Finding fun during a worldwide pandemic is a challenge, but it’s not mission impossible for us Valley Moms.
Now’s the perfect time to slow down and rediscover your own backyard — an experience you can share as a family.
Here are 22 fun-tastic activities to add to your B.C. Summer Bucket List.
Ready, set, summer(ish)!
1-Cultus Lake Marina
If you’re looking to start your summer with a splash, head to Cultus Lake Marina for a fun (socially-distant-day) on the water. There is a good selection of boats, water skis, as well as board and jet-ski rentals at various hourly rates. VM Tip: Go with another family in your bubble and split the cost of a boat or pontoon to make it more affordable and fun!
2-Krause Berry Farms
Swing by this little sweet spot to pick berries in the u-pick fields. Afterwards, enjoy a fresh hot berry waffle and if you’re lucky, catch a live musical performance. Farm is open 7 days a week from 9 am to 5 pm. Drive thru and pick up of fresh berries, frozen berries, frozen pies, pies in a jar and ice cream is available. Designated online store pick up is also available with one way flow.
3- Aldor Acres Ltd.
This Langley-based farm is offering pop up summer farm openings, private tours, family events and parties all summer long. Check their website for info and upcoming dates.
4- Picnic in the Park
Fill a basket with local goodies and roll out a blanket under a shady tree at Campbell Valley Park. Don’t forget to pack some bird seeds to feed those little dickey birds on the trail and to mind your metres.
5-Twilight Drive In
Catch a classic flick from the comfort (and safety) of your own family vehicle at the Fraser Valley’s very own drive in. Guests are asked to practice social distancing at concession stand and while waiting to use bathroom facilities.
6- Greater Vancouver Zoo
A few changes have been implemented at the Greater Vancouver Zoo based on BC Public Health recommendations, including touches entry, sanitizer stations, one-way walking and distance markers. Note that the North American Wilds viewing deck, Vivarium and Playground have been closed for the near future. VM Tip: Free entry for Front-line healthcare workers to the zoo.
7- Fly Over Canada
Travel plans may be cancelled for the majority of us but that doesn’t mean you can’t fly over majestic Iceland. Take off on an exhilarating flying ride that lets you soar, dive and dip through incredible Icelandic landscapes without leaving Vancouver. VM Tip: Until July 17, save 30% with a dual ride ticket so you can see both Canada AND Iceland. You can also save 25% off Adult Tickets using promo code ADULT0620. Kids 12 and under ride for free.
8- Cultus Lake Adventure Park
Want to head to a theme park but are worried about the crowds? Cultus Lake Adventure Park has drastically reduced capacity and has modified operations due to COVID-19. Check out their website for new hours, rules and admission rates. Note: There will be two timed sessions per day, with each up to 4 hours max visit. The water slides are also open and are operating at limited capacity. Register for one of 2 sessions.
9-Harrison Watersports
The giant inflatable waterpark is back in business, offering everything from swings, teeter-totters, monkey bars, and hamster balls. Pick your time slot, and enjoy a full 2-hour session. Because of social distancing measures, they are only allowing 50 people max per time slot for the 2020 season.
10 -Redwood Park
This is such an enchanting spot to spend a sunny day. Scenic trails lead through redwood forest, groves and meadows, with picnic shelters and play areas.
11- Bear Creek Park
One of my favourite spots as a wee Valley girl, this park has a massive playground, waterpark, beautiful trails and ample spots for picnicking. Just a short walk from the trial, catch a glimpse of spawning salmon or trout.
12-Fort Langley National Historic Site
This grounds at this historic hot spot are now open for exploring, but expect limited visitor access and basic services. All historic buildings are closed and there are no costumed interpreters or group activities.
13- Williams Park
With a great playground, lush forest to explore and a swimming hole to splash around in, this is one of Langley’s best-kept secrets for locals.
14-Playland
This famed theme park opens its gates July 19 with safety precautions in place and limited rides/attractions.
15-Britannia Mine
The Britannia Mine Museum in Squamish is back open and all exhibits are running, including Copper Quest and their multi-sensory, live action show, in the iconic Mill#3 building, BOOM! There are enhanced sanitization protocols and tour numbers have been limited. As such, advanced ticketing and reservations are strongly encouraged. Please see here for tour times.
16- Historic Stewart Farm Guided Tours
Historic Stewart Farm now is now offering guided outdoor tours of the popular heritage site. The new modified service follows new protocols to ensure community safety as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Visitors must pre-register, with groups limited to 10 people. Tours of the historic site will be available Tuesday to Friday afternoons from 1:00 to 3:30pm. Guests are required to pre-register online with their MySurrey account.
17- Westminister Quay
Our family loves to rollerblade the scenic boardwalk at the Westminster Quay, which is home to the beloved Westminster Pier Park, Fraser River Discovery Centre, and River Market.
18 – Fort Langley
Go for a stroll, check out the shops and grab a bite to eat. There are two fab patios, including Beatniks Bistro and Trading Post Brewing Eatery. There’s also the option to grab lunch to go and have a picnic down by the waterfront. Don’t forget the chocolate dipped cone from Into Chocolate Candy & Confections.
19- Vancouver Aquarium
Now open! Every ticket purchased helps to ensure the future of the not-for-profit Vancouver Aquarium. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, visitors and members must book a ticket online for a designated entry time.
20-Darts Hill Garden Park
Visit this lush Instagrammable spot in Surrey every Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout July. Limited, pregistered admittance is available every 30 minutes. Book your visit today.
21- Downtown Langley Mural Walk
Take a stroll through the downtown core and see if you can spot over 25 murals. This is a self-guided mural walk with a handy guide to direct your route. It’s a fun stroll with some unique shops and restaurants on route.
22- Take a Little Dip
Two of our favourite watering holes (Port Kells and Al Anderson) are now back in business. Both are operating at reduced capacity to ensure physical distancing can be maintained. For Port Kells, public swim times will be in 45-minute blocks to ensure access for all. Admission is free, but line up early to avoid dissapointment. At Al Anderson, the maximum for public swim is 71. Online reservations are highly suggested.
For even more summer bucket list inspiration, check out our roundup of awesome hiking trails, rainy day activities and B.C. adventures. And if all of this is just way too much effort this summer, don’t sweat it. Let go of the planning and let your kids experience a good old fashioned 90s summer.