How is your 2026 going so far?
In all honesty, being asked that in the first few months of the year seems a bit silly. Presumably, like everyone else, you’re catching up on movies from last year, while wondering if your resolutions are going to stick this time. But in reality, the first few months are actually the best months to be spontaneous! Why wait until the summer to make the most of things? Head out into the fresh air now, and you’ll find all kinds of unexpected ways to satisfy your sense of adventure.
From planning a day of mini golf and go-karts with a friend, to a snow-covered resort stay with your family, or maybe a romantic getaway celebrating a special occasion or holiday. For exhilarating winter escapes that will put those later months to shame, you’ll find everything you need in The Fraser Valley.
Here are a few ideas for where to start, but feel free to mix and match between the experiences, eateries, and accommodations.
Family Time
EcoFarm – Abbotsford
Ready to mix things up from last year? What better start than with EcoFarm! A sustainably-minded dairy and farm, this hands-on attraction is always a hit with little ones. A day trip to meet the cows and learn all about how milking works is an excellent way to make the most of a weekend. Part of the Circle Farm Tour, before you go, we recommend checking which other outstanding farm experiences are in the area, too!
Castle Fun Park – Abbotsford
The kids can’t agree on what to do on Saturday and Sunday? Do it all! This Abbotsford staple has just about everything that kids would unanimously say is fun. Go karts, mini golf, arcade games, and even a laser maze! Keep Castle Fun Park in mind for when you’ve got to get them out of the house and out of the winter weather.
Atchelitz Threshermen’s Association – Pioneer Village – Chilliwack
Step back in time into scenes from the late 1800s to the 1950s, with immersive, period-accurate settings! Curious kids will adore checking out all the old technology and machinery that were once part of daily life. All are welcome, with admission to the museum offered by donation.
Snowshoeing (Elk Mountain and Chilliwack Lake Trails) – Chilliwack
Credit: @intherivervalley
Credit: @intherivervalley
An active, fun, low-impact activity, snowshoeing the local Chilliwack trails will be a hit with explorers of all levels. Be sure to check the weather ahead of time, pack a snack, and get ready to follow your sense of splendour
* Before you go, make sure to refresh yourself on a few adventure-smart outdoor tips.
Muddy Waters Cafe– Harrison River Valley
Reopening on February 14, 2026, this community-favourite cafe and restaurant is a true gem of the local food scene. Serving specialty coffee, fresh baked goods and hearty home-style comfort food, everyone in your party is sure to leave satisfied. A reliably delicious option for long weekend brunch!
Sasquatch Mountain Resort – Harrison River Valley
An exceptional winter escape for families or groups, this renowned mountain resort offers countless ways to spend winter. Before you head up, though, be sure your ride is winter-ready with chains on your tires! Once you’ve arrived, you’re free to explore the slopes however you like: skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. There are options for all levels of adrenaline. Or zen out inside by the fire with a cup of cocoa. Also a viable option!
* Be sure to visit the Sasquatch Mountain Resort site for their latest snow forecast and announcements.
For Your Sweetie
Kariton Art Gallery – Abbotsford
A little culture is always a quick route to connection! Highlighting the multi-medium work of local Fraser Valley artists, you’re sure to find a few new creative perspectives here. It’s been closed for the season (reopening February 7, 2026), so be sure to stop by when their first exhibition of the year kicks off.
Cannon Estate Winery– Abbotsford
Credit: Robyn Bessenger
Credit: Robyn Bessenger
Cultivate your senses together by taking a tour through one of the region’s most beautiful wineries. The group wine tastings throughout the week are a fun and social way to test your palate (and your chemistry), while the on-site restaurant, Calibre, has a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for seeing if romance and love are truly in the air. Forget the red roses, sometimes the only bouquet you need is one from full-bodied red.
The Offy– Chilliwack
Hip brunch-spot vibes by day, cocktail bar and mood lighting by night, The Offy is open for whichever atmosphere you’re hoping to set. Specializing in comfort food made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, you’ll find a menu of familiar favourites finished with bold, creative flourishes. Grab a couple of fig vanilla lattes to go and wander around town like you’re in one of those winter escape Hallmark movies. Another superb way to celebrate romantic love in the Valley!
Land Studio & Cafe – Chilliwack
In their own words, “we’re a coffee shop, yoga studio, lunch spot, and hangout space; a place to connect, a place to grow, a place to expand and a place to land”. As you can see, this is a multi-purpose social spot that serves specialty coffee and scrumptious food. Start your date here with a cortado and an acai bowl, then discuss your next activity.
Bridle Trail & Spirit Trail – Harrison River Valley
This beautiful local nature trail will leave you speechless as you explore together! Between 1 and 5.5 kilometres long, the walkway passes through a diverse range of ecosystems and environments (mixed coniferous and deciduous forests, wetlands, and cliffs). You’re sure to see some curious wildlife along the way, so be sure to have your camera charged!
Harrison Hot Springs Resort – Harrison River Valley
Credit: Andrew Beaumont
Credit: Andrew Beaumont
Credit: Andrew Beaumont
One of the most relaxing natural experiences in the area, the Harrison Hot Springs will remove any doubt that you’re where you’re supposed to be. When staying at the resort that shares the name, you’ll have access to the rejuvenating pools, a spa, and all kinds of cozy amenities to help you unwind. A weekend of lounging poolside and breakfast in bed… St. Valentine would blush.
Friendly Catchups
The Knotty Brew – Abbotsford
One of the newest additions to the Abbotsford coffee scene, this friendly little spot is officially Canada’s FIRST crochet cafe. Grab some yard from the candy-colour shelves and catch up with a friend over coffee and creativity. If you’ve been looking to make some progress on a group (or solo) project, this is a solid place to start.
TopSpin Pickleball – Abbotsford
We probably don’t need to ask if you’ve heard of Pickleball anymore. The fastest-growing sport in Canada is easy to pick up, but hard to master, and a friendly game (or lesson) between friends is good for strengthening your relationship. Just don’t get too crazy with the spikes!
The Local Harvest Market – Chilliwack
A family-owned farm market and bakery, this is not your average grocery store. Stock up on fresh area ingredients to boost your recipe, or split a just-out-of-the-oven cinnamon bun with a friend, and you’ll immediately taste the difference that shopping local makes.
Project Climbing – Chilliwack
Never bouldered before? No problem! This climbing spot has walls for all levels and dexterity. A friendly staff member will teach you the basics, and you’ll be off (in this case, ON). You won’t be going up too far, so no ropes are needed, and the cushioned floor is there whenever you’re ready to come back down. It’s an unexpectedly social experience, and you’re likely to leave with more friends than you arrived with!
The Broken Whisk – Harrison River Valley
Credit: Andrew Beaumont
Credit: Andrew Beaumont
Credit: Andrew Beaumont
With extravagant burgers, tasty share plates, and a stellar beer/wine menu, The Broken Whisk has become a community HQ for catching up with friends and post-work drinks. Order a dozen wings for the opening remarks, and then some ribs when you get into the real tea.
Fraser River Lodge Activities – Harrison River Valley
A spontaneous axe-throwing outing? Spring the suggestion on your friend and then test your lumberjack skills together. Then do an after-game wrap-up over a round of fireside s’mores. Filled with unique activities, this riverside lodge is full of surprises. Pretend it’s a public holiday and make the most of your mischief by spending a night or two. Cozy rooms and sprawling views of nature make this a wonderful vacation-at-home escape.