for Indian Outfits and More
• 2 Events in Surrey in the Summer:
• 3 Cloverdale Market Days
• 4 Places to Stay in Surrey

Crescent Beach

Visit Crescent Beach to swim, play volleyball, build a sand castle or walk the beachfront pathway. The best beach access points are found on Beecher Street, Sullivan Street, and Target Street. At Sullivan Point, you will find spots to play beach volleyball and a large grassy area ideal for a blanket picnic. New for 2023, lifeguards will be at the beach at Sullivan Point from Saturday, June 24 to Monday, September 4. The area is guarded from  11:00am to 8:30pm .

Important Notes:

• dogs are not allowed at Crescent Beach from May 15 to September 15 however they are allowed at Blackie Spit Park.
• Crescent Beach has a new beach wheelchair with special thanks the Self-Advocates of Semiahmoo. 
• An accessible wheelchair is available for loan from the lifeguard station in Sullivan Point Park between the hours of 11am and 7pm throughout the summer. 

Location: 12160 Beecher Street, Surrey BC

Splash Around at Bear Creek Park

Bear Creek Park, next to the Surrey Arts Centre, features an  outdoor pool  and waterpark, a large playground, flower gardens, and the Bear Creek Miniature Train. It also features football and soccer fields, a running track, a fenced-in dog off-leash area, and a skatepark.

Location: 13750 88th Ave, Surrey BC

Visit Redwood Park’s Fairy Gardens

Boasting a large forest of exotic trees, over 5 kilometres of scenic nature trails, a wheelchair-accessible playground, and several rustic picnic shelters, Redwood Park has something for everyone to enjoy. Its hidden gem however, is the fairy houses that have been left in the forest below the canopy of unique trees.

Location: 17900 20 Ave, Surrey BC

White Rock Beach

White Rock’s beaches offer something for everyone! With 8 km of sand and shallows you’re sure to find a perfect spot to enjoy the ocean. White Rock Beach is divided into “East Beach” and “West Beach”, separated by a rise in the shoreline that the locals call “the hump”.

West Beach is home to White Rock’s famous pier, where it’s not uncommon to see people jumping into the deep, warm waters below, or dropping a line to try their luck at crabbing. A quick seaside walk takes you over the hump to East Beach, which tends to be a little quieter and appeals to families looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach building sandcastles, walking the beach at low-tide, and enjoying picnic lunches.

Explore the Growing Local Wineries

British Columbia is known for its wine country. But a great wine tour and tasting often means a road trip of sorts for those in the Metro-Vancouver area. However, more and more local wineries have been popping up in Metro Vancouver. Here are the wineries located in Surrey.

Vinoscenti Vinyards – 15560 Colebrook Road, Surrey

Cavallo Winery – 19288 22nd Ave, Surrey

Storehouse Winery – 8484 162nd St, Surrey

1st Row Estate Winery – 2762 190th St, Surrey

While you are nearby, there are several wineries in South Langley that offer tasting rooms as well!

Get some Local Honey at the Honeybee Centre

Surrey’s own Honeybee Centre acts as a fun and exciting hub for honeybee education. They host school groups and offer beekeeping courses, as well as having a retail location! From humble beginnings, the Honeybee Centre is a commercial honey farm, country store, educational facility, CFIA registered packing facility, visitor attraction, and so much more.

Location: 7480 176th St, Surrey BC

Hours: Monday-Friday: 10AM-6PM Sat-Sun: 10AM-6PM

Website: https://www.honeybeecentre.com/

Brownsville Bar Park

Walk along the banks of the Fraser River at Brownsville Bar Park in North Surrey. It one of the few locations on the Fraser River with a sandy beach.

Location: 11931 Old Yale Road, Surrey BC

Enjoy a Pint at Central City Brewers

Since 2003, Central City has been enjoying brewing some of the finest craft beers in North America. It is most well known for its Red Racer beer. Today it offers a variety of craft beverages including specialty beers, ciders, and both brown and white spirits. It has a food truck on site!

Location: 11411 Bridgeview Dr, Surrey

Hours: 11am – 9pm

Walk in Tynehead Regional Park

Tynehead Regional Park is a popular park for cycling, picnics, dog walking, or exploring the upper Serpentine River. The area features two sides, the east side called the Serpentine Hills has a perimeter bike trail and the west side has hiking trails and the Serpentine Hatchery. The Serpentine Trail is a popular walk in the park.

