Experience life in spectacular surroundings when you visit the flourishing city of Surrey. Hot on the heels of Vancouver (indeed, it is predicted that Surrey will one day overtake ‘Gastown’ as the most populous city in the province of British Columbia), this waterfront destination has many distinctive neighbourhoods to explore.
It is, however, Surrey’s enduring love and fascination with the great outdoors which shines through the brightest. From fruit-picking in the plentiful berry patches to strolling along the waterfront and discovering the city parks, enjoy all the best things to do in Surrey with this inspirational city guide.
Peace Arch Park
Marking the border with the USA, Peace Arch Park is a beautifully-manicured sweep of lawns, foliage and flowerbeds. In the summer months, it’s a popular spot for picnics and lazy afternoons while the harbour waters lap gently in the background.
The focal point of the park is the eponymous Peace Arch, a gleaming white monument built in 1921 to honour peace between the neighbouring nations. Just a few steps away, a floral Canadian flag, complete with the vibrant red maple leaf, adds a proudly patriotic touch to the landscape.
Redwood Park
Walk among the tallest trees in the world at Redwood Park. Woodland trails weave through the towering trunks, leading to playgrounds, picnic tables and benches where you can enjoy a moment of peace and tranquillity. Open all year round, it is particularly beautiful in the Fall – when the treetops glow warm shades of red and amber.
At the heart of the forest is the Redwood Treehouse, a replica of the original cabin built by the brothers who planted the first seeds of the park at the turn of the 20th century. A more recent addition to the park is the grove of fairy doors – intricately decorated abodes, nestled in the nooks of trees and branches, which create an air of magic, whatever your age.
Cloverdale Rodeo
One of the biggest events in Western Canada take place right here in Surrey. The Cloverdale Rodeo has been delighting families over the May Long Weekend for more than 70 years.
Join the fun and watch Canada’s finest cowboys and cowgirls jump in the saddle, going head-to-head in barrel racing, bare-back riding and more. Take a break from the bronco action to explore the rest of the country fair ground, from live music performances to adrenaline-pumping rides.
Crescent Beach
In Surrey, the sandy shores of Crescent Beach to the south of the city are the natural choice when the sun is shining. Find a space, throw down a towel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon reading a book or helping the kids build a sandcastle fortress.
A cluster of local eateries will make sure you’re fed and watered, as well. Just a few steps from the shore, you can find feel-good portions of fish and chips, and ice cream cones piled high with creamy scoops of all your favourite flavours.
1001 Steps
A short drive away from Crescent Beach – five minutes or so – you’ll come to the 1001 Steps. Rest assured however, there aren’t really that many! The wooden staircase weaves down the hillside, descending through the flourishing green bushes and trees, to the brilliant blue waters of the bay.
Further along the path, which follows the route of an old railway line, a stone archway invites you through to a quiet, rocky beach. Paddle in the shallow waters, relax on the shore and look out for the local seals frolicking in the waves.
White Rock
Head back to the car and drive 10 minutes down the coast to White Rock, a pint-sized city surrounded by Surrey on three sides and the coast on the fourth. Its rustic, wooden pier stretches out into the waters of Semiahmoo Bay, while the landmark white rock – a glacial granite bolder weighing in at almost 500 tonnes – is a natural spot for a vacation photo.
Historic Stewart Farm
Standing on the banks of the Nicomekl River, the Historic Stewart Farm whisks you back to the year 1900 – long before the city of Surrey was officially recognised. The gabled roof and pastel-coloured panels have now become a heritage attraction and local treasure, and you can easily see why.
Guides dressed in historical clothes add to the excitement as you explore each room of the house, while the smell of freshly-baked scones tempts you down to the verandah. Check out the action-packed schedule of events to see what’s going on when you’re in the area.
Less than ten minutes’ drive away is Surrey Farms, open in summer and one of the city’s most bountiful pick-your-own fruit experiences. Work your way through the fields, filling your basket to the brim with juicy berries as the sun warms your back. You can enjoy the fruits of your labour fresh from the branch, or save them to make delicious jams, compotes and desserts.
Urban art
Discover the city’s creative streak and explore its tremendous urban art scene. There are more than 60 sculptures, carvings and murals dotted across the length and breadth of Surrey – you just need to know where to look.
Head to Tynehead Park and walk across the illuminated bridge that comes aglow with seasonal colours and patterns under the cover of darkness, or seek out Poetry Rock to read the works of noted Korean-Canadian writer and Surrey local Rev. Dr. Byung Sub Van. Plan your trail with the Surrey public art map.
Striking the perfect balance between urban excitement and outdoor wonder, this British Columbian city promises a fun-filled trip. With car rental in Surrey you can explore the sprawling landscape from coast-to-coast, experiencing all the highlights as you go – and enjoying all the best things to do in Surrey.
