50+ Bucket List Ideas for a Summer Trip to British Columbia

Credit: Cloudraker Skybridge, Whistler Blackcomb

British Columbia is a mecca for outdoor and adventure lovers, as there is a multitude of activities available, and is well known for activities like hiking, boating, or fishing. However, there are a lot of other fun, and sometimes quite unique sites and activities that can be experienced here.

The scenery throughout the province is incredible, from the coastal waters to the inland lakes and high peaks of the mountains, so no matter where you go or what you do, you know you will be surrounded by beauty.

There are plenty of places to stay, fantastic places to eat, and unbelievable sites to explore. Wildlife, birdlife, and sea life abound. History and culture are found in each corner of the province. It is all there, just waiting to be discovered.

1. Whitewater Rafting

Kootenay River Runners

Ride the rapids through some of the most beautiful scenery in Canada. British Columbia is home to some exciting opportunities to get wet as you experience the rivers throughout the province. From half day outings to multi day adventures, and from the fabulous Kootenay River in the Rockies to the Chilliwack River right outside Vancouver, there is a white-water region for every level of rafter.

Chilliwack River Rafting – 49704 Chilliwack Lake Road, Chilliwack
Kootenay River Runners – 4987 Highway 93, Radium
Destiny River Adventures – 1995 Island Highway, Campbell River
Canyon Raft Company – Fernie
Wedge Rafting – 211-4293 Mountain Square, Whistler

2. Take a Scenic Drive

Credit: Daniel Ernst

There are so many gorgeous places to see in the province that taking a drive is sometimes the absolute best way to do it. From the scenic routes along the coastline to the winding roadways through the mountains, you can choose to do a day trip or something a lot longer, perhaps a week… or two. Why not combine all the routes below to have a fabulous road trip!

Sea to Sky Highway – One to three-day route, depending on your time and number of stops.
Rogers Pass – Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, summer is the perfect time to enjoy this slightly challenging driving route.
Sunshine Coast Highway – A nice one to two-day drive along the coastal waters and through old growth forests.
Duffey Lake Road – This slightly off the beaten track route between Pemberton and Lillioet is spectacular with its winding switchbacks and one lane bridges, high mountains, lakes and incredible viewpoints.
The Okanagan Highway – The drive between Kamloops and Osoyoos is 200 kilometers of amazing vineyards, orchards, viewpoints and fun places to stop. You could take a day or a week to drive this route, depending on how many stops you want to make.

3. Walk on a Suspension Bridge

20 Suspension Bridges in British Columbia That You Need to Cross

Credit: Yukon Suspension Bridge

There is something so thrilling about sauntering across a suspension bridge, whether it is in the middle of a city or on a backwoods trail. Each one is unique, with a bounce or a sway, long or short, over a river or a canyon. Some you need to hike to and some you can visit from the road. From the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge at its 140 meters long to the Sky Pilot Bridge with its 360-degree views, each one will give you a memory to last a lifetime.

Capilano Suspension Bridge – 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver
Cascade Falls Suspension Bridge – 36421 Ridgeview Rd, Deroche
Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge – Squamish-Lillooet D
Yukon Suspension Bridge, in BC but accesses through Yukon
Elk Falls Suspension Bridge – Millennium Trail, Campbell River
Cloudraker Skybridge, Whistler Blackcomb

4. Experience a Thrill

Credit: Whistler Bungee

There is something about getting onto a fast-moving coaster or taking a dive off a cliff that just gets the blood pumping! If you are an adventure lover, you will easily find activities to keep your adrenaline going. From the relatively tame Pipe Mountain Coaster where you can control your own speed, to extreme cliff jumping, you can choose your level of excitement.

Pipe Mountain Coaster – Take a thrilling ride on a self controlled 1.4-km coaster that can take you up to 42-kms an hour! 2950 Camozzi Rd, Revelstoke
Mountain Ropes Adventure – 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Cliff Jumping – Check out the popular Lions Bay with jumps of 30 – 60 feet.
Bungee Jumping – Thrill seekers get an unforgettable experience by jumping 160ft (50 meters) over the glacial fed Cheakamus River. 4314 Main St #19, Whistler
Paragliding – 300 Red Mountain Rd, Rossland

5. Go Underground

Credit: Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort

Where there are mountains, there tend to be caves and tunnels. Many travellers are fascinated by the cool darkness of the underground world, and B.C. offers quite a few interesting places where they can experience just that. Vancouver Island alone has more than 1,000 caves, although not all of them can be explored. Many of these caves and tunnels are self-guided, but a few special ones, such as Cody Caves, offer guided tours through the area.

Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park – 3905 Horne Lake Caves Rd, Qualicum Beach
Cody Caves – Cody Caves Forrest Rd, Ainsworth Hot Springs
Othello Tunnels – Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, Hope
Little Huson Cave Regional Park – Mount Waddington
Corral Cave – Tahsis

6. Watch for Whales

Credit: Prince of Whales

Having so much coastline makes it easy for locals and visitors to get out on the water to watch for magnificent whales. While it is never guaranteed, summer months are best to catch a glimpse of these ocean mammals. In the area you can view orcas, humpback whales, grey whales, and minkes, and along the way you will often come across seals, sea lions, porpoises, and bald eagles. Vancouver and Victoria are popular jumping off spots for tours, but more remote towns and villages also offer whale watching services.

Prince of Whales – 1055 Canada Pl #30, Vancouver
Ocean Ecoventures Whale Watching – 1721 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay
Outer Shores Expeditions – 740 Handy Rd, Mill Bay
Adventure Tofino – 421 Main St, Tofino
Big Animal Encounters – 1340 Island Hwy #129, Campbell River

7. Climb a Cliff

Credit: Pavel Matejicek/Flickr

B.C. has some of the best places to go climbing in the entire country, in fact, there are three areas in the province that are considered to have some of the best climbing in the world – Squamish, Penticton and Nelson. There are more than 5,600 routes in the province with a variety of levels that climbers of all abilities can enjoy. Bouldering, sport climbing, rock climbing and alpine climbing routes are all available in different regions.

