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 recollections? 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 repeatedly. We have traveled all around the province and hope that we will encourage you when you’ve loved all the very best issues to do in Vancouver to make your approach out to see the unimaginable BC countryside. Whether you’re an area seeking to discover extra of your personal yard or a customer searching for distinctive experiences outdoors the town, these day journeys from Vancouver supply a various vary of actions.
Planning Your Trip To Vancouver Right Now?
Below are among the high excursions for Day Trips from Vancouver. Don’t overlook 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 while you land on the Vancouver airport. You can examine automotive rental costs at RentalCars.com
To discover extra of Vancouver, try these finest Toronto day excursions from Vancouver.
Whistler is without doubt one of the finest locations in the world to ski however not solely is it a winter wonderland, it’s also 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 would 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, ebook 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, nevertheless it additionally gives improbable mountaineering trails and procuring alternatives through the summer time months. Plus, you’ll undoubtedly need to hike out to the Trainwreck Trail to see the graffiti-covered prepare vehicles or take a bear tour to see the wildlife of Whistler. Not to say, the city is dwelling to vegan-friendly cafes and eating places, good for refueling after a day of out of doors enjoyable. For a bucket checklist expertise, ebook this Vancouver to Whistler float airplane expertise.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just searching for a scenic escape, Whistler is without doubt one of 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 usually 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 motive. It is a playground for rock-climbing aficionados with its world-class climbing spots together with the Squamish Chief and windsurfing lovers will probably 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 the very 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 essentially 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 situated 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 stage, the place you’ll be greeted by a number of viewing decks, an exhilarating suspension bridge, and seasonal actions to go well with all ages. Whether you’re an avid hiker searching for new trails to beat 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 take pleasure in breathtaking views of the encompassing panorama, belief us, you don’t need to miss this!
50 minutes from Vancouver This personal Whistler Squamish day tour is an effective way to not solely see Whistler village, however you’ll additionally cease at Squamish and Shannon Falls, experience 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 consider 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 sequence, was shot right here.
The Othello Tunnels are a sequence 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 have been blasted and built-in 1914. It is only a 3.5 km spherical journey, however utterly value 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 center 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 gorgeous mountain landscapes.
When you go to this tranquil vacation spot, you’ll be spoiled for selection with quite a lot of out of doors actions. You can tee off on a lush golf course, discover the scenic trails on a mountaineering 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 strive 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 may 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 situated in North Vancouver near Grouse Mountain’s base, for a enjoyable excessive journey. This thrilling attraction gives a singular expertise, together with a bouncing suspension bridge, a Cliffwalk, and a Treetops Adventure, all set amidst the luxurious 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 open air. It’s a memorable expertise that may go away 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 may delve into the historical past of Canada’s Fur Trading historical past. This previous fur buying and selling put up 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 an enchanting glimpse into the previous and a really 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 dwelling.
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 experience away from Horseshoe Bay. Known for its laid-back environment, Bowen Island is the right vacation spot to unwind and recharge amidst nature’s magnificence.
On Bowen Island, you may have quite a lot 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 take pleasure in a leisurely picnic on the seaside.
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 considered one of our favourite enjoyable day journey choices.
9. Steveston: A Historic Fishing Village
Let me inform you 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 dwelling to among the freshest seafood eating places you’ll ever come throughout. And the waterfront strolls? Simply divine. A full of life business dock space additionally provides to its attraction, and when you’re fortunate, you may even buy recent 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 may have left for an island escape.
Whether you like 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 luggage, hop on a ferry and luxuriate in the great 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 experience.
11. Horseshoe Bay
You have almost definitely heard of Horseshoe Bay. It virtually appears like part of Vancouver. Located only a brief drive from Vancouver, this coastal village is situated in West Vancouver. Horseshoe Bay is well-known for its ferry terminal, which is at all times bustling with exercise. And let’s not overlook concerning the pleasant eating places that serve among the most mouth-watering dishes you’ll ever style.
If you’re a nature lover like us, you’ll admire the rocky seaside that provides a way of tranquility and peace. Plus, the closeness to surrounding parks makes it a perfect spot for many who take pleasure in out of doors actions.
This picturesque vacation spot gives a relaxed environment with views of Howe Sound and the encompassing mountains, making it a perfect day journey vacation spot.
