surrey bc tourist attractions

16 Unique & Fun Things to do in Surrey, BC

From niche museums and beautiful beaches to lush trails and quaint historic escapes, there’s actually many things to do in Surrey, BC that most visitors don’t expect.

Growing up in the Lower Mainland, Surrey wasn’t often considered a destination to visit or do day trips. But things are quickly changing. In fact, Surrey is one of the fastest growing cities in Canada, not to mention the largest city in Metro Vancouver where land mass is concerned.

So, what is there to do in Surrey? Read on for a roundup of our favourites activities and places to visit!

Head to Crescent Beach

We know that beaches aren’t often what come to mind when you think of Surrey, but this sprawling city is indeed home to a beautiful waterfront, and one of the best places to watch sunset in Metro Vancouver.

We’re talking of course about Crescent Beach, a picturesque beach and residential community in South Surrey that makes for a perfect summer (or sunset) excursion.

With gorgeous views over Boundary Bay, and a walkable promenade lined with quaint houses, this is by far one of the most scenic places to visit in Surrey… with a much more laid-back feel than nearby White Rock.

Whether you want to sunbathe, enjoy some beach volleyball, or simply grab a bite at one of the Beecher Street hot spots, visiting Crescent Beach is definitely one of the best things to do in Surrey… so come see for yourself the next time you visit!

NOTE: The beach here is pretty rocky. If you prefer sandy beaches, then time your visit for low tide.

Explore Tynehead Regional Park

Just off of the Trans-Canada Highway, you’ll find another Surrey gem: Tynehead Regional Park, a large park in North Surrey with kilometres of scenic trails, a fish hatchery, a dog park, and even its own butterfly garden.

If you’re looking for outdoorsy things to do in Surrey, visiting this park is a must. The Tynehead Perimeter Trail is a popular pick for first timers, but you can easily choose your own adventure once you enter the park.

Be sure to pack a picnic too, because there’s several picnicking areas to choose from!

Enjoy some craft brews

Craft beer is practically a religion in the Lower Mainland these days, and Surrey is no exception. While you won’t find a microbrewery on every corner here like in Mount Pleasant , there’s still great options if you’re looking for some hyperlocal brews.

Central City Brewing has been around since 2003, and its signature Red Racer beer can be found in bars and restaurants all around the Lower Mainland. Their original brewpub is located conveniently by Surrey Central Skytrain Station, although their new 125,000 square foot facility on Bridgeview Derive (with tasting room) is well worth a visit.

There’s also Russell Brewing Co , which has been championing craft beer methods since 1995, making it one of the oldest microbreweries in Metro Vancouver. While their long awaited Tasting Room is set to open later this year, you can find their inventive pours in over 1200 locations across the country. Click here to find the closest location near you.

Head to the historic town centre of Cloverdale

Cloverdale may best be known for its annual rodeo, but it’s also a worthwhile place to visit year round thanks to several attractions (which we’ll cover below), like the Museum of Surrey, BC Vintage Truck Museum, and the Cloverdale Flea Market.

Often considered the historic heart of Surrey, Cloverdale is filled with heritage buildings and a quiet charm that feels worlds removed from the glass condos and shopping malls popping up elsewhere in the city.

Truth be told, the historic main drag of Cloverdale (176th Street) is pretty quiet these days, but it’s a spot where you can explore some independent shops, browse for antiques, admire some public art, and grab a bite to eat.

Pop culture fans might also recognize it as Smallville, or Greendale from the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Thanks to its historic charm, Cloverdale is a favourite for film crews.

Beyond Cloverdale’s main strip though, there are lots of worthwhile attractions in the neighbourhood. We’ll showcase some of our favourites below.

Stop by the Museum of Surrey

Yes, Surrey has a museum dedicated to Surrey! Who knew?

This underrated attraction is unknown to many Metro Vancouverites, but if you’re looking for something a little different/educational to do in Surrey, particularly with young ones in tow, then the Museum of Surrey makes a great choice… especially on a rainy day.

Located at the Heritage Campus in Cloverdale, the museum has a goal of “celebrating Surrey’s past, present and future through innovative, dynamic and delightful learning, storytelling, and creating shared experiences”.

They do this through interactive exhibits, events, and programs… and a pretty baller kids play area. Best of all, it’s free, making it one of the most budget-friendly Surrey activities you can enjoy.

Visit the BC Vintage Truck Museum

When we said Surrey had niche museums, we meant it… and if you’re looking for a quirky Surrey activity to check off your list, then why not consider a visit to Cloverdale’s BC Vintage Truck Museum ?

Sure, their opening hours are fairly limited, but if you happen to catch them open, you’ll be treated to a hefty collection of vintage cars dating back to 1914, alongside tons of memorabilia and signage.