Skaha Bluffs – One of the best places to climb in Canada, there are 66 crags and over 1000 climbs in three main canyons. Most climbs are sport routes but there are still opportunities for traditional climbing too. Smythe Drive, Penticton
Stawamus Chief – Towering nearly 2,000 feet above Squamish, this is one of the largest granite monoliths in North America and is a rock-climber’s paradise with hundreds of multi-pitch crack climbing routes and granite walls. 38049 3 Ave, Squamish
Spillimacheen Crags – Near Golden, this is a popular sport climbing area with incredible dolomite walls and over 100 climbing routes on two distinct cliff faces.
Beckey-Chouinard Route on South Howser Tower – One of three of the “Classic 50 Climbs in North America”, first climbed in 1961 by Fred Beckey and Yvon Chouinard and now one of the most coveted routes in the Bugaboos. One of 61 routes available in this park. Bugaboo Provincial Park, Parson
The Beach – Easy to moderate route on a beautiful rocky bench 300 meters above Kamloops lake. Kamloops Lake Viewpoint, Trans-Canada Hwy, Savona

8. Ride a Train

Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

If you love to ride the rails, there are several opportunities to do so throughout the province. From short tours to multi-day rail routes, you can choose to spend time on restored trains or new, luxury rail cars. Sit back and enjoy the scenery, watch for wildlife, and take plenty of pictures.

Kimberley’s Underground Mining Railway – Ride the rails through the beautiful Mark Creek valley as you listen to the history of Kimberley and the Sullivan Mine. 111 Gerry Sorensen Way, Kimberley
Kettle Valley Steam Railway – A heritage railway that runs over the only remaining section of the Kettle Valley Railway. 18404 Bathville Rd, Summerland
Kamloops Heritage Railway – On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, you can enjoy a ride on this one of a kind steam locomotive. 510 Lorne St #3, Kamloops
Rocky Mountaineer Railtours – Scenic journeys on three routes through the province. 1100-980 Howe Street. Vancouver

9. Visit an Island

Credit: Gabriola Island

The total length of the British Columbia Coast is over 25,725 kilometres, so it makes sense that there would be an incredible number of islands along the coastline. Including the largest – Vancouver Island – and the islands of Haida Gwaii, there are more than 40,000 islands of varying sizes to be found here. Some islands are easily accessible by ferry, others will require a bit more effort to be reached by boat or kayak.

Haida Gwaii (formerly the Queen Charlotte Islands) – Consisting of two main islands and about 400 smaller ones, you can travel to Haida Gwaii by flight or ferry.
Southern Gulf Islands – There are seven major islands in the southern half of the Strait of Georgia, including Galiano Island and Saltspring Island which can be reached by ferry.
Hornby Island – A tiny, charming island in the Salish Sea that offers hiking, swimming and a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Accessible by ferry from Vancouver Island.
Denman Island – Part of the Northern Gulf Islands, there is much to do here, including fishing, swimming and visiting the local chocolate factory. Accessible from Vancouver Island by the cable ferry.
Quadra Island – Off the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, near Campbell River, this island has opportunities to hike, bike, swim, kayak, visit farmers markets and tan at the beach. Accessible by ferry.

10. Visit a Historic Place

Credit: Tumbler Ridge

There are more than 90 official National Historic Sites in the province, including buildings, landscapes, railway stations and lighthouses, not to mention sites with fossils and underwater sites. B.C. is also home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the history of the railway, to ancient fossils, and more, there are enough historic sites to keep you busy for weeks on end.

The Last Spike – Highway 1, Craigellachie
Burgess Shale Fossils – Guided tours available from the Yoho Visitors Center. Trans-Canada Hwy, Columbia-Shuswap
Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark -265 Southgate St, Tumbler Ridge
North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site – 1889 Skeena Dr, Port Edward
Huble Homestead Historic Site – 15 000 Mitchell Rd, Summit Lake

11. View Some Unique Places and Things

Credit: VanDusen Botanical Garden

In every province there are super unique places to go and off the beaten track things to see, and British Columbia is no exception. From a house made all out of hundreds of thousands of empty embalming bottles to the Elizabeth hedge maze that is only one of six in North America, there are excellent opportunities to visit some different destinations.

The Glass House in Boswell-Sanca – 11350 BC-3A, Sanca
VanDusen Garden’s Elizabethan Hedge Maze – 5251 Oak St, Vancouver
Chetwynd Chainsaw Carvings – 2005 John Hart Hwy, Chetwynd
Jade City – Stewart Cassiar Hwy, 72 miles from Dease Lake
Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park – Aiyansh

12. See Some Guinness Book of Records Items

If you are searching for some unique things to see in the province, why not check out the amazing items that have broken the Guinness Book of Records! From the largest hockey stick, which is no surprise, to the largest garden gnome, you will enjoy finding these in places you wouldn’t have expected.

The Largest Oar / Paddle – The Kootenay Rockies is home to the largest hand paddle, which measures 18.57 m (60 ft 11 in) long and 2.80 m (9 ft 2 in) wide at its blade. 2627 BC-95, Parson
The Largest Hockey Stick – Commissioned for Expo ’86 in Vancouver, it is 40 times the size of a normal stick, 205 feet long and weighs a whopping 62,000 pounds. 2687 James St, Duncan
The Largest Garden Gnome – At a height of 7.91 meters (25 ft 11 in) this gnome was originally part of an amusement park. 4150 Blenkinsop Rd, Victoria
The Longest Cable Ferry – The Baynes Sound Connector measures 1,961.48 m (6,435 ft 3.6 in). With lower power requirements compared to a traditional ferry this has enabled BC Ferries to significantly reduce fuel consumption. Buckley Bay Road, Comox-Strathcona A
The Largest Dugout Canoe – In 1985, the Haida sculpture builder Bill Reid, was commissioned to create a 50-foot dugout canoe for Expo ’86. Finished in April of that same year, he named the craft Lootaas (Wave Eater). #2 2 Beach Rd, Skidegate

13. Take a Unique Selfie

Photo Credit: Canadian Tourism Commission

There are so many places that you can snap a picture of yourself, your travelling companions, the scenery or your activities throughout the province that there is no doubt at all that you will finish off the summer with hundreds of digital memories of your adventures. Sometimes though, it is cool to get a photo with some unique art or special signs and there are plenty of these also just waiting for your finger to hit the button.

A-maze-ing Laughter – Get some smiling pics with these 14 patinated cast-bronze figures. 1800 Morton Ave, Vancouver
The Inukshuk – Time for a pic with a 6-meter high stone statue! 1700 Beach Ave, Vancouver
Digital Orca – With a background of the mountains and water, this unique orca is the perfect picture opportunity. 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver
Sasquatch Statues – There are actually 3 Sasquatch statues here! Time to grab a selfie with the mysterious creature. 499 Hot Springs Rd, Harrison Hot Springs
Mile 0 Post – The beginning of the famous Alaska Highway, this sign is a definite “selfie” stop. 900 Alaska Ave, Dawson Creek

14. Soak in Some Hot Springs

Credit: Harrison Hot Springs Resort

Even during the warmer summer months, it is nice to soak away in some hot mineral waters. From secluded springs to uniquely situated pools, British Columbia offers up an extremely wide variety of hot waters to enjoy. Most of these high mineral waters were used for centuries by the First Nations for healing and the tradition continues today. One of the best things about visiting a hot spring in B.C. is the beautiful views.

