Looking for some simple day journeys from Vancouver to flee the town? Vancouver, British Columbia is nestled between the mountains and ocean and it’s a gateway to an unimaginable array of day journey locations. From island escapes to thrilling out of doors adventures, British Columbia’s yard is your playground, providing one thing for everybody. Ready to embark on a journey that may create lasting reminiscences? Let’s dive into our high 21 favourite day journeys from Vancouver and uncover the exceptional experiences that await you!
Best Day Trips From Vancouver
Dave and I lived in Vancouver for 3 years and have been again to go to many times. We have traveled everywhere in the province and hope that we are able to encourage you when you’ve loved all one of the best issues to do in Vancouver to make your means out to see the unimaginable BC countryside. Whether you’re an area seeking to discover extra of your individual yard or a customer searching for distinctive experiences exterior the town, these day journeys from Vancouver provide a various vary of actions.
Planning Your Trip To Vancouver Right Now?
Below are a few of the high excursions for Day Trips from Vancouver. Don’t neglect to plan forward when visiting British Columbia!
Top Day Trips and Tours from Vancouver:
Getting Around Vancouver
Most day journeys from Vancouver require a automotive. British Columbia is a drivable province so we suggest renting a automotive if you land on the Vancouver airport. You can examine automotive rental costs at RentalCars.com
To discover extra of Vancouver, take a look at these finest Toronto day excursions from Vancouver.
Whistler is among the finest locations in the world to ski however not solely is it a winter wonderland, it is usually a world-renowned four-season resort city. Located about 120 km from Vancouver, Whistler options greater than 8,000 acres of terrain throughout Whistler and Blackcomb Resorts.
The picturesque drive to Whistler alongside the Sea to Sky Highway is well worth the day journey unto itself. The drive is brief however with so many stops from magnificent waterfalls, the outdoorsy city of Squamish, and breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the coastal mountains you could possibly spend a whole day and nonetheless not see all of it. Read extra: Vancouver to Whistler – Best of the Sea to Sky Highway
121 km from Vancouver If you don’t have a automotive, e-book this Sea to Sky Highway and Whistler Day Trip from Vancouver. Details right here.
Whistler in Summer
Whistler is famend for its winter actions from snowboarding and snowboarding, but it surely additionally gives improbable mountain climbing trails and procuring alternatives throughout the summer time months. Plus, you’ll undoubtedly need to hike out to the Trainwreck Trail to see the graffiti-covered prepare automobiles or take a bear tour to see the wildlife of Whistler. Not to say, the city is residence to vegan-friendly cafes and eating places, excellent for refueling after a day of out of doors enjoyable. For a bucket checklist expertise, e-book this Vancouver to Whistler float airplane expertise.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just searching for a scenic escape, Whistler is among the most versatile day journeys from Vancouver. Read extra: 30 Awesome Things to Do in Whistler, BC
2. Squamish: The Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise
Located alongside the Sea to Sky Highway, Squamish is commonly ignored for Whistler however this city is a haven for out of doors lovers providing a smorgasbord of thrilling actions. Squamish has earned the nickname “the outdoor recreation capital of Canada,” and for good cause. It is a playground for rock-climbing aficionados with its world-class climbing spots together with the Squamish Chief and windsurfing lovers might be thrilled by the waves.
Mountain biking junkies will get their adrenaline rush. And hikers will discover trails with breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains. And one of the best half? It’s only a brief drive from downtown Vancouver. Squamish is tremendous accessible and has one thing for everybody. Read extra: Amazing Things to Do in Squamish BC
1 hour from Vancouver Book this Gondola Tour to Squamish that takes you alongside the Sea to Sky Highway to discover Vancouver and sights alongside probably the most scenic drive in British Columbia.
3. Sea to Sky Gondola
You don’t want to enter Squamish to have a enjoyable day journey from Vancouver, embark on an journey for a day on the Sea to Sky Gondola. Also positioned alongside the scenic Sea to Sky Highway, this must-visit vacation spot is the right addition to your day journey itinerary.