Location: 16689 96 Ave, Surrey

Swim at Port Kells Pool

Port Kells is just one of Surrey’s outdoor swimming pools. Port Kells Outdoor Pool opens on June 24, 2023

2023 Hours: Monday to Friday: 1:00–2:30pm, 3:00–4:30pm & 6:00–7:30pm Saturday & Sunday: 1:30–3:00pm & 3:30–5:00pm Saturday: 5:30–7:00pm

Location: 19340 – 88 Avenue Surrey

Look for Wildlife at Surrey Lake Park

Surrey Lake Park is a scenic natural area featuring a large, human-made lake. It has a 1.5 kilometers long nature trail. Surrey Lake Park has lake, wetland, meadow, and forest habitats making it a haven for many animals.

Location: 7500 152 St, Surrey

Explore Historic Stewart Farm

Sitting like an antique jewel on the banks of the Nicomekl River, the Historic Stewart Farm is as close as you can get to experience the life of Surrey’s pioneers in 1894-1910. This is the only completely intact farm unit from the late 19th century remaining in Surrey.

Location: 13723 Crescent Rd, Surrey

Take the Ferry to Barnston Island

Barnston Island is located between Surrey and Pitt Meadows. It is only accessible by a free barge, which runs just whenever you arrive. Ferries run from about 6 am until late at night. This is a great place for city people wanting to get into the country and the perfect place to ride on a quiet and flat road. It is about 10 km to bike around the island. There are no amenities on the island.

Location: Barnston Island Ferry is located off Highway 17 and 104th. You can get the exact location on Google Maps here.

Hit a Round of Golf

Surrey has several golf courses to enjoy in the summer. Check out one of the 8 courses in Surrey below!

Guildford Golf and Country Club – 7929 152 Street Hazelmere Golf and Tennis Club – 18150 8 Avenue Morgan Creek Golf Course – 3500 Morgan Creek Way Northview Golf and Country Club – 6857 168 Street Peace Portal Golf Course – 16900 4 Avenue Surrey Golf Course – 7700 168 Street Eaglequest Golf – 7778 152 Street Nico-Wynd Golf Course – 3601 Nico Wynd Drive

Port Kells Nurseries

Get some gardening inspiration at Port Kells Nurseries. It is one of the largest bedding plant and hanging basket suppliers in the Fraser Valley. They offer an assortment of perennials, annuals, hanging baskets, shrubs, trees, hedging cedars, and water plants. they even do bulk deliveries of dirt and mulch etc. Port Kells Nurseries is a popular place in the Fraser Valley to visit in October as well when it is decorated for the festive fall and Halloween season!

Location: 18730 88th Ave, Surrey

Explore Surrey Nature Centre

Nestled beside Green Timbers Urban Forest, the Surrey Nature Centre is a place for kids and adults to explore nature in Surrey. To add to your fun, pick up an activity backpack or fishing rod from the front desk

Location: 14225 Green Timbers Way, Surrey

Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30am–4:00pm Saturday 9:00am–4:00pm

Shop at Morgan Crossing

Looking for a little retail therapy? Morgan Crossing offers plenty of shopping. A personal favorite is Crush Clothing. You can also find bookstores, popular clothing retailers such as Lululemon, and lots of shoe retailers!

Location: 24th Ave at 160th St, Surrey

Shop for Indian Outfits and More

Surrey’s diverse population means there are plenty of ethnic shops that have been built around these communities. If you want to check out local Indian outfits, you can visit these shops.

WellGroomed Designs Inc – 8128 128 Street, Surrey Crossover Bollywood Se – 8138 128 Street, Surrey Frontier Cloth House – 8140 120 Street, Surrey Natasha Boutique – 8132 128 Street, Surrey Ghungat Fashion – 8166 128 Street, Surrey

Events in Surrey in the Summer:

• Cloverdale Rodeo (Every Victoria Day Long Weekend in May)
• Canada Day Celebrations (July 1)
• Fusion Fest (July)
• Russel and Roots Concert Series (July 29 and Aug 12)

Cloverdale Market Days

Cloverdale 2023 markets take place on: May 27, June 24, July 29, Aug 26 and Sep 16.

Hours: 10 am to 3 pm

Location: Cloverdale Fair Grounds

More Summertime Activities around BC: Tsawassen in summer , Whistler in summer , Vancouver in summer , Victoria in August .

