These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (2024)

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It’s hard to know where to begin when asked about the best things to do in British Columbia. But I can assure you – there are plenty. As a local, I have spent my life enjoying British Columbia’s greatest attractions.

This huge Canadian province is full of vibrant BC cities, charming towns, and breathtaking natural surroundings. It’s heaven for those who love the great outdoors, but British Columbia is also full of history, art, and culture.

I’ll overview all the best things to do in British Columbia in this article. This list covers both the popular things as well as local hidden gems you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s go!

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37 Best Things to Do in British Columbia

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

One of Vancouver’s top attractions will have you swinging 230 feet above a canyon.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (1)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Phone: (604) 985-7474 | Website | Hours: Open daily, hours vary by season | Entrance: $69.95, adults, $29.95, 12 & under, discounted rates available

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is set in the lush forest of the North Shore mountains.

The park’s star is its suspension bridge, which stretches 450 feet across Capilano Canyon. Peek over and watch the rushing water below. Or just hang on for dear life. Test your fear of heights further on the Cliffwalk and Treetop Adventures.

The park is also a fantastic place to learn about the history and ecosystem of this special area. And be sure to stop by The Trading Post for delicious homemade fudge.

The Empress Hotel

Channel your inner Duke or duch*ess at a tea fit for royalty.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (2)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (250) 384-8111 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 4 pm daily | Tea starting at $95.00, tea for children & takeaway available

Victoria’s Empress Hotel dates back to 1908 and has been a favourite with the British Royal Family. With the Inner Harbour Government Street a stone’s throw away, The Empress Hotel is a top stay in Victoria.

But you don’t have to be an overnight guest to have a memorable experience at The Empress. Visiting the hotel for Afternoon Tea is one of the best activities in Victoria and has been a treat here for over a century.

You can expect tiers of Afternoon Tea favorites like cucumber sandwiches, pecan tarts, and scones with clotted cream. Luxury teas are served in fine china. You won’t leave hungry!

Joffre Lakes

Mountain vistas and turquoise water make Joffre Lakes an Insta-favourite.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (3)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Phone: 1-800-689-9025 | Website | Entrance: Free

Joffre Lakes Park has become an Instagram sensation, and it’s easy to see why. Glacial silt, known as Rockflour, is suspended in the water of its three lakes. When they’re hit by the sun, they turn bright turquoise.

This picture-perfect landscape is located about 2 hours and 45 minutes from Vancouver. It offers hiking trails, camping, mountaineering, and fishing opportunities.

A trail from the parking lot will access the lakes. And while the Middle and Upper lakes are more challenging to reach, the Lower Lake is 500 metres from your car.

👉 Local Tip: Due to high demand, reservations are required for visits and camping. Always check the official website in advance.

Tofino

Famous for its wild winter storms, nowhere beats Tofino for riding the waves.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (4)

đź“Ť Google Maps

Tofino sits on the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island. It’s one of the best things to do on Vancouver Island because of what the town is known for: its surf culture.

Surfing is great year-round in Tofino but is most memorable during autumn when the Pacific Ocean’s waves are at their highest.

You don’t have to be an expert surfer to enjoy the sport in Tofino. There are plenty of places to rent equipment. And surf schools are dotted around town if you’d like to take lessons.

🛎️ Need a Hotel? Tofino deserves an overnight, at the very least. Don’t miss a breathtaking waterfront stay at the Pacific Sands Beach Resort.

Butchart Gardens

Whether you’re a green thumb or not, these gardens are sure to impress.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (5)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Phone: (250) 652-4422 | Website | Hours: Daily hours change seasonally | Entrance: Rates start at $22.90, adults, $3.00, 12 & under

What was once a limestone quarry is now the home of Victoria’s Butchart Gardens. Hundreds of species of plants and flowers bloom here all year round. There is no better time to visit this world-renowned garden because each season offers something amazing.

The summer sunshine transforms the gardens into their most colorful and picturesque. But my favorite time to visit is at Christmas. Over 300,000 lights transform the gardens into a winter wonderland.

Don’t miss the Rose Carousel and a visit to the wonderful gift shop. There are also plenty of food, drink, and ice cream options on site.

Okanagan Valley Wineries

Enjoy the tastiest region in BC with vineyards that go on for miles.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (6)

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a Sightseeing Kelowna Wine Tour on Viator

The Okanagan Valley is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, local produce, and delicious wine.

