Summer is the time of year when you can let your itinerary wander! Road trips, overnight stays, unexpected diversions—enjoying the sunny season is all about seeking out new experiences and letting the days run together, like the colours in a tie-dye shirt.
It’s the perfect occasion to show the kids that you still have a few unexpected tricks up your sleeve. Surprise them with an impromptu road trip to the Fraser Valley and watch their eyes spark at the sudden possibilities ahead. From boutique shops and pop-ups to unparalleled nature experiences, you can always rely on the Valley for spur-of-the-moment escapes.
Whether you’re seeking a family break from screen time or you’ve all collectively decided it’s far too nice out for chores, each stop of this guide offers character-rich moments from a uniquely Canadian summer, right until Labour Day. These are the longest days of the year, after all, why not fill them with a bit of fun?
Before you go:
Just as if you were arranging a playdate at a new friend’s home for the first time, it’s always a good idea to brush up on some quick points of etiquette! When you enter the Fraser Valley, you’re joining a community of diverse nature and vibrant cultures. Whether you’re coming from inside British Columbia, the United States, or outside the Northern Hemisphere altogether, we can’t wait to host you, so we hope you’ll return the sentiment by visiting in a responsible and respectful way.
Showing that you (and your party) are ready for your next adventure here is easy—start by joining the community initiative of protecting this gift!
1. Road Trip to Abbotsford
Robyn Bessenger
A sunny day in Abbotsford is a surefire way for the kids to form new core memories while you dig into your own summer nostalgia. Start by following your feet through the Historic Downtown, where you can stroll by the artisan shops and beautifully preserved storefronts. It’s the perfect vibe for a delicious detour to Banter Ice Cream, where the seasonal flavours are ready to sample. With over 300 board games to choose from, the nearby Boardwalk Cafe & Games should be your next stop to settle any arguments about where to head next. Whether it’s with Settlers of Catan or Taboo, there are more than a few ways to team up with/on the kids.
Once lunch rolls around, you can wander to Jubilee Park for a picnic and playground, the winning combo for any bright forecast.
You could easily spend the day exploring the downtown core alone, but there are even more options if you decide to stay an extra day! At Silverbrook U-Catch Trout Farm, little ones can try their hand at fishing at a local trout farm. A fun and accessible way to introduce them to the pastime of patience, the friendly staff has everything you need to reel in the first catch. For something with a bit more momentum, we recommend hiking and mountain biking in Sumas Mountain Regional Park. The 1,471-hectare park is full of breezy trails and sweeping views, which you can set up as an incredible reward for all their impressive pedalling!
Then, to switch up the pace a bit, The Reach Gallery Museum is an excellent option for your arts and culture. Stop in and admire the engaging exhibits of local artists and learn about Abbotsford’s rich and diverse cultural heritage with programming curated for all ages.
Phew! It’s been a long day of exploring, and Abbotsford still has so much to see, so there’s always the option to stay over. Save yourself driving home with your crew (at least for a day or two) and have a look at all the fun staycation options in the area. Have the kids ever stayed in a geodome? Or how about a “cottage-core” B&B? The accommodations in Abbotsford are ready to welcome your family.
2. Chilliwack Road Trip Itinerary
Shelby Neufeld
With gorgeous rural experiences and some of the freshest and most flavourful natural ingredients around, Chilliwack is a feast for every sense! Berry season is here, and there’s no better place to treat your tastebuds than Klaassen Farms—one of the stops on the Chilliwack Circle Farm Tour. The kids can choose from freshly made muffins, cinnamon buns and scones, or you can always roll up your sleeves and visit the berry picking area and fill up a basket for your next baking project together. Plus, there are friendly farm animals to meet and a dedicated adventure zone where you can watch them play while enjoying an iced coffee.
Now that you’ve stocked up on snacks, you’re ready for the nearby nature outings, like a tour of Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park. You’ll find all kinds of exhilarating ways to appreciate nature here— camping, kayaking, fishing, and over 40 km of walking and hiking trails (including all levels of difficulty for little feet). Heads up though— there is no cell service in this area, so be sure to tell someone ahead of time where you’re going!
If you prefer fresh air with an added dose of adrenaline, Chilliwack River Rafting will definitely be your speed. Another great option for families, the company has accessible and beginner-level routes that will give kids a new perspective on the outdoors. The stunning views are one of a kind, especially with an audience of curious mountain goats looking down from the surrounding cliff faces!
After any of those day trips, you’ll likely be ready for a few modern comforts, which is where District 1881, in Downtown Chilliwack, comes in. In the heart of Chilliwack, you’ll find everything you need to rest, reset, and revamp! There are also outstanding restaurant options to satisfy any craving, especially if any of your party members are getting a big hangry.
Since you’re already making yourself at home, you may as well go the extra step and spend the night! Drop by any of the Chilliwack accommodations, and you’ll find a cozy spot to curl up.
3. Just Up the Road to Harrison River Valley
Angela Griffiths
Graham Osborne
There’s always something happening in Harrison!
The locals here have their pick of fun ways to take in the scenery, and your family has a standing invitation to join in. Sasquatch Mountain Resort is a wonderful option for all levels of nature seekers. Disc golf, hiking, and mountain biking are just the start of ways to fill your itinerary.
The nearby Harrison Lake is a hub of activity, too! The tree-lined shore is full of points of interest to investigate, and you can all take to the water via kayak, power boat or canoe, by guided tour or with you leading the tour (get your dad jokes ready). Finding everything you need is easy with lakeside options like Killer’s Cove Boat Rentals, Harrison Eco Tours and Shoreline Tours.
There’s even a giant inflatable water park to play on! Harrison Watersports has one of the most fun ways to keep cool through the summer, with a floating obstacle course/playground. If you’re up for a ride out in the water, they also offer bumper boat and sea-doo rentals. This is one of the top family attractions in the Valley, and it’s not hard to see why. An all-ages summer treasure, where you can watch the hours melt away.
Back on dry land, Agassiz Speedway offers even further excitement with four-wheeled speedsters pining for first place! One of the most exciting ways to experience summer, every family member will love feeling the rush of the race.
After all that, you might need a bit of downtime, and thankfully, Harrison has plenty of options. Check into any of the warm accommodations and contemplate your next day of discoveries.