Stroll alongside the waterfront, take pleasure in a meal at one of many native eating places, or just chill out on the rocky seaside and soak in the serene environment. Horseshoe Bay is a pleasant escape from the town, good 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 outdoors of Squamish close to Britannia Beach. Just a mere 55 km north of Vancouver off the Sea-to-Sky Highway on Howe Sound this can be 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 experience 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 dwelling to the most important 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 an incredible 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 concerning the world of mining, the Britannia Mine Museum gives an attractive 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 keen about nature and mountaineering. Located simply 80 km north of Vancouver, this gorgeous park options spectacular summer time mountaineering trails, turquoise lakes, and awe-inspiring surroundings.
Conquer well-liked trails such because the Garibaldi Lake Trail, the Black Tusk Trail, and the Panorama Ridge Trail, every providing breathtaking views and a rewarding mountaineering expertise. Garibaldi Provincial Park offers a difficult and unforgettable day journey for these searching for to discover the good open air.
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, mountaineering, eating, and awe-inspiring views. These mountains supply a variety of actions for all talent ranges, from leisurely strolls to difficult hikes, in addition to world-class ski resorts through the winter months.
Whether you select to discover the serene forests of Mount Seymour, take in the gorgeous views from the summit of Grouse Mountain, or hit the slopes at Cypress Mountain, the North Shore Mountains supply 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 environment, stunning seashores, and a captivating group good for a leisurely day journey.
Stroll alongside the picturesque shoreline, discover the small city, and benefit from the serene environment as you soak in the coastal fantastic thing about Point Roberts. Don’t overlook 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 great 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 like to navigate the waters on a guided tour or captain your personal vessel, cruising round Howe Sound gives a singular day journey expertise with gorgeous 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 group located in the japanese a part of North Vancouver. When I consider kayaking in Deep Cove, just a few issues come to thoughts. First, it’s such a peaceable escape from the town. It’s such as you’re in a distinct world. Second, you by no means know what wildlife you may see. It’s at all times a shock! Plus, you don’t have to fret when you don’t have your personal kayak, there are many rental choices accessible. And when you’re new to kayaking or simply need to study extra concerning the space, there are guided excursions accessible. It’s a improbable expertise!
After a day of paddling, discover the quaint city, take pleasure in a espresso at an area café, or hike to Quarry Rock for gorgeous views of the encompassing space. With its serene waters and picturesque setting, kayaking in Deep Cove is the right strategy to unwind and reconnect with nature.
20 minutes from Vancouver
18. Seattle, Washington
Why not broaden your horizons and delve into the full of life metropolis of Seattle, Washington? Just just a few 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 like to meander by way of bustling markets, marvel at revolutionary structure, or just soak in the coastal metropolis environment, Seattle gives a memorable day journey expertise with one thing for everybody. With its full of life 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 inform you about Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver. It’s a improbable different to the usually 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 mountaineering paths so that you can discover, and when you’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 good for a lunch break in the good open air. And when you’re curious concerning the native ecosystem, you’ll undoubtedly need to try their ecology middle. The better part? It’s all simply reachable by public transport.
All are simply reachable by public transport. This stunning park offers 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 concerning 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 fantastic 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 great 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 exquisite structure. Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria is an idyllic day journey vacation spot, simply accessible by a scenic ferry experience 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 gorgeous 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 am going for a day journey in Vancouver?
Discover the great 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 accessible, you’re positive to seek out an thrilling journey!
Can you make a day journey to Vancouver Island?
Yes, you may make a day journey to Vancouver Island – the ferry takes round 90 minutes, or you would fly there by seaplane in simply 35 minutes for wonderful views.
What is the very best time of yr to go mountaineering in the North Cascades?
The finest time to go mountaineering in the North Cascades is from July to early October, so plan your journey accordingly for an incredible expertise.
How lengthy is the ferry experience from Vancouver to Victoria?
The ferry experience from Vancouver to Victoria takes round 4 hours.
What are some well-liked mountaineering trails in Garibaldi Provincial Park?
Garibaldi Provincial Park has a number of well-liked mountaineering 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 range 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 good for you.
So, what are you ready for? Pack your luggage, hit the highway, 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.