It is the second-largest wine region in Canada. 186 licensed wineries are spread over a whopping 9,000 acres. And here, you can find your favorite Merlot, Chardonnay, and Pinot, among many others.

Oliver, Osoyoos, and Kelowna are just some of the places to tour the Okanagan’s award-winning wineries. But I recommend having someone else do the driving by chauffeuring you around on a sightseeing Kelowna wine tour. Are you thirsty yet?

Whale Watching Tour

Experience whales and coastal marine life in their natural habitats.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (7)

👉 Book a Half-Day Whale Watching tour on Viator

British Columbia has over 25,000 kilometres of coastline. And thanks to all that coastline, whale watching is one of the most captivating activities in the province.

Whale-watching adventures depart from several points around British Columbia. Some popular spots to pick up a guided tour are Vancouver, Victoria, Tofino, and Prince Rupert.

On a whale-watching tour, you will learn all about the wildlife that inhabits BC’s waters. And you are sure to catch a glimpse of whales, sea lions, porpoises, and eagles.

Whistler Village

Shop, eat, and relax after a day of adventure.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (8)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Website

A trip to Whistler always refreshes my soul (and drains my bank account). Whistler is most famous for outdoor activities in its surrounding mountains. But my favorite place is its lively village.

Whistler Village is full of things to do all year round. It’s home to unique shops, fascinating museums, and indulgent spas. And for such a small place, the food scene is amazing. Try out Il Caminetto and Bearfoot Bistro for a special night out or Garibaldi Lift Co. for a fun casual option.

Whistler Village also has an amazing pub and nightclub scene if you’re not too tired from skiing or mountain biking all day. You can easily fill a night hopping from place to place.

British Columbia Sites & Attractions

Stanley Park

Some of Vancouver’s top attractions and best views can be found in this famous park.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (9)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hrs daily | Entrance: Free

Stanley Park is the jewel of Vancouver. And it’s a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

One of the most popular activities is to walk or cycle along the Stanley Park seawall. With the water on one side and the park on the other, it is a beautiful spot to get your exercise.

You could spend an entire day at Stanley Park, which is a top Vancouver attraction. Be sure to visit the animals at the Vancouver Aquarium, take in live theatre at Malkin Bowl, and watch the sunset from one of the many beaches.

Sea to Sky Gondola

Outdoor adventure awaits at the top of the mountain.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (10)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (604) 892-2550 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: Rates starting at $65.95, adults, $25.95, 12 & under, discounts available for seniors, youth & families

The Sea to Sky Gondola is an exhilarating ride, 885 meters above Squamish. And the 10-minute journey is filled with breathtaking views of Howe Sound.

There is lots to do once you reach the top. The area is full of hiking trails and picturesque lookouts. Take a walk across the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge for its jaw-dropping mountain views.

There are great places to eat and pick up souvenirs. The mountain also hosts year-round guided tours and special events.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Nature lovers will be spoiled in this spectacular national park.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (11)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Phone: (250) 726-3500 | Website

Vancouver Island’s Pacific Rim National Park is one of the most beautiful places in British Columbia.

The area is divided into three regions: Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail. Rugged coastlines, sheltered bays, and temperate rainforests offer hiking, boating, and surfing. Amazing views are everywhere.

The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is also the home of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nations. The area is bursting with Indigenous history, mythology, and archaeology. It’s the perfect place to connect with British Columbia’s first inhabitants.

👉 Local Tip: The West Coast Trail is not a walk in the park but a challenging backcountry hike. Make sure to review the Parks Canada website to ensure that you’re fully prepared.

Haida Gwaii

Discover British Columbia’s Haida culture in one of the most magical spots in the province.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (12)

đź“Ť Google Maps

Haida Gwaii is an archipelago in northern British Columbia, separated from the mainland. There are two main islands, Graham Island and Moresby Island, plus almost 400 others.

Haida Gwaii has been inhabited by the Haida First Nations for thousands of years. It is one of the most unique places in British Columbia to experience diverse plant and animal life along with dramatic landscapes. It’s also filled with totem poles, First Nations longhouses, and hundreds of archaeological sites.

The Haida pride themselves on respect, reciprocity, and appreciation for this land. Before visiting, take the Haida Gwaii pledge. This will teach you how to be a thoughtful visitor to this special community.

đźš— How to Get There: Haida Gwaii is far away, but the journey is worth it. Vancouver International Airport offers flights to Sandspit and Masset. There is also a BC Ferries route from Prince Rupert to Skidegate. Consider renting a car upon arrival as public transportation is limited.