Hop on the gondola and ascend 800 meters above sea degree, the place you’ll be greeted by a number of viewing decks, an exhilarating suspension bridge, and seasonal actions to swimsuit all ages. Whether you’re an avid hiker searching for new trails to overcome or just seeking to soak in the inspiring views, the Sea to Sky Gondola delivers an unforgettable expertise.
Make positive to stroll throughout the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge to get pleasure from breathtaking views of the encircling panorama, belief us, you don’t need to miss this!
50 minutes from Vancouver This personal Whistler Squamish day tour is a good way to not solely see Whistler village, however you’ll additionally cease at Squamish and Shannon Falls, trip the Sea to Sky Gondola to the highest of Stawamus Chief Mount.
4. Hope
When we lived in Vancouver, we by no means made it to the Othello Tunnels in Hope, British Columbia however fortunately we visited once more simply a few summers in the past. I can’t imagine we didn’t go to sooner! Movie buffs will love at the present time journey as First Blood, the primary installment of Sylvester Stallone’s Rambo collection, was shot right here.
The Othello Tunnels are a collection of tunnels and trestle bridges reducing by way of the mountains following a deep gorge. This was a feat of engineering because the 5 tunnels had been blasted and built-in 1914. It is only a 3.5 km spherical journey, however fully price stopping to see. Read extra: Best British Columbia Road Trip
2 hours and half-hour from Vancouver
5. Harrison Hot Springs: A Soothing Retreat
If you’re searching for leisure, Harrison Hot Springs is a tranquil oasis in the guts of British Columbia’s Fraser Valley. Located only a 90-minute drive from Vancouver, Harrison Hot Springs boasts rejuvenating sizzling springs, a picturesque lake, and beautiful mountain landscapes.
When you go to this tranquil vacation spot, you’ll be spoiled for selection with a wide range of out of doors actions. You can tee off on a lush golf course, discover the scenic trails on a mountain climbing journey, or get your adrenaline pumping with some mountain biking. If you’re a fan of the water, why not embark on a ship tour and even attempt your hand at fishing? There’s one thing for everybody at Harrison Hot Springs.
After a day of journey on Salt Spring Island, unwind on the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa, the place you possibly can soak in the spring-fed waters and soften your stress away. It’s the right mix of leisure and journey, Harrison Hot Springs is a perfect day journey from Vancouver.
6. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: A Thrilling Experience
Venture to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park positioned in North Vancouver near Grouse Mountain’s base, for a enjoyable excessive journey. This thrilling attraction gives a novel expertise, together with a bouncing suspension bridge, a Cliffwalk, and a Treetops Adventure, all set amidst the plush forest panorama.
You’ll traverse throughout a 450-foot suspension bridge throughout the Capilano River Canyon the place you’ll have the prospect to really join with nature and benefit from the outside. It’s a memorable expertise that may depart an enduring impression on you.
7. Fort Langley: Step Back in Time
Travel by way of time by visiting Fort Langley, a National Historic Site of Canada, the place you possibly can delve into the historical past of Canada’s Fur Trading historical past. This previous fur buying and selling submit of the Hudson Bay Company takes you again in time as you stroll by way of the previous fur buying and selling buildings, and blacksmith demonstrations and you may even pan for gold.
Located alongside the banks of the Fraser River, in the township of Fort Langly, Fort Langley gives a captivating glimpse into the previous and a very unforgettable day journey expertise.
As you stroll by way of the historic website, immerse your self in the tales of the Hudson’s Bay Company fur merchants and the early pioneers who referred to as this place residence.
8. Bowen Island: A Relaxing Island Getaway
Escape the town’s chaos and embark on a journey to Bowen Island, a peaceable retreat only a fast ferry trip away from Horseshoe Bay. Known for its laid-back ambiance, Bowen Island is the right vacation spot to unwind and recharge amidst nature’s magnificence.
On Bowen Island, you’ve a wide range of choices to decide on from. You can hike by way of lush forests, bike alongside picturesque trails, kayak in crystal-clear waters, or just get pleasure from a leisurely picnic on the seashore.