Rummage for goodies at the Cloverdale Flea Market

For almost 50 years, Cloverdale’s Flea Market has been one of the top draws for visitors from across the Lower Mainland who come in search of crafts, clothing, collectibles, and virtually everything you can imagine.

Held every Sunday, this “weekly treasure hunt” offers an array of eclectic goods as well as fresh produce, meaning there’s pretty much something for everyone here.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and unique activity to enjoy in Cloverdale, make sure you time your visit for a Sunday so you can enjoy this iconic weekly event.

Hop on the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway

If riding through Surrey on a vintage train sounds like your idea of fun, then be sure to add the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway to your list of things to do.

This historic attraction in Surrey offers two main experiences: the Sullivan Excursion, and the Discovery Centre Tour.

Departing from Cloverdale Station, the Sullivan Excursion allows visitors to experience commuter rail as it would have been a century ago.

This bookable experience involves a 55 minute roundtrip ride from Cloverdale to Sullivan Station (usually) on board the BCER 1225 , a train which worked in Vancouver, Burnaby and Steveston from 1913 – 1958.

On certain occasions though, special event trains will be used instead, so be sure to check their website for more details.

Besides train rides, visitors can also enjoy a one hour tour of the Discovery Centre, where you can see restoration efforts up close, learn more about the region’s rail history, and explore the Transit Museum set up at the (replica) Cloverdale Station.

Visit the famous Peace Arch

Visiting a border crossing isn’t usually a priority in most places, but the Peace Arch (found in South Surrey) is different.

This monument can be found at the Westernmost point of the US-Canada border, with a park that stretches across both countries, making it one of the few places in Canada where you can walk over to the US without clearing passport control (so long as you stay in the park, and leave via Canada, of course).

This bright white arch has stood for over 100 years as a symbol of peace between Canada and the US, and was even (fun fact) a hotspot for cross-border couples to get married during border closures throughout the pandemic.

Now open again, Peace Arch Park is well worth a visit if you’re looking for unique places to visit in Surrey… plus, it’s probably one of the coolest picnic spots that Metro Vancouver has to offer.

Look for famous filming locations

While Vancouver has a reputation for being “Hollywood North”, other cities of the Lower Mainland get their fair share of screen time as well, and Surrey is no exception.

The list of productions that have filmed in Surrey is extensive. As previously mentioned, Cloverdale has been used for shows like Peacemaker, Smallville, the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, and Supernatural.

Crescent Beach has also been featured in productions like Psych and Tron: Legacy.

And various parts of the Surrey Central area have been used in shows like The Flash, Supergirl and the 100.

So, if you’re looking for quirky and geeky Surrey activities, make sure to add “hunting for filming locations” to your list!

Visit the Historic Stewart Farm

The Historic Stewart Farm is a historic gem tucked away in Surrey’s Elgin Heritage Park, offering a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of dwellers who lived here in the early 1900s.

Consisting of eight heritage buildings, the farm is now considered one of the top heritage sites in Surrey, and a great place to immerse yourself in local history through a tour around the farm’s scenic grounds.

The crown jewel of the property is the Queen Anne Revival farmhouse, originally built in 1894. Today, it has been lovingly restored to its former glory, and can be explored via a guided tour from on-site staff, or on your own.

Walk around Green Timbers Urban Forest & Surrey Nature Centre

For another fun outdoorsy thing to do in Surrey, a visit to Green Timbers Urban Forest (and the nearby Surrey Nature Centre) is a great bet.

This park is one of the largest in Surrey, offering 10km of trails in a lush second-growth forest. It may be hard to believe, but back in 1929, this forest had been completely logged and bare. But, decades of replanting and regrowth later, it is now more beautiful than ever, with plenty of spaces and trails for visitors to enjoy.

Little wonder why it is often referred to as BC’s “Birthplace of Reforestation”.

Try out an escape room

Getting locked in a room and solving puzzles to escape may sound like a TERRIBLE thing to do in Surrey, but it’s actually a lot of fun… and a unique idea for a date night or outing with friends.

E-Exit in Surrey offers a variety of themed escape rooms where you get to solve puzzles and brave challenges in order to find your way out… perfect for a rainy day activity, or if you’ve exhausted all the other things to do in Surrey we’ve already mentioned.

Head out to spend a day at White Rock

With a central location in the Lower Mainland, Surrey makes a great base for various day trips across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

One of our favourites is White Rock, a gorgeous waterfront town with chill beach vibes, a variety of restaurants, and a lovely promenade with sweeping views over Semiamhoo Bay.

From walking the longest pier in Canada to enjoying sweet patio time, there’s tons of great things to do in White Rock. .. which is why we’d highly recommend the trip there from Surrey.

Hit the casino

Another rainy day activity to enjoy in Surrey is a visit to the casino!

While it’s not exactly Vegas, Elements Casino  in Surrey has hundreds of slot machines, a variety of fun table games, and a few different spots to grab a bite.

