Surrey, British Columbia is a vibrant and diverse city located just 30 minutes from Vancouver. Known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and endless recreational opportunities, Surrey is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the best of what the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
But with so many things to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to some of the most unique and exciting things to do in Surrey. From art and culture to nature and outdoors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
We hope this guide will inspire you to plan a visit to Surrey and experience all the amazing things this city has to offer. Whether you’re a local resident looking for new ways to explore your city, or a traveler looking for a new destination, Surrey is a must-see. So, let’s dive in and discover all the exciting things Surrey has to offer!
Art and Culture
Surrey Art Gallery
The Surrey Art Gallery is a must-see destination for anyone interested in contemporary art. The gallery features a rotating selection of exhibitions by local, national, and international artists, as well as a variety of educational programs and events.
One of the highlights of the Surrey Art Gallery is the permanent collection, which showcases the work of artists from the Pacific Northwest region. The collection is diverse and dynamic, featuring a wide range of mediums and styles. From paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
But the gallery isn’t just about art, it also provides an opportunity to engage with the community and explore various art forms. The gallery offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, including tours, lectures, and workshops. They also organize events such as artist talks, film screenings, and live performances.
The Surrey Art Gallery is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. It’s an excellent destination for those who appreciate art and want to learn more about it. It’s an opportunity to see the work of established and emerging artists, and to be part of a community that values and supports the arts.
Museum of Surrey
The Museum of Surrey is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the area. The museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase the history of Surrey and the surrounding region, from its First Nations roots to its development as a modern city.
One of the highlights of the Museum of Surrey is the permanent exhibit, “A Story of Surrey”, which tells the story of the city’s history through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about the area’s early settlers, its role in the gold rush, and its development as a modern city. The exhibits provide a glimpse of the area’s past, but also show how the past shapes the present and the future.
In addition to the permanent exhibit, the museum also features rotating exhibits that delve deeper into specific themes or historical events. These exhibits are often interactive and engaging, giving visitors a hands-on experience of the past.
The Museum of Surrey is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. It’s an excellent destination for those who are interested in history and want to learn more about the area they live in or are visiting. It’s a great opportunity to discover the stories and artifacts that tell the history of the city and the region and to understand the context of the present.
Nature and Outdoors
Serpentine Fen Nature Reserve
The Serpentine Fen Nature Reserve is a hidden gem located in the heart of Surrey, and it offers a beautiful and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This nature reserve is a must-see destination for anyone interested in hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.
One of the highlights of the Serpentine Fen Nature Reserve is the variety of hiking trails that wind through the wetlands, providing visitors with a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. The trails are well-maintained and offer beautiful views of the wetlands and the surrounding mountains. The reserve also offers a variety of birdwatching opportunities, as it is home to over 200 species of birds, including the Great Blue Heron, the Bald Eagle, and the Osprey.
The reserve also offers a range of guided tours and educational programs that provide a deeper understanding of the wetlands ecosystem, its history, and its conservation efforts. These tours are led by knowledgeable and passionate guides who are dedicated to sharing their love of nature with others.
The Serpentine Fen Nature Reserve is open year-round and admission is free. It’s an excellent destination for those who appreciate nature and want to experience it in a peaceful and tranquil setting. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about the wetlands ecosystem, and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Stewart Farm
Stewart Farm is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history and agriculture. This beautifully restored 1894 farmhouse offers visitors a glimpse into the past and a chance to experience the traditional farm life.
One of the highlights of Stewart Farm is the opportunity to explore the farmhouse and its various outbuildings, including the barn, chicken coop, and blacksmith shop. Visitors can learn about the history of the farm and the daily life of the family who lived there through the exhibits and artifacts on display. The farm also offers hands-on activities that give visitors a chance to experience what life was like on a farm in the 19th century, such as butter making, blacksmithing, and gardening.
The farm also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, including tours, workshops, and festivals. These programs provide a deeper understanding of the history of the farm and the area, as well as the traditional farm practices and techniques.
Stewart Farm is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday and admission is free. It’s an excellent destination for those who are interested in history and want to learn more about the area they live in or are visiting. It’s an opportunity to discover the stories and artifacts that tell the history of the city and the region, and to understand the context of the present.
Bear Creek Park
Bear Creek Park is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the great outdoors in Surrey. This beautiful park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, picnicking, and more.
One of the highlights of Bear Creek Park is the many hiking trails that wind through the park. These trails offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of the park and to see the diverse flora and fauna of the area. The park also offers a range of picnic areas, including covered picnic shelters, which are perfect for a family outing or a casual lunch.
