Fun Friday
Good Morning we have made it through another week and now it's time to go on our weekly Friday adventure. Today we are going to go on another adventure to our next country. Can you guess where we are going? We are going to visit the lovely country of Canada and our stop this week will be the beautiful province of British Columbia
1.) Stanley Park located in Vancouver North America's third-largest park draws eight million visitors per year, many of whom may skate or walk past you on the Seawall, a scenic, 5.5-mile path running along the water on the park's perimeter. It's just one of many trails among the park's 1,000 acres, which also house an aquarium, nature center and other recreational facilities.
2.) Granville Island located in Vancouver hours of operation are 9am-8pm This large sandbar and former industrial site is now a posh, artsy neighborhood filled with quaint shops, eateries, breweries, and year-round arts and cultural festivals. Located in False Creek, it's famous for the Granville Island Public Market where you can get fresh produce, gourmet food, and artisanal handicrafts. Visit during summer when the island is exceptionally bustling with outdoor entertainment acts, or during the holidays for twinkling festive lights. You can get to Granville Island by car by crossing the Granville Bridge. Otherwise, you can also take a scenic ferry ride, or a walking or bike tour of the waterfront.
3.) The Butchart Gardens located in Central Saanich hours of operation are Mon and Tue 9-5pm Wed-Sun 9am-10pm Come enjoy our breathtaking 22 ha (55 acres) of gardens year around. In Spring, countless tulips, daffodils and hyacinths will give you a buffet of fragrances and colours. You’ll be saying “wow” when you experience our Summer: The Rose Garden, evening entertainment, subtle night illuminations, the Saturday firework show, and boat tours to name a few of the delights. Perennial borders start their stunning show in late summer, and the Japanese maples turn to russet, gold, and red in the fall. Be captivated by the Magic of Christmas with its decorations, expansive lighting and outdoor ice skating rink. Top off the day with a ride on the carousel and a great meal. Come see why we’ve been designated a National Historic Site.
4.) Inner Harbour located in Victoria This scenic patch of waterfront is the location of Victoria's many tourist attractions, recreational activities, restaurants and shopping. For a special treat, have afternoon tea at the grand Empress Hotel or board a ferry for a harbor tour.
5.) Emerald Lake located inside Yoho National Park Peaceful lake nestled in the mountains and surrounded by lush, green forest. While you're here also check out Takakkaw Falls The falls, in the northern half of Yoho park, drop 833 ft -- making it one of the highest waterfalls in Canada. The falls are spectacular in early summer, when melting snow and ice provide ample runoff.
6.)The Aquabus located in Vancouver hours of operation are 6:45am-10:30pm The Aquabus's 13 vessels make stops up and down False Creek every 15 minutes or less -- so you never have to wait long for a ride. All of our routes are wheelchair accessible and bike-friendly. Hop aboard our iconic rainbow boats to enjoy the spectacular Vancouver skyline from a unique and impressive vantage point! The Aquabus is a family-owned business that has been providing ferry transportation in False Creek since 1986. With over 30 years of experience serving False Creek and the surrounding area, the Aquabus is an essential adventure for tourists and commuters alike. Let our friendly and knowledgeable skippers ferry you around Vancouver in comfort!
7.) Royal BC Museum located in Victoria hours of operation are Mon-Tur 10am-5pm Thur-Sun 10am-6pm Discover the Royal BC Museum and celebrate British Columbia’s diversity through enlightening and inspiring galleries that capture the stories of the people, plants and animals that call the province home, and see fascinating exhibitions from around the world. Take a stroll around Old Town, New Approach, a recreation of a turn of the 20th-century town in BC. Visit Hunt House, a ceremonial house of the late Jonathan Hunt, a Kwakwaka’wakw Chief. Check out the award winning, Our Living Languages, an exhibit that shares the history and beauty of disrupted languages in BC. Finish the adventure with an immersive cinematic experience at IMAX® Victoria, BC’s largest screen. Enjoy other remarkable historical venues on our grounds, including Helmcken House, St. Ann’s Schoolhouse, the Netherlands Centennial Carillon and Thunderbird Park. Our precinct also hosts numerous food trucks and the 2% Jazz cafe. Feature exhibitions: Stonehenge, now until Jan 5, 2025. Canadian Modern opens June 28. 2024
8.) Museum of Anthropology located in Vancouver hours of operation are M,T,W,F S and S 10am-5pm Thur 10am-9pm Explore traditional and contemporary art from Northwest Coast First Nations and other cultures across the world. See magnificent Indigenous carvings, weavings and contemporary artworks in a spectacular building overlooking mountains and sea. Admire the world’s largest collection of works by acclaimed Haida artist Bill Reid, including his famous cedar sculpture The Raven and the First Men. Explore the Museum’s Multiversity Galleries where more than 10,000 objects from around the world are displayed. Stroll the Museum Grounds, where monumental Haida houses, poles and Musqueam house posts capture the dramatic beauty of traditional Northwest Coast architecture and design. Enjoy a wide range of special exhibitions and public programs, including free guided gallery walks, and visit the MOA Shop. MOA is situated on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Musqueam people.