They also often host special events and live music, making it a fun entertainment venue if you’re looking for something a little different to do in Surrey.

Attend Surrey Fusion Festival

Lastly, we couldn’t write a list of cool things to do in Surrey without mentioning the annual Surrey Fusion Festival!

This epic festival bills itself as the “ultimate celebration of food, music and culture”, and takes place every July. You can think of it as an amalgamation of food, music, and culture from dozens of countries around the world, with varied pavilions and tents showcasing the diversity that Surrey is known for.

If you happen to be in Surrey during the summer, be sure to add this event to your list. After all, it’s the largest free multicultural festival that British Columbia has to offer.

Did we miss any of your favourite things to do in Surrey?

Let us know in the comments so we can add more recommendations to our list!

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Things to Do in Surrey (Canada)

15 Best Things to Do in Surrey (Canada)

Part of Metropolitan Vancouver, Surrey is a suburban city that sits along the coastline of British Columbia’s Boundary Bay. It is a fast growing city that is made up of hills and flatlands, in which 35 per cent of it is an Agricultural Land Reserve.

Surrey is a haven for nature lovers, having a plethora of parks and greenbelts. It is also great for city lovers, as it is home to galleries, museums, shopping centres and heritage sites. If you are visiting Vancouver, it is worthwhile to spend a couple of days exploring Surrey, or, make it a destination to see all on its own.

Lets explore the best things to do in Surrey :

1. Spend the day at the park

Surrey’s most popular park; Bear Creek Park is great for everyone. It is home to lovely hiking trails, sports fields, picnic areas, a running track and even a swimming pool.

In the summer, Bear Creek Park is a hot spot for families, what with its miniature train, outdoor pool and mini-golf course. If you are a nature lover, venture along one of its walking paths.

The gardens here are quite spectacular, being home to cottonwoods, western red cedars, conifers and azaleas. The park also has a pavilion that hosts regular events.

2. Visit Smallville

This popular American television series was filmed in the historic enclave of Cloverdale. The area is also home to numerous historic sites that date back to the 1880s.

The former farming community is now a highly visited neighbourhood. Not only is it known in the television and film industry, but also in the antiques world. In fact, Cloverdale is known as being the ‘Antiques Capital of BC’.

Wandering around the area is a must for any history buff or fan of a small town community. As well, every year in May, it hosts the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair.

3. Go to the beach

This is of course a summer thing to do, although it is possible to walk along the oceanfront walkway all year. You will find Crescent Beach in South Surrey, along the coast of Boundary Bay.

People have been visiting this beach for centuries. In its ancient history, it was home to a summer camp for the aboriginals. Today, it is a popular place for swimming, sailing and water-polo.

If you are a nudist, there is a designated nudist beach on the southern end of the beach at the bottom of Crescent Rock boulder. If bird watching is your thing, head to the northern end of the beach.

• 4.  Play a round of golf

There are numerous gold courses in Surrey, some of which have hosted PGA tournaments. The city is home to eight full courses and two executive courses, as well as a number of driving ranges.

The Arnold Palmer designed Northview Golf & Country Club is one of the most popular in the city, followed closely by the Morgan Creek Golf Course. Other well-known courses in the city include the Guildford Golf & Country Club and the Peace Portal Golf Course.

Adam Sandler fans may recognise Surrey and some of its golf courses from the movie ‘Happy Gilmour’, which was filmed here.

5. Go back in time

The picturesque Historic Stewart Farm tells the story of how a pioneer family lived from 1880 to 1944. The Victorian farmhouse is truly picturesque, as is its surrounding gardens and farmland.

Go back in time and learn what it was like to live on and run a farm long-ago. Staff are dressed in period costumes and will take you on a tour of this historic site.

The Historic Stewart Farm can be visited all year, with activities and events being offered during certain times of the year. It is great for the whole family, and is a good place to escape the thriving city centre for a couple of hours.

6. Stroll through a garden

The horticultural paradise that is Darts Hill Garden contains thousands of plants from around the world. The garden is set on three hectares of land, which was a gift to the city by the Darts family.

The award-winning orchard is absolutely beautiful and has been in the making for the past 70 years. It is only possible to visit the Darts Hill Garden on Saturdays in the months of April, May, June and September.

Stroll along the winding paths throughout the garden and enjoy its open meadows. Be sure to bring your camera, as you are unlikely to find anything else like this in Surrey.

7. Ride a ferry

Barnston Island ferry is a small ferry that runs across the Parsons Channel from Port Kells in Surrey to Barnston Island. The ferry is free, with the ride being only five minutes.

The ferry is a barge that can take 52 passengers and five vehicles across the channel. It runs on demand, meaning there is no set time. Just turn up and wait for it to leave the port.

