FANtastic Day Trips from Vancouver for Film & TV Buffs

Are you looking for unique places to visit near Vancouver? On my recent trip to British Columbia, I had the opportunity to visit so many unique places where countless films and TV shows have been filmed. I was not surprised. After a few minutes at each, I could see how incredible and cinematic each location was – made for film!

So, I’m sharing some of my top picks for the best day trips from Vancouver. Whether you’re a film buff or just looking for unique places that give you that wow feeling, this guide is for you! You’ll find a wide range of places to visit to suit everyone’s interests. From adorable farms with flowers, like Tuscan Garden Farms, to standing on a summit with epic views at Sea to Sky Gondola.

Plus, I’m sharing what was filmed at each location. Learn where classic TV shows are filmed near Vancouver, like X-Files and Supernatural, and new series like Virgin River. As well as all those sweet Hallmark movies! You can literally walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters.

A note on distances and times: All distances and driving times are approximate from downtown Vancouver.

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Sea to Sky Gondola

For those seeking epic views, unique experiences and great hiking trails, plan a trip to Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish! Only an hour north of the city, with scenic views along the drive, it’s one of the best places to visit near Vancouver.

Hop aboard for a short but steep gondola ride up to the summit. At the top, you can enjoy lunch at the restaurant. Or head off to explore.

Stroll across the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. Do the short Spirit Loop hike for incredible views of Átl’ḵa7tsem/Howe Sound and Sky Pilot. You’ll find a number of hiking trails here, ranging from 400 metres to 2 km.

This is the perfect day trip for outdoor enthusiasts or those looking for something unique to do.

Tip: Both the gondola and suspension bridge are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Get your tickets here.

Distance from Vancouver: 60 km (1 hour)

Watershed Grill

If you’re looking for a scenic spot for lunch or dinner close to Vancouver, head to Watershed Grill! This riverside restaurant in Squamish offers a picturesque place to eat with a patio right on the Squamish River.

Along with the patio, you can enjoy a slice of the outdoors and the view from the openair dining room. Their menu features all the classic Canadian grub you could want, from burgers to chicken wings.

I ordered their classic River Burger, made with local beef, and it was delicious! If you love burgers and are hungry, try their Grizzley Burger. It comes stacked with toppings and an onion ring tower. For a drink with a bite, try the Shed Caesar. My friend ordered one and it came packed with goodies, including a slider!

You may recognize this restaurant as Jack’s Grill from the popular Netflix series Virgin River!

Distance from Vancouver: 70 km (1 hour 5 minutes)

Murdo Frazer Park

A hidden gem of a park that’s a must visit for film buffs is Murdo Frazer Park!

This small park on Vancouver’s North Shore features a number of things to do. There are trails, a playground and golf course.

But for me the star of the park was the small log cabin set in the woods! Built in the 1950s, it now gives off all the spooky vibes, which I loved!

So, it’s no surprise that it has been featured in the X-Files, Nancy Drew, The Twilight Zone, and Stargate SG1. Virgin River fans will recognize it as Mel’s home.

But the biggest surprise to me was that the giant stone fireplace inside (which I had the opportunity to see!) is the star of the famous Shaw TV Christmas fireplace. My family put it on every year as we open presents!

Distance from Vancouver: 9 km (20 minutes)
Accessible via public transportation

Capilano River Regional Park

Another place that makes a great day trip from downtown Vancouver is Capilano River Regional Park. It’s accessible via public transportation and has a number of features to enjoy.

This North Vancouver gem is home to a number of hiking trails. One of which, the Capilano Pacific Trail, will take you from the Cleveland Dam to close to the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

The bridge is over 130 metres long and takes you through the treetops, across the canyon, with views of the river below.

But don’t miss the West Lion Viewpoint at the north end of the park. This view took my breath away! With the Capilano Lake stretching out in front and surrounded by mountains, it’s a must see.

Another must-visit is the Cleveland Dam. Stand on the dam, in the middle, you’ll enjoy views of the canyon and the 200-foot drop. And Tracker fans will recognize the cliff nearby as the filming location where he was hanging off.

The Dam and the forests here have starred in numerous films and TV shows. Productions include Virgin River, Rambo, Shogun, and Twilight.

Distance from Vancouver: 10 km (20 minutes)
Accessible via public transportation

Delta Hotels Burnaby Conference Centre

I know you’re wondering, why would I recommend a hotel for a day trip? Hear me out. This is so much more than a hotel! The Delta Hotels Burnaby is connected to the Grand Villa Casino and features one of the coolest restaurants in the city.

Atlas Steak + Fish is more than a restaurant it’s an experience! I was blown away by the entertaining staff as they prepared items for us tableside. They crafted everything from Caeser salad to baked Alaskan, which includes flames!