Places to Stay in Surrey

Best Western King George Inn & Suites 8033 King George Blvd, Surrey

Best Western Peace Arch 2293 King George Boulevard, Surrey

Civic Hotel, Autograph Collection 13475 Central Avenue, Surrey

Comfort Inn & Suites 8255 166 Street, Surrey

Days Inn Surrey 13373 King George Boulevard

Four Points by Sheraton Surrey 10410 158 Street, Surrey

Hampton Inn & Suites Langley/Surrey 19500 Langley Bypass, Surrey

Holiday Inn & Suites Surrey East – Cloverdale 17530 64 Avenue, Surrey

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Surrey 15808 104 Avenue, Surrey

Pacific Inn 1160 King George Boulevard, White Rock

Ramada Inn Surrey/Langley 19225 Highway 10, Surrey

Sandman Suites Guildford 10608 151A Street, Surrey

Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel 15269 104 Avenue, Surrey

Cover Photo Credit: Ian Harland / Discover Surrey

Lindsay Nieminen is the creator of UncoveringBC.com. She grew up and still lives in the suburbs of Vancouver with her family. She aims to inspire inform, and educate others about traveling in her home province of British Columbia. She is also the creator of carpediemourway.com  which aims to show parents how to seek out adventure at home or abroad, with their children in tow!

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Explore | Discover Surrey

The neighbourhoods, parks, gardens, & best of surrey, bc.

Surrey, BC is a haven for outdoor adventurers and city slickers alike, known for its spectacular natural scenery, wealth of green spaces and quirky mix of urban and rural.

Maybe your vision of becoming one with nature includes navigating the Pacific Ocean’s choppy waters in a kayak or testing your limits on a rugged mountain bike trail. Maybe you’d rather relax on a park bench and get lost in a book or spy the region’s local birds during a meditative stroll. Either way, there’s an abundance of activities to discover for every kind of explorer.

You can also get to know the city by learning about its six unique neighbourhoods. Are you looking forward to discovering Surrey? Then let’s start exploring!

Our Neighbourhoods

Parks, trails & gardens, the great outdoors, the best of surrey, surrey through my lens, we would like to acknowledge that the lands on which we work, play and learn, are on the unceded shared territories of the coast salish peoples, including the q ̓ ic ̓ əy ̓ (katzie), q ̓ ʷɑ:n ̓ƛ̓ ən ̓ (kwantlen), and semyome (semiahmoo) nations ..

Surrey is huge! So we totally understand if it’s a bit hard to get your bearings and know where to start exploring. If you’re new to the area, the best way to get the lay of the land is to check out our six neighbourhoods:

• Cloverdale  – A funky mix of urban and rural. Home to the Cloverdale Rodeo, farms, museums, historical sites, & commercial corridors
• Fleetwood – One of the fastest growing residential areas also boasts some of the newest and most unique local experiences
• Guildford – Tynehead Regional Park, Guildford Town Centre (Canada’s 2nd largest mall), hotels, restaurants… it’s a lot of everything!
• Newton – Surrey’s cultural hub and agricultural heartland. International restaurants & festivals are just one of the many reasons to visit.
• North Surrey – The urban heart of the city! Parks, shopping, craft breweries, hotels, and more!
• South Surrey – Green spaces, golf courses, Crescent Beach, Redwood Park… it’s the picturesque playground of Surrey.

If it’s not your first time to Surrey, there are so many hidden gems to uncover that we are certain you’ll be able to find something new even on your hundredth visit! Butbefore you get overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to do, we can help! Check out our Best of Surrey pages where we provide insider and local tips for things like:

• Our Favourite and Best Birding Spots
• Our Favourite and Best Farm Stores
• Our Favourite and Best Secret Gardens
• Our Favourite and Best Art Galleries and Studios
• Our Favourite and Best Date Night Venues

But the best way to explore Surrey is to write your own story! Discover why Surrey BC is fast becoming a destination to explore on its own by trying a new restaurant, hiking on a new trail, or taking in a new experience.

Business Directory

• Panther Paintball
• Urban Pedal Rentals

Athletic Parks

• Cloverdale Athletic Park
• Cloverdale Youth Park
• Fleetwood Youth Park
• Invergarry Bike Park
• Softball City
• South Surrey Athletic Park
• South Surrey Bike Park
• Bear Creek Gardens
• Darts Hill Garden Park
• Hawthorne Gardens
• Peace Arch Gardens
• The Gardens at Holland Park
• Green Timbers Lake
• Surrey Lake Park
• Bear Creek Park
• Blackie Spit Park
• Bridgeview Park
• Brownsville Bar Park
• Crescent Beach
• Elgin Heritage Park
• Erma Stephenson Park
• Green Timbers Park & Urban Forest
• Greenaway Park
• Hawthorne Park
• Hazelnut Meadows Community Park
• Hi-Knoll Park
• Hjorth Road Park
• Holland Park
• Latimer Lake
• Peace Arch Provincial Park
• Port Kells Park
• Redwood Park
• Royal Kwantlen Park
• Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest
• Sunnyside Park
• Surrey Bend Regional Park
• Tynehead Regional Park

Parks, Trails and Gardens

• Crescent Park
• Fleetwood Gardens
• Fleetwood Park
• Mud Bay Park
• Semiahmoo Trail
• Serpentine Fen Wildlife Area
• Surrey Nature Centre

11 Best Things to Do in Surrey BC You’ll Love

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

If you’re planning a visit to Surrey, British Columbia, you’re in for a treat. As one of Canada’s fastest-growing and most multicultural cities, Surrey boasts an array of unique and entertaining activities to suit every taste. 