The island itself is small, made up mostly of farmland. There is not a lot to do there, although some of the farms are open to the public and, together with the ferry ride, makes for a unique experience.

8. Tour a winery

If you are a wine connoisseur, don’t miss the chance to visit a winery and sample some of its finest wines.

The Vinoscenti Vineyards is the perfect place for some wine tasting and a tour through the vineyards and beautiful spots around the winery.

You cannot enjoy Surrey’s wine without also enjoying its food. And there are plenty of superb places to eat in the city.

The Old Surrey Restaurant is somewhat of an icon, as it has been run by a local family for the past two generations. The restaurant is set in an old farm house, with the atmosphere being as good as the classic French cuisine that is served.

There are also plenty of other places to enjoy a good meal in Surrey, having everything from Indian food to comfort foods like hamburgers and chips. Whether you want to splurge or are on a tight budget, there are some great restaurant options in the city.

10. Explore an old fort

Fort Langley is a former trading post that is located in Langley, just east of Surrey. The fort is a National Historic Site that dates back to 1827.

There are numerous historic buildings onsite, including the servant’s quarters, the Big House and the blacksmith shop. The oldest building at Fort Langley is the storehouse, which dates back to 1840.

Today, it is a museum that tells the story of Canada’s fur trade industry. It also has exhibits that show the history of the colonisation of the area.

11. Go on an art walk

Even if you are not an art lover, this is a fun and interesting thing to do. There is public art all over the city that is just waiting to be seen and photographed.

Maps are available online to show you exactly where all of the public art can be seen. These impressive pieces are done by both local and international artists, and can be seen in parks, along walkways, on streets and on pillars throughout the SkyTrain.

There are around 60 pieces of art spread across the city, though this number keeps growing. You can see them at your leisure, either all in one day or over your entire Surrey holiday.

12. Visit a local farm

With around 35 per cent of Surrey being an Agricultural Land Reserve, it should be of no surprise that you can visit some of the local farms. Fresh fruit farms, honey farms, pumpkin patches and more can be discovered while in Surrey.

If you are an adventurer, there is a fun corn maze that is great for testing your navigational skills. If you would rather see and taste organic food, visit the Zaklan Heritage Farm.

The Honeybee Centre is a working honey farm complete with an onsite store. You can watch the bees busy at work here. OR, head to Rondriso Farms, a cattle farm and pumpkin patch.

13. Enjoy a festival

Surrey does not have as many annual festivals as neighbouring Vancouver, but what it does have is quite excellent. All of these are family friendly and, in one way or another, celebrate the culture of the diverse city.

Arguably the most popular festival in Surrey is the Cloverdale Rodeo and County Fair, which features barrel racing, a petting zoo, bull riding and fair rides. The Surrey International Children’s Festival is a fun one if you are visiting Surrey with the kids.

For something different, head to the Vaisakhi Day Parade, which celebrates the Sikh New Year. It is one of the largest in the world, with up to 200,000 people attending the parade each year.

14. Watch the sunset

The sunset can be seen everywhere, but there are some beautiful spots in Surrey to snap photos of the sun setting over the city. This is especially true in the summer.

One of the best spots to watch the sunset is Crescent Beach. In fact, the beach is famous for them. Mud Bay Park, which overlooks the beach, is another great spot.

If you are in the northeast part of the city, watch the sunrise at Surrey Bend Regional Park, where you can also see the sun setting over the Fraser River. If you want to watch the sun setting along the river, head to Brownsville Bar Park.

15. Get lost in nature

This is easy to do, as there are over 600 parks, green spaces and trails in Surrey. Put on your trainers, bring some water and a camera, and get lost exploring Surrey’s great outdoors.

Climb steps, walk along trails or explore some forests. No matter which you choose, you will be amongst Surrey’s natural beauty.

The 52 hectare Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest is perfect if you love trees, birds and flowers. Mud Bay Park is another great spot for birdwatchers, while the 1,001 steps in South Surrey are fantastic if you want a good outdoor workout.

15 Best Things to Do in Surrey (Canada):

• Spend the day at the park
• Visit Smallville
• Go to the beach
• Go back in time
• Stroll through a garden
• Ride a ferry
• Tour a winery
• Explore an old fort
• Go on an art walk
• Visit a local farm
• Enjoy a festival
• Watch the sunset
• Get lost in nature

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The River Wey at Daphne Wharf

Image credit: National Trust

Spring Bluebells at Hatchlands

Romantic Painshill

Polesden Lacey

Brooklands Museum

There's so much to see and do take a look, get active.

Take to the trees and experience Go Ape’s exciting course of rope bridges, Tarzan swings, zip wires and crossings; all set high above the forest floor.

Experiences

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Attractions in Surrey

There are hundreds of great attractions to visit in Surrey, all guaranteed to offer a fantastic day out for everyone to enjoy.

