Disregarding neighbouring Greater Vancouver itself, Abbotsford is the largest urban centre in British Columbia, with the attractions to match. But while you might expect to find metropolitan bustle extending to the horizon, this is actually a serene, welcoming and scenic place to discover, and some of the best things to do in Abbotsford are tucked away in the surrounding mountains, lakes and valleys.
There is a vacation to remember for everyone here, whether you love historic forts, pumpkin picking or hiking up to legendary peaks.
Castle Fun Park
Castle Fun Park is the city’s action-packed theme and activity park. You can play a fun game of mini-golf, go karting or take baseball to the limits in a batting cage where balls are launched at speeds of up to 112kph.
There are occasional big events, and the jungle-like park even moonlights as a film set. In 2015, former actress and recent addition to the British royal family Meghan Markle filmed here for Dater’s Handbook.
Golden Ears Provincial Park
Top nature attractions surround Fraser Valley, but Golden Ears tops them all. This is one of the largest natural parks in the province, covering more than 62,000 hectares of lush mountain wilderness.
With so much ground to cover, you could spend weeks camping beneath the stars. Some of the best Golden Ears hikes are within driving distance from Abbotsford, including the famous twin peaks trek. The northern ear is a popular destination too, covering 25km – including some challenging class III routes.
If you prefer to see nature on four legs, you can also try horseback riding by the shores of Alouette Lake.
Kariton Gallery
As the home of the Abbotsford Arts Council, there’s no better place to see local creative endeavour than at Kariton Gallery. The cozy collection showcases work from the very best Fraser Valley artists, including exhibits that ask life’s big questions and dynamic sculptures. The events calendar also spans literary and performing arts.
The on-site Arts Boutique is a great place to pick up a unique souvenir too. Step inside to find handmade jewellery and woodwork crafted by local artisans.
Cultus Lake
Since these glimmering waters mesmerize so many from Abbotsford, it may be tempting to call Cultus Lake the primary local attraction. In fact, Cultus Lake has even more attractions beyond its beautiful natural scenery.
Cultus Lake Park is home to a water park and several golf courses. You can also hire a boat to sail or jet ski out over the mirrored waters to see colourful houses floating on the shores. There are even great campsites where you can extend your stay, should you feel unable to part from the views.
Maan Farms
If you’d like to dive into community life, few places are better than Maan Farms. This is a centre where local produce takes the lead role. The family’s strawberries, blueberries and raspberries made Maan famous, and have shaped Fraser Valley’s reputation as the Berry Capital of Canada.
Today the farm is a family fun centre as well as a glamorous venue for weddings and corporate events. You’ll find a petting zoo and a maze to occupy the little ones, while adults can even try out ‘goat yoga’ alongside the animals.
Fort Langley
Fraser Valley’s leading historical attraction is beautiful to drive to, since you’ll get to take in the lush scenery of the Cascade mountain range. The Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada is a place paused in time, where history enthusiasts and families alike come to learn about the fascinating past of British Columbia.
Once a 19th-century fur trading post, today you can bring the whole family to chase fortunes in a gold pan or gather around the fire to hear tales from days gone by. Live acting helps to recreate the history within original and replica buildings.
Historic Downtown
Up-and-coming with a friendly charm, Abbotsford’s Historic Downtown district is beginning to compete with Fort Langley as a major attraction. This neighbourhood is no longer just a place to find tasty food after a day at the lakes, though the international pizzerias, bakehouses and seafood joints still play a key role of course.
However, alongside them you’ll find conference centres, vibrant stores and of course, Yuk Yuk’s comedy club. The architecture is another must-see, since parts of this district date back to the 19th century.
Applebarn Pumpkin Farm
Pumpkin picking never felt so good. At Taves Applebarn Pumpkin Farm, you can embrace the spirit of fall by riding on a tractor-drawn carriage upholstered with hay to find slopes laden with autumnal fruit.
At Applebarn, the fun extends through every season – you can also pick apples and corn at this fun-filled family centre.
Hayward Lake
British Columbia’s coast isn’t the only place to find a relaxing beach. Hayward Lake has shimmering shores lined with a 90-metre sandy beach, picnic tables and great hiking ground.
The southern hiking trail is particularly popular, with moderate slopes to negotiate. You’ll pass flowers, birds and the wondrous Steelhead Falls. The Railway Trail is another favourite, so named because this flat stretch once served as a railroad track. This trail meanders through the forest and onto Ruskin Dam.
Chilliwack Tulip Festival
Take your love of nature to a whole new level at this celebration of all things floral. At Chilliwack, the tulip fields stretch to the mountainous horizon, creating stunning views well worth photographing. Skilled horticulturalists work around the clock to plant rainbow striped floral fields that emerge in spring.
The festival itself runs from early April when daffodils and hyacinths spread their petals and emerge in vibrant colours. Tulips make a star appearance in late April and early May – this period is sometimes extended, based on the year’s bloom.
There are art and photography contests, plus gourmet food trucks for hungry florists. You can even purchase bulbs to grow your very own tulip garden.
A rental car will help you get around Abbotsford – and allow you to discover the wider area and beauty beyond.