Museums & Culture

Museum of Anthropology

This UBC Museum is easily one of British Columbia’s best.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (13)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Phone: (604) 827-5932 | Website | Closed for seismic upgrading until June 2024

The Museum of Anthropology is located on the Vancouver campus of the University of British Columbia. It houses over 500,000 ethnographic and archaeological objects from all over the world.

The museum focuses on the art and culture of British Columbia’s First Nations people. But it also has a collection showcasing the cultures of Asia, Europe, Africa, and The Americas.

The whole museum is fascinating. But I especially love the totems, carvings, and canoes in the Great Hall. And the waterfront views are unbelievable!

Royal British Columbia Museum

Explore British Columbia’s natural and human history at one of Vancouver Island’s top attractions.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (14)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (250) 356-7226 | Website | Hours: Mon – Thur 10 am – 5 pm daily, Fri – Sun 10 am – 6 pm | Entrance: $29.95, adults, $16.95, 18 & under, discounts available for seniors & students

The Royal BC Museum is a Victoria highlight dating back to the 1800s. The combined museum and archives showcase British Columbia’s fascinating natural history.

British Columbia’s story is told through artifacts, documents, and specimens. And there is a permanent collection of every “ology” you can imagine.

The iconic Woolly mammoth welcomes visitors to the Royal BC Museum. He’s big, but don’t worry, he’s just a replica.

Audain Art Museum

Take a break from the outdoors and explore Canadian art at this gorgeous museum.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (15)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (604) 962-0413 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 6 pm daily, Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays | Entrance: $20, adults, Free, 18 & under

The Audain Art Museum is located in Whistler, one of the best day trips from Vancouver.

The Audain collection spans over 200 years. It features some of Canada’s most acclaimed artists. You’ll see historical works by E.J. Hughes, Emily, Carr, and Jack Shadbolt. And you’ll find contemporary artists such as Jeff Wall, Dana Claxton, and James Hart.

First Nations art is also a focus of this museum. I am always enamored with the fine collection of masks and carvings.

Fort St. James National Historic Site

This collection of wooden buildings tells the story of Canada’s fur trade.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (16)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (250) 996-7191 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily (May – September) | Entrance: $8.50, adults, Free, 17 & under, senior and family discounts available

Travel back to the fur trade era at the Fort St. James National Historic Site. This historic site in northern British Columbia is Canada’s largest collection of wooden buildings from this time.

Fur and salmon were big business here in the 1800s. Guides share the stories of the fur traders and Dakelth First Nations who worked and lived on this land. Visit the fur warehouse, fish cache, and trade store to learn about these industries.

There is also camping on-site at Stuart Lake, and you can grab a bite at the Home Stretch Diner.

Chemainus Murals

This little town and its open-air gallery will thrill art lovers.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (17)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hrs daily | Entrance: Free

Chemainus was once a center of fishing, mining, and forestry on Vancouver Island. When these industries declined, the town got creative. They began to showcase Chemainus’ history in a series of outdoor murals, and it was a hit.

There are 63 murals and sculptures which can all be viewed on foot. Themes include Indigenous heritage, logging and rail history, and the immigrant experience.

Chemainus is also full of quaint shops, great restaurants, and kind people. It’s a perfect day trip from Victoria or Nanaimo.

Hidden Gems in British Columbia

Roedde House Museum

Step back in time to one of the West End’s original Victorian homes.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (18)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: 604-684-7040 | Website | Hours: 1 pm – 4 pm (winter), 11 am – 4 pm (summer), Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sun | Entrance: $10, Adults, $5, 18 & under

Gustav Roedde was Vancouver’s first bookbinder, specializing in marbling paper. In the 1800’s, Roedde and his wife, Matilda, moved to this West End home. Today, the Roedde House Museum is a beautiful example of Victorian life in Vancouver.

The home has been restored, but it retains its original architecture. A tour will give you a peek into the family’s life through their old furniture and artifacts.

Come for tea, cookies, and a tour every Sunday. Enjoy intimate music concerts. And be sure to check out the museum’s seasonal events and markets.

Sooke Potholes Park

Swim in the freshwater of this Ice Age legacy.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (19)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hrs daily | Entrance: Free

Southern Vancouver Island is home to Sooke Potholes Park. The potholes are a series of deep rock pools that were formed in the last Ice Age. It’s one of the best places for freshwater swimming.

It’s also a great spot for hiking. There are trails both along the river and above the rock pools. The park is also a great starting point for hiking or cycling the Galloping Goose Regional Trail.