Surrey has been the play ground of Kings for centuries and so we have our fair share of castles like  Guildford  and  Farnham  to explore, as well as the famous  Hampton Court Palace .  Other internationally famous monuments include  the ancient site of the sealing of the Magna Carta - the document that ended the absolute rules of kings and forms the basis of the American constitution. 

No visit to Surrey is complete without a visit to one of our many famous gardens. Starting with internationally renowned  RHS Garden at Wisley  to the many National Trust properties that show off the work of 18th century landscape designer “Capability” Brown, or the Victorian  designer Gertrude Jeykll.  

One of the biggest attractions in Surrey is the  Surrey Hills National Landscapes . It is a specially protected area of countryside, similar to a National Park that runs right across the county from Farnham in the west to the border with Kent in the east. 

With family fun attractions , art and culture to enjoy and tours and trails to experience,  there is truly something for everyone.

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Top Things to Do in Surrey

Things to do in surrey, explore popular experiences, tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Surrey

Other Top Attractions around Surrey

What travelers are saying

• Crescent Beach
• Redwood Park
• Blackie Spit Park
• Peace Arch Provincial Park
• Tynehead Park
• Green Timbers Urban Forest
• White Rock Sea Tours

Top Things to Do in Surrey, Canada - Surrey Must-See Attractions

Things to do in surrey, explore popular experiences, tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Surrey

Other Top Attractions around Surrey

What travellers are saying

• Crescent Beach
• Redwood Park
• Blackie Spit Park
• Peace Arch Provincial Park
• Tynehead Park
• Green Timbers Urban Forest
• White Rock Sea Tours

Top 20 Places to See in Surrey, Canada

•  Bear Creek Park
•  Blackie Spit Park
•  Bose Corn Maze
•  Cloverdale Rodeo & Exhibition
•  Crescent Beach
•  Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino
•  Green Timbers Urban Forest
•  Historic Stewart Farm
•  Holland Park
•  Redwood Park
•  Surrey Art Gallery
•  Surrey Arts Centre
•  Surrey Central City Shopping Centre
•  Surrey City Hall
•  Surrey Golf Course
•  Surrey Little Theatre
•  Surrey Museum
•  Surrey Nature Centre
•  Surrey Sports & Leisure Complex

•  Aulavik National Park
•  Auyuittuq National Park
•  Banff National Park
•  Bruce Peninsula National Park
•  Fundy National Park
•  Georgian Bay Islands National Park
•  Grasslands National Park
•  Gros Morne National Park
•  Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
•  Ivvavik National Park
•  Jasper National Park
•  Kluane National Park and Reserve
•  Kootenay National Park
•  Kouchibouguac National Park
•  La Mauricie National Park
•  Nahanni National Park Reserve
•  Nááts'ihch'oh National Park Reserve
•  Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
•  Point Pelee National Park
•  Prince Albert National Park
•  Qausuittuq National Park
•  Quttinirpaaq National Park
•  Riding Mountain National Park
•  Sable Island National Park Reserve
•  Sirmilik National Park
•  Terra Nova National Park
•  Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve
•  Thousand Islands National Park
•  Ukkusiksalik National Park
•  Vuntut National Park
•  Waterton Lakes National Park
•  Wood Buffalo National Park
•  Yoho National Park
•  Burnaby
•  Calgary
•  Edmonton
•  Halifax
•  Hamilton
•  Kitchener
•  Laval
•  London
•  Markham
•  Mississauga
•  Montreal
•  Ottawa
•  Quebec City
•  Richmond
•  Surrey
•  Toronto
•  Vancouver
•  Vaughan
•  Windsor
•  Winnipeg

Top Things to Do in Surrey, Canada

Places to visit in surrey, explore popular experiences, tours in and around surrey.

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Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Surrey

Other Top Attractions around Surrey

What travellers are saying

• Crescent Beach
• Redwood Park
• Blackie Spit Park
• Peace Arch Provincial Park
• Tynehead Park
• Green Timbers Urban Forest
• White Rock Sea Tours

11 Best Things to Do in Surrey BC You’ll Love

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

If you’re planning a visit to Surrey, British Columbia, you’re in for a treat. As one of Canada’s fastest-growing and most multicultural cities, Surrey boasts an array of unique and entertaining activities to suit every taste. 

Surrey is one of the 21 municipalities in metro Vancouver. It is located on the lower mainland on the south side of Fraser River in North America. To be honest, I had not heard of Surrey until I was invited to visit. However, it will soon be the largest city in British Columbia by population and a lot is going on in this up-and-coming region.

I visited Surrey in September and explored a good number of the best things to do in Surrey BC, in around 36 hours. Here are my highlights from the tasty spice trail, the public art walk, the beautiful urban forest of Green Timbers Park, and much more. 

