Vancouver’s location on the Pacific Coast of British Columbia puts you close to many beautiful destinations. From the mountains to the sea, nature is always nearby regardless of which direction you travel. The BC area also rewards you with rich history and culture, culinary delights, spa retreats, and retail heaven.
For Vancouverites, you get the best of both worlds when trying to break from Vancouver’s urban sprawl for a few days. The province has several famous destinations beloved around the world but also offers hidden gems only fellow locals know about. With dozens of picturesque towns and communities just a few hours from Vancouver, deciding where to go is often your toughest decision.
However, finding the right weekend getaway can be challenging during the unpredictable times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Luckily, the Vancouver area has a multitude of options welcoming visitors again during the COVID chaos. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure to social distance or a cultural institute practicing safe guidelines, we’ve got you covered.
From a Whistler ski trip to exploring BC’s wine country, Vancouver has a weekend escape for everyone. The list below covers 10 of the top spots within a few hours from Vancouver, and you can visit Eddy Travels for insider tips on organizing your vacation, especially searching for disinfected rooms.
1. Victoria
Although Vancouver is BC’s largest city, the province’s coastal capital gives you a refreshing change of pace with its colorful Victorian architecture, English-style gardens, and bustling pub scene. Stroll around the boat-lined Inner Harbour to snap photos of the BC Parliament Buildings or ride the ferry to the charming float homes at Fisherman’s Wharf on your perfect weekend getaway. Tour other sumptuous buildings, such as Craigdarroch and Hatley Castles, that are linked to the Victorian and Edwardian eras and stand in contrast to Vancouver’s modern skyline.
Learn about your province’s history at the Royal BC Museum and watch educational films at the IMAX Victoria theater. When you’re feeling hungry, stop by Red Fish Blue Fish or Barb’s Fish & Chips for the tastiest seafood bites outside of Vancouver. Just up the block, you’ll find Canada’s oldest Chinatown that’s filled with boutique shops and eateries.
To learn about Victoria’s COVID-19 reopening plan, visit the Victoria Tourism page to learn about safety protocols for local businesses. Find out how cultural attractions, parks, restaurants, retail shops, and accommodations are operating to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
How to get there: Around three hours by driving from Vancouver to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, riding the 95-minute ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay Terminal on Vancouver Island, and driving 30 minutes to Victoria.
Tickets for Whale Watching Cruise start at 92.00 USD when purchased in advance online.
2. Whistler
Another perfect weekend trip around Vancouver is Whistler. Whether you prefer summer or winter, Whistler is a weekend getaway made for Vancouver’s biggest adrenaline junkies. Situated in the Coast Mountains, Whistler lets you ditch the big city for balmy summer days filled with hiking, mountain biking, golfing, kayaking, and sunbathing. Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for panoramic views of Whistler Village, snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and evergreen forests on your trip from Vancouver.
When winter arrives, grab your skis or snowboard to ride many of the most exhilarating slopes near Vancouver. Whistler Blackcomb is among North America’s largest ski resorts and has countless Olympic-worthy runs just a short drive away. The gondola transports riders between the neighboring mountains, and Whistler Village offers world-class restaurants and après bars to unwind in the evening. Other adventurous winter activities include snowshoeing, rafting, snowmobiling, winter ziplining, and ice fishing.
Whistler has welcomed visitors back to the community with enhanced safety protocols. Before your trip, be sure to study the local guidelines to have the best experience. The Whistler resource guide details mask policies, public gathering sizes, a directory of open businesses, and more information to help you plan your getaway from Vancouver.
How to get there: Drive about 1.5 hours north on BC Highway 99.
Tickets for winter Rafting Experience with Eagle Viewing from Whistler start at 95.00 USD when purchased in advance online.
3. Kelowna
Nestled on the shores of Okanagan Lake, Kelowna is the perfect base to taste the best wines your home province has to offer on your weekend trip from around Vancouver. Tour vineyards and wineries around town while soaking up the laid-back vibes of the Okanagan Valley. Tasting rooms at craft wineries like Tantalus Vineyards, Vibrant Vine Winery, and Ancient Hill Winery produce delectable vintages you’ll want to take home.
