Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Abbotsford, British Columbia

Situated in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, Abbotsford is adjacent to Greater Vancouver and the USA. It is the largest city outside Greater Vancouver and ranks third in the nation for its percentage of visible minorities.

Culturally vibrant and rich in history, Abbotsford serves as a common stop for travelers en route to Vancouver or Alaska. However, it is certainly deserving of a few days’ exploration.

Abbotsford is dynamic and picturesque, enhanced by its breathtaking natural surroundings. The city provides an array of experiences, from cultural attractions to agricultural pursuits.

Let us examine the most remarkable activities in Abbotsford:

1. Stroll through a gallery

A premier attraction in the city is the Reach Gallery Museum, which uniquely combines an art gallery with a museum. Wander through the gallery to appreciate the exceptional artwork presented.

The Reach Gallery Museum features both Canadian artifacts and global artwork. Its permanent collection emphasizes local, regional, and national artists, with special exhibitions showcasing international creatives.

This 6,096 square meter gallery and museum, managed by a non-profit organization, offers free admission. Engage with the gallery’s exquisite artwork during your visit.

2. Go to a temple

The Gur Sikh Temple is notable for being the oldest Sikh temple in Canada and all of North America. This National Historic site is a must-visit for all.

Established in 1908, the temple marks the arrival of the first Sikh community in the region and has undergone renovations to evolve into its current state.

Regardless of your religious background, this temple merits a visit, especially considering the museum located in the basement that documents the historical journey of the Sikh community in the area.

3. Step back in time

The Trethewey House Heritage Site Museum, embodying the arts-and-crafts style, was constructed in the 1920s for the distinguished Tretheway family. Today, this bungalow serves as a heritage site, providing opportunities to immerse oneself in the past.

Visit the museum to view artifacts from the 1920s while learning about the history of the house and the family who founded the Abbotsford Lumber Company.

Drop-in guided tours are available from 1-4 PM, with arrangements for larger groups encouraged in advance. Additionally, guests can explore the beautiful gardens around the property.

4. Go for a walk

Abbotsford boasts over 98 kilometers of urban trails, spread across more than 1,045 hectares of parkland. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the landscape that suits your preferences.

Trails vary from lakeside to mountainous and forest settings, allowing individuals to select their desired difficulty level and scenery for an enjoyable afternoon hike amid stunning views.

Mill Lake Park, located centrally within Abbotsford, is highly favored for walking. For those willing to explore farther, consider visiting DeLair Park or Clayburn Creek Park.

5. Take the kids to play

If visiting with children, taking them to Castle Fun Park is a must. This castle-themed amusement park operates year-round, with peak enjoyment in the summer months.

The park features numerous engaging activities both indoors and outdoors, including go-karting, mini-golf, and bumper cars, along with a laser maze.

Visitors can also test their skills in batting cages, a driving range, or an arcade. Kids can experience a virtual rollercoaster, challenging bowling games, or various skill-based amusements.

6. Explore the mountains

Embark on a hiking adventure at Sumas Mountain, located just northeast of Abbotsford. The round-trip hiking trail spans 13.5 kilometers, requiring approximately 6.4 hours to complete.

Take in the breathtaking views as you traverse the trail, suitable for a day hike. Note that there is no camping available along the route, so plan accordingly.

The trail comprises narrow passages through forest and ravine while sections feature gravel pathways. Rest assured, the route is marked, eliminating the possibility of getting lost.

7. Get your adrenaline pumping

For those seeking thrill, Sumas Mountain offers 22 diverse mountain biking trails. These trails accommodate varying skill levels, enabling you to select your challenge wisely.

The most demanding trail, Rock Diva, is a double black diamond covering approximately 882 kilometers. Conversely, the easiest trail, Squid Line, primarily involves a descent.

Parking facilities are available at the trailheads, and a lookout point at the summit of Lookout Trail features stunning vistas of the Fraser Valley.

8. Be at one with nature

Golden Ears Provincial Park, located just outside the city, is well worth the excursion. The expansive 556 square kilometer park takes its name from its twin peaks.

This park is one of the premier locations in the area to connect with nature, featuring five camping grounds, two of which are exclusively accessible by foot.

An extensive network of hiking trails within the park will satisfy any nature aficionado, alongside approximately 20 kilometers of horseback riding paths.

9. Tour a winery

Abbotsford is recognized for its agricultural diversity, including an array of vineyards. There are three notable wineries in Abbotsford where visitors can enjoy guided tours.

Mt Lehman Winery is widely regarded as the finest, encompassing over six hectares of grapevines, producing varieties such as pinot noir and chardonnay. This award-winning winery includes tasting facilities.

Additionally, Singletree Winery, operational since the late 1800s, primarily focuses on white wines. Maan Farms Estate Winery also contributes, producing wines from blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries as well as various grape types.

10. Look at airplanes

The Abbotsford International Air Show occurs annually on the second weekend of August, establishing itself as the largest air show in Canada, appealing to aviation enthusiasts.

Visit the Abbotsford International Airport to witness planes soaring overhead while also having the opportunity to get up close to aircraft and interact with pilots.

Key highlights include performances by the Snowbirds, Blue Angels, United States Air Force Thunderbirds, and the SkyHawks parachute team. There are also static displays and a fireworks presentation.

11. Visit a few farms

Abbotsford and its surroundings host several working farms suitable for a self-guided tour. Options include a bee farm, a dairy farm, a chicken farm, and a trout farm, among many others.

Make a stop at Birchwood Dairy Farm to sample one of their 50 gourmet ice cream flavors, visit Campbell’s Gold Honey Farm & Meadery for beeswax candles or honey, or explore Goats Pride at McLennan Creek for homemade goat cheese or milk.

As you tour the farms, be sure to visit Granny and Grumpa’s Antiques for unique gifts or EcoDairy for an interactive experience. Additionally, consider enjoying a meal at Restaurant 62.

12. See the city from the sky

The Abbotsford Skydive Centre provides an opportunity to view the city from above, akin to the perspective of a bird. Skydiving allows you to soar over the city while taking in spectacular panoramas.

The centre offers lessons for novices, guiding individuals on how to jump and experience freefalling from an aircraft. Advanced courses are also available for those wishing to refine their skydiving capabilities.

Prior to jumping, participants enjoy a breathtaking 15-minute flight over the area, featuring views of the city and surrounding landscapes, including other parts of the Fraser Valley, Vancouver, and the Gulf Islands.

13. Take the kids to a playground

Play Abby is not just any playground; it is a substantial 3,048 square meter indoor playground and laser tag center.

The facility caters to children from infancy to older age groups, with designated areas for different age brackets.

Laser tag is available for children aged five and above, with adults also welcome to join. The space-themed laser tag experience lasts for approximately 15 minutes.

14. Go climbing

Project Climbing Centre is an indoor climbing facility featuring over 2,700 meters of climbing surface. It offers various terrain types, ensuring that climbers of all skill levels can enjoy the experience.

The center provides numerous courses ranging from beginner to advanced. First-time climbers will find the facility accommodating, as it also offers introductory courses.

Furthermore, individuals can participate in bouldering, with safety mats provided for fall protection. However, climbing is restricted to a maximum height of four meters above the ground.

15. Head to the market

Established in 1985, the Abbotsford Flea Market offers a vibrant shopping experience. Visitors are encouraged to leisurely explore while enjoying the local atmosphere.

With over 200 vendors presenting a variety of merchandise from vintage items to food products, the market operates every Sunday, featuring outdoor vendors during the summer months.

Stroll through the market to discover unique souvenirs, one-of-a-kind artwork, and clothing. Conclude your day by savoring delicious homemade food offerings.