On Bowen Island, you’re spoiled for selection with a ton of cool, nature-focused actions. It’s like a inexperienced playground simply ready so that you can bounce in and have a blast! Soak up the island’s serene environment and let your worries sail away on certainly one of our favourite enjoyable day journey choices.
9. Steveston: A Historic Fishing Village
Let me let you know about Steveston, a quaint fishing village tucked away in Richmond, BC alongside the Fraser River. This charming spot is steeped in a wealthy maritime historical past that’s palpable as you stroll its streets. It’s residence to a few of the freshest seafood eating places you’ll ever come throughout. And the waterfront strolls? Simply divine. A energetic industrial dock space additionally provides to its enchantment, and if you happen to’re fortunate, you possibly can even buy contemporary seafood straight from the fishing boats themselves.
Take a leisurely stroll alongside the picturesque boardwalk, discover the historic streets lined with colourful buildings, and indulge in the scrumptious flavors of the native seafood choices. Steveston’s distinctive mix of historical past and pure magnificence makes it a pleasant day journey vacation spot, only a brief drive from Vancouver.
40 minutes from Vancouver
10. Explore the Sunshine Coast
Set off on a scenic coastal journey by way of the Sunshine Coast, a charming stretch of shoreline from Langdale to Lund, peppered with pleasant cities and marinas. Accessible by ferry from Horseshoe Bay, the Sunshine Coast is on the mainland however appears like you’ve left for an island escape.
Whether you favor to meander by way of the quaint cities of Gibsons and see the setting for Canada’s most enduring TV present “The Beachcombers” or to enterprise to Langdale and discover the marinas and marine parks alongside the coast, the Sunshine Coast guarantees a memorable day journey expertise.
So pack your baggage, hop on a ferry and revel in the fantastic thing about the Sunshine Coast for a day or two. Read extra: Ultimate Things to do on A Sunshine Coast Road Trip
2 1/2 hours from Vancouver together with ferry trip.
11. Horseshoe Bay
You have almost certainly heard of Horseshoe Bay. It virtually appears like part of Vancouver. Located only a brief drive from Vancouver, this coastal village is positioned in West Vancouver. Horseshoe Bay is well-known for its ferry terminal, which is all the time bustling with exercise. And let’s not neglect in regards to the pleasant eating places that serve a few of the most mouth-watering dishes you’ll ever style.
If you’re a nature lover like us, you’ll respect the rocky seashore that provides a way of tranquility and peace. Plus, the closeness to surrounding parks makes it a great spot for individuals who get pleasure from out of doors actions.
This picturesque vacation spot gives a relaxed ambiance with views of Howe Sound and the encircling mountains, making it a great day journey vacation spot.
Stroll alongside the waterfront, get pleasure from a meal at one of many native eating places, or just loosen up on the rocky seashore and soak in the serene environment. Horseshoe Bay is a pleasant escape from the town, excellent for a leisurely day journey alongside the coast.
20 minutes from Vancouver
12. Britannia Mine Museum
Enter the fascinating realm of mining on the Britannia Mine Museum, a restored National Historic Site of Canadalocated simply exterior of Squamish close to Britannia Beach. Just a mere 55 km north of Vancouver off the Sea-to-Sky Highway on Howe Sound it is a improbable website to go to.
During your go to, discover the underground mine on a prepare tour and marvel on the large tools used in mining operations. The guides are enjoyable and informative taking you on an interactive tour by way of time.
It’s a combination between a historic prepare trip and a go to to the science truthful and it’s so a lot enjoyable for all ages. The Britannia Mine Museum takes you again to the British Colombia of yesteryear when it was residence to the biggest copper mine in Canada. The Britannia Mines in Howe Sound is a nationwide historic website. The Britannia Mines Concentrator processed copper ore beginning in 1905 up till 1974.
Don’t miss BOOM! This interactive expertise was a improbable present and a terrific mixture with our mine tour the place we explored the museum, panned for gold, and walked by way of the historic buildings. Book refundable tickets right here.