Surrey is one of the 21 municipalities in metro Vancouver. It is located on the lower mainland on the south side of Fraser River in North America. To be honest, I had not heard of Surrey until I was invited to visit. However, it will soon be the largest city in British Columbia by population and a lot is going on in this up-and-coming region.

I visited Surrey in September and explored a good number of the best things to do in Surrey BC, in around 36 hours. Here are my highlights from the tasty spice trail, the public art walk, the beautiful urban forest of Green Timbers Park, and much more. 

11 Best Things to Do in Surrey BC

1. taste the spice trail.

If you’re looking for a culinary adventure in Surrey, British Columbia, look no further than the  Surrey Spice Trail . This was the best thing I did when visiting the city of Surrey, BC and I highly recommend it.

There are more than 100 languages spoken in multicultural Surrey. The Spice Trail started during COVID and includes mostly small owner-operated restaurants. Cuisines range from Afghan to Mexican to Nepalese and many more in between.

I started my day on the Surrey Spice Trail at  Guacamole Mexican Grill.  Run by a husband and wife team originally from El Salvador (the husband is also a talented singer and musician – if you ask nicely he may perform) Guacamole is best known for its stuffed pupusas (a flat bread from El Salvador) and their tacos. Unsurprisingly, the guacamole was also excellent.

Our second stop was  Momo n Wings . Only in Canada could you find a Nepalese/Sports Bar fusion restaurant! The interior is definitely more on the sports bar side with high ceilings and wooden booths. It’s a big menu with soups, momos, chicken wings, Nepalese-style Chilli, Tandoori and a lot more. There are also a number of choices for vegetarians and halal eaters. 

We enjoyed some fantastic noodles, vegetarian curry and grilled fish but for me, the highlight of the meal was definitely the momos. 

My third and final stop on the Surrey Spice Trail was  Afghan Kitchen.  The restaurant was started by an Afghan refugee who resettled in Canada. All of the dishes on the menu are from his mum. The restaurant offers the chance to dine in a traditional Afghan manor with comfortable pillows placed on Afghan rugs (plenty of standard seating options are also available).

The food at Afghan Kitchen was fantastic. We started with dips and the most delicious fluffy bread. Our mains were a mix of succulent chargrilled lamb, grilled beef, a dahl-style curry and fragrant rice with dates. 

There are more than 70 restaurants and growing on the Surrey Spice Trail. I love that the trail emphasizes small restaurants and based on the three I visited, you are unlikely to have a bad meal following the Surrey Spice Trail. 

You might enjoy reading my articles on the most beautiful cities in Canada , famous lakes in Canada, landmarks of Canada , dangerous cities in Canada and facts about Canada.

2. Have a Heritage Rail Adventure

As a complete contrast to the Spice Trail, how about returning to 1910? Start your tour in the recreated original station. Then head on board a fully restored BC Electric interurban tram. Next up is watching a movie in an old interurban car. Try out the velocipede or the Quad – Car for a quick work out. 

The Fraser Valley Heritage Rail Society operates the railway and is open from May to October. They offer a 1-hour Heritage Rail Adventure, which starts from Sullivan Station. The Fraser Valley Heritage Railway Society is a 100% volunteer-run organization.

3. Visit Cloverdale

You may find that Cloverdale looks a little familiar. That is because this cute town with its historic main street has been a Hollywood favorite. Cloverdale was the location for the TV show Smallville about Superman’s early years as well as the Superman and Lois series plus quite a few other tv shows and films that don’t feature Superman.

In addition to its historic main street, Cloverdale is home to Surrey Museum, the Honeybee Centre, sports fields, the Cloverdale Rode is held in May each year and the BC Vintage Truck Museum.

4. Explore Crescent Beach

Pretty Crescent Beach is located in South Surrey and was first promoted as a resort area in 1912. Its waters are generally calm so it’s a great place to try out paddleboarding or kayaking. Two areas are roped off for swimmers.

Crescent Beach is also the perfect place for bird watching and whale watching between April and October. If you’re feeling active hire a bike and ride along the seashore or take a stroll along the scenic trails and enjoy the beautiful views. The beach offers loads of outdoor activities. Crescent Beach also is also a good place to watch the sunset in British Columbia with outstanding views of the Vancouver skyline. 