• 11 Best Things to Do in Surrey BC

Table of Contents

1. Taste the Spice Trail

2. have a heritage rail adventure, 3. visit cloverdale, 4. explore crescent beach, 5. check out the view from blackie spit, 6. go for a walk through green timbers urban forest park, 7. visit historic stewart farm, 8. take the north surrey public art walk, 9. learn all about the honeybee, 10. see the pretty holland park, 11. visit tynehead regional park, where to stay in surrey bc.

If you’re looking for a culinary adventure in Surrey, British Columbia, look no further than the  Surrey Spice Trail . This was the best thing I did when visiting the city of Surrey, BC and I highly recommend it.

There are more than 100 languages spoken in multicultural Surrey. The Spice Trail started during COVID and includes mostly small owner-operated restaurants. Cuisines range from Afghan to Mexican to Nepalese and many more in between.

I started my day on the Surrey Spice Trail at  Guacamole Mexican Grill.  Run by a husband and wife team originally from El Salvador (the husband is also a talented singer and musician – if you ask nicely he may perform) Guacamole is best known for its stuffed pupusas (a flat bread from El Salvador) and their tacos. Unsurprisingly, the guacamole was also excellent.

Our second stop was  Momo n Wings . Only in Canada could you find a Nepalese/Sports Bar fusion restaurant! The interior is definitely more on the sports bar side with high ceilings and wooden booths. It’s a big menu with soups, momos, chicken wings, Nepalese-style Chilli, Tandoori and a lot more. There are also a number of choices for vegetarians and halal eaters. 

We enjoyed some fantastic noodles, vegetarian curry and grilled fish but for me, the highlight of the meal was definitely the momos. 

My third and final stop on the Surrey Spice Trail was  Afghan Kitchen.  The restaurant was started by an Afghan refugee who resettled in Canada. All of the dishes on the menu are from his mum. The restaurant offers the chance to dine in a traditional Afghan manor with comfortable pillows placed on Afghan rugs (plenty of standard seating options are also available).

The food at Afghan Kitchen was fantastic. We started with dips and the most delicious fluffy bread. Our mains were a mix of succulent chargrilled lamb, grilled beef, a dahl-style curry and fragrant rice with dates. 

There are more than 70 restaurants and growing on the Surrey Spice Trail. I love that the trail emphasizes small restaurants and based on the three I visited, you are unlikely to have a bad meal following the Surrey Spice Trail. 

You might enjoy reading my articles on the most beautiful cities in Canada , famous lakes in Canada, landmarks of Canada , dangerous cities in Canada and facts about Canada.

As a complete contrast to the Spice Trail, how about returning to 1910? Start your tour in the recreated original station. Then head on board a fully restored BC Electric interurban tram. Next up is watching a movie in an old interurban car. Try out the velocipede or the Quad – Car for a quick work out. 

The Fraser Valley Heritage Rail Society operates the railway and is open from May to October. They offer a 1-hour Heritage Rail Adventure, which starts from Sullivan Station. The Fraser Valley Heritage Railway Society is a 100% volunteer-run organization.

You may find that Cloverdale looks a little familiar. That is because this cute town with its historic main street has been a Hollywood favorite. Cloverdale was the location for the TV show Smallville about Superman’s early years as well as the Superman and Lois series plus quite a few other tv shows and films that don’t feature Superman.

In addition to its historic main street, Cloverdale is home to Surrey Museum, the Honeybee Centre, sports fields, the Cloverdale Rode is held in May each year and the BC Vintage Truck Museum.

Pretty Crescent Beach is located in South Surrey and was first promoted as a resort area in 1912. Its waters are generally calm so it’s a great place to try out paddleboarding or kayaking. Two areas are roped off for swimmers.

Crescent Beach is also the perfect place for bird watching and whale watching between April and October. If you’re feeling active hire a bike and ride along the seashore or take a stroll along the scenic trails and enjoy the beautiful views. The beach offers loads of outdoor activities. Crescent Beach also is also a good place to watch the sunset in British Columbia with outstanding views of the Vancouver skyline. 

If you’re visiting on a Saturday check out the  Crescent Beach Farmer’s Market  for produce from local farms and artisan goods. If you’re after lunch or dinner with a view the Hooked Fish Bar is a great option or Cotto Al Mare for Italian. 

Blackie Spit is the park at the end of Crescent Beach. It features picnic areas, nature trails, and two fully fenced dog-off leash spaces. Take a stroll along one of the beautiful nature trails (the total trail is 5 kilometers) and watch for the various species of birds that call Blackie Spit home. Blackie Spit Park is one of the top bird watching areas of Canada and hundreds of different bird species are recorded each year. 

There are some fantastic views of Mud Bay Park and the North Shore Mountains from Black Spit. And make sure to check out the work of artist Tina Farmilo. Memory Stones is a series of poetic phrases, symbols, and references you can find on stones throughout the park. 

