Searching for some simple day journeys from Vancouver to flee the town? Vancouver, British Columbia is nestled between the mountains and ocean and it’s a gateway to an unimaginable array of day journey locations. From island escapes to thrilling out of doors adventures, British Columbia’s yard is your playground, providing one thing for everybody. Able to embark on a journey that can create lasting reminiscences? Let’s dive into our prime 21 favourite day journeys from Vancouver and uncover the exceptional experiences that await you!
Greatest Day Journeys From Vancouver

Dave and I lived in Vancouver for 3 years and have been again to go to time and again. We have now traveled everywhere in the province and hope that we are able to encourage you when you’ve loved all of the finest issues to do in Vancouver to make your means out to see the unimaginable BC countryside. Whether or not you’re a neighborhood seeking to discover extra of your individual yard or a customer looking for distinctive experiences exterior the town, these day journeys from Vancouver supply a various vary of actions.
Planning Your Journey To Vancouver Proper Now?
Under are a few of the prime excursions for Day Journeys from Vancouver. Don’t neglect to plan forward when visiting British Columbia!
High Day Journeys and Excursions from Vancouver:
Getting Round Vancouver

Most day journeys from Vancouver require a automotive. British Columbia is a drivable province so we suggest renting a automotive once you land on the Vancouver airport. You’ll be able to examine automotive rental costs at RentalCars.com
To discover extra of Vancouver, take a look at these finest Toronto day excursions from Vancouver.

Whistler is among the finest locations on the planet to ski however not solely is it a winter wonderland, it’s also a world-renowned four-season resort city. Positioned about 120 km from Vancouver, Whistler options greater than 8,000 acres of terrain throughout Whistler and Blackcomb Resorts.
The picturesque drive to Whistler alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway is well worth the day journey unto itself. The drive is brief however with so many stops from magnificent waterfalls, the outdoorsy city of Squamish, and breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the coastal mountains you might spend a complete day and nonetheless not see all of it. Learn extra: Vancouver to Whistler – Better of the Sea to Sky Freeway
- 121 km from Vancouver
- Should you don’t have a automotive, ebook this Sea to Sky Freeway and Whistler Day Journey from Vancouver. Particulars right here.
Whistler in Summer season

Whistler is famend for its winter actions from snowboarding and snowboarding, but it surely additionally presents improbable mountaineering trails and buying alternatives through the summer time months. Plus, you’ll positively wish to hike out to the Trainwreck Path to see the graffiti-covered prepare vehicles or take a bear tour to see the wildlife of Whistler. To not point out, the city is dwelling to vegan-friendly cafes and eating places, good for refueling after a day of outside enjoyable. For a bucket checklist expertise, ebook this Vancouver to Whistler float airplane expertise.
Whether or not you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a scenic escape, Whistler is among the most versatile day journeys from Vancouver. Learn extra: 30 Superior Issues to Do in Whistler, BC
2. Squamish: The Out of doors Fanatic’s Paradise

Positioned alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway, Squamish is commonly missed for Whistler however this city is a haven for out of doors fans providing a smorgasbord of thrilling actions. Squamish has earned the nickname “the out of doors recreation capital of Canada,” and for good cause. It’s a playground for rock-climbing aficionados with its world-class climbing spots together with the Squamish Chief and windsurfing fans might be thrilled by the waves.
Mountain biking junkies will get their adrenaline rush. And hikers will discover trails with breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains. And the very best half? It’s only a quick drive from downtown Vancouver. Squamish is tremendous accessible and has one thing for everybody. Learn extra: Wonderful Issues to Do in Squamish BC
- 1 hour from Vancouver
- E book this Gondola Tour to Squamish that takes you alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway to discover Vancouver and sights alongside probably the most scenic drive in British Columbia.
3. Sea to Sky Gondola

