If you're seeking a new place to go on a day trip from Vancouver, you're in luck, because there is no better place in the world to be! Foreigners may think that the only place to go from Vancouver is Whistler, however what they don't know is that there are countless lakes, waterfalls, and small towns to explore - most only within a few hours from Metro Vancouver.
Be sure to take advantage of the days being the longest they will be, and hit the road to see some of the natural wonders Vancouver and its surrounding areas have to offer!
Stotan Falls // Strathcona
@silverwar4Stotan Falls looks like a place out of a tropical island - however it is actually located on Vancouver Island, and is the perfect spot to relax in the little pools and jump from the waterfalls. Located about a two and a half hour trip from Vancouver by ferry and car, be sure to spend the entire day exploring!
Englishman River Falls // Nanaimo
@jinnyjspringEncompassed by a forest filled with Douglas Fir trees, Englishman River Falls features a couple of waterfalls that cascade into swimming holes that are beautiful for wading around in. There's honestly nothing better than a crisp swimming hole with clear waters when the sun is bearing down!
Steveston Village // Richmond
@frankyehtravelsIf you have yet to venture to the far side of Richmond to explore Steveston Village, it's something you have to do at least once. A historic fishing village, you can explore the quaint buildings lining the streets and experience the town like a true local by grabbing a Screamer (part slurpee part soft serve) and walking along the boardwalk. Check out Diplomat Bakery for some amazing cakes!
Cultus Lake Waterpark // Chilliwack
@viawesomeLocated just an hour from downtown Vancouver, Cultus Lake Waterpark is a rite of passage you need to experience at least once during the summer! Who says waterparks are just for kids - there are numerous waterslides, a lazy river, hot tubs, and plenty of areas to chill out in. What a perfect way to spend the day!
Buntzen Lake // Anmore
@lelo44Located just an hour east of Vancouver, Buntzen Lake is one of the popular hot spots during the summer months. With plenty of space for water activities, hiking, exploring, or just relaxing by the water, there's no wonder it is as popular as it is! You could really spend the entire day here - and dogs are welcome too!
Dog Mountain // North Vancouver
@_mableyThis trail located in North Vancouver is a short, easy hike from Mount Seymour, and offers amazing views of Vancouver on a clear, sunny day. It is also relatively close to Vancouver (about an hour drive) and makes the perfect day trip - and is suitable for beginners to hiking as well, so you don't have to worry about having insane levels of fitness!
Victoria
@selenadagirlVictoria, British Columbia's capital city, has so much to explore it can be hard to do it all in a single day, but if you want to make a summer day trip we suggest heading to the Butchart Gardens! Enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautiful gardens, and find out why the city has been long known as the 'city of gardens'.
Bowen Island // Vancouver
@csong111Bowen Island is a small island in the Howe Sound that feels like you are miles away from the noise of the city, however it is actually less than an hour from Metro Vancouver! There is plenty to do on the island, including great food, hiking, stunning views, and kayaking.
Pitt River // New Westminster
@wanderlustFor real adventurers, head to Pitt River, which is just a short 45 minute drive from Metro Vancouver. The area is known for its diversity of fish, but if you're keen to explore the area, you can find some truly hidden gems by boat - you can even find some secret hot springs heading north up Pitt River!
Tenquille Lake // Pemberton
@kristineclaudiaTruly a hidden gem located near Squamish, this trail leads through beautiful alpine meadows to a stunning lake - totally worth the hike! This one may be for more experienced hikers, but if you can make it you won't regret it as there are endless opportunities for outdoor recreation here.
Brittania Mine Museum // Brittania Beach
@camomilleteeIf you feel like doing some underground exploring, head to the Brittania Mine Museum, located at Brittania Beach north of Vancouver. You can take an underground tour of the mines on an old mining train, and then view the historical machinery and heritage buildings at the museum itself! You can also pan for gold - and if you find it you get to keep it!
Luciano Frattolin is taken away in custody from the Essex County Court in Elizabethtown, New York on Friday, July 24, 2026. Luciano Frattolin charged with 2nd-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse.
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Police officers open the back of a recovered truck during a press conference regarding Project 24K, a joint investigation into the theft of gold from Pearson International Airport, in Brampton, Ont., on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.
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The Rockyview General Hospital is pictured in Calgary, Thursday, March 20, 2025.
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This composite image shows, left to right, B.C. NDP Leader David Eby in Vancouver, on April 13, 2026; B.C. Conservative interim Leader Lorne Doerkson, in Vancouver, on Sept. 22, 2026; B.C. Green Party Leader Emily Lowan in Victoria, on Sept. 23, 2026.
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B.C. Premier David Eby, back, and outgoing premier John Horgan embrace during a swearing in ceremony where Eby became the province's 37th premier at the Musqueam Nation, in Vancouver, B.C., Friday, Nov. 18, 2022.
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