The park operates from dawn until dusk, with washrooms and the parking lot gate closing at 6 pm. 

More than 50% of Surrey’s landmass is made up of green spaces. The beautiful Green Timbers Urban Forest Park is located in the heart of Surrey but it feels like it is a million miles away from any type of urban dwelling. It is one of the biggest parks in Surrey with over 10 kilometers of nature trails. 

The heart of Green Timbers is the regularly stocked fishing lake. It’s designed for new and experienced fishermen. However, you don’t have to be into fishing to enjoy this beautiful lake. 

Green Timbers has several picnic areas and is also home to the  Surrey Nature Centre.  The center offers a range of programs and workshops throughout the year.  

If you want a fun and educational experience in Surrey, British Columbia, consider visiting the  Historic Stewart Farm . This picturesque site offers a glimpse into the life of a Surrey family circa 1900.

The beautifully restored farmhouse features a variety of artifacts and exhibits covering life during the early 20th century. Once you have explored the farmhouse, head out to the beautiful park with its beautiful lawns and heritage gardens.

Historic Stewart Farm is open for free drop-in visits from Wednesday through Sunday.

If you’re a fan of art and exploring the outdoors, you should definitely check out the  North Surrey Public Art Walk . This self-guided tour in Surrey, British Columbia, allows you to admire numerous public art installations spread throughout the area at your own pace and is one of the most fun things to do in Surrey.

This walk is also a great way to explore North Surrey. I was able to start at my hotel, The Civic, as one of the installations (Launch) hung from the ceiling inside the hotel. Then I visited City Hall and the Surrey City Center Library for the next two stops. All three of these buildings are located on the same square. 

Holland Park is home to several stops on the Art Walk. Then, tick off the last two spots when you leave Surrey as they are located under and in the Surrey Central Skytrain Station.

The entire walk takes approximately 60 minutes, depending on how much time you spend appreciating each piece. 

The Honeybee Centre offers honey products, tours, gifts, education, and experiences. Walking into the Honeybee Centre, you’ll be greeted by a well-stocked honeybee store with fresh honey and local gifts. You can learn all about honeybees and their importance in the ecosystem at the center. 

The Honeybee Centre is open daily from 10am to 6pm. They run a range of workshops and programs throughout the year so  check out their website  to see what is on when you are visiting. 

Lovely Holland Park is located in the heart of North Surrey. This is a genuine urban oasis with beautiful flower gardens, expansive green lawns and attractive water features. Concerts, festivals and events are all held at this popular park.

When I visited, I most enjoyed seeing the stops on the Surrey Art Walk located in Holland Park. These include Were it Not For You as part of one of the park’s water features, the Floraforms and Seeds of Change and the Protecting the Future, Serving the Present statue.

Tynehead Regional Park in Surrey, Canada covers 260 hectares. It has extensive walking trails, lots of lush forest and is renowned for its salmon hatchery. Visitors can learn all about the salmon’s life cycle, a vital part of British Columbia’s ecosystem. This is also a great spot for bird watching, wildlife photography and for any nature lover..  

When I visited Surrey, I stayed at the  Civic Hotel,  part of the Autograph Collection. The Civic is one of the tallest skyscrapers in town so there are some great views to be had from the rooms. The design aesthetic features warm tones and each floor of the hotel represents a different region of British Columbia.

I loved my room at the Civic. It was modern and open but still felt quite cosy. Most importantly the bed was huge and very comfortable. The room also had a small but decent-sized desk and a small built in chaise lounge. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a fantastic view of Surrey.

I had a terrific buffet breakfast at the hotel’s Dominion Bar and Kitchen. The Prado Cafe is located in reception and serves great coffee and snacks. 

The hotel also has a 25-metre outdoor pool, a hot tub and a 24-hour fitness center. Plus it has a fantastic location next to the Surrey City Center Skytrain station. 

Check Prices and Availability for The Civic Hotel

Surrey is a fantastic day trip from downtown Vancouver or why not stay the night? The Spice Trail is more than enough reason to visit this emerging area. When you add in the number of nature experiences that can be had so close to an urban center, you’ve got the perfect trip. 

My visit to Surrey BC was funded by the Surrey Tourism Board (thanks guys) but as always my opinions are my own. This article does contain a couple of affiliate links. That means if you click through on some of the links and end up making a purchase I may receive a small commission. This helps me to keep this website running.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Surrey

Things to do in surrey.

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• South Surrey
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

61. Cineplex Odeon Strawberry Hill Cinemas

62. Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club

63. Discover Surrey Visitor Services

64. Dogwood Park

65. Aru Spa and Salon

66. Mainland Whisky

67. Eagle Quest Golf Club

68. Backcountry Rentals - Day Rentals

69. Cavallo Winery

70. Brownsville Bar Park

71. The Henry Public House

72. Surrey Golf Club

73. cloverdale flea market.