You don’t want to enter Squamish to have a enjoyable day journey from Vancouver, embark on an journey for a day on the Sea to Sky Gondola. Additionally situated alongside the scenic Sea to Sky Freeway, this must-visit vacation spot is the proper addition to your day journey itinerary.
Hop on the gondola and ascend 800 meters above sea stage, the place you’ll be greeted by a number of viewing decks, an exhilarating suspension bridge, and seasonal actions to swimsuit all ages. Whether or not you’re an avid hiker looking for new trails to beat or just seeking to soak within the inspiring views, the Sea to Sky Gondola delivers an unforgettable expertise.
Ensure that to stroll throughout the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge to take pleasure in breathtaking views of the encompassing panorama, belief us, you don’t wish to miss this!
- 50 minutes from Vancouver
- This personal Whistler Squamish day tour is a good way to not solely see Whistler village, however you’ll additionally cease at Squamish and Shannon Falls, journey the Sea to Sky Gondola to the highest of Stawamus Chief Mount.
4. Hope

Once we lived in Vancouver, we by no means made it to the Othello Tunnels in Hope, British Columbia however fortunately we visited once more simply a few summers in the past. I can’t consider we didn’t go to sooner! Film buffs will love today journey as First Blood, the primary installment of Sylvester Stallone’s Rambo sequence, was shot right here.
The Othello Tunnels are a sequence of tunnels and trestle bridges reducing by means of the mountains following a deep gorge. This was a feat of engineering because the 5 tunnels had been blasted and built-in 1914. It’s only a 3.5 km spherical journey, however utterly price stopping to see. Learn extra: Greatest British Columbia Street Journey
- 2 hours and half-hour from Vancouver
5. Harrison Scorching Springs: A Soothing Retreat

Should you’re looking for rest, Harrison Scorching Springs is a tranquil oasis within the coronary heart of British Columbia’s Fraser Valley. Positioned only a 90-minute drive from Vancouver, Harrison Scorching Springs boasts rejuvenating scorching springs, a picturesque lake, and beautiful mountain landscapes.
If you go to this tranquil vacation spot, you’ll be spoiled for alternative with a wide range of out of doors actions. You’ll be able to tee off on a lush golf course, discover the scenic trails on a mountaineering journey, or get your adrenaline pumping with some mountain biking. Should you’re a fan of the water, why not embark on a ship tour and even attempt your hand at fishing? There’s one thing for everybody at Harrison Scorching Springs.
After a day of journey on Salt Spring Island, unwind on the Harrison Scorching Springs Resort & Spa, the place you possibly can soak within the spring-fed waters and soften your stress away. It’s the proper mix of rest and journey, Harrison Scorching Springs is a perfect day journey from Vancouver.
6. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: A Thrilling Expertise

Enterprise to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park situated in North Vancouver near Grouse Mountain’s base, for a enjoyable excessive journey. This thrilling attraction presents a singular expertise, together with a bouncing suspension bridge, a Cliffwalk, and a Treetops Journey, all set amidst the plush forest panorama.
You’ll traverse throughout a 450-foot suspension bridge throughout the Capilano River Canyon the place you’ll have the prospect to really join with nature and benefit from the outside. It’s a memorable expertise that can go away an enduring impression on you.
7. Fort Langley: Step Again in Time

Journey by means of time by visiting Fort Langley, a Nationwide Historic Web site of Canada, the place you possibly can delve into the historical past of Canada’s Fur Buying and selling historical past. This previous fur buying and selling publish of the Hudson Bay Firm takes you again in time as you stroll by means of the previous fur buying and selling buildings, and blacksmith demonstrations and you may even pan for gold.
Positioned alongside the banks of the Fraser River, within the township of Fort Langly, Fort Langley presents an enchanting glimpse into the previous and a really unforgettable day journey expertise.
As you stroll by means of the historic web site, immerse your self within the tales of the Hudson’s Bay Firm fur merchants and the early pioneers who referred to as this place dwelling.
8. Bowen Island: A Stress-free Island Getaway

Escape the town’s chaos and embark on a journey to Bowen Island, a peaceable retreat only a fast ferry journey away from Horseshoe Bay. Recognized for its laid-back ambiance, Bowen Island is the proper vacation spot to unwind and recharge amidst nature’s magnificence.
On Bowen Island, you will have a wide range of choices to select from. You’ll be able to hike by means of lush forests, bike alongside picturesque trails, kayak in crystal-clear waters, or just take pleasure in a leisurely picnic on the seaside.
On Bowen Island, you’re spoiled for alternative with a ton of cool, nature-focused actions. It’s like a inexperienced playground simply ready so that you can soar in and have a blast! Take in the island’s serene environment and let your worries sail away on one among our favourite enjoyable day journey choices.
9. Steveston: A Historic Fishing Village