Nearby Sooke River is a great spot for catch-and-release fishing. It’s the perfect place to view the annual Coho and Chinook salmon runs.

Whistler Train Wreck

Graffiti-laden rail cars among old-growth forests make up Whistler’s most unique attraction.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (20)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hours, daily | Entrance: Free

The Whistler Train Wreck happened in 1956 when a freight train derailed from a track that was undergoing repairs near Whistler. Local loggers removed the cars and transported them into the forest just off the Sea to Sky Highway.

Over the years, local graffiti artists have been coming to the Whistler Train Wreck to add a splash of color to the 7 mangled box cars. It is now a favorite spot with hikers and mountain bikers.

It is an easy one-kilometre hike to reach the cars. A suspension bridge provides safe and legal access to everyone. Not to mention the views of the Cheakamus River are spectacular.

Fan Tan Alley

The narrowest commercial street in North America is Victoria’s coolest shopping destination.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (21)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Hours: 24 hours daily

Fan Tan Alley is six feet at its widest point, making it the narrowest commercial street in North America. This alley has a sordid history in Canada’s oldest Chinatown. It used to be the home of Victoria’s gambling and opium dens and all that came with them.

Today, local shops, galleries, and restaurants have replaced opium and gambling. I never leave without bags from The Turntable, Heart’s Content, and Saltspring Soapworks.

You can learn more about Fan Tan Alley’s history and the Chinese experience in Victoria by visiting the Chinese Canadian Museum. You’ll hear the story of a local man named Chan and maybe even run into his ghost.

Free Things to Do in British Columbia

Granville Island

A bustling public market and colorful art studios make up this Vancouver icon.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (22)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: 604-666-6655 | Website | Public Market Hours: 9 am – 6 pm daily

Granville Island is home to the city’s best public market and tons of unique shops, theatres, and art studios.

The market is a joy. Visit the different stalls to see beautiful displays of meats, cheeses, and fruit. Window shop at Net Loft, and walk around the Island to watch local artists at work. And get your camera ready for amazing Downtown Vancouver views.

Although it’s easy to spend a fortune here, it’s possible to enjoy Granville Island without spending a dime.

Myra Canyon Trestles

These train trestles will treat you to some of British Columbia’s best scenery.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (23)

đź“Ť Google Maps

Completed in 1914, the Myra Canyon Trestles are part of the Kettle Valley Railway. This area is located 40 minutes from Downtown Kelowna. It comprises two tunnels, 18 trestle bridges, and a trail network. And it was built by hand!

The Myra Canyon Trestles are stunning all year round. In the summer, it’s a fabulous place to hike and cycle. In the winter, bring your snowshoes.

You’ll be deep in Canadian nature here. So, there’s always a possibility to see grizzly bears, deer, and mountain goats.

Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Park

Walk amongst giants in this Vancouver Island park.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (24)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hours daily | Entrance: Free (donations accepted)

MacMillan Park is located near Port Alberni, on Vancouver Island. It is home to Cathedral Grove, one of the best examples of biodiversity in the province.

A network of trails weaves through this old-growth forest. You’ll find gigantic Douglas Firs, Red Cedars, and Western Hemlocks, some dating back 800 years.

In 1997, a catastrophic windstorm changed this landscape forever. Visitors can still see the fallen trees, which continue to provide important nutrients to the ecosystem.

Heritage Walking Tour of Fernie

History buffs will enjoy a stroll around this small, historic town.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (25)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Website

Fernie is the perfect place to enjoy lots of history for no cost.

I’m a sucker for historic small towns. Fernie, in the East Kootenay region of British Columbia, is one of the province’s most unique places. Fernie was founded over a century ago. A walking tour through its Downtown shows off the town’s beginnings.

Take a self-guided tour of 12 historic buildings along 2nd Avenue. See the old courthouse, post office, and CP Rail station, among others. Admire the different architectural styles of these brick and sandstone buildings.

Things to Do With Kids

Britannia Mine Museum

Ride a train deep into the mountain to experience life as a British Columbia miner.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (26)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: 1-800-896-4044 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4:30 pm daily | Entrance: $39.95, adults, $21.95, 12 & under, discounted rates for seniors, students, and families

The village of Britannia Beach was once home to 60,000 inhabitants. Many residents worked at the Britannia Mine.

Today, you can get a first-hand look at what life was like for the miners in the area. Put on your hard hat and head into the mountain on the small mine train. The stories about the miners and their work are fascinating.