9.) Craigdarroch Castle located in Victoria hours of operation Wed-Sun 10am-5pm Completed in 1890, Craigdarroch is a stately home built by the pioneering couple Robert and Joan Dunsmuir, who at the time of its construction were the wealthiest people in British Columbia. Called a 'castle' due to its imposing exterior, the luxurious interior has been restored to look as though the visitor is a guest of Mrs. Dunsmuir during the 1890s. It features beautiful woodwork, unique Victorian artifacts, and an impressive collection of original stained glass, all within a pleasant walk from downtown Victoria.
10.) Sea To Sky Gondola located in Squamish opened daily from 9am-5pm Open year-round, the Sea to Sky Gondola is located 2km south of Squamish, BC along the beautiful Sea to Sky highway. The Sea to Sky Gondola is a wheelchair and stroller accessible 10 minute ride accessing walking & hiking trails, a suspension bridge, tube park (winter only) and local fare in the
11.) Fisherman's Wharf opens daily from 8am-10pm Just around the corner from Victoria's Inner Harbour, Fisherman's Wharf is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. This unique marine destination offers food kiosks, unique shops and eco-tour adventures in the heart of the working harbour. Wander down the docks with your lunch, buy seafood fresh off the boat, see moored pleasure vessels and float homes, and watch as fishing vessels unload their wares.
12.) Pacific Rim National Park opened daily 8am-10pm Unique park composed of three sections - Long Beach, the West Coast Trail and the Broken Group of Islands - that feature sandy beaches, island archipelagos, temperate rainforests and important archaeological sites.
13.) Vancouver Lookout price of admission is roughly $14 opened daily from 10am-6pm SEE IT ALL FROM HERE! The adventure starts with a 40-second glass elevator ride, whisking you 168 meters (553 feet) up to our panoramic observation deck. From there, you’ll enjoy stunning 360° views of Vancouver’s picture-perfect sights. The Vancouver Lookout is located at the top of one of Vancouver's iconic landmarks, the Harbour Centre. Learn about our vibrant city from information panels located throughout the deck, or follow the complimentary self-guided audio tour. Discover the ideal vantage point for historic Gastown, Coal Harbour, the city’s bustling downtown core, and of course the world-famous Stanley Park, all at the Vancouver Lookout. Buy your tickets online to ensure that a visit to the Lookout is part of your Vancouver experience.
14.) Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park located in Qualicum Beach opened daily from 8m-5pm Explore the Hidden Gem of Vancouver Island, now open with limited daily tour departures, smaller group sizes and new health and safety protocols. Winner of BC’s Remarkable Experience Award and ranked #1 of 22 Things To Do IN Vancouver Island. Explore this park in 3D - above by hiking through the beautiful rainforest Fossil Trail or venturing underground on a guided tour. Start your journey with a short hike through the forest to reach the cave entrance. Here you’ll begin a fascinating subterranean experience. As you step away from the emerald forest and deeper into the cave, a new world of crystal formations, marbled passages and ancient fossils are revealed. Navigate ramps, ladders and slides to meander through the caverns. Feel the cool air. Listen to the sound of your guide’s voice, the steady drip of water or the rumbling of an unexpected waterfall. Turn off your headlamp to heighten your senses and absorb the power of complete darkness on this fun and educational adventure!
15.) Miniature World located in Victoria opened daily from 10-6pm Unique Tourist Attraction in Victoria, British Columbia. Located in the famous Empress Hotel. Awarded the Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor! Over 85 miniaturized dioramas. Further adventures, tiny treasures and little pleasures await all who continue into Frontier Land, Fantasy Land, The Great Canadian Railway,The Fields of Glory, Space 2201, Circus World,The Enchanted Valley of Castles, Old London Town of 1670 & The World of Dollhouses. Special effects in lighting, sound and animation are added to create this miniaturized extravaganza that continues to thrill and delight the young and young at heart! Our latest and greatest creation, "King Arthur's Camelot" is now open, adding 11 new exhibits to our existing collection.
