Summary
Part of Metropolitan Vancouver, Surrey is a suburban city that occupies a location along the coast of British Columbia’s Boundary Bay. It is a rapidly developing city characterized by its hilly and flat terrain, with 35 percent designated as an Agricultural Land Reserve.
Surrey serves as a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, boasting an abundance of parks and green spaces. Equally appealing to urban dwellers, it hosts galleries, museums, shopping centers, and heritage sites. If you find yourself in Vancouver, consider spending a few days exploring Surrey or even dedicating it as a destination in its own right.
Let us delve into the top attractions in Surrey:
1. Spend the day at the park
Bear Creek Park, the most frequented park in Surrey, offers a wealth of activities for everyone. It features scenic hiking trails, sports fields, picnic areas, a running track, and even a swimming pool.
During the summer months, Bear Creek Park becomes a bustling hub for families, complete with its miniature train, outdoor pool, and mini-golf course. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy one of its many walking paths.
The gardens here are truly impressive, showcasing species such as cottonwoods, western red cedars, conifers, and azaleas. Additionally, the park includes a pavilion that frequently hosts various events.
2. Visit Smallville
This iconic American television series was filmed in the historic region of Cloverdale. The area is rich in numerous historic sites that date back to the 1880s.
This former agricultural community has transformed into a popular neighborhood, recognized not only for its contributions to television and film but also for its antique offerings. Cloverdale is famously known as the ‘Antiques Capital of BC’.
Exploring the area is essential for any history enthusiast or admirer of small-town charm. Moreover, it hosts an annual event every May, the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair.
3. Go to the beach
While visiting the beach is primarily a summer activity, the oceanfront walkway invites exploration year-round. Located in South Surrey along the coastline of Boundary Bay, Crescent Beach is a beautiful spot for relaxation.
This beach has been frequented for centuries, historically serving as a summer camp for Indigenous peoples. Today, it is a popular destination for swimming, sailing, and water polo.
For those interested in naturism, there is a designated nudist area at the southern end of the beach near Crescent Rock. Birdwatchers will find delight at the northern end of the beach.
4. Play a round of golf
Surrey features an excellent selection of golf courses, some of which have hosted prestigious PGA tournaments. The city is comprised of eight full courses and two executive courses, alongside several driving ranges.
One of the most renowned courses is the Arnold Palmer-designed Northview Golf & Country Club, closely followed by the Morgan Creek Golf Course. Other significant courses include the Guildford Golf & Country Club and the Peace Portal Golf Course.
Fans of Adam Sandler may recognize Surrey and some of its golf courses from the film ‘Happy Gilmore’, which was shot in the area.
5. Go back in time
The charming Historic Stewart Farm illustrates the lifestyle of a pioneer family from 1880 to 1944. The Victorian farmhouse and its surrounding gardens and farmland are indeed picturesque.
Visitors can immerse themselves in history and discover what life was like on a farm many years ago. Staff members are dressed in period costumes and lead guided tours of this historic site.
The Historic Stewart Farm is open for visitation year-round, offering various activities and events during select periods. It is an ideal venue for families seeking a respite from the bustling city center.
6. Stroll through a garden
Darts Hill Garden is a horticultural sanctuary containing thousands of plant species from across the globe. Encompassing three hectares, this garden was a generous gift to the city from the Darts family.
This award-winning orchard is exceptionally beautiful and has been cultivated over the past 70 years. Visitors can explore Darts Hill Garden solely on Saturdays during the months of April, May, June, and September.
Meander through the winding paths of the garden and appreciate its expansive meadows. Be sure to carry your camera, as it offers a unique experience you are unlikely to find elsewhere in Surrey.
7. Ride a ferry
The Barnston Island ferry is a small vessel that operates across the Parsons Channel from Port Kells in Surrey to Barnston Island. This service is complimentary, and the journey takes merely five minutes.
The ferry accommodates 52 passengers and up to five vehicles. It operates on demand, eliminating the need for a set schedule; visitors simply arrive and await departure from the port.
Barnston Island itself is compact, primarily comprised of agricultural land. While activities are limited, certain farms welcome visitors, and coupled with the ferry ride, it creates an intriguing experience.