Ainsworth Hot Springs – 3609 Balfour-Kaslo-Galena Bay Hwy, Ainsworth
Radium Hot Springs – 5420 BC-93, Radium Hot Springs
Liard Hot Springs – 75100-81198 Alaska Hwy, Northern Rockies
Harrison Hot Springs – 100 Esplanade Ave, Harrison Hot Springs
Fairmont Hot Springs – 5225 Fairmont Resort Rd, Fairmont Hot Springs

15. Visit an Art Gallery

Credit: Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art

Art lovers will enjoy the variety of galleries that are available throughout the province, many showcasing local artists and their talents. From the largest art museum in Western Canada featuring 12,000 works from Canadian artists, to the specialized northwest coastal artworks, there is a plethora of items to be enjoyed in each and every one.

Vancouver Art Gallery – 750 Hornby St, Vancouver
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria – 1040 Moss St, Victoria
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art – 639 Hornby St, Vancouver
Kelowna Art Gallery – 1315 Water St, Kelowna
Okanagan Art Gallery – 8302 Main St, Osoyoos

16. Drink Some Coffee

Credit: Level Ground Trading

Sometimes coffee is the cornerstone of our day, starting with a good cup in the morning or enjoying a pick me up in the afternoon, perhaps with a delicious snack. No matter how you look at it, a good cup of coffee can make your day better. Drink in the lovely rich smells of the beans, savour ever sip, and relax in easy atmospheres.

Two Sisters – An off the beaten track coffee shop that prides itself in some of the best coffee that you will ever have – all locally roasted by the folks at Chicken Creek Coffee Company. 3763 4 Ave, Smithers
East Van Roasters – At East Van Roasters you can treat yourself to super high-end chocolate as you sip some of the best coffee in Canada. 319 Carrall St, Vancouver
49th Parallel Roasters – The delicious coffee here is a result of thousands of sampled cups, all to get the flavour profile just right. 2902 Main St, Vancouver
Caffè Fantastico – As they like to put it, they’re “driven by the pursuit of quality and the love of coffee.” 398 Harbour Rd, Victoria
Level Ground Trading – They roast their own coffee and through each cup, you’ll be able to connect to small-scale farmers all around. Taste and feel the impact at their special tasting room featuring a “fast bar, slow bar, local treats, and your favourite coffee.” 1757 Sean Heights, Victoria

17. Enjoy First Nations Culture

Credit: Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre

The First Nations cultures in the province bring the ancient history and traditions to the modern world. Learn about the various cultures through cultural tours, historic villages and museums, traditional items such as totem poles, and visits to cultural centers. Each area and each culture is unique and worth a visit.

Aboriginal Cultural Tour with I’Hos – 5245 Highway 101, Sliammon
Aboriginal Cultural Tour with Talaysay – 334 Skawshen Rd, West Vancouver
Nk’Mp Desert Cultural Center – 1000 Rancher Creek Rd, Osoyoos
‘Ksan Museum and Historical Village – 1500 Hwy 62, Hazelton
Gitanyow Totem Poles

18. Watch a Movie at a Drive-In

Credit: Twilight Drive-In

The adventure of going to watch a movie at a drive-in is much different than heading to your local theatre. For some this may be a new experience, for others a return to the past. From the comfort of your vehicle you can enjoy your snacks, have no fear of chitchatting with your friends, and turn up the volume as loud as you like. Take a blanket and pillow and snuggle in.

Starlight Drive-in Theatre – 5341 BC-97A, Enderby
Twilight Drive-In Theatre – 3350 260 St, Aldergrove
Park Drive-In Theatre – 9660 Raceway Rd, Prince George
Legacy Drive-In – University of Victoria, Lot 10, Victoria

19. Visit a National Park or National Reserve

Credit: Mike Benna/Unsplash

There is a total of four National Parks and three National Park Reserves in British Columbia, ranging from the islands to the Rockies. Along with camping, fishing, canoeing, hiking, biking and other fun outdoor activities, there are historical and cultural aspects to be enjoyed as well. The beaches, peaks, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, forests, and natural areas allow visitors to breathe in the fresh air and soak in the wilderness. Check the links for driving directions.

20. Go Ziplining

Credit: Kokanee Mountain Zipline

British Columbia is home to the longest ziplines in Canada, and for those seeking a bit of safe adventure, this activity is perfect. Take the time to zip over canyons, through tall forests, amongst gorgeous mountains and over rivers. From beginners to experts, there is something for everyone.

Kokanee Mountain Zipline – With 6 ziplines of varying lengths, you can fly up to 100 kms an hour as you slide down above the canyon. Kokanee Glacier Rd, Nelson
Grouse Mountain Ziplines – A 5-line experience that takes you around Blue Grouse Lake on the first few lines and then zip at top speeds of 80km/hr across the peaks of Grouse Mountain and Dam Mountain. 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Zipzone Peachland – Canada’s highest freestyle zipline adventure, these lines are the highest, longest, and fastest freestyle ones in the country. Princeton Ave, Peachland
Ziptrek Ecotours – Home to the Sasquatch, the longest zipline in North America with a distance of over 2 kilometers. The coastal rainforest makes a perfect backdrop for the four distinct courses that they offer. 4282 Mountain Square, Whistler
Treetop Flyers – With a total of three lines, you can fly by two waterfalls and over a creek, right through the heart of Chase Canyon. 305 Brooke Dr, Chase

21. Visit a Garden

Credit: Butchart Gardens

Summer months just call for time in the garden. The smell of the blooms that floats through the air, along with the lovely fresh scents of greeneries and earth, create a little parcel of heaven on earth for garden lovers. British Columbia has the perfect climate to grow a wide variety of plants and flowers, and an indoor conservatory in Vancouver makes it possible for garden lovers to have some time to enjoy it even when the weather is not cooperating.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden – 578 Carrall St, Vancouver
VanDusen Botanical Garden – 5251 Oak St, Vancouver
Bloedel Conservatory – 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver
UBC Botanical Garden – Administration Bldg, 6804 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver
Butchart Gardens – 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay

22. See Some Sunflowers

Credit: Chilliwack Sunflower Festival

If you are a lover of these beautiful yellow flowers, then visiting a sunflower field is a perfect choice. Wander your way through the towering stalks and immerse yourself in the experience.