16.) Radium Hot Springs opened daily from 8:30am-10pm Nestled in Sinclair Canyon, Radium Hot Springs, located in British Columbia’s Kootenay National Park, includes a hot soaking pool and cooler swimming pool. Whether you are visiting the local golf courses, skiing, snowboarding, or just passing through, the Radium Hot Springs are not to be missed! Radium Hot Springs’ mineral water is uniquely odourless and clear, making this the perfect place for a relaxing soak. Gaze up at the rock cliffs to see if you can spot one of the bighorn sheep that make this canyon home. The kids will enjoy swimming and diving in the cooler swimming pool (29C). There is so much to enjoy year-round, including nearby hiking and walking trails, picnic areas and all of the amenities of a full-service town.
17.) Bloedel Conservatory opened daily 10-7pm Enjoy one of Vancouver’s most affordable attractions! Immerse yourself in the tropics at Bloedel Conservatory – a must-see indoor attraction located at the highest point of Vancouver in Queen Elizabeth Park. With exotic birds, vibrant koi fish, and over 500 varieties of lush tropical plants, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy under the Conservatory dome. After your visit, venture out to discover the captivating fountains, charming gardens, and breathtaking city views of Queen Elizabeth
18.) Rainforest Trail located in Tofino Rainforest Trail has two routes, A & B, both of which fully engulf you in the temperate rainforest full of gigantic western red cedars and western hemlocks. Sparking a sensation of zen, you will be overcome with the nostalgia of your childhood memories, ready to make more. Scan the upper canopy for birds, listen to the trickle of water and smell the life of this highly productive forest. Trail A is located on the opposite side of the highway from the parking lot. Trail B starts from the parking lot.
19.) Kangaroo Creek Farm located in Kelowna opened daily from 10am-3pm Visit tame exotic and domestic animals in pleasant surroundings, and without fences in the way. Fully interactive. online bookings https://kangaroocreekfarm.com/shop/
20.) Victoria Butterfly Gardens located in Brentwood Bay hours of operation are Mon-Wed 10am-4pm Thurs-Sun 10am-6pm A Vibrant Jungle Experience. A unique opportunity to experience the beauty and curiosity of a tropical jungle up close. Meet our family with surprises at every turn. You’ll encounter tortoises, large iguanas, poison dart frogs, free flying tropical birds and more. Enjoy tropical fish, ducks, flamingos and koi fish in our serene pond and stream circulated by a stunning waterfall. Thousands of tropical butterflies (up to 70 species) fly through our large facilities the size of almost 3 basketball courts. Stroll through and marvel at our lush gardens including tropical flowers, carnivorous plants and fruits of the world. Wander in our newest Exhibit, the Insectarium, full of impressive insects & invertebrates from around the world. Your jungle adventure awaits.
21.) Victoria Bug Zoo opened daily 10am-5pm price of admission is roughly $15 The Victoria Bug Zoo opened its doors in 1997 and has been showing visitors of downtown Victoria our awe-inspiring bugs ever since. A visit to this must-see mini zoo offers an excellent opportunity to view and experience live tropical bugs from around the world. All the animals are alive and in tanks. Discover roughly 50 fascinating species including giant walking sticks, beautiful praying mantis, glow-in-the-dark scorpions, hairy tarantulas, and Canada’s largest ant colony. Knowledgeable tour guides will introduce you to the wonderful world of bugs, give a wealth of information about the animals on display, and provide a safe bug handling experience for the more adventurous. You can choose the level of interaction you have with our friendly animals. Don’t forget your camera to document this unique experience! The displays are ever changing so come in and be amazed by the extensive collection of invertebrates from around the world any time of the year. This stop is sure to thrill everyone; from children, adults, bug-lovers to even the more skeptical visitors! Tours are always in progress, so no matter when you come, you are always right on time. Don’t miss this unforgettable, hands-on adventure while in Victoria, BC!
22.) BC Wildlife Park located in Kamloops price of admission $14.50 opened daily from 9:30am-5pm The BC Wildlife Park is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue & rehabilitation of injured wildlife. Discover some of British Columbia's iconic wildlife and view nearly 200 animals and 65 animal species, including bears, elk, bobcats, arctic wolves, and cougars. The majority of the Park’s animals are rescued, including Clover, the only Kermode Bear in human care in the world. Book an interactive VIP Wildlife Experience or Wildlife Encounter, or enjoy seasonal activities such as feed talks, animal encounters, Bird of Prey flight demonstrations, splash park, playground, Wildlife Express miniature train, and more. For more detailed information, check out the daily activity schedule online.
23.) The Raptors located in Duncan opened daily 10-5pm Birds of prey have always inspired awe. Sadly, they are threatened in many parts of the world. When you experience them up close, you learn that they are more than predators from the sky; they are essential to maintaining the delicate eco-balance of our planet. The Raptors offer compelling and interactive experiences with a variety of birds of prey species including eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. Get closer than you ever imagined to these majestic and intelligent creatures. Flying demonstrations, hands-on encounters and educational talks offered daily (March - October). The Raptors is located in the heart of the beautiful Cowichan Valley, just 60 minutes north of Downtown Victoria and 45 minutes south of Downtown Nanaimo by car.