Let me inform you about Steveston, a quaint fishing village tucked away in Richmond, BC alongside the Fraser River. This charming spot is steeped in a wealthy maritime historical past that’s palpable as you stroll its streets. It’s dwelling to a few of the freshest seafood eating places you’ll ever come throughout. And the waterfront strolls? Merely divine. A vigorous business dock space additionally provides to its enchantment, and should you’re fortunate, you possibly can even buy contemporary seafood straight from the fishing boats themselves.
Take a leisurely stroll alongside the picturesque boardwalk, discover the historic streets lined with colourful buildings, and indulge within the scrumptious flavors of the native seafood choices. Steveston’s distinctive mix of historical past and pure magnificence makes it a pleasant day journey vacation spot, only a quick drive from Vancouver.
- 40 minutes from Vancouver
10. Discover the Sunshine Coast

Set off on a scenic coastal journey by means of the Sunshine Coast, a fascinating stretch of shoreline from Langdale to Lund, peppered with pleasant cities and marinas. Accessible by ferry from Horseshoe Bay, the Sunshine Coast is on the mainland however seems like you will have left for an island escape.
Whether or not you favor to meander by means of the quaint cities of Gibsons and see the setting for Canada’s most enduring TV present “The Beachcombers” or to enterprise to Langdale and discover the marinas and marine parks alongside the coast, the Sunshine Coast guarantees a memorable day journey expertise.
So pack your luggage, hop on a ferry and revel in the great thing about the Sunshine Coast for a day or two. Learn extra: Final Issues to do on A Sunshine Coast Street Journey
- 2 1/2 hours from Vancouver together with ferry journey.
11. Horseshoe Bay

You’ve gotten most probably heard of Horseshoe Bay. It virtually seems like part of Vancouver. Positioned only a quick drive from Vancouver, this coastal village is situated in West Vancouver. Horseshoe Bay is well-known for its ferry terminal, which is all the time bustling with exercise. And let’s not neglect concerning the pleasant eating places that serve a few of the most mouth-watering dishes you’ll ever style.
Should you’re a nature lover like us, you’ll recognize the rocky seaside that gives a way of tranquility and peace. Plus, the closeness to surrounding parks makes it a perfect spot for individuals who take pleasure in out of doors actions.
This picturesque vacation spot presents a relaxed ambiance with views of Howe Sound and the encompassing mountains, making it a perfect day journey vacation spot.
Stroll alongside the waterfront, take pleasure in a meal at one of many native eating places, or just chill out on the rocky seaside and soak within the serene environment. Horseshoe Bay is a pleasant escape from the town, good for a leisurely day journey alongside the coast.
- 20 minutes from Vancouver
12. Britannia Mine Museum

Enter the fascinating realm of mining on the Britannia Mine Museum, a restored Nationwide Historic Web site of Canadalocated simply exterior of Squamish close to Britannia Seashore. Only a mere 55 km north of Vancouver off the Sea-to-Sky Freeway on Howe Sound this can be a improbable web site to go to.
Throughout your go to, discover the underground mine on a prepare tour and marvel on the huge gear utilized in mining operations. The guides are enjoyable and informative taking you on an interactive tour by means of time.
It’s a mixture between a historic prepare journey and a go to to the science honest and it’s so a lot enjoyable for all ages. The Britannia Mine Museum takes you again to the British Colombia of yesteryear when it was dwelling to the biggest copper mine in Canada. The Britannia Mines in Howe Sound is a nationwide historic web site. The Britannia Mines Concentrator processed copper ore beginning in 1905 up till 1974.
Don’t miss BOOM! This interactive expertise was a improbable present and an incredible mixture with our mine tour the place we explored the museum, panned for gold, and walked by means of the historic buildings. E book refundable tickets right here.
Whether or not you’re a historical past fanatic or just curious concerning the world of mining, the Britannia Mine Museum presents an enticing and academic day journey expertise.
- 40 minutes from Vancouver
13. Mountaineering at Garibaldi Provincial Park