Chilliwack Sunflower Festival – With 35 varieties to enjoy, there is also a U-Pick section at this festival! 41310 Yale Rd, Chilliwack
Maan Farms – Walk through sunflower fields and take the opportunity to take armfuls of them home with you. 790 McKenzie Rd, Abbotsford
Richmond Sunflower Festival – They have planted over 20 different varieties of sunflowers and Dahlias on over 8 acres of land for you to enjoy. 12900 Steveston Hwy, Richmond
Taves Family Farm – You can take a hayride to see a variety of sunflowers in the patch here. As you walk through the blooms and read the plaques of sunflower fun facts, you will also want to look down and discover the hidden gnomes. 333 Gladwin Rd, Abbotsford
Cultus Lake Flower Fest – This hidden gem offers sunflowers, dahlias, and wildflowers with a backdrop of beautiful mountains. 4215 Wilson Road, Yarrow

23. Laze on a Beach

Credit: City of White Rock

Beaches abound in the province, either along the amazing mainland coastline, on the islands, or even at the inland lakes. Soak up the sun and build a sandcastle. Take a blanket, a picnic, a book and just relax. Watch the sun rise or set over the sparkling water. Take a walk, throw a frisbee or bury your toes in the sand. There is plenty to keep you entertained as you spend lazy days enjoying the summer on the sand.

White Rock Beach -15322 White Rock Promenade, White Rock
Agate Beach – Graham Island, Haida Gwaii
Shuswap Lake Provincial Park – 4120 Squilax-Anglemont Rd, Scotch Creek
Cox Bay – Tofino
Rathtrevor Beach – Parksville, Vancouver Island

24. Go Birdwatching

Credit: Mike

There are at least 583 bird species that live, or migrate through, the province. Eagles, hawks, osprey, sandpipers, owls, hummingbirds, woodpeckers, loons, falcons, pelicans and many more find their homes in one part of the province or another. Bird lovers will find that they will be able to see many just in common areas, but it is easy to take a day or two to seek out a place where an observer can sit and watch for certain species. For those just learning, a bird book is a handy companion.

Rocky Point Bird Observatory – Check out the banding station and get up close and personal with the birds. Reserve your tickets on the website. 525 Witty Beach Rd #505, Victoria
Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary – 3873 Swan Lake Rd, Victoria
George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary – 5191 Robertson Rd, Delta
Maplewood Flats Conservation Area – 2649 Dollarton Hwy, North Vancouver
Boundary Bay Regional Park – Boundary Bay Rd, Delta

25. Camp in a Provincial Park

Credit: Tourism Wells Gray

It was hard to just list a few parks here, as there are an incredible 600 provincial parks in the province. Amazingly, British Columbia has the third largest parks system in North America, after Canada’s National Parks and the United States’ National Park Service. There are 10,700 vehicle accessible campsites and approximately 2000 backcountry campsites available. Each park is unique. Some may require reservations for camping, others do not. It is best to check the Parks website for more information on campsites, reservations and available services.

Golden Ears Provincial Park – 24480 Fern Crescent, Maple Ridge
Wells Gray Provincial Park – 416 Eden Rd, Clearwater
Kootenay Lake – Midge Creek Provincial Park – Sanca
Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park – 75100-81198 Alaska Hwy
Muncho Lake Provincial Park – Alaska Hwy

26. Refresh at a Waterfall

Credit: Rick McCharles/Flickr

It is no surprise, given the landscape of the province, that there are some incredible waterfalls worthy of a visit. Some you may be able to dip your toes into, others you will have to be content with the mist of the falls to refresh you. As with all natural wonders, each waterfall is different and holds its own beauty. Some you will have to walk to, others can be seen from a lookout point or the road. Each one will have you reaching for your camera to preserve the memory.

Bridal Falls – Bridal Veil Provincial Park, Fraser Valley D
Nairn Falls – Squamish-Lillooet C
Englishman River Falls, Englishman River Regional Park – 249 Allsbrook Rd, Parksville
Twin Falls – Lynn Canyon Ecology Center, 3663 Park Rd, North Vancouver
Takakkaw Falls – Yoho National Park

27. Take a Hike

Credit: Ecosummer Expeditions / Justin Walker

Since we have already discovered that B.C. has the biggest provincial park system, along with the seven national parks and the municipal regions, it will be no surprise that the province is home to more than 6,000 kilometers of hiking trails. From short walks to multiday treks, it is easy to find one that suits your ability level and time restrictions. Take advantage of the lovely summer days, strap on your backpack and hiking boots, and head out to explore the wilderness.

Trans Canada Trail – Part of the longest hiking trail in the country, there are several points to start at in the province. A great place to start is on Vancouver Island, right in the city of Victoria. 1250 Dallas Rd, Victoria
Sunshine Coast Trail – A 180-km hut to hut journey that takes you through some spectacular scenery. The official start point is Sarah Point, to get there reserve a water taxi from Lund. 1451B Highway 101, Lund
Juan De Fuca Marine Trail – A 47-km trail on Vancouver Island providing amazing wilderness opportunities and beautiful views. Start at Botanical Beach near Port Renfew.
West Coast Trail – A 5 to 7-day 75-km hike that takes you through the incredible Pacific Rim National Park. Start at the Gordon River trailhead outside Port Renfrew. Note that you will need to take a ferry to the start. The West Coast Trail office is on Pacheena Rd.
Mt. Edziza Plateau Traverse – A difficult, extreme hike that will take you into the gorgeous wilderness that the province offers. Start at Tatooga Lake Resort where you can take a float plane to the start of the trail. Highway 37, Kitimat-Stikine D

28. Fish for a Big One

Credit: Queen Charlotte Lodge, Haida Gwaii

The best thing about fishing in B.C. is the wide variety of fish you can catch in every area of the province. The lakes, rivers and the ocean are all teeming with fish just waiting to jump on your hook. Along with salmon, trout are probably the most abundant type of fish you will find here. Of course, if you are looking for that big catch, the sturgeon fishing on the lower and middle Fraser River will blow your mind. Don’t forget that you need a license to fish anywhere in the province.