Your visit continues inside the enormous copper mine. It was once the largest in the British Empire. And be sure to pan for gold before you leave! That’s always a hit with the little ones.

Miniature World

Tiny dioramas make up this playground for the young and young-at-heart.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (27)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (250) 385-9731 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: $19, adults, $9, 12 & under, discounted rates for youth

I love Victoria’s Miniature World as much now as I did as a kid! Over 80 models feature teeny scenes from fairy tales, literature, and historical events.

Kids will love how stories like Snow White, Gulliver’s Travels, and Oliver Twist come to life. And they will learn a few things too.

Miniature World features scenes about WWII, First Nations history, and the construction of the railroad in Canada. And there is plenty of action at the circus, fun fair, and in space.

Old Country Market

Pick up a unique souvenir and visit with the market’s furry residents.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (28)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (250) 248-6272 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: Free

The Old Country Market is located north of Nanaimo in the town of Coombs. What started as a roadside stand in 1972 has expanded to include a market, restaurants, and goats on the roof!

Children will love all the wonderful snacks and knick-knacks for sale at Old Country Market. And they’ll certainly want a doughnut from Billy G’s. But they’ll be most taken with the resident goats.

From May to October, the goats hang out on the market’s grass roof. Visitors aren’t allowed up there, but you can still get a great photo. During the winter, I found them on a farm out back.

Cultus Lake Water Park

Splash, slide, and cool off in one of BC’s top water parks

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (29)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (604) 858-7241 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm, daily | Entrance: $32.95, adults, $27.95, children

Nothing says summer like waterslides, and Cultus Lake Water Park has some of the best in British Columbia.

This water park is fun for the whole family. There are over a dozen waterslides, five hot tubs, splash areas, and great spots for lunch. Thrill-seekers will love the 72-foot vertical slide.

The Cultus Lake Adventure Park is across the street so there are plenty of slides and rides to keep the kids busy. And the nearby Cultus Lake Provincial Campground makes this the perfect family getaway.

Things to Do in Winter

Revelstoke

Fancy skiing down the most vertical run in North America?

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (30)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Phone: 1-866-373-4754 | Website

Small town charm and big powder meet in Revelstoke, making it one of the best British Columbia destinations for winter activities.

Revelstoke’s Mount MacKenzie is famous for its vertical run of 1,713 meters. It holds the top spot for verticals in North America. The mountain is also known for its record snowfalls and acres of terrain.

You can ski, snowboard, and snowshoe here. There are also opportunities for heli-skiing and snowmobiling. Or just relax in a spa or hot spring.

Everything you could want is at Revelstoke Mountain Resort: equipment rentals, great food, and convenient accommodations. But head to the nearby town for unique culture, shopping, and dining experiences.

Liard Hot Springs

Relax in Canada’s second-largest natural hot spring.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (31)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (250) 776-7000 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 10:30 pm daily | Entrance: $5, adults, $3, children (cash only)

Liard Hot Springs is a must-do when driving the Alaska Highway in the winter months.

Northern BC can be chilly, and there is no better place to warm up than in the two pools at Liard Hot Springs. These pools are nestled in a lush boreal spruce forest. And they hold a toasty temperature of 42-52 degrees Celsius (107-125 Fahrenheit).

A boardwalk provides access to the hot springs and protects the surrounding ecosystem. There are change rooms and cubicles on-site. Bring what you need, but leave your valuables at home.

Northern Lights in Fort Nelson

Northern British Columbia is the best place to watch the sky light up.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (32)

đź“Ť Google Maps

Fort Nelson is in the Northern Rockies region of British Columbia. It’s one of the best places in the province to catch a glimpse of the astonishing northern lights.

The best time to view the colorful skies are September through March. Head out of town on a cold, clear night, just before or after midnight.

Fort Nelson also hosts an annual Northern Lights Festival with live music, dog sledding, and snowmobile rides. There are shuttles that take visitors to the best viewing spots.

Hockey Game at Rogers Arena

Could there be anything more Canadian?

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (33)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Phone: (604) 899-7400 | Website

You can’t come to British Columbia without going to a Vancouver Canucks game. And Rogers Arena is where you’ll catch all the action.

British Columbia’s bars and restaurants show all the games on the big screen if you can’t score a ticket. Sometimes, it can be more fun watching it from the bar.