Whether you’re a historical past fanatic or just curious in regards to the world of mining, the Britannia Mine Museum gives an interesting and academic day journey expertise.
40 minutes from Vancouver
13. Hiking at Garibaldi Provincial Park
Garibaldi Provincial Park is an unmissable vacation spot for these enthusiastic about nature and mountain climbing. Located simply 80 km north of Vancouver, this beautiful park options spectacular summer time mountain climbing trails, turquoise lakes, and awe-inspiring surroundings.
Conquer standard trails such because the Garibaldi Lake Trail, the Black Tusk Trail, and the Panorama Ridge Trail, every providing breathtaking views and a rewarding mountain climbing expertise. Garibaldi Provincial Park gives a difficult and unforgettable day journey for these searching for to discover the good outside.
1.25 hours from Vancouver
14. Play in the North Shore Mountains
Flee to the North Shore Mountains, comprising Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour, and Cypress Mountain, for a day full of snowboarding, mountain climbing, eating, and awe-inspiring views. These mountains provide a variety of actions for all ability ranges, from leisurely strolls to difficult hikes, in addition to world-class ski resorts throughout the winter months.
Whether you select to discover the serene forests of Mount Seymour, take in the beautiful views from the summit of Grouse Mountain, or hit the slopes at Cypress Mountain, the North Shore Mountains provide an ideal day journey vacation spot for out of doors lovers and nature lovers alike.
20 minutes from Vancouver
15. Point Roberts in Washington State
Cross the border to Point Roberts in Washington State for a definite day journey expertise. This relaxed vacation spot gives a laid-back ambiance, stunning seashores, and an enthralling neighborhood excellent for a leisurely day journey.
Stroll alongside the picturesque shoreline, discover the small city, and benefit from the serene ambiance as you soak in the coastal great thing about Point Roberts. Don’t neglect to convey your passport, as this charming vacation spot is only a brief drive from Vancouver however requires crossing the US border.
40 minutes from Vancouver
16. Cruise round Howe Sound
Embark on a exceptional journey by cruising round Howe Sound on a employed boat. Discover the fantastic thing about this fjord in southwestern British Columbia, visiting the lazy seals on Pam Rocks and exploring marine parks and picturesque islands alongside the way in which.
Whether you favor to navigate the waters on a guided tour or captain your individual vessel, cruising round Howe Sound gives a novel day journey expertise with beautiful views and unforgettable wildlife encounters. So seize your life jacket and embark on a nautical journey like no different!
half-hour from Vancouver
17. Kayaking in Deep Cove
Submerge in the wonders of nature by paddling by way of the tranquil waters of Deep Cove, a quaint neighborhood located in the japanese a part of North Vancouver. When I consider kayaking in Deep Cove, a couple of issues come to thoughts. First, it’s such a peaceable escape from the town. It’s such as you’re in a special world. Second, you by no means know what wildlife you may see. It’s all the time a shock! Plus, you don’t have to fret if you happen to don’t have your individual kayak, there are many rental choices out there. And if you happen to’re new to kayaking or simply need to study extra in regards to the space, there are guided excursions out there. It’s a improbable expertise!
After a day of paddling, discover the quaint city, get pleasure from a espresso at an area café, or hike to Quarry Rock for beautiful views of the encircling space. With its serene waters and picturesque setting, kayaking in Deep Cove is the right technique to unwind and reconnect with nature.
20 minutes from Vancouver
18. Seattle, Washington
Why not develop your horizons and delve into the energetic metropolis of Seattle, Washington? Just a couple of hours south of Vancouver, Seattle gives a various vary of points of interest, together with the long-lasting Pike Place Market, the futuristic Space Needle, and the breathtaking views from Kerry Park.
Whether you favor to meander by way of bustling markets, marvel at modern structure, or just soak in the coastal metropolis ambiance, Seattle gives a memorable day journey expertise with one thing for everybody. With its energetic tradition and distinctive points of interest, Seattle is nicely well worth the journey from Vancouver.