Campbell River – With four types of salmon waiting to be caught, this area is considered the Salmon Capital of the World. As well, you can fish for cutthroat trout and steelhead.
Fraser River – April through September is the best time to fish for White Sturgeon, and even though it is a catch and release system, you will be able to document your experiences with pictures to prove your catches!
Bulkley River – A perfect place for steelhead fishing and a great option for first-time to BC steelhead anglers, the Bulkley River has the largest wild steelhead runs in the world.
Vancouver Island and Haida Gwaii – One of the best fish to be caught in this area is the huge, and delicious, Pacific Halibut. Not to mention the other varieties such as the incredible Chinook Salmon.
Okanagan Lake – The B.C. native Kamloops Trout resides in this lake, along with Kokanee, Lake Whitefish, Burbot and Rainbow Trout that can reach well over 20 pounds.

29. Scuba Dive

Credit: Artificial Reef Society of BC

Since British Columbia borders the Pacific Ocean, it makes sense that there are plenty of places to enjoy some diving. That doesn’t even take into consideration the inland lakes that offer up some unique diving opportunities. Those with lots of experience will find places along the coast or off the islands to explore on their own but don’t worry if you are just learning or want to try scuba diving for the first time, there are plenty of spots that are good for beginners. Check out the sunken ships and statues, or simply enjoy the sea life.

Whytecliff Park – Good for beginners but popular with all experience levels. 7210 Arbutus Rd, West Vancouver
Porteau Cove – Experienced and technical divers will love it here but there are opportunities for those who don’t have tons of experience as well.
Saltery Bay – Dive to find the Emerald Princess and an abundance of sea life. 11471 BC-101, Powell River
Explore the HMCS Chaudiere – Kunechin Point, Sechelt Inlet
Paul’s Tomb – Great for beginners, this is an opportunity to see the Ogopogo! Knox Mountain Park, Kelowna

30. Take a Bike Ride

Credit: Myra Canyon Trestle

Just like hiking in the province, there are plenty of trails to explore by bicycle. Along with more traditional biking routes that take you along scenic pathways, you will also find some extreme mountain biking routes that will test your skills. Challenge yourself with multi-day bike rides or on a downhill course or take a leisurely ride along a historical path.

Cycle Myra Canyon Trestles – Part of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, this section has 18 trestles, two tunnels, and a lot of beautiful scenery.
Vancouver SeaWall – The world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path stretches for 28 kilometres from the Vancouver Convention Centre, around Stanley Park, and all the way to Spanish Banks Park. 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver
Great Northern Rail Trail – Ride along an abandoned rail bed of the Burlington Northern Railway. The 48-km flat trail goes through the thick forest, crosses bridges, and passes over many trestles. There’s also a beach waiting for you after a downhill section. Mountain Station Road, Nelson
Garibaldi Highland Trails – Squamish one of the world’s top 25 most wild and exotic mountain biking destinations. These trails are good options for beginners and intermediates. 40460 Parkway Rd, Squamish
Galloping Goose Regional Trail – Located on Vancouver Island, often called Canada’s Cycling Capital. This is a part of the Trans-Canada Trail and stretches 55 kilometers from coast to coast.

31. Get a Great View

Credit: Grouse Mountain Resort

Sometimes all you want is a good view. You don’t necessarily have to spend hours hiking to the top of a mountain or spend hours driving out of the city in order to find an incredible one. There are places throughout the province that offer up some amazing views of the cities, mountains, ocean, lakes, rivers and canyons. Take a coffee and your camera and enjoy.

Playground of the Gods – A unique place to see some spectacular sunsets over Vancouver, you get not just the scenic views but the beautiful totems as well.
Mount Tolmie Park – For a 360-degree view of the city of Victoria. 3492 Mayfair Dr #3486, Victoria
Kootenay Valley Viewpoint – The valley and the surrounding mountains make a photo-worthy stop for some of the best views in the region.
Mount Robson Rest Stop – The best place to have an amazing view of the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies. Highway 16, Red Pass, Fraser-Fort George
Grouse Mountain – Incredible panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding mountains from the top. 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver

32. Wilderness Getaway

Credit: Nuk Tessli

British Columbia is a vast province of snow-capped mountains, rugged wilderness, and winding back roads. There is forever a place you can discover; a place you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of life, from social media, from work, from all of it, and just be.

Wildwood Cabin, 6047 Lang Road (Mayook Valley), Wardner
The Flow Wilderness Retreat, Quathiaski Cove
The Wilderness Resort & Retreat, 4444 Cawley Point (Storm Bay), Sechelt
Cabana Desolation Eco Resort, 10676 Crowther Road, Powell River
Nuk Tessli Cabin Centre, Nimpo Lake

33. View Wildlife

Credit: Spirit Bear Lodge

From large mammals to small creatures, there are approximately 1,100 different wildlife species in the province. Moose, deer, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, grizzlies, black bears, spirit bears, dolphins, sea lions and more can be found in B.C. Keep in mind that early morning and late evening is the best time to view wildlife during the summer and it is common to see them alongside roads and highways. Never approach wildlife for any reason and if you are hiking in the wilderness, be sure to carry bear spray with you.

Spirit Bears – The Great Bear Rainforest is home to these incredibly rare bears. Bear sightings are never guaranteed, but a visit to the area might grant you a view of these beautiful creatures.
Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park – If you are willing to traverse the wilderness to get some good wildlife sightings, this is one of the most important habitats for woodland caribou.
Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary – A protected area northeast of Prince Rupert that provides habitat for an estimated fifty grizzlies. Only a handful of licensed operators can conduct tours inside the sanctuary, and there are strict rules in place about how close vessels can get to the bears.
Liard River Hot Springs – There is a unique warm water swamp here that attracts more than 100 bird species and more than two dozen different mammals, including year-round opportunities to view moose. The section of the Alaska Highway near the park is known for its massive bison populations, as well as for wild horses, bears and caribou. 75100-81198 Alaska Hwy, Northern Rockies B

34. Pick Some Fruit

Credit: Krause Berry Farms & Estate Winery

Although this sounds like work, it really is a lot of fun. There is nothing fresher than picking your own fruit from a tree or bush to take with you. In the province, you will find cherries, strawberries, blueberries, apricots, nectarines, peaches, raspberries, blackberries, plums, and grapes. Check the crop harvest calendar to get all the info you need on when to pick your favourite fruit.