With its lakeside setting, Kelowna attracts boaters, kayakers, paddleboarders, and beachgoers. Bring your mountain bike to cycle Canada’s largest network of trails, and don’t miss the trestle bridges in the scenic Myra Canyon. Explore the provincial parks around town, go fruit-picking at organic farms, or visit retail shops in downtown Kelowna just minutes from the beach.
Refer to the local COVID-19 update page for valuable info for Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley. Find out safety guidelines at Kelowna accommodations, restaurant protocols, and new wine tasting experiences.
How to get there: About a 4-hour drive via Trans-Canada Highway East, Hwy 5 North, onto the Coquihalla Highway, Highway 97C (Okanagan Connector), and Highway 97 North.
4. Pemberton
If you’re searching for an outdoor lover’s paradise without the hectic crowds of Whistler, Pemberton is a nearby option to consider. For a summer Vancouver weekend getaway, you’ll find hiking and biking trails, fishing holes, rafting excursions, and horseback riding trips. Satisfy your cravings at weekly farmers’ markets, u-pick farms, breweries, distilleries, and the Pemberton Farm Tour.
Venture into the BC backcountry in the winter to experience some of the best ski terrain around Vancouver. The Pemberton area offers hundreds of mapped runs, heli-skiing, snowmobiling tours. Get to know the local community during the Winterfest celebration and watch spectacular fireworks at the turn of the calendar.
In coordination with the British Columbia Restart Plan, the village of Pemberton gradually continues to welcome back visitors. Read through the Pemberton Tourism page to learn about local COVID-19 guidelines and what services are currently open.
How to get there: Drive between 2 to 2.5 hours north on BC Highway 99.
5. Nanaimo
Vancouver Island is beloved by Vancouverites, and Nanaimo provides stunning views of the Coast Mountains around your hometown. Book a whale watching tour to spot orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, porpoises, and other wildlife in the Salish Sea on your perfect weekend getaway from Vancouver.
Drive the Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Trail Loop to connect with local artists and farmers that reside on Vancouver Island. After parking the car, walk around downtown Nanaimo’s artsy Old City Quarter to find an eclectic mix of boutique shops, eateries, and cultural sites. Nature remains the heart and soul of Nanaimo, and popular wonders to check out include Ammonite Falls, Pipers Lagoon Park, and Neck Point Park.
The Nanaimo tourism page has valuable info on what indoor and outdoor activities are open during the COVID-19 pandemic. From boating adventures to local pubs, read about each location’s safety protocols before departing Vancouver.
How to get there: Between 2.5 to 3 hours by driving to the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal in West Vancouver and riding the ferry to Nanaimo’s Departure Bay Terminal.
6. Harrison Hot Springs
For a relaxing spa retreat, Harrison Hot Springs is BC’s premier spot to soak in rejuvenating mineral pools. Head to the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa to let all your work-related stress in Vancouver melt away. Situated on the southern shore of Harrison Lake, the town offers boating, parasailing, kayaking, and paddling with much smaller crowds than in Vancouver.
Roam the surrounding countryside on the self-guided Circle Farm Tour and meet local artisans. The route gives you the chance to enjoy farm to table cuisine and visit heritage sites like the Kilby Historic Site and the 19th century Canadian Pacific Railroad Station. Consider taking this Vancouver road trip in July to attend the Harrison Festival of Arts and watch talented musicians.
Check out the Greater Harrison Area page to read tips about traveling safely during COVID-19. Find out what actions local businesses are taking to social distance, limit crowd sizes, and improve sanitary protocols for patrons. You’ll also find guidance on things you can do to keep the community safe during your visit.
How to get there: Nearly a 2-hour drive via Trans-Canada Highway East and Hwy 9 North.
7. Chilliwack
Nestled in the Fraser Valley, Chilliwack provides a mixture of natural wonders and cultural attractions for your escape from Vancouver. Head to Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park to watch snow-capped peaks reflect on crystalline lakes or admire the majestic Bridal Veil Falls. Hike to the summit of Mount Cheam for sensational vistas or visit during spring to smell blooming tulip fields you won’t find in the big city.
Stop by the Chilliwack Cultural Centre to attend concerts, watch comedy shows, and view art galleries. The Chilliwack Museum delves into the town’s history, and the Dickens Sweets and British Museum sells delicious treats. To support local artisans, shop for handmade goods and indigenous products at the Sto:lo Gift Shop to bring gifts back for your friends and family.