24.) The Enchanted Forest located in Revelstoke opened daily from 9am-5pm Imagine old world fantasy in the magical setting of The Enchanted Forest where you can discover over 350 jolly fairy folk figurines amongst 800 year old cedars. You can climb BC's tallest and grandest tree house, paddle in real beaver ponds with a self guided row boat tour and enjoy a nature walk through a lush forest and boardwalk. In 2010 The Enchanted Forest celebrated its 50th Anniversary and continues to provide a lifetime of wonderful memories. Wonderful family fun! Come and be enchanted and discover the magic!
While in town also check out Three Valley Gap Ghost Town price of admission is about $16 but so worth it.
25.) Burnaby Village Museum Where History Comes to Life - Stroll down the streets of our 1920s community. Period costumed townsfolk welcome visitors and give demonstrations in the homes, businesses and shops. Visitors can feel the heat of the fire as the blacksmith works at the forge, hear the rhythm of the platen press at the Burnaby Post, smell freshly ground coffee in the General Store, be a 1920s student in a one-room schoolhouse, watch the tinsmith cut, crimp & curl flat sheets of tin into useful household items. Everyone is welcome to take a ride on the 1912 CW Parker Carousel, explore the restored 1912 Interurban Tram, and enjoy a treat in the Ice Cream Parlor. The Village is open seasonally (Spring Break in March, Summer Season- early May to Labor Day, and Heritage Christmas-late November to early January) and year-round for pre-booked groups and programs.
26.) BC Aviation Museum located in North Saanich Come enjoy a trip back in time with the whole family, with 40 aircraft on display in Victoria, at The BC Aviation Museum! Where learning and fun meet! Memorable visitor experiences include: • Sit in the cockpit of a warplane. • Discover the history of our valiant Canadian aviation pioneers with our passionate tour guides or on a self-guided visit. We’ve been collecting and preserving 8,000+ aviation books, 13,500+ photographs. Don't miss our gift shop - the perfect place to find aviation themed gifts. Come explore the BC Aviation Museum in Victoria, located near the Victoria International Airport.
27.) Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites opened daily 10am-4pm A 20-minute drive from downtown Victoria, Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites offer abundant ways to spend a fascinating half or full day exploring historic battlements, weapons and displays. Stroll through a restored Garry oak meadow. Take the 10-minute walk to Fisgard Lighthouse. Extend your stay camping in an outdoor oTENTik. Check the fort’s annual schedule and plan your visit around special family events.
28.) Barkerville Historic Town & Park opened daily from 9am-5pm Billy Barker’s legendary gold strike on Williams Creek triggered a multi-billion dollar industrial revolution that literally built a province. Today, the extraordinary historic town of Barkerville stands as a living testament to BC’s golden beginnings. With its unique street scape of more than 125 heritage buildings, period displays, satellite museums, restaurants and shops there is still so much to explore.
29.) Revelstoke Railway Museum opened daily from 9am-5pm The Revelstoke Railway Museum tells the fascinating story of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the mountain region. Revelstoke is one of Canada's most iconic railway towns! Come and explore our deep railway roots. We are elevator-accessible and have accessible restrooms. Watch the many passing trains of one of North America's largest railways from the comfort of our large public green space. Explore compelling history, marvel at our beautiful model railway, or try running an engine in our simulator. Our museum store offers a huge variety of railway-themed items, clothing and books.
30.) Canadian Wildlife Museum located in Vernon opened daily from 9:30am-4:30pm. The Canadian Wildlife Museum is located just minutes north of Vernon B.C. We offer an outstanding arrangement of Wildlife Displays, most of which the average person would never see in the wild. There are over 350 mounted specimens, ranging in size from mice to bison, including over 120 birds of prey and over 115 different species of Canadian wildlife. There is also a large butterfly and moth collection. There are 45 viewing stations, with over 220 different scenes of wildlife. The excellence in taxidermy workmanship and amazing artwork is not just in the mounted animals but also in the natural detailed dioramas. Nowhere in Canada will you find a more outstanding selection of mounted Canadian birds and animals. There is also a Gift Shop with many very unique wildlife/nature related novelties, souvenirs, and gifts. Fun for the whole family.
With so many things to do and see in the province I hope that you will take the time needed to dive into the rich nature that is available for you. I hope that you have enjoyed this week's tour and come back next week for another amazing adventure. Remember to always be kind as it costs nothing and if you see someone without a smile stop and give them yours a smile is contagious and you never know whose life you could save simply by being kind and when it comes to kindness sprinkle it everywhere the world needs more of it.
Written by: BeautifulChaos318
