Vancouver

Surrey

Stretching between the Fraser River and the United States/Canada border, southeast of the City of Vancouver, Surrey is Metro Vancouver’s largest city in terms of area, and with an estimated 500,000 residents, is second largest behind Vancouver in terms of population. Getting there is easy: the Skytrain’s Expo lines takes passengers from downtown Vancouver to Surrey in just over 30 minutes.

This rapidly growing urban centre continues to maintain strong ties to its rural heritage and natural environment. Cloverdale is the historic heart of the area and is home to Canada's second largest community rodeo, the Cloverdale Rodeo and Exhibition, as well as a historic general store, the city's first bank and original city hall. Antique hunters will find a cornucopia of stores, and those looking for country fun will love the experience of exploring a corn maze.

With almost one third of the city protected as park or agricultural land, Surrey truly is the "City of Parks". The area is home to 400 parks, including the 2-hectare (5-acre) Bear Creek Gardens, considered one of Metro Vancouver’s finest public gardens. At Boundary Bay there are opportunities for bird enthusiasts with 200 species of birds attracted to the tidal marshes. Surrey is also a golf-lovers dream with an astounding 16 golf courses! Strolling the sandy shores at Crescent Beach is also a popular pastime; while you’re there, enjoy a west coast lunch at one of the many intimate neighbourhood restaurants.

Surrey's cultural life is surprisingly active, with an award winning arts centre and internationally acclaimed art gallery. It’s also home to a significant Indian population—the city hosts a huge Diwali festival and Vaisakhi parade during the year, and boasts a Punjabi Market neighbourhood perfect for strolling.

For more information, visit Tourism Surrey online, or call 604.531.6646.