But Vancouver isn’t the only place with great hockey in the province. Every city, town, and suburb has hockey going on all winter long. Kamloops, Kelowna, and Prince George all have WHL teams. There are 17 teams in the British Columbia Junior Hockey League.

Things to Do in Summer

Wells Gray Provincial Park

Waterfalls, flowers, and wildlife converge in this heaven on earth.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (34)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Phone: (250) 674-3334 | Website

British Columbia’s Interior is home to Wells Gray Provincial Park and its 41 waterfalls. Go on an incredible hike and find them. And be sure to head up to the Trophy Mountain flower meadows, the largest sub-alpine meadow in Canada. It’s at its most colorful during the summer.

The Clearwater River offers amazing whitewater rafting opportunities. But if you prefer to meander in a canoe, the Clearwater and Azure Lake chain is where you’ll want to be. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for black bears, moose, and eagles during your outdoor adventures.

Whether you are a camper or glamper, Wells Gray Provincial Park has you covered. Choose to rough it in a tent or go for an upgrade at a cabin or B&B.

Sunflowers in Agassiz

Brighten up your summer in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (35)

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6:30 pm daily, August and September | Entrance: $15 – $20, discounts available

Flowers love to bloom in Agassiz. It’s the agricultural heart of British Columbia’s Lower Mainland, after all.

The Harrison Sunflower Festival is a summertime favorite. Three kilometers of pathways cover a massive 20 acres. There are 45 varieties of sunflowers, as well as dahlias, zinnias, and many others.

Pick a bunch of sunflowers and take home local honey, garlic, and sunflower seeds. And capture the moment in front of the antique tractor, vintage bike, and Airstream.

Luxury Train Journey

Ride the rails in style.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (36)

đź“Ť Google Maps | Phone: 1-877-460-3200 | Website

The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the world’s best train journeys. Three routes connect Vancouver to the towns of the Rocky Mountains. You’ll visit famous places like Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper.

The glass-domed coaches are a unique feature of this train. You won’t have to fight for a window seat because you can see everything around you.

The Rocky Mountaineer certainly shows off the majestic scenery of British Columbia. But it’s also famous for its fine dining and world-class hospitality. It comes at a price, but it’s one of the best BC experiences.

Salt Spring Island

This creative, bohemian island is the perfect summer escape.

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (37)

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Artsy Salt Spring Island is located between the Mainland and Vancouver Island. Nowhere beats this Gulf Island for a rejuvenating summer escape.

Salt Spring Island is one of the best places in British Columbia to unleash your creativity. The island is known for its art studios and galleries. During the summer months, Salt Spring is abuzz with live entertainment, wellness programs, and its weekly farmers market.

As with the rest of BC, Salt Spring Island is surrounded by spectacular nature. It’s no wonder everyone is inspired here.

FAQs About What to Do in British Columbia

These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (38)

What are the best things to do in British Columbia?

The best things to do in British Columbia are visit with marine life on a whale watching tour, spend the day in Vancouver’s beautiful Stanley Park, and smell the flowers at Victoria’s Butchart Gardens.

What are the best things to do in British Columbia with kids?

The best things to do in British Columbia with kids are pan for gold at the Britannia Mine Museum, go camping in one of the many provincial parks, and get soaked at the Cultus Lake Water Park.

What are the best things to do in British Columbia at night?

The best things to do in British Columbia at night are to go for a meal at a trendy restaurant, hit up a craft brewery, catch a concert or live theatre production, and take a night walking tour. You can also explore the nightlife in Whistler Village.

What are the best things to do in British Columbia for free?

The best things to do in British Columbia for free are hiking at Myra Canyon Trestles, relaxing at one of the province’s many parks, and exploring the hidden corners of its cities and towns. Exploring Granville Island and doing a walking tour of Fernie are also great free things to do in BC.

Is it worth going to British Columbia?

It is absolutely worth going to British Columbia. The province is famous for its mind-blowing natural surroundings, but it’s also packed with history and culture.

Is British Columbia very expensive?

British Columbia is very expensive to both live in and visit. Accommodation, attractions and transportation will eat up most of your budget. But you can cut down food expenses by visiting casual restaurants, food trucks, and supermarkets.

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This is only a small taste of the many incredible things to do in beautiful British Columbia. I hope this guide gives you inspiration for your BC adventure!

And now that you know exactly what to do, why not get started planning an epic British Columbia road trip to experience one of Canada’s best provinces.

(Featured Image Credit: SimonaKoz / Shutterstock.com)

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These are the 37 best things to do in British Columbia, according to a local travel expert. (2024)

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