Garibaldi Provincial Park is an unmissable vacation spot for these captivated with nature and mountaineering. Positioned simply 80 km north of Vancouver, this beautiful park options spectacular summer time mountaineering trails, turquoise lakes, and awe-inspiring surroundings.
Conquer fashionable trails such because the Garibaldi Lake Path, the Black Tusk Path, and the Panorama Ridge Path, every providing breathtaking views and a rewarding mountaineering expertise. Garibaldi Provincial Park gives a difficult and unforgettable day journey for these looking for to discover the good outside.
- 1.25 hours from Vancouver
14. Play within the North Shore Mountains

Flee to the North Shore Mountains, comprising Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour, and Cypress Mountain, for a day stuffed with snowboarding, mountaineering, eating, and awe-inspiring views. These mountains supply a variety of actions for all talent ranges, from leisurely strolls to difficult hikes, in addition to world-class ski resorts through the winter months.
Whether or not you select to discover the serene forests of Mount Seymour, take within the beautiful views from the summit of Grouse Mountain, or hit the slopes at Cypress Mountain, the North Shore Mountains supply an ideal day journey vacation spot for out of doors fans and nature lovers alike.
- 20 minutes from Vancouver
15. Level Roberts in Washington State

Cross the border to Level Roberts in Washington State for a definite day journey expertise. This relaxed vacation spot presents a laid-back ambiance, lovely seashores, and an enthralling group good for a leisurely day journey.
Stroll alongside the picturesque shoreline, discover the small city, and benefit from the serene ambiance as you soak within the coastal great thing about Level Roberts. Don’t neglect to convey your passport, as this charming vacation spot is only a quick drive from Vancouver however requires crossing the US border.
- 40 minutes from Vancouver
16. Cruise round Howe Sound

Embark on a exceptional journey by cruising round Howe Sound on a employed boat. Uncover the great thing about this fjord in southwestern British Columbia, visiting the lazy seals on Pam Rocks and exploring marine parks and picturesque islands alongside the best way.
Whether or not you favor to navigate the waters on a guided tour or captain your individual vessel, cruising round Howe Sound presents a singular day journey expertise with beautiful views and unforgettable wildlife encounters. So seize your life jacket and embark on a nautical journey like no different!
- half-hour from Vancouver
17. Kayaking in Deep Cove

Submerge within the wonders of nature by paddling by means of the tranquil waters of Deep Cove, a quaint group located within the japanese a part of North Vancouver. Once I consider kayaking in Deep Cove, a number of issues come to thoughts. First, it’s such a peaceable escape from the town. It’s such as you’re in a special world. Second, you by no means know what wildlife you may see. It’s all the time a shock! Plus, you don’t have to fret should you don’t have your individual kayak, there are many rental choices obtainable. And should you’re new to kayaking or simply wish to be taught extra concerning the space, there are guided excursions obtainable. It’s a improbable expertise!
After a day of paddling, discover the quaint city, take pleasure in a espresso at a neighborhood café, or hike to Quarry Rock for beautiful views of the encompassing space. With its serene waters and picturesque setting, kayaking in Deep Cove is the proper technique to unwind and reconnect with nature.
- 20 minutes from Vancouver
18. Seattle, Washington

Why not develop your horizons and delve into the vigorous metropolis of Seattle, Washington? Only a few hours south of Vancouver, Seattle presents a various vary of points of interest, together with the long-lasting Pike Place Market, the futuristic Area Needle, and the breathtaking views from Kerry Park.
Whether or not you favor to meander by means of bustling markets, marvel at revolutionary structure, or just soak within the coastal metropolis ambiance, Seattle presents a memorable day journey expertise with one thing for everybody. With its vigorous tradition and distinctive points of interest, Seattle is nicely well worth the journey from Vancouver.
19. Lynn Canyon Park