74. Stetson Bowl Stadium

75. TURF Lounge

76. innovative audio.

77. Newton Recreation Centre

78. Bollywood Banquet Halls & Convention Centre

79. Continental Limousine Service

81. Planet Laser

82. south surrey indoor pool, 83. rondriso farms.

84. Beach House Theatre

85. the barons manor pub.

86. SpinHouse Cycling Studio

87. Crescent Beach Paddle Shack

88. Hollywood 3 Cinemas

89. Ambush Paintball

90. Clover Lanes

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We’re so glad you’ve decided to visit Surrey. You’ve got the right idea! Surrey, BC is an increasingly popular destination for tourists, either as a jumping-off point for exploring the Greater Vancouver area or as a burgeoning modern city in its own right. Surrey is a fantastic travel hub, minutes from downtown Vancouver and close to nature trails, whale-watching boat tours and one-of-a-kind heritage sites that will transport you back in time to the pioneer days.

This section should give you all the information you need to make planning your trip to Surrey a breeze. Once you’ve nailed down the nitty-gritty travel details, start your discovery by visiting our map and neighbourhoods section on the home page

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Expanded adult day program supports surrey seniors.

Honourable Adrian Dix

Minister of Health and Minister responsible for Francophone Affairs

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Updated on April 12, 2024

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Older adults and their caregivers will benefit from expanded adult day programming designed for South Asian seniors with 162 additional spaces per week as part of the Province’s continued investments in seniors’ care.

“Adult day programs help seniors age at home, while living independently within their communities,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “Our population is rapidly growing and aging in Surrey, and we know there’s a need for more seniors’ services. That’s why it is critically important for us to support the expansion of the Progressive Intercultural Society’s adult day program to ensure more seniors can access this service and enjoy an enriched quality of life by staying socially and physically engaged.”

The Progressive Intercultural Society’s (PICS) adult day program is funded by the Ministry of Health and contracted by Fraser Health. The provincial government will provide approximately $716,000 to increase the program’s capacity from 138 spaces per week to 300 spaces per week.

The added spaces at PICS will help meet strong demand in Surrey for adult day programs tailored for South Asian seniors, improve access to caregiver respite and reduce wait times. Adult day programs improve seniors’ health and well-being while preventing or delaying admission to long-term care or assisted-living residences.  

“Surrey is one of our province’s most diverse and fast-growing communities, and I’m thrilled that more seniors will have access to the adult day program at PICS,” said Harwinder Sandhu, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-term Care. “Seniors’ care is a top priority for our government. By focusing on seniors’ diversity, we are promoting a sense of belonging and ensuring that seniors receive the dignified and high-quality care they deserve.” 

The Province is preparing for an aging population to ensure older adults can age actively and safely in their home communities. The Province has invested over $3.5 billion since 2018-19 to expand and improve quality care for seniors in B.C., including investments in primary care, home health, long-term care and assisted living.

Budget 2024 commits $354 million over three years to strengthen home- and community-care services for seniors, which will support seniors to age safely and comfortably in their homes, helping maximize their quality of life, dignity and independence.

Rachna Singh, MLA for Surrey-Green Timbers –  

“In the last few years, many more people have chosen to make their homes in British Columbia, including in the wonderful community of Surrey, and the number of seniors in the community has grown as well. By expanding the adult day program spaces for South Asian seniors, we’re able to help them live their healthiest lives in the community they know. These additional spaces at PICS will make a real difference to our elders and their caregivers.”

Harry Bains, MLA for Surrey-Newton –

“The expansion of PICS’ adult day program is great news for Surrey seniors and their families. It actions our government’s commitment to making sure seniors have the supports they need to age with dignity in the community they know.”

Dr. Victoria Lee, president and CEO, Fraser Health –

“Being socially and physically active is an important part of healthy aging. In partnership with Progressive Intercultural Society and the Province of B.C., we are creating more opportunities for seniors to engage with their peers in culturally meaningful ways, leading to better health and healthier communities.” 

Satbir Singh Cheema, president and CEO, PICS –

“The expansion of the PICS adult day program is an opportunity for our seniors to remain active by sharing fun activities and form meaningful friendships. The program offers respite for families and caregivers in a social, caring and safe environment.”

Learn More:

To learn more about the B.C. seniors’ guide, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/people/seniors/about-seniorsbc/guide/bc-seniors-guide-12th-edition.pdf

For more information about PICS’ adult day programs for seniors, visit: https://pics.bc.ca/free-programs-services/adult-day/

To learn more about adult day programs in Fraser Health, visit: https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Services/Seniors---Community-Services/day-programs-for-older-adults

• ExpandedProgramforSurreySeniors_Punjabi.pdf

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