If you’re visiting on a Saturday check out the  Crescent Beach Farmer’s Market  for produce from local farms and artisan goods. If you’re after lunch or dinner with a view the Hooked Fish Bar is a great option or Cotto Al Mare for Italian. 

5. Check out the View from Blackie Spit

Blackie Spit is the park at the end of Crescent Beach. It features picnic areas, nature trails, and two fully fenced dog-off leash spaces. Take a stroll along one of the beautiful nature trails (the total trail is 5 kilometers) and watch for the various species of birds that call Blackie Spit home. Blackie Spit Park is one of the top bird watching areas of Canada and hundreds of different bird species are recorded each year. 

There are some fantastic views of Mud Bay Park and the North Shore Mountains from Black Spit. And make sure to check out the work of artist Tina Farmilo. Memory Stones is a series of poetic phrases, symbols, and references you can find on stones throughout the park. 

The park operates from dawn until dusk, with washrooms and the parking lot gate closing at 6 pm. 

6. Go for a walk through Green Timbers Urban Forest Park

More than 50% of Surrey’s landmass is made up of green spaces. The beautiful Green Timbers Urban Forest Park is located in the heart of Surrey but it feels like it is a million miles away from any type of urban dwelling. It is one of the biggest parks in Surrey with over 10 kilometers of nature trails. 

The heart of Green Timbers is the regularly stocked fishing lake. It’s designed for new and experienced fishermen. However, you don’t have to be into fishing to enjoy this beautiful lake. 

Green Timbers has several picnic areas and is also home to the  Surrey Nature Centre.  The center offers a range of programs and workshops throughout the year.  

7. Visit Historic Stewart Farm

If you want a fun and educational experience in Surrey, British Columbia, consider visiting the  Historic Stewart Farm . This picturesque site offers a glimpse into the life of a Surrey family circa 1900.

The beautifully restored farmhouse features a variety of artifacts and exhibits covering life during the early 20th century. Once you have explored the farmhouse, head out to the beautiful park with its beautiful lawns and heritage gardens.

Historic Stewart Farm is open for free drop-in visits from Wednesday through Sunday.

8. Take the North Surrey Public Art Walk

If you’re a fan of art and exploring the outdoors, you should definitely check out the  North Surrey Public Art Walk . This self-guided tour in Surrey, British Columbia, allows you to admire numerous public art installations spread throughout the area at your own pace and is one of the most fun things to do in Surrey.

This walk is also a great way to explore North Surrey. I was able to start at my hotel, The Civic, as one of the installations (Launch) hung from the ceiling inside the hotel. Then I visited City Hall and the Surrey City Center Library for the next two stops. All three of these buildings are located on the same square. 

Holland Park is home to several stops on the Art Walk. Then, tick off the last two spots when you leave Surrey as they are located under and in the Surrey Central Skytrain Station.

The entire walk takes approximately 60 minutes, depending on how much time you spend appreciating each piece. 

9. Learn all about the Honeybee

The Honeybee Centre offers honey products, tours, gifts, education, and experiences. Walking into the Honeybee Centre, you’ll be greeted by a well-stocked honeybee store with fresh honey and local gifts. You can learn all about honeybees and their importance in the ecosystem at the center. 

The Honeybee Centre is open daily from 10am to 6pm. They run a range of workshops and programs throughout the year so  check out their website  to see what is on when you are visiting. 

10. See the Pretty Holland Park

Lovely Holland Park is located in the heart of North Surrey. This is a genuine urban oasis with beautiful flower gardens, expansive green lawns and attractive water features. Concerts, festivals and events are all held at this popular park.

When I visited, I most enjoyed seeing the stops on the Surrey Art Walk located in Holland Park. These include Were it Not For You as part of one of the park’s water features, the Floraforms and Seeds of Change and the Protecting the Future, Serving the Present statue.

11. Visit Tynehead Regional Park

Tynehead Regional Park in Surrey, Canada covers 260 hectares. It has extensive walking trails, lots of lush forest and is renowned for its salmon hatchery. Visitors can learn all about the salmon’s life cycle, a vital part of British Columbia’s ecosystem. This is also a great spot for bird watching, wildlife photography and for any nature lover..  

Where to Stay in Surrey BC

When I visited Surrey, I stayed at the  Civic Hotel,  part of the Autograph Collection. The Civic is one of the tallest skyscrapers in town so there are some great views to be had from the rooms. The design aesthetic features warm tones and each floor of the hotel represents a different region of British Columbia.