19. Lynn Canyon Park
For these of you preferring much less crowded spots, let me let you know about Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver. It’s a improbable different to the customarily congested Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. This place has all of it! There’s a suspension bridge that’ll offer you a little bit of a thrill, loads of mountain climbing paths so that you can discover, and if you happen to’re a fan of swimming, you’ll discover some nice spots right here. If you’re planning to spend the day, they’ve received picnic areas excellent for a lunch break in the good outside. And if you happen to’re curious in regards to the native ecosystem, you’ll undoubtedly need to take a look at their ecology middle. The better part? It’s all simply reachable by public transport.
All are simply reachable by public transport. This stunning park gives a peaceable escape from the town, with lush forests and serene waters to discover.
Venture throughout the suspension bridge, hike the scenic trails or take a refreshing dip in one of many park’s swimming holes. Afterwards, go to the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre to study extra in regards to the park’s various ecosystem.
With its charming pure magnificence and handy location, Lynn Canyon Park is a perfect day journey vacation spot for nature lovers.
25 minutes from Vancouver
20. Cascade Falls
Unearth the mesmerizing great thing about Cascade Falls, a placing waterfall located close to Mission, BC. A brief hike leads you to the falls, the place you’ll be greeted by the highly effective cascade of water surrounded by lush forest. With its picturesque setting and accessible path, Cascade Falls gives an ideal day journey for households and nature lovers alike.
Spend the day exploring the world, having fun with a picnic close to the falls, or just marveling at the fantastic thing about this pure surprise. Cascade Falls is a hidden gem simply ready to be found, offering a memorable day journey expertise for anybody searching for to attach with nature.
1 hour and 20 minutes from Vancouver
21. Victoria: The Charming Capital City
Picture your self meandering by way of the quaint streets of Victoria, the charming capital of British Columbia, enveloped by mesmerizing coastal views and delightful structure. Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria is an idyllic day journey vacation spot, simply accessible by a scenic ferry trip from Vancouver.
While in Victoria, don’t miss the prospect to go to iconic points of interest like Butchart Gardens, the Royal British Columbia Museum, and Beacon Hill Park. Wander the historic downtown space, discover the bustling Inner Harbor, and indulge in the town’s vibrant culinary scene.
From beautiful coastal views to fascinating historical past, Victoria gives a charming day journey expertise only a brief journey from Vancouver.
FAQ’s About The Best Day Trips From Vancouver
Where can I’m going for a day journey in Vancouver?
Discover the fantastic thing about Vancouver with a day journey! Explore Whistler and Victoria, go birding on Iona Beach, pattern suds on the Port Moody beer prepare or cruise in the Vancouver Harbour. With so many choices out there, you’re positive to search out an thrilling journey!
Can you make a day journey to Vancouver Island?
Yes, you can also make a day journey to Vancouver Island – the ferry takes round 90 minutes, or you could possibly fly there by seaplane in simply 35 minutes for wonderful views.
What is one of the best time of 12 months to go mountain climbing in the North Cascades?
The finest time to go mountain climbing in the North Cascades is from July to early October, so plan your journey accordingly for a tremendous expertise.
How lengthy is the ferry trip from Vancouver to Victoria?
The ferry trip from Vancouver to Victoria takes round 4 hours.
What are some standard mountain climbing trails in Garibaldi Provincial Park?
Garibaldi Provincial Park has a number of standard mountain climbing trails, such because the Garibaldi Lake Trail, Black Tusk Trail, and Panorama Ridge Trail.
Summary
From the serene shores of Bowen Island to the adrenaline-pumping actions in Squamish, these 20 day journeys from Vancouver showcase the unimaginable variety of experiences ready to be found in British Columbia’s yard. Whether you’re searching for leisure, journey, or a mix of each, there’s a day journey vacation spot excellent for you.
So, what are you ready for? Pack your baggage, hit the street, and embark on an unforgettable journey by way of the breathtaking landscapes and charming cities that encompass Vancouver. Your subsequent journey awaits only a brief drive away!
From snowboarding on pristine mountain slopes to wandering by way of charming coastal cities, your subsequent journey awaits only a brief drive from Vancouver’s bustling metropolis middle.