Visit the city of Chilliwack COVID-19 page to learn about the pandemic response of local officials. Find out which businesses are open, safety protocols, and how the community is staying connected during these challenging times.
How to get there: About a 1.5-hour drive via Trans-Canada Highway East.
8. Squamish
One of your closest vacation options from Vancouver, Squamish attracts nature lovers and daredevils. Start your weekend trip on the Sea to Sky Gondola for dramatic views overlooking Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains. Test your rock climbing skills at the Stawamus Chief monolith or windsurf on the Squamish River. Tantalus Provincial Park is a popular spot for Vancouverites to go hiking, winter rafting, fishing, and backcountry skiing minutes from home.
Downtown Squamish has tons of summer festivals, and the weekly Squamish Farmers’ Market sells delicious local produce you can take home. Sample beers, ciders, cocktails, and artisan coffees and syrups on the Squamish Craft Tasting Trail. During your weekend getaway, keep your eyes peeled for migrating bald eagles that you won’t see in Vancouver.
Local officials in Squamish have worked relentlessly to find the right balance of welcoming back tourists and keeping locals safe. Explore Squamish breaks down what businesses, services, and activities are open to prepare you for your Vancouver weekend getaway. Get info on BC parks, recreation sites, accommodations, and more to learn how to stay safe during your visit.
How to get there: Drive about 1 hour north on BC Highway 99.
Tickets for winter Rafting Experience with Eagle Viewing from Squamish start at 95.00 USD when purchased in advance online.
9. Gibsons
The Sunshine Coast is in your backyard, and the coastal community of Gibsons is a fantastic spot to enjoy nature on your weekend escape from Vancouver. Whether you hike the trails at Soames Hill Park or cruise the tranquil waterways, there’s endless outdoor recreation around the village. If you’re searching for exhilarating activities like mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, and scuba diving, the Sunshine Coast is calling your name.
Join a guided tour to spot wildlife, meet local artists, and learn about First Nations culture to enrich your knowledge of this area close to home. Stop by Gibsons Public Market to shop for fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, homemade desserts, and more. The Sunshine Coast Museum & Archives delves into the local heritage, and Gibsons Public Art Gallery showcases talented artists.
Stay updated on the Sunshine Coast Tourism industry and how officials are helping the coastal communities during the pandemic. Learn about BC Ferries COVID-19 response, local business safety protocols, and other critical info for the area.
How to get there: Between 2 to 2.5 hours by driving to the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal in West Vancouver, riding the ferry to the Langdale Ferry Terminal, and driving to Gibsons.
10. Kamloops
If you need a break from skyscraper panoramas in Vancouver, Kamloops is a nature lover’s paradise located in British Columbia’s interior region. Sun-kissed summers provide beautiful weather to go hiking, mountain biking, swimming, boating, kayaking, and rock climbing. Considered BC’s ranch country, ranch stays offer horseback riding on scenic trails through the rugged landscapes around Kamloops. Bring your fishing gear to over 100 lakes in the region or visit the BC Wildlife Park to view rescued local species.
The thrills aren’t over during winter, and Kamloops becomes your playground for cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and ice skating. Sun Peaks Resort is only a 45-minute drive from Kamloops and among Canada’s largest ski areas. With over 130 trails and a European-style village at the base of three mountains, Sun Peaks offers a winter wonderland for Vancouverites on their perfect weekend escape.
To find out which local businesses have reopened during the pandemic, visit the Kamloops tourism page for all the essential information. Stay updated on new safety protocols, operating hours, and social distancing measures for each open establishment. The site lists golf courses, breweries, wineries, parks, restaurants, accommodations, and campgrounds that are welcoming visitors.
How to get there: About a 3.5 to 4-hour drive via Trans-Canada Highway East and Hwy 5 North.
To get more advice for your Vancouver weekend getaway, chat with the Eddy Travels AI travel assistant for the best hotel deals, cheap flights, and more. To have the safest experience, simply type ‘‘disinfected hotels’’ and discover the best hotel spots with disinfected rooms.
As travel remains unpredictable during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to stay vigilant as you prepare your itinerary. Whether you’re looking for socially-distanced solitude in nature or need to find hotels implementing the best safety protocols, our team will help you plan a responsible and enjoyable trip during COVID-19.
We’ll do our best to help you plan an unforgettable vacation when the urge hits to discover the top sights around Vancouver.