I loved my room at the Civic. It was modern and open but still felt quite cosy. Most importantly the bed was huge and very comfortable. The room also had a small but decent-sized desk and a small built in chaise lounge. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a fantastic view of Surrey.

I had a terrific buffet breakfast at the hotel’s Dominion Bar and Kitchen. The Prado Cafe is located in reception and serves great coffee and snacks. 

The hotel also has a 25-metre outdoor pool, a hot tub and a 24-hour fitness center. Plus it has a fantastic location next to the Surrey City Center Skytrain station. 

Check Prices and Availability for The Civic Hotel

Surrey is a fantastic day trip from downtown Vancouver or why not stay the night? The Spice Trail is more than enough reason to visit this emerging area. When you add in the number of nature experiences that can be had so close to an urban center, you’ve got the perfect trip. 

My visit to Surrey BC was funded by the Surrey Tourism Board (thanks guys) but as always my opinions are my own. This article does contain a couple of affiliate links. That means if you click through on some of the links and end up making a purchase I may receive a small commission. This helps me to keep this website running.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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10 Surprising things to do in Surrey, British Columbia

It’s the size of the place you notice first. The city of Surrey, British Columbia, is really, really big. The downtown is growing out and up to the skies, and the landmass just seems to go on forever. Then it’s the transitions, from city to country, from urbanity to vast farm fields with neat rows of vegetables and fruit vines.

There’s an evolution of place happening, from a rural past to urban future. A tension about not wanting to grow too fast too quickly, despite the reality that Surrey is growing. It’s time to get to know one of Canada’s fastest growing cities, and our list of 10 surprising things to do in Surrey is a great place to start.

10 surprising things to do in Surrey

First things first. Surrey is a big place; we’re talking Vancouver, Burnaby and Richmond put together big. So a car is pretty much a must to get around. The public transit SkyTrain system shuttles between Surrey’s Central City downtown and a couple other city stops, and connects it to Vancouver and rest of the Lower Mainland. It’s fine to get between places, but if you really want to explore, you’ll need wheels.

Surrey is the second largest city in the province, and one of the liveliest and most diverse in Metro Vancouver. It’s a family-friendly place where kids can be seen just about everywhere you look. New immigrants have been moving to Surrey for decades: it’s got one of the largest Punjabi Sikh communities outside of India.

1. Find the Great Pumpkin at Rondriso Farms

Rondriso Farms is a family-owned, small-scale working farm and general store. It’s also the perfect place to find the perfect pumpkin in the autumn. The Tamis family has farmed here for two generations, and current owners Ron and Pam run this sustainable farm. They also run the Localicious Produce Box program throughout the summer, fall, and winter.

Use the Map Below to Search for Hotel and Short-Term Rental Options

2. Explore the Museum of Surrey

The super kid-friendly Museum of Surrey is a vibrant, interactive and best of all, FREE museum. Providing wonder and fun for the whole family, the Museum hosts travelling exhibits, as well as a fascinating permanent display about the history of Surrey. During my visit, I was surrounded by squeals of delight over the interactive dinosaur exhibit. I mean kids and dinos, it’s a match made in heaven.

The Museum is home to the Lelem’ Café, operated by the Kwantlen Nation. With a menu incorporating some of the traditional flavours of Coast Salish diet, visitors can choose from fresh baked goods, sandwiches or charcuterie – all made to order from scratch with many ingredients sourced locally.

3. Get Jiggy with it at the Fusion Festival

Surrey Fusion Festival is British Columbia’s largest multicultural event. Held over a July weekend, Fusion is an ultimate celebration of food, music and culture. This award-winning “World’s Best Festival in 2019” offers cuisine pavilions from around the world, as well as music and entertainment across seven stages. One of the best community events in the city, the Festival takes place in Holland Park, and did I mention that it’s FREE? No tickets required.  

4. Savour Lunch at West Village Café

Ignore the strip-mall scene around it. As soon as you enter the West Village Café, you’ll feel as if you’ve dropped into urban Vancouver or New York. This white-washed, naturally lighted spot was created to bring people together through delicious, natural and nourishing food. Owner Paul Banghoo has created a café environment that’s filled with great energy and relaxing seating.

The Café connects to the community with locally sourced ingredients when possible: dishes that are full of flavour. I loved my Moroccan-inspired glazed salmon and couscous, and demolished a delicious pie for dessert. Comfort food with a fusion twist, this is a must-dine spot in Surrey.