For these of you preferring much less crowded spots, let me inform you about Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver. It’s a improbable different to the customarily congested Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. This place has all of it! There’s a suspension bridge that’ll provide you with a little bit of a thrill, loads of mountaineering paths so that you can discover, and should you’re a fan of swimming, you’ll discover some nice spots right here. Should you’re planning to spend the day, they’ve bought picnic areas good for a lunch break within the nice outside. And should you’re curious concerning the native ecosystem, you’ll positively wish to take a look at their ecology middle. The very best half? It’s all simply reachable by public transport.
All are simply reachable by public transport. This lovely park gives a peaceable escape from the town, with lush forests and serene waters to discover.
Enterprise throughout the suspension bridge, hike the scenic trails or take a refreshing dip in one of many park’s swimming holes. Afterwards, go to the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre to be taught extra concerning the park’s various ecosystem.
With its fascinating pure magnificence and handy location, Lynn Canyon Park is a perfect day journey vacation spot for nature lovers.
- 25 minutes from Vancouver
20. Cascade Falls

Unearth the mesmerizing great thing about Cascade Falls, a placing waterfall located close to Mission, BC. A brief hike leads you to the falls, the place you’ll be greeted by the highly effective cascade of water surrounded by lush forest. With its picturesque setting and accessible path, Cascade Falls presents an ideal day journey for households and nature fans alike.
Spend the day exploring the realm, having fun with a picnic close to the falls, or just marveling at the great thing about this pure marvel. Cascade Falls is a hidden gem simply ready to be found, offering a memorable day journey expertise for anybody looking for to attach with nature.
- 1 hour and 20 minutes from Vancouver
21. Victoria: The Charming Capital Metropolis

Image your self meandering by means of the quaint streets of Victoria, the charming capital of British Columbia, enveloped by mesmerizing coastal views and delightful structure. Positioned on Vancouver Island, Victoria is an idyllic day journey vacation spot, simply accessible by a scenic ferry journey from Vancouver.
Whereas in Victoria, don’t miss the prospect to go to iconic points of interest like Butchart Gardens, the Royal British Columbia Museum, and Beacon Hill Park. Wander the historic downtown space, discover the bustling Inside Harbor, and indulge within the metropolis’s vibrant culinary scene.
From beautiful coastal views to fascinating historical past, Victoria presents a fascinating day journey expertise only a quick journey from Vancouver.
FAQ’s About The Greatest Day Journeys From Vancouver

The place can I am going for a day journey in Vancouver?
Uncover the great thing about Vancouver with a day journey! Discover Whistler and Victoria, go birding on Iona Seashore, pattern suds on the Port Moody beer prepare or cruise within the Vancouver Harbour. With so many choices obtainable, you’re certain to seek out an thrilling journey!
Are you able to make a day journey to Vancouver Island?
Sure, you can also make a day journey to Vancouver Island – the ferry takes round 90 minutes, or you might fly there by seaplane in simply 35 minutes for superb views.
What’s the finest time of yr to go mountaineering within the North Cascades?
The very best time to go mountaineering within the North Cascades is from July to early October, so plan your journey accordingly for an incredible expertise.
How lengthy is the ferry journey from Vancouver to Victoria?
The ferry journey from Vancouver to Victoria takes round 4 hours.
What are some fashionable mountaineering trails in Garibaldi Provincial Park?
Garibaldi Provincial Park has a number of fashionable mountaineering trails, such because the Garibaldi Lake Path, Black Tusk Path, and Panorama Ridge Path.
Abstract

From the serene shores of Bowen Island to the adrenaline-pumping actions in Squamish, these 20 day journeys from Vancouver showcase the unimaginable range of experiences ready to be found in British Columbia’s yard. Whether or not you’re looking for rest, journey, or a mix of each, there’s a day journey vacation spot good for you.
So, what are you ready for? Pack your luggage, hit the highway, and embark on an unforgettable journey by means of the breathtaking landscapes and charming cities that encompass Vancouver. Your subsequent journey awaits only a quick drive away!
From snowboarding on pristine mountain slopes to wandering by means of charming coastal cities, your subsequent journey awaits only a quick drive from Vancouver’s bustling metropolis middle.