20 Things to do in British Columbia
British Columbia, Canada's westernmost province, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse culture, and vibrant cities. From towering mountains and pristine forests to rugged coastlines and vibrant urban centers, there's no shortage of things to see and do in this picturesque region. Whether you're exploring outdoor adventures, immersing yourself in cultural experiences, or indulging in delicious cuisine, British Columbia offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. Here are 20 must-do activities to make the most of your time in the province:
Sightseeing in British Columbia:
1. Whistler Blackcomb: Hit the slopes at Whistler Blackcomb, North America's largest ski resort, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter and mountain biking and hiking in the summer.
2. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve: Explore the rugged beauty of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, where you can hike through old-growth rainforests, surf on pristine beaches, and spot wildlife like whales and bears.
3. Butchart Gardens: Wander through the enchanting Butchart Gardens, located near Victoria on Vancouver Island, featuring stunning floral displays, lush landscapes, and tranquil ponds.
4. The Okanagan Valley: Discover the bountiful Okanagan Valley, known for its scenic vineyards, orchards, and lakes, where you can enjoy wine tasting, fruit picking, and outdoor recreation.
5. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: Brave the heights of the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver, offering panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and canyon below.
Cultural Experiences in British Columbia:
6. Royal British Columbia Museum: Immerse yourself in British Columbia's rich history and culture at the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria, featuring exhibits on Indigenous peoples, natural history, and colonial heritage.
7. First Nations Cultural Centers: Learn about Indigenous cultures and traditions at First Nations cultural centers like the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre in Whistler or the U'mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay.
8. Vancouver Island Wineries: Embark on a wine tasting tour of Vancouver Island's boutique wineries, known for their cool-climate varietals like Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Ortega.
9. Historic Gastown: Explore the cobblestone streets of Gastown in Vancouver, the city's oldest neighborhood, where you can admire Victorian architecture, trendy boutiques, and the iconic Steam Clock.
10. Emily Carr House: Visit the childhood home of renowned Canadian artist Emily Carr in Victoria, now preserved as a museum showcasing her life and work.
Shows and Entertainment in British Columbia:
11. Bard on the Beach: Experience Shakespeare like never before at Bard on the Beach, an annual outdoor theater festival set against the stunning backdrop of Vancouver's waterfront.
12. Vancouver Symphony Orchestra: Enjoy a classical concert by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, performing a diverse repertoire of symphonic music at venues like the Orpheum Theatre.
13. Vancouver International Film Festival: Catch screenings of acclaimed films from around the world at the Vancouver International Film Festival, held annually in September.
Culinary Delights in British Columbia:
14. Vancouver Food Trucks: Sample diverse cuisines from around the world at Vancouver's vibrant food truck scene, offering everything from gourmet burgers and tacos to fusion fare and artisanal desserts.
15. Seafood in Victoria: Indulge in fresh seafood at restaurants along Victoria's Inner Harbour, where you can feast on local specialties like wild salmon, Dungeness crab, and Pacific oysters.
16. Farm-to-Table Dining: Taste the bounty of the region at farm-to-table restaurants like Araxi in Whistler or Wolf in the Fog in Tofino, showcasing seasonal ingredients and creative cuisine.
17. Okanagan Fruit Stands: Stop by roadside fruit stands in the Okanagan Valley to sample fresh-picked cherries, peaches, apples, and other delicious fruits grown in the region.
Hidden Gems in British Columbia:
18. Haida Gwaii: Explore the remote wilderness of Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off the northern coast of British Columbia, known for its ancient totem poles, pristine beaches, and rich Indigenous culture.
19. Hot Springs Cove: Relax in natural hot springs at Hot Springs Cove, accessible by boat or seaplane from Tofino, offering stunning ocean views and rejuvenating thermal waters.
20. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail: Cycle or hike along the historic Kettle Valley Rail Trail, winding through the scenic landscapes of the Okanagan Valley and offering breathtaking views of lakes, vineyards, and mountains.
From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, culinary delights to hidden gems, British Columbia offers a diverse array of activities and attractions that are sure to captivate visitors. Whether you're skiing in Whistler, exploring the rainforests of Vancouver Island, or savoring wine in the Okanagan Valley, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this breathtaking province. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover all that British Columbia has to offer!