The food is excellent, so it was no surprise to learn they have won numerous awards. I highly recommend their steak, the whipped brie mashed potatoes, and the baked Alaskan.

Plus, they make some fun cocktails too! And since it’s an easy 25-minute ride on the SkyTrain from Vancouver, you can enjoy a few. You can even make a night of it and book a room; they are half the price as Vancouver.

And for film fans, the hotel and casino are frequently used. Productions filmed here include Killing Gunther, A Million Little Things, Supergirl, Yellowjackets and scenes from season 3 of Siren.

Distance from Vancouver: 11 km (30 minutes)
Accessible via public transportation

Burnaby Village Museum

I’m a sucker for places that make me feel like I’ve been transported back in time. And the Burnaby Village Museum did exactly that with their 1920s streetscape!

This is a great museum for history buffs, families and those looking for budget friendly day trips from Vancouver. Free to visit, the museum is open seasonally.

I loved the unique nature of it; an open-air museum that’s designed like a small historic town. Along with the 1920s main street with vintage storefronts, there’s an old streetcar and other heritage buildings.

Walking its main streetscape felt like walking through a film set. So, it’s no surprised that many films and television shows have been filmed here. Fans will recognize it from Virgin River, The X-Files, Supernatural, When Calls the Heart and Yellowjackets.

Distance from Vancouver: 15 km (35 minutes)
Accessible via public transportation

Deer Lake Park

A great addition to a day trip to Burnaby is Deer Lake Park. A short walk from the Burnaby Village Museum, Deer Lake Park is home to a number of attractions, like the art gallery.

But I enjoyed visiting the park for the tranquil stroll around the lake. If you’re looking for a slice of nature, hit up the Deer Lake Trail. It’s about 5 km and loops around the lake.

The trail takes roughly an hour. I loved the scenic stretch of boardwalk, where I spotted a number of birds, including a mother duck and her ducklings!

Deer Lake Park is also a popular filming location for movies and TV. Movies like The Day the Earth Stood Still and Final Destination franchise filmed here. And shows like X-Files, Virgin River and so many more have scenes from the park.

Distance from Vancouver: 16 km (35 minutes)
Accessible via public transportation

Downtown New Westminster

A fun and dynamic city that’s an easy 25-minute ride on the SkyTrain from downtown Vancouver, New Westminster makes for an exciting day trip.

Downtown New Westminster is an ideal day trip for foodies, shoppers (with plenty of antique stores) as well as arts and film buffs. There are a number of galleries and museums. I loved all of the street art too!

I wish I had more time to spend there, but I did do a unique walking tour that gave me a taste of downtown. We visited a number of filming locations in downtown New Westminster. I was shocked at how many TV shows and movies were filmed here!

A quick list of filming locations to visit:

Anvil Centre

• The Flash
• Fifty Shades Darker
• Lucifer

Columbia Street (one of the most frequently filmed streets in BC)

• Godzilla (2014)
• Timeless

Paramount Theatre

• IT (the 1990 original Stephen King miniseries)
• The Twilight Saga: New Moon

Front Street & Parkade (also known as “Antique Alley”)

• Godzilla (2014)
• I, Robot

Westminster Pier Park & Boardwalk

• Percy Jackson and the Olympians
• A number of Hallmark Christmas films

Tip: If you’re looking for a great place to eat, head to Angelina’s Dutch Corner. This adorable restaurant has a patio overlooking the Fraser River. I recommend ordering the one of their pannekoeken (Dutch pancake), they are delicious!

Distance from Vancouver: 27 km (50 minutes)
Accessible via public transportation

Love the IT franchise? Check out these IT Filming Locations in Ontario.

Tuscan Farm Gardens

One of my favourite places for a day trip from Vancouver – especially with your girlfriends is Tuscan Farm Gardens!

This gem of a farm in Abbotsford is a beautiful place to visit in the summer for their lavender fields and gardens. Grab your girlfriends and spend the day wandering their lavender fields, grab a drink – like their lavender lemonade, and a treat at their cafe. Then enjoy a little shopping in their farm store. I loved the diversity of items, from lavender cream to soaps and even lavender honey.

With the sprawling beautiful gardens and owner’s attention to memorable details, it’s no surprise that this is another popular spot for filming Hallmark movies. Scenes from Virgin River and Aurora Teagarden Mysteries have also been filmed at Tuscan Gardens.

Distance from Vancouver: 66 km (1.5 hours)

Seaside Pearl Farmgate Winery

A lovely little winery near Vancouver that’s such a gem to visit is Seaside Pearl Farmgate Winery. While you won’t find it seaside, it does have an awesome view of Mount Baker in the distance.