Krause Berry Farms – Raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries. 6179 248 St, Langley Twp
Arndt Orchards – Cherries. 1409 Teasdale Rd, Kelowna
Davison Orchards – Apples. 3111 Davison Rd, Vernon
Paynter’s Fruit Market – Apricots, peaches, plums, and pears. 3687 Paynter Rd, West Kelowna
Duggan Farms – Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, peaches, and nectarines. 2651 Camp Rd, Lake Country

35. Play Golf

Credit: Greywolf Golf Course

Golfing is a favourite summer activity and British Columbia has some incredible golf courses to enjoy. There are over 300 courses available in the province, and B.C. holds the title as Canada’s number one golf destination in the country, due to the year round favourable climate. Marquee designers such as Stanley Thompson, Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones, Doug Carrick, Arnold Palmer, and Gary Player have all left their mark here.

Capilano Golf and Country Club – Glorious views and a world class design makes this the best course in the province. 420 Southborough Dr, West Vancouver
Shaughnessy Golf & Country Club – Overlooking the Strait of Georgia and the Fraser River, this classic course has fantastic reviews. 4300 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver
Victoria Golf Club – Established in 1893, this is the oldest course in Canada that is still played on the original site. 1110 Beach Dr, Victoria
Greywolf Golf Course – Wonderful changes in elevation with spectacular views and a great design high quality turf. 1860 Greywolf Dr, Panorama
Royal Colwood Golf Club – One of only five clubs in Canada to have the “royal” title, this honour was bestowed by King George V in 1931. 629 Goldstream Ave, Victoria

36. Go Lazy River Tubing

Credit: Lake Cowichan River Tubing

A fun, unique way to spend some time on the water without having to put in any effort! With some of the cleanest and most scenic rivers in the country, this is a perfect way to laze away a beautiful day. Some rivers have operators that will take you back to the beginning to get your vehicle, others don’t, so be prepared with all the information before hopping onto your floaties and wiling the day away.

Similkameen River – Start at the Bridge of Dreams. 152 BC-5A, Princeton
Penticton River Channel – Rent inner tubes and get a shuttle with Coyote Cruises. 215 Riverside Dr, Penticton
Cowichan River – Considered the islands best-kept secret, you can rent tubes and get a free shuttle back to the start point. 109 S Shore Rd, Lake Cowichan
Alouette River – No rental or shuttle services here. 23200 Fern Crescent, Maple Ridge
Shuswap River – Several routes here but no services of rentals or shuttles. 508-806 Railway St, Armstrong

37. Some Good Food

Let’s face it, food is a big part of our lives and an even bigger part of travel. On the road, most travellers are looking for the unique and the best of meals in every place they visit. B.C. has so many phenomenal restaurants and cafes that it makes it hard to choose where to go. From amazing BBQ’s to historic restaurants, local eats to completely amazing sites, you will be treated to something good no matter where you go.

Maeg’s BBQ Boats – An incredibly unique way of enjoying BBQ. 230 Queensway, Kelowna
Molly’s Reach – Made famous by the Beachcombers! 647 School Rd, Gibsons
Smitty’s Oyster House – Fresh oysters, fresh fish and other delights. 643 School Rd, Gibsons
Barb’s Fish & Chips – Fresh fish and chips right on the wharf in Victoria’s Harbour. 1 Dallas Rd, Victoria

38. Visit a Museum

Credit: Museum of Anthropology

Anyone with an interest in history or culture will enjoy the incredible museums available in the province. A great rainy-day activity or a nice break from outdoor adventures, time in these buildings will give you an insight into the First Nations history as well as the history of the settlers and explorers that came into the area. Not to mention the other quirky museums that can be enjoyed.

Royal BC Museum – A world-class museum of natural and human history. 675 Belleville St, Victoria
BC Aviation Museum – With more than 20 aircraft on display this is a great destination for airplane lovers. 1910 Norseman Rd, North Saanich
Miniature World – A fun, quirky little museum full of all sorts of miniature dioramas and displays representing historical times & fictional worlds. 649 Humboldt St, Victoria
The Richmond Experience – Canada’s only Olympic Museum. 6111 River Rd, Richmond
Museum of Anthropology – This museum at UBC is devoted to cultural artifacts from around the world. 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver

39. Take a Boat Ride

Credit: Backeddy Resort and Marina

Short and sweet or long and dreamy, boat rides along the rivers, on the lakes, or travelling the ocean will bring you fantastic views along with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife and interesting places. You can sail, motorboat, cruise or take a ferry. Every moment on the water will be enjoyable.

Victoria Harbour Ferry – These cute little boats are used for water taxis within the harbour area or join one of two great tours. 993 David Foster Way, Victoria
Vines & Views Boat Tours – Boat wine tours and sunset dinner cruises on Okanagan Lake. 1314 Ponderosa Ct, West Kelowna
Paddlewheeler Riverboat Tours – Amazing cruises on a classic paddle wheeler, including the Fraser River and dinner cruises. 810 Quayside Dr #150, New Westminster
Maple Leaf Adventures – The Maple Leaf is a classic, 92-foot, BC schooner taking up to 18 guests on day cruises, and just 8 or 9 guests on boutique, multi-day expedition cruises. 1110 Government St #209, Victoria
Sunshine Coast Tours – A perfect way of seeing the Skookumchuck Narrows and Sechelt Rapids or Princess Louisa Inlet. 16660 Backeddy Rd, Madeira Park

40. Visit a “Zoo”

Credit: BC Wildlife Park

There are more non-traditional zoos in the province than those that we think of from our childhoods. Instead, take the opportunity to enjoy the variety of animals at the wildlife parks, or ranging free within the gardens and farms or swimming in the pools. This is a chance to see some incredible local and exotic animals and sea life up close and personal for an unforgettable experience.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens –This is not a traditional zoo but a pretty cool place to visit. Along with up to 70 species of butterflies (thousands flying around) there are also poison dart frogs, tortoises, large iguanas, flamingos, tropical ducks, free flying tropical birds and insects. 1461 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay
British Columbia Wildlife Park – This wildlife park has 106 acres available to their animals and does a lot of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. You can see wolves, bears, birds of prey, bison, elk, insects, reptiles and more. 9077 Dallas Dr, Kamloops
Vancouver Aquarium – With a large focus on conservation, this aquarium showcases both local and exotic sea life. This not for profit aquarium is one of the favourite attractions in the Vancouver area. 845 Avison Way, Vancouver
Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea – An excellent way to view Salish Sea marine life without having to get yourself wet. 9811 Seaport Pl, Sidney
Kangaroo Creek Farm – An exotic adventure, this family-friendly farm is home to kangaroos, wallaroos and wallabies, as well as emus, peacocks, fancy chickens, goats, parrots, potbellied pigs, and a capybara. 5932 Old Vernon Rd, Kelowna

41. Visit a Lighthouse

Credit: Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites

Lighthouses are stark reminders that the oceans can be dangerous, as they show the way to shore and protect boats from hazardous coastlines. With the incredibly long coastline and the maze of inlets and islands, lighthouses play an important part in the province.

