Interesting places to visit near Surrey, Canada

Location: White Rock, British Columbia, Canada

Best For: Nature Lovers, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Foodies, History Buffs

Why it's a great detour: Nestled along the picturesque coastline of British Columbia, White Rock offers a unique blend of stunning dog-friendly beaches and diverse outdoor adventures. This charming seaside town invites travelers to enjoy scenic walks, vibrant local culture, and delicious dining while exploring a welcoming environment for pets and people alike.

Key activities: Visitors can stroll along the iconic White Rock Pier, explore miles of sandy beaches where dogs can roam off-leash, hike nearby trails with panoramic ocean views, and visit the quaint downtown area filled with boutique shops and seafood restaurants. History enthusiasts can explore local museums and heritage sites, while foodies will delight in fresh seafood and waterfront dining.

Kid-friendly focus: The gentle beach waves and spacious sandy areas make it ideal for families with young children to play and explore safely. The town also offers parks and family-friendly eateries.

Dog-friendly notes: White Rock is renowned for its welcoming attitude toward dogs, featuring multiple off-leash beach areas and dog parks, making it a perfect destination for travelers with pets seeking outdoor fun and socialization.

Location: Fort Langley Historic Village, Fraser Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Best For: Foodies, History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled in the charming Fort Langley Historic Village, this detour offers an immersive experience combining gourmet farm-to-table dining with vibrant artisan markets. Visitors can indulge in fresh, locally sourced meals while exploring a picturesque village steeped in Canadian history, making it a unique stop that delights both the palate and the mind.

Key activities include sampling seasonal dishes crafted from regional farms, browsing handcrafted artisan goods, and strolling through heritage buildings that tell stories of the area's past. The village's scenic surroundings also provide gentle walking trails perfect for nature lovers and families alike.

Families with young children will appreciate the open spaces and interactive market stalls, while history buffs can enjoy guided tours of the historic sites. The village is dog-friendly, with many outdoor dining areas and pathways welcoming leashed pets, ensuring a comfortable visit for travelers with dogs.

Whether you're seeking a culinary adventure, a cultural exploration, or a relaxing day surrounded by nature and history, Fort Langley's farm-to-table markets offer a memorable and enriching detour on your journey.

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Best For: Nature Lovers, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts

Vancouver offers an exceptional detour combining dynamic urban energy with world-class culinary experiences set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pacific Northwest. This vibrant city is renowned for its multicultural food scene, scenic waterfronts, and accessible green spaces, making it a perfect stop for travelers seeking both cultural richness and natural beauty.

Visitors can explore bustling neighborhoods like Gastown and Granville Island, indulge in fresh seafood and international cuisines, and enjoy outdoor activities such as biking along the Seawall or visiting Stanley Park’s famous totem poles. Families will appreciate kid-friendly attractions including the Vancouver Aquarium and Science World, while history buffs can delve into local heritage at museums and historic sites. The city is notably dog-friendly, with numerous parks, trails, and patios welcoming four-legged companions.

Whether savoring farm-to-table dishes, strolling through vibrant markets, or taking in panoramic mountain and ocean views, Vancouver offers an enriching experience that caters to diverse interests and ages, making it an ideal detour for any traveler.

Location: Situated along the scenic coastline near Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, this detour offers an immersive experience in the Pacific Northwest's natural splendor.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Whale Watching, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: This coastal escape combines breathtaking ocean vistas with the thrilling opportunity to witness orcas and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. The region's rich indigenous history and vibrant local food scene add cultural depth, making it a multifaceted stop that appeals to diverse interests.

Key activities: Embark on guided whale watching tours to spot orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales; explore coastal hiking trails through ancient rainforests; visit local indigenous cultural centers; enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront eateries; and stroll along dog-friendly beaches.

Kid-friendly focus: The whale watching tours and easy coastal trails are perfect for families with young children, offering educational and engaging outdoor experiences.

Dog-friendly notes: Many beaches and some trails welcome dogs on leash, making it an ideal detour for travelers with pets seeking nature and adventure.

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Foodies, Dog-Friendly (limited outdoor areas)

Why It's a Great Detour: Nestled within the University of British Columbia campus, the Museum of Anthropology offers a profound journey into the ancient Indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest. This detour is a cultural treasure trove showcasing exquisite indigenous art, totem poles, and artifacts that tell stories of rich traditions and history, making it an inspiring stop for travelers seeking meaningful cultural experiences.

Key Activities: Visitors can explore the Great Hall's monumental totem poles, engage with interactive exhibits detailing indigenous heritage, attend special cultural events or workshops, and enjoy the museum’s serene outdoor spaces overlooking the ocean. Nearby, foodies can savor local cuisine at UBC’s eateries, and nature lovers can stroll the surrounding trails.

Kid-Friendly Focus: The museum offers engaging, educational exhibits suitable for children, with storytelling sessions and hands-on activities that make indigenous culture accessible and fascinating for young minds.

Dog-Friendly Notes: While the museum interior does not allow pets, the surrounding UBC campus and nearby outdoor areas offer dog-friendly walking paths, making it possible to combine a cultural visit with a pleasant walk for your furry companion.