As soon as I spotted the chapel-like tasting room as we drove up the driveway, I knew I’d love this spot. Inside the tasting room be sure to look up! The stunning mural painted on the roof reminded me of buildings in Rome. I was floored to see something like that here.

This Fraser Valley hidden gem offers a variety of unique areas to enjoy a wine tasting. There’s the chapel, the patio with views of Mt. Baker, and a large barrel room.

If you have a large group of friends with you, I recommend the barrel room. I loved all the rustic and eclectic décor. Plus, there were a bunch of spots for fun photo-ops.

With such a picturesque location and unique indoor areas, it’s no surprise that it’s been featured in various Hallmark movies, like Christmas Do Over, as well as the TV show Wild Cards.

Distance from Vancouver: 65 km (1.5 hours)

Krause Berry Farms

If you’re looking for a fun u-pick farm to visit near Vancouver that the whole family will love, then plan a day trip to Krause Berry Farms.

Located in Langley, this family run farm has so much to offer visitors! It’s a fun spot to bring the kids to pick your own berries. Plus, they have an awesome waffle bar where you can enjoy seasonal toppings, from summer strawberries to autumn apples.

For adults, you’ll love their country themed tasting room. I loved the details, like the bar stools with saddles as seats!

But don’t miss their adorable market and bakery! It felt like a ray of sunshine in there, with plenty of fun gift items to purchase. There’s everything from preserves to frozen pizzas and pies too. And the bakery will have you stocking up on goodies, like cookies, donuts, fresh bread and more.

Virgin River watchers will recognize it as Myrtle Farms!

Distance from Vancouver: 54 km (1 hour 10 minutes)

Surrey Civic Centre

Whether you’re looking for a night away or are a huge Allegiance fan, add a trip to Surrey Civic Centre to your list!

While not my typical nature or cute farm experience, this centre really struck me as cool. The main square is large and often hosts events and pop ups. But standing in it and looking around, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a purely modern world – almost futuristic.

Sleek, glass buildings with strong lines line the square. It’s home to the Civic Hotel, library and Surrey City Hall. The Civic Hotel is new and features sharp and modern rooms, with floor to ceiling windows. Even my bathroom had a view!

It’s also a popular filming location for Allegiance. During my trip I had the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour of the area with Supinder Wraich, star of the show. She shared behind the scenes details of filming in the library, the square, and even how someone mistook her as a real cop.

Distance from Vancouver: 34 km (1 hour)
Accessible via public transportation

Green Timbers

If you want a dose of nature near downtown Vancouver, plan a visit to Green Timbers Urban Forest Park in Surrey.

Covering over 500 acres and home to over 10 km of trails, I loved that this park made me feel far removed from the city but was so accessible. It’s also home to a small Nature Centre, which is a great spot for kids.

Green Timbers is one of the largest urban forests in BC. With so many trails to choose from, all under 1 km, but can be combined to make for a short stroll or longer hike.

If you’re looking for a short hike, I recommend pairing the Birch Trail and Willow Trail to create a loop around Green Timbers Lake. It combines a mix of forest, meadows and serene water views. It’s a great place for urban birding near Vancouver too. I spotted a number of species from song birds to waterfowl.

Thanks to its accessibility, it’s a popular spot for filming the wilds of BC without having to go to some remote location. And fans of the show Allegiance will love it, as many scenes are filmed in the park.

Distance from Vancouver: 33 km (55 minutes)
Accessible via public transportation

Steveston Village

Another great day trip from Vancouver by public transport is to Steveston Village. This historic fishing village has plenty to keep you busy.

One of my favourite things to do in Steveston Village is lunch at the Cannery Café. You may recognize it as Granny’s Diner in Once Upon a Time.

This cozy diner serves up classic breakfast and lunch dishes, many with an elevated twist. They are best known for their egg’s benedict with smoked salmon, which my friend had and loved. I ordered the traditional poutine and it was amazing. The gravy was one of the best I’ve had and it had classic cheese curds.

Wander along Moncton Street and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an episode of Once Upon a Time’s Storybrooke. It’s lined with great shops and fun hidden gems.

And don’t miss visiting the two historic sites in the village. Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, where you can learn about the village’s fishing and boat building history. And Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site. This museum shares the history of the West Coast fishing industry.

If you want to add more excitement to your day trip, plan a whale watching tour from Steveston Village.

Distance from Vancouver: 20 km (45 minutes)
Accessible via public transportation

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Whether you’re looking to explore more of BC and the Lower Mainland during your time in Vancouver, or looking for a fun day trip with friends or family, this guide shows there’s so many possibilities.

Looking for more places to visit in British Columbia?

Best Stops on a Road Trip Between Vancouver and Penticton

Best Things to do in Penticton, BC

I was a guest of Vancouver, Coast & Mountains tourism destinations during my trip but as always, all opinions expressed are my own.

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