Lighthouse Park – The first lighthouse here was built in 1874 and featured a steam-powered foghorn. 4902 Beacon Ln, West Vancouver
Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site – This site dates back to 1860 and is Canada’s oldest West Coast lighthouse. It was built by the British to guide ships into the Esquimalt harbour and remains in operation to this day as a base for the Royal Canadian Navy. 603 Fort Rodd Hill Rd, Victoria
Sheringham Point Lighthouse – The history of shipwrecks here is incredible, almost as amazing as the coastline and the forests surrounding the lighthouse. 1 Sheringham Point Rd, Shirley
Amphitrite Lighthouse – The original lighthouse was built in 1906 but was replaced in 1915 with the structure that still stands today. 250 Coast Guard Dr, Ucluelet
Pilot Bay Lighthouse – With the safest harbour in the area, Pilot Bay has always served as a marker of safety for Kootenay Bay. Local volunteers have since restored the Pilot Bay lighthouse, which was originally constructed in 1904. Pilot Bay Rd, Kootenay Bay

42. View Some Natural Wonders

Credit: Marcia O’Connor/Flickr

There is an amazing number of natural wonders in the province, from the mystical looking coloured mineral pools at Spotted Lake to the intriguing naturally formed hoodoos at Fairmont, or even more strange, a desert-like atmosphere at one of the only true natural sand dunes in Canada. B.C. is home to the largest canyon in Canada and the oldest trees – the giant, towering Douglas Firs in Cathedral Grove are astounding, with some of them more than 800 years old.

Spotted Lake – 15001 Crowsnest Hwy, Osoyoos
Fairmont Hoodoos – East Kootenay
Farwell Canyon – One of the only few natural sand dunes in Canada. Farwell Canyon Rd, Cariboo K
Cathedral Grove – BC-4, Nanaimo F – McMillan Provincial Park
Stikine Canyon – Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Stikine.” Lying west of Highway #37, access is along the scenic Telegraph Creek Road which leads 110 km from Dease Lake. The main canyon on the Stikine runs from just west of the highway #37 bridge to Telegraph Creek townsite.

43. See Some Beautiful Architecture

Credit: Brett Ryan

Beauty in architecture can mean different things to different people. Some look for sleek, modern designs and others notice brick patterns and old-world designs. Buildings are purposefully designed, with care and attention to the details that are important to the architects themselves, and in each building, they leave a little bit of themselves behind. Look for the unique aspects of each building as you view it.

The Chapel House – Influenced by Russian Orthodox country chapel architecture, this house is built in its style and setting as a reflection of the painting ‘Beyond Eternal Peace’ by the Russian mystic and painter Isaac Leviton.901 7 Ave, Castlegar
The Hobbit House – Affectionately named the Hobbit House after its design, this heritage house in Vancouver was built in the 1940’s. 587 West King Edward Avenue, Vancouver
Vernon Courthouse – This lavish building has lasted 100 years and will be around for many more years to come. Locally quarried pink granite from Okanagan Landing was used for the exterior walls and Italian marble for the main staircase, floor tiling and pilasters. 2899 30th Ave, Vernon
Empress Hotel – Designed by the famous architect Francis Rattenbury, this historic hotel was built in 1908. Like with many of Canada’s fellow grand railroad hotels, the hotel’s exterior was crafted to resemble that of a spectacular historic manor from France’s Loire Valley. 721 Government St, Victoria
B.C. Legislature Buildings – Designed by the same architect as the Empress Hotel, Rattenbury was only 25 when his design was chosen to be built. The structure is constructed in the Romanesque Revival style of architecture and was intended to introduce a formal and impressive silhouette between the shoreline and the mountainous backdrop. 501 Belleville Street, Victoria

44. Drink Some Tea

Credit: Empress Hotel Victoria

The history of tea drinking dates back 5,000 years and we understand why. The British turned to tea drinking in the mid to late 1600’s and turned afternoon tea into practically an art form in the 19th century. An afternoon “tea” usually consists of both savoury and sweet goodies along with a steaming pot of your choice of tea. We consider this to be an excellent way to spend part of an afternoon, especially since several of these places have charming atmospheres to relax in.

Empress Hotel Victoria – This is a luxurious and decadent afternoon tea that is worth every penny. 721 Government St, Victoria
Mackie Lake House Foundation – An opportunity to have an afternoon tea at a lovely historical site. 7804 Kidston Rd, Coldstream
Patisserie Fur Elise – Afternoon tea can be had in an 1893 Victorian house. 847 Hamilton St, Vancouver
Butchart Gardens – You can’t ask for a more beautiful place to enjoy afternoon tea. 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay
Pendray Teahouse – This 1890 heritage property offers a West Coast Tea for seafood-focused treats or a Traditional Afternoon Tea. 309 Belleville St, Victoria

45. Ride a Gondola

Credit: Sea to Sky Gondola

This is one of the best ways to get to the peaks of the mountains to get the stunning views that can be had. Some summer gondolas are free of charge, but most have a fee that you will have to pay to ride to the top. From the famous Grouse Mountain Gondola, where you can have an open air experience riding on top of the gondola car, to the Peak to Peak that has a unique glass bottom, or the thrilling Airtram over the rapids at Hell’s Gate, you will enjoy every second on this fun mode of transportation.

Grouse Mountain Skyride – 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Sea to Sky Gondola – 36800 BC-99, Squamish
Hell’s Gate Airtram – 43111 Trans-Canada Hwy, Boston Bar
Peak to Peak Gondola – Access via Whistler Village Gondola
Panorama Mountain Resort Gondola – 2000 Panorama Dr, Panorama

46. Drink Some Beer

We have cheated a bit in this category and have decided to list some of the winners of the 2019 best craft beer in the province. There is something like 200 breweries in the province, so it is difficult to decide which ones to try. An excellent way of trying local products and supporting the in-province breweries, having a nice cold beer on a hot day is also a great way to relax. Those who are beer enthusiasts will appreciate the subtleties of these tasty brews.