8. Tour a winery
For wine enthusiasts, a visit to a winery is essential to sample some of the region’s finest wines.
Vinoscenti Vineyards offers an ideal setting for wine tasting as well as a tour through the vineyards and beautifully landscaped areas surrounding the winery.
9. Eat
Indulging in Surrey’s culinary offerings is essential, and the city boasts a diverse array of exceptional dining establishments.
One of the landmarks is The Old Surrey Restaurant, a family-run establishment for two generations, which occupies a charming old farmhouse that provides an atmosphere as delightful as its classic French cuisine.
Moreover, one can find a variety of dining options throughout Surrey, featuring everything from Indian cuisine to comfort foods like hamburgers and fries. Regardless of your budget, the city offers excellent restaurant choices.
10. Explore an old fort
Located just east of Surrey, Fort Langley is a former trading post that holds the distinction of being a National Historic Site dating back to 1827.
The site features numerous historical structures, such as the servant’s quarters, the Big House, and the blacksmith shop. The oldest building onsite is the storehouse, which was constructed in 1840.
Currently, it operates as a museum that presents the narrative of Canada’s fur trade industry and includes exhibits detailing the colonization history of the region.
11. Go on an art walk
Even for those who may not identify as art enthusiasts, embarking on an art walk can be both enjoyable and enlightening. Public art is scattered throughout the city, awaiting discovery and photography.
Online maps are available to guide you in locating the city’s public art installations. These captivating works are created by both local and international artists, and they can be found in parks, along pathways, on streets, and on the pillars throughout the SkyTrain system.
Currently, there are approximately 60 pieces of art distributed throughout Surrey, a number that is consistently expanding. Visitors can view them at their own pace, whether in a single day or throughout their stay in Surrey.
12. Visit a local farm
With approximately 35 percent of Surrey comprised of Agricultural Land Reserve, it is unsurprising that the region features several local farms. Visitors can explore fresh fruit farms, honey farms, pumpkin patches, and more.
For those seeking adventure, a corn maze offers an entertaining challenge to navigate. Alternatively, for a taste of organic fare, visit the Zaklan Heritage Farm.
The Honeybee Centre operates as an active honey farm that includes an onsite store. Visitors have the opportunity to observe bees in action. Additionally, Rondriso Farms offers a cattle farm experience and a pumpkin patch.
13. Enjoy a festival
While Surrey may not boast as many annual festivals as its neighboring city of Vancouver, the events it does host are noteworthy. All of these celebrations embrace family-friendly elements and celebrate the diverse culture of the city.
The Cloverdale Rodeo and County Fair is arguably the most popular event, featuring barrel racing, a petting zoo, bull riding, and various fair rides. The Surrey International Children’s Festival provides a delightful experience for those visiting with younger family members.
For something distinctive, consider attending the Vaisakhi Day Parade, which marks the Sikh New Year; it is one of the largest celebrations of its kind globally, attracting up to 200,000 participants each year.
14. Watch the sunset
While sunsets can be appreciated from various locations, Surrey offers stunning spots to capture photographs of the sun descending over the city, particularly during the summer.
Crescent Beach is renowned for its magnificent sunsets, making it an ideal viewing location. Mud Bay Park, which overlooks the beach, is another great place to enjoy this natural spectacle.
For those situated in the northeast part of the city, sunrise views can be enjoyed at Surrey Bend Regional Park, where you may also witness the sun setting over the Fraser River. For a picturesque sunset along the river, consider visiting Brownsville Bar Park.
15. Get lost in nature
Discovering nature is effortless in Surrey, which boasts over 600 parks, green spaces, and trails. Equip yourself with comfortable shoes, hydrate, and take a camera while immersing yourself in Surrey’s breathtaking outdoors.
Whether choosing to ascend steps, wander trails, or explore woodlands, you will encounter Surrey’s stunning natural landscapes.
The 52-hectare Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest is particularly well-suited for nature lovers who appreciate trees, birds, and flowers. Mud Bay Park is another outstanding location for birdwatchers, while the 1,001 steps in South Surrey provide an excellent outdoor workout.
