BC Adventures That Will Leave You Speechless

Some experiences are difficult to put into words. The freeing energy of the ocean. The reverence of an ancient rainforest. Heartfelt connections with local cultures and community. You might not be able to fully describe your BC experience, but you’ll certainly feel it, deeply.

Soak up the vibrancy of a lively city surrounded by nature in Vancouver, Victoria, or the mountain town of Whistler. Museums, galleries, Indigenous experiences, and restaurants abound in these urban areas, and you’re never far from the magic of the outdoors.

These BC adventures might leave you speechless, but that’s all the more reason to give them a try.

On the mainland, Metro Vancouver, the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Peoples, is also a hub for Indigenous experiences. Sample specialty cuisine at Salmon ‘n Bannock (they now have a second location at Vancouver International Airport). Book a tour with Talaysay Tours and Takaya Tours, both of whom connect visitors to a deeper understanding of the area, from traditional plant knowledge to place names, and legends to landmarks.

Continue north to Whistler (a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Vancouver), where you can learn about the shared territory of the Lil’wat and Squamish Nations. Stop at Cultural Journey kiosks along Highway 99 on the way to learn about important Indigenous cultural sites, culminating in a fascinating visit to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler.

On Vancouver Island, which is about a 3.5-hour journey from downtown Vancouver via BC Ferries, the urban comforts of Victoria are never far from the ocean, with easy access to city beaches and a short drive to the wilder seaside of Juan De Fuca Provincial Park. Across the Salish Sea in Metro Vancouver, you can leave footprints in the sand at numerous oceanside parks. Tip: Head to Iona Beach Regional Park in Richmond for spectacular sunsets and birdwatching. 

You’ll even find fine dining options in the heart of the mountains. Just a 1.5-hour drive up Highway 99 in Whistler, newly minted Wild Blue has been named one of the most exciting local restaurants to open in a decade, joining long-standing Alta Bistro as an ingredient-driven staple in the foodie community.