5. Honeybee Centre & Fry’s Corner Beestro

It seems that wherever I go, I find bees, or they find me. Surrey’s Honeybee Centre is a one-stop-shop for all things bees, honey and honey-related. You can watch the bees going about their buzzy business in their hives, taste various honey products, and shop for housewares in the Country Store. Take a break to enjoy tea and baked goodies on the honey-inspired menu in the Centre’s Fry’s Corner Beestro.

DYK: The Centre provides bees and pollination services to several local farms, field trips and seminars provide a wonderful educational experience. They even host a bee beard contest in summer. No, I did not partake in that.

6. Stroll Oceanside at Crescent Beach

Did you know that Surrey has a beach? And as the name suggests, it’s shaped like a crescent. The small community of Crescent Beach is tucked away by the seaside in south Surrey; you can still spot old cottages and shacks built in the last century. The dikes that were built 100 years ago serve as a waterfront pathway that makes for great family and dog-friendly strolls. This is a very popular summer destination for families, so go early in the day, pick up some decadent baked treats and sammies at Fieldstone Artisan Breads, and enjoy a glorious day out at the beach.

7. Follow the Spice Trail

Surrey is a multicultural city, with one of the largest Punjabi Sikh populations outside of India. In addition to vibrant cultural celebrations like the annual Vaisakhi Parade, Indo-Canadian chefs provide outstanding go-to spots for Indian food. So much so that there’s now a Spice Trail.

The self-guided Surrey Spice Trail includes more than 40 restaurants, cafes and retail stores in the city. Sip the finest chai tea and savor sizzling hot kebabs at Tasty Indian Bistro . Munch on chickpea-battered cod pakoras and paneer at Vikram Vij’s jewel box, My Shanti . Share tapas-style bites, kebabs and twists on Indian comfort food at Showshaa . On the spice trail, you can travel around the world via Surrey’s exciting array of culinary traditions.

Featured businesses include Kerala Kitchen (Southern India), Di Reggae Café (Caribbean), Obanhmi Factory Shop (Vietnamese) and Taste of Africa (African), among others. There’s also a “chaat trail” that identifies the best spots to sample the savoury East Indian snack. Chaat consists of fried dough served with chickpeas, boiled potatoes, yogurt sauce, tamarind and coriander chutneys. And it’s delicious.

9. Drink ales and gin at Central City Brewers & Distillers

Since 2003, Central City Brewers has been busy brewing fine and tasty craft beers. Their award-winning Red Racer beer is particularly popular. Personally, I was drawn to the Japanese cherry-blossom inspired sakura gin in their Distillery Tasting Room. They are constantly experimenting with tastes and flavors of their beers and spirits, so frequent visits are probably wise to stay on top of all the new creations. You can take a tour of the brewery and browse the tap room, or just enjoy a fresh cold craft beer and dinner at one of their brewpubs.

8. Enjoy Family Fun at Port Kells Nursery

Okay, yes, Port Kells Nurseries is a year-round, full-service nursery and garden centre. BUT, it’s also a playground for kids, especially during holiday times. In the fall, that means themed hay wagon ride to the Pumpkin Patch, a kid-friendly haunted house, hay and cedar mazes.

There’s a Goat Palace and Chicken Coop that will keep them enthralled for hours. At Christmas, the nursery is dressed to the nines in seasonal reds and golds, and Santa and Mrs Claus visit and pose for pics with the kids. It’s a holiday wonderland, and you can shop for all your holiday decor, from gifts to wreaths to trees, flocked or unflocked.

10. Go Play at the Park

Surrey is rich in public park spaces, outdoor activities, golf courses, and natural areas. From the giant second growth forest at Green Timbers Urban Forest, to the shoreline views at Blackie Spit Park, there is something for everyone to see, do and visit in Surrey, in every season, at Surrey’s 200 parks.

Popular Bear Creek Park has a running track, nature trails, Arts Centre, outdoor swimming pool, and gardens, while Holland Park, the city’s “Central Park” of Surrey City Centre is 10 hectares (25 acres) of sports fields, basketball courts, hiking trails, a playground and lots of picnicking areas. The park is also home to the Holland Gardens, which include a large central amphitheater and water fountain.

Ride the Rails

Located in Cloverdale, Fraser Valley Heritage Railway is Surrey’s own heritage railway. Take a guided tour of the community’s railway and ride on a bit of interurban history. The 1225 runs from Cloverdale Station to Sullivan Station every weekend throughout the summer.

The ride goes through the farm lands to Sullivan Station, where people wave to passengers on the train as it goes by. The train ride takes approximately 55 mins round trip. The passenger attendant on each train gives a commentary on the journey.

Historic Stewart Farm is located in south Surrey, in Elgin Heritage Park along the Nikomekl River. History comes alive as costumed guides tell the story of a hardworking Surrey family from the early 1900s. Note about accessibility: There is a ramp on the west side of the farmhouse leading to the verandah.