For those who enjoy fishing, the park offers a variety of fishing spots along the Bear Creek, where visitors can try their luck at catching trout, salmon, and other fish. The park also features playgrounds and a spray park for children, and a variety of sports fields for sports enthusiasts.
Bear Creek Park is open year-round and admission is free. It’s an excellent destination for those who enjoy nature and want to experience it in a peaceful and tranquil setting. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, and spend quality time with family and friends.
Serpentine Greenway
The Serpentine Greenway is a must-see destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors in Surrey. This beautiful trail runs along the Serpentine River and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including walking, biking, and more.
One of the highlights of the Serpentine Greenway is the scenic route that it offers. The trail winds through the natural beauty of the area, passing by wetlands, forests and offering visitors the opportunity to see the diverse flora and fauna of the area. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
The Serpentine Greenway also offers a range of recreational activities, such as fishing, bird watching, and picnicking. The trail is also a great spot for a morning or evening jog, a leisurely walk, or a bike ride.
The Serpentine Greenway is open year-round and admission is free. It’s an excellent destination for those who appreciate nature and want to experience it in a peaceful and tranquil setting. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, and stay active. The trail is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend a day.
Surrey Nature Centre
The Surrey Nature Centre is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the natural world. This educational facility offers visitors a chance to learn about the local flora and fauna and to explore the natural beauty of the area.
One of the highlights of the Surrey Nature Centre is the variety of exhibits that showcase the local wildlife and ecosystems. Visitors can learn about the area’s birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects through interactive exhibits and live animal displays. The centre also features a variety of educational programs for all ages, including guided nature walks, birdwatching sessions, and wildlife presentations.
The Surrey Nature Centre also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The centre’s staff are knowledgeable and passionate about the natural world, and they are dedicated to sharing their love of nature with others.
The Surrey Nature Centre is open year-round and admission is free. It’s an excellent destination for those who appreciate nature and want to learn more about the local flora and fauna. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about the local wildlife and ecosystems, and understand the importance of conservation. The centre’s programs and activities are suitable for all ages, making it a great destination for families and groups.
Shopping and Entertainment
Guildford Town Centre
Guildford Town Centre is a must-see destination for anyone looking for a shopping and dining experience in Surrey. This large mall offers a wide range of shops and restaurants, as well as entertainment options and services.
One of the highlights of Guildford Town Centre is the variety of shops and stores that it offers. Visitors can find a wide range of fashion, beauty, electronics, home decor, and more. The mall also features a large food court and several sit-down restaurants, which offer a variety of cuisines to choose from.
The mall also offers a variety of entertainment options, such as a movie theater and an indoor play area for children. It also features services such as a hair salon, bank, and post office.
Guildford Town Centre is open seven days a week, and offers ample parking and easy access to public transportation. It’s an excellent destination for those who want to do some shopping or grab a bite to eat. It’s also a great destination for families, as it offers entertainment options for children, and it’s an opportunity to find everything you need in one place.
Surrey Central City Plaza
Surrey Central City Plaza, also known as the city’s downtown area, is a must-see destination for anyone looking for a unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experience in Surrey. This bustling area offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, as well as a variety of services.
One of the highlights of Surrey Central City Plaza is the variety of shops and stores that it offers. Visitors can find a wide range of fashion, beauty, electronics, home decor, and more. The area also features a variety of sit-down restaurants, cafes, and pubs, which offer a range of cuisines to choose from.
The area also offers a variety of entertainment options, such as live music venues, art galleries, and theaters. It also features services such as a hair salon, bank, and post office.
Surrey Central City Plaza is open seven days a week, and offers ample parking and easy access to public transportation. It’s an excellent destination for those who want to do some shopping or grab a bite to eat, or for those who want to enjoy a night out. It’s also a great destination for families, as it offers entertainment options for children, and it’s an opportunity to find everything you need in one place. The area also offers a unique atmosphere, as it’s the city’s downtown, it’s a perfect place to experience the vibrant culture of the city.
Conclusion
Surrey, British Columbia is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a wide range of activities for visitors and residents alike. From art and culture to nature and outdoors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
We’ve highlighted some of the top things to do in Surrey, including the Surrey Art Gallery, the Surrey Museum, the Serpentine Fen Nature Reserve, Stewart Farm, Bear Creek Park, Serpentine Greenway, and the Surrey Nature Centre, as well as shopping and entertainment at Guildford Town Centre and the Surrey Central City Plaza.
We hope this guide has inspired you to plan a visit to Surrey and experience all the amazing things this city has to offer. Whether you’re a local resident looking for new ways to explore your city or a traveler looking for a new destination, Surrey is a must-see. So, take the time to discover all the exciting things Surrey has to offer and make the most of your visit.