Driftwood Brewery – Offering tours of their facilities, this brewery has some of the finest brews in the province. 102-450 Hillside Ave, Victoria
Twin City Brewing Company – Listed as one of the best breweries of the year, you might want to give their Run Of The Mill IPA or Late Bloomer a try. 4503 Margaret St, Port Alberni
Parkside Brewery – One of the best tasting rooms you will find, you may want to taste their Dreamboat Hazy IPA which was a beer of the year. 2731 Murray St, Port Moody
Four Winds Brewing – Opened in 2013, this brewery has won multiple awards for its unique beers. 4-7355 72 St, Delta
Field House Brewing – Their “beer lawn” is the perfect place to chill out on a warm day with one of their award-winning brews. 2281 W Railway St, Abbotsford

47. Enjoy a Spa

Credit: Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre

Whether you are looking for some relaxation time or some specialty services, time at a spa is never badly spent. These spas offer unique services, such as products used from the ocean, or serenity gardens. The Tigh-Na-Mara has the honor of being named the #1 spa in Canada in 2018; Sparkling Hill has a unique cold sauna called the Igloo; and at Wild Orange everything is inspired by, understandably, orange. The Madrona del Mar is perfect for couples, offering up a “Couples Blackberry Port Massage”.

The Spa at Painted Boat Resort – 12849 Lagoon Rd, Madeira Park
Tigh-Na-Mara – 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville
Sparkling Hill Wellness Resort – 888 Sparkling Pl, Vernon
Wild Orange Spa – 2031 McCallum Rd #103, Abbotsford
Madrona del Mar – 134 Madrona Dr, Galiano Island

48. Eat Some Sweets/Desserts

Credit: Tourism Nanaimo

After dinner, after lunch, for breakfast, for an afternoon snack, or for a late-night sugar fix – there is nothing better than a good dessert! Sweets and treats abound throughout the province, but of course the larger cities have some unique places to offer up the goodies for you.

La Casa Gelato – A popular ice cream shop with more than 588 flavours that are rotated through regularly! 1033 Venables St, Vancouver
Nanaimo Bar Trail – Stop by the Visitor Center in Nanaimo for a brochure with the route and descriptions of the 39 yummy stops. Along this route you can try a variety of sweets, including the classic Nanaimo Bars, deep fried Nanaimo Bars, Nanaimo Bars cupcakes, and so on. 2450 Northfield Rd, Nanaimo
Glenburn Soda Fountain & Confectionery – This is a throw-back to a simpler time and an opportunity to enjoy the simple pleasures of a hand-made dessert. 4090 Hastings St, Burnaby
Crackle Crème – A small, craft-style dessert cafe serving up artisan crème brûlée and authentic Belgian liège waffles. 245 Union St, Vancouver

49. See a Shipwreck, Train Wreck or a Plane Crash

Credit: Maarten Brinkerink/Flickr

If you are looking for unique destinations, these would be on the list. From deliberately sunk ships to a train in a forest and old plane wrecks, these destinations are not always easy to get to, but are an excellent reason to get your camera out and your walking shoes on. Interestingly enough, these are only a few of the wrecks that are still visible in the province.

Mystery Plane – In the Heritage Park in Mission there are the remains of a plane that no one knows anything about. 7494 Mary St, Mission
Whistler Train Wreck – A hike will take you to the site of this horrific train crash near Whistler which occurred in 1956.
Petsuta Shipwreck – Located on the shores of Haida Gwaii, the Pesuta Shipwreck Trail leads hikers ten kilometers through the forest of Naikon Provincial Park to a remote stretch of beach where a 264-foot log barge ran aground during a winter storm in 1928. 2087 Beitush Rd, Tlell
Canso Bomber Crash Site – The wreckage still sits at the exact spot the plane crash-landed in 1945, carrying 1,000 pounds of explosives. 36109 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino
Royston Shipwrecks – At least 14 twice-retired ships were sunk to make a lovely rusting breakwater in Comox Harbour. Breakwater in Comox Harbour, End of Hilton Road, Courtenay

50. Visit a Mine or a Mining Museum

Credit: Britannia Mine Museum

Of course, British Columbia is well known for the mining that has gone on throughout the province since the mid-1800’s. Those who are interested in the history of these sites can partake of tours into the deep, dark mining shafts to learn how the miners worked through the years or visit one of the interesting museums that hold an abundance of artifacts.

Britannia Mine Museum – 1 Forbes Way, Britannia Beach
Kimberley’s Underground Mining Railway – 111 Gerry Sorensen Way, Kimberley
Cumberland Museum & Archives – 2680 Dunsmuir Ave, Cumberland
Coal Mining Museum and Mine Tours – Sparwood

51. Visit an Abandoned Ghost Town

Credit: Barkerville Historic Town & Park

There is something so fascinating about abandoned towns and sites. They hold a lot of history of how the province was built and why certain regions have changed over time. The Valley of the Ghosts in the Kootenays is probably the most famed local for ghost towns in the entire country.

Sandon Ghost Town – Located in the heart of B.C.’s famous Valley of the Ghosts, this former wild silver mining town is arguably the most famous ghost town in western Canada. Slocan Ave, Sandon
Three Forks/Alamo Ghost Town – Also located in the Valley of the Ghosts, this is a walk-in destination. Sandon Rd, New Denver
Barkerville – This is now listed as a historic town and park and is a popular tourist site, but still technically a ghost town. Once a bustling gold rush town, there is a lot of interesting history here. 14301 BC-26, Barkerville
Kitsault – This is one of the best ghost towns in the province as the mall, grocery store and many other buildings have been left empty for over 30 years but are in immaculate condition. You do need permission to visit, so don’t just show up. UNBC also offers a two-day tour here.
Parkhurst – This small logging town located near Whistler was abandoned in 1966. Old building and cars from the 50s are still nestled in this forest town but are only accessed by a hike.

52. Glamping

Credit: Boulder Mountain Resort

If you don’t want to sacrifice the usual comforts of a hotel or their own homes, like a bed, comfortable mattress, electricity, or running water and flushing toilets, there are plenty of glamping options in British Columbia. Discover B.C.’s wild without sacrificing creature comforts.

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort,5356 Ole’s Cove Road, Halfmoon Bay, Sunshine Coast
Free Spirit Spheres, 420 Horne Lake Rd, Qualicum Beach
Fossil Beach Farm, 750 Savoie Road, Hornby Island
Boulder Mountain Resort, 3069 Trans-Canada Highway, Revelstoke
Wildpod Glamping, 174 West Street, Tofino

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