Halloween Bonus: Potter’s House of Horrors

For those keen on getting scared out of their wits during the month of October, Potter’s House of Horrors is the premium haunted house mecca. Potter’s has two ultra-scary houses (for adults and older teens only), Death Valley Motor Inn and Devil’s Descent.

More than a haunted house, Death Valley Motor Inn is the sort of dusty old desert motel that nightmares are made of. It’s said that guests check in, but rarely do they check out.

Devil’s Descent is a terrifying vortex of rotted wood, rickety mine shafts, punishing industrial machines, monsters and zombies. For extra laughs, Potter’s has a “chicken counter” that racks up the “bok-boks” when people run screaming out of the exits. That would be me.

Kids can join the fun. Family Hour (a tamer version of the scary haunted houses) is offered earlier during daylight hours. And a special “Li’l Haunters” attraction (for children 12 and under) ensures everyone can be part of the fun. This is one of the top fall things to do in Surrey, British Columbia, during Halloween.

Note: These haunted houses are indeed ultra-scary and are geared to adults. The “scare crew” at Potter’s spends months planning this annual maze of terror — complete with the latest high-tech animatronics and digital sounds. Purchase your tickets online in advance. Potter’s House of Horrors is very popular, especially on weekends.

Where to Stay in Surrey

For such a large place, Surrey is surprisingly lacking in good hotel choices. That’s changing as the city grows. My pick for where to stay in Surrey is its chic Autograph Collection Civic Hotel .

Located in the heart of Surrey, the Civic Hotel is a design-forward hotel with an urban vibe and beautiful facade. It’s located right next to Surrey City Centre Skytrain light rail station, about 30-40 minutes from YVR Airport or downtown Vancouver. The hotel offers 144 uniquely designed guest rooms with themes that represent the culture and natural beauty of British Columbia.

The hotel has two in-house food options. Prado Cafe is located next to the hotel lobby. Serving up excellent espresso drinks and delicious breakfast items, it’s a perfect spot for a quick latte or lingering drip coffee and avo toast with friends. The  in-house restaurant is the Dominion Bar + Kitchen. This high ceilinged space serves a wide variety of fusion cuisine. Think mac and cheese, Chinese dim sum, vegan dishes, pizza, coconut curry and steaks.

The weekdays cater to the business crowd, but the weekends are perfect for family stays. There’s a gym, fitness centre and rooftop outdoor pool, and kids can run their hearts out on the civic plaza outside the front doors of the hotel.

Pin for Later

Read more about Vancouver and the Lower Mainland

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Disclosure: The Travelling Mom thanks Discover Surrey for its generous hospitality. As always, my opinions on spicy Indian food and the joys of finding the great pumpkins are honest and my own.

Photo Credit: Claudia Laroye, Shutterstock

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Spend a day or two exploring some of Surrey's most unique landmarks and discover breath-taking views. Here are a selection of places that you really won't want to miss.  From the highest point in south east England to the site where King John signed the Magna Carta, England’s great icon of liberty and first expression of human rights, on 15th June 1215. 

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15633 BOWLER PLACE, Surrey

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Property Description

Welcome to this Beautiful COMPLETELY RENOVATED Rancher nestled on a 7600 sqft lot. This is a Highly Sought after location in the heart of South Surrey. Fully Redone In and Out (Updates- Windows, Hardwood Flooring, Bathrooms, Roof/2014 & more) Functional spacious layout offering large living room with cozy gas fireplace. Adjoining family room steps out to huge fully covered Solarium with Views of the Garden. 3 Large Bed + 2 Bath, Enjoy the elegant and calming white kitchen with quartz counter. Polished Landscaping and Private Sunny Backyard creates a Perfect Oasis for relaxing & summer BBQ. This lovely home privately sits in an estate style cul-de-sac, yet it's just moments away from parks, shopping, restaurants and of course White Rock Beach. OPEN HOUSE: SEP 7 Saturday 2-4PM (id:32467)

Property Features

• Appliances: Washer, Dryer, Refrigerator, Stove, Dishwasher, Garage door opener, Storage Shed
• Architectural Style: Ranch
• Basement Type: Crawl space
• Construction Style: Detached
• Fireplace: Yes
• Interior Size: 1690 sqft
• Building Type: House
• Utility Water: Municipal water
• Land Size: 7581 sqft
• Sewer: Sanitary sewer, Storm sewer
• Type: Freehold

Information entered by RE/MAX City Realty Listing information last updated on: 2024-09-07 23:33:30

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