surrey tourism challenge

New Program Aims to “Spark” Innovative Tourism Ideas in Surrey and White Rock

Discover Surrey, Destination BC and the Tourism Innovation Lab have partnered to launch a new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region.

View official program announcement video: https://youtu.be/G_pN9FPuJDE  

The “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants from the region with a tourism mentor, provide a $3,000 grant and additional partner support to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.

The goal is to find, foster and support new tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits.

Applications are encouraged from entrepreneurs, small businesses and non-profit organizations based in the Surrey and White Rock area from September 21 to October 28, 2022. Following a review process, five finalists will be invited to a virtual Pitch Session where three winners will be selected.

The “Spark” Program was first launched in Ontario in 2018 by the Tourism Innovation Lab, and has now expanded to several regions across British Columbia.

The Surrey “Spark” Program is presented by Destination British Columbia in collaboration with Discover Surrey, and the Tourism Innovation Lab.

For more information on the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program and upcoming Info Sessions visit  https://www.tourisminnovation.ca/surreybc

Richard Porges, President & CEO, Destination BC

“We are pleased to be awarding “Spark” grants and mentorships to three local tourism entrepreneurs in Surrey. It will be exciting to see these winning initiatives come to fruition in the local area and build upon the region’s robust offerings.”  

Angeline Chew, Executive Director, Discover Surrey

“Discover Surrey is thrilled to be partnering with Destination British Columbia and the Tourism Innovation Lab to launch the “Spark” Program. The program aligns perfectly with our current Tourism Experiences Strategic Plan to assess and support the development of new Tourism Experiences. There is enormous potential in Surrey and White Rock for the creation of unique and engaging tourism product offerings, and we look forward to seeing exciting ideas that will entice visitors to the area and give those visiting a reason to stay longer.”

Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab

“We are excited to be launching the “Spark” Program in British Columbia in Surrey and White Rock. We are keen to spark and support new tourism ideas that will enhance the region’s tourism offerings and drive innovation.”

Destination BC

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Click on the Attraction partner logo to display thier offer, blackout dates and restrictions.  Admission to these attractions is for the Privilege Pass holder and a guest.

Vancouver Aquarium

778-655-9554 – Stanley Park – Connect with over 65,000 incredible animals like rescued sea otters and sea lions at Canada’s largest aquarium! Explore 120 world-class exhibits, immersive 4D Theatre experiences, daily animal enrichment programs, and more. For a limited time, encounter the most feared and fascinating aquatic predators throughout history in our new interactive exhibit, Monsters Of The Abyss!  

The Vancouver Aquarium is located minutes from downtown in beautiful Stanley Park and is open 365 days a year. 

Last ticket entry is at 3:30pm and 4:00pm (from late June to Labour Day) Tourism Privilege Pass holders can check-in at General Admissions walk-ups.  Please present a photo id card with digital Tourism Privilege Pass. Check vanaqua.org   for latest updates.

Roedde House Museum

604-684-7040 – 1415 Barclay St – Step back in time and see what life was like for the Roedde family in Vancouver over 100 years ago. Built in 1893, this late Victorian home in the West End has been faithfully restored to reflect the day-to-day life of the Roeddes, a middle-class, immigrant family at the turn of the twentieth century.    Visit 1-4pm Wed-Fri and Sun. CLOSED SATURDAY. Not valid for special events or concerts

roeddehouse.org   @RoeddeHouse

Vancouver Art Gallery

604-662-4700 – 750 Hornby St – Experience one of North America's most innovative art institutions. Immerse yourself in groundbreaking contemporary exhibitions and discover works by local and internationally acclaimed artists. 2024 exhibitions include: Emily Carr: A Room of Her Own; J.E.H. MacDonald: A Tangled Garden?; Rooted Here: Woven from the Land; Copy Machine Manifestos: Artists Who Make Zines; and more. Make the most of your visit with a stop at the GalleryStore, 1931 Gallery Bistro and the Art Rental & Sales Showroom! 

Privilege Passes are accepted during Gallery open hours. Not valid for special events or exhibition openings.  

vanartgallery.bc.ca   @vanartgallery

Science World  

604-443-7440 – 1455 Quebec St. – A world of wonder awaits you at Science World!  Explore, play, and learn through interactive STEAM (science, tecnology, engineering, art & design, and math) in our galleries and exhibits.   Ignite your curiosity at amazing live science shows at our Centre Stage.

Blackout Dates: December 21 - January 5, 2025 and March 15 - March 30, 2025.  Valid for General Admission only, not valid for Special Events.

Please note you will be required to show your Privilege Pass along with a Photo ID at the Admissions Desk to gain entry.

scienceworld.ca @scienceworldca

Chinatown Storytelling Centre

604-225-0055 – 168 East Pender St – Explore the vibrant history of Vancouver’s Chinatown through interactive exhibits filled with stories from the people who lived, worked and played there. Artefacts, photos, and recordings from the 1880s to present day create an immersive self-guided storytelling experience for the whole family.

Visit Thursday-Monday. Hours: 10am-5pm (last entry at 4pm).

Please check our website chinatownstorytellingcentre.org for more information or follow us on social media IG @chinatownstorytellingcentre 

VanWalks is delighted to offer our premium routes for free to all Privilege Passholders participants. VanWalks is a mobile website that offers self-paced walking tours of the most popular areas of Vancouver.

It's jam packed with historical information, modern events, and local flavour. Gastown, Stanley Park Seawall and Stanley Park Inner routes can be unlocked by going to the following url: https://map.vanwalks.ca/?a=passport2024 . You can also go directly to  map.vanwalks.ca and enter the code passport2024 in the settings menu.

The Chinese Canadian Museum

Located in the oldest brick building in Vancouver Chinatown, the Chinese Canadian Museum opened in July 2023. Explore our captivating exhibitions over 3 floors and be inspired by the Chinese Canadian experience. Perfect for families. Plan your visit today to the first museum of its kind in Canada!

Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

NOT VALID FOR SPECIAL EVENTS. See our website for seasonal hours, closures & exclusions.

 chinesecanadianmuseum.ca

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

 604-662-3207 – 578 Carrall St – Discover a hidden cultural oasis of tranquility, nestled in the heart of Vancouver’s Historic Chinatown.  This urban oasis, the first Ming Dynasty-designed Chinese garden built outside of China, intertwines traditional Suzhou architecture, floral and waterways

Open:  Wednesday - Friday. Hours: 10am – 3pm (last entry at 2pm) Please check out website www. vancouverchinesegarden.com  for updates or follow us on social media IG @vancouverchinesegarden

Vancouver Police Museum and Archives

 604-665-3346 – 240 E Cordova St – Set in the heart of Old Vancouver, between the historic neighbourhoods of Chinatown and Gastown, and located in the heritage building that once housed the City’s Coroner’s Court, Morgue and Autopsy Facility. The museum’s exhibits tell stories of true crime, justice and policing in the City’s history, from its beginnings in the lawless “Wild West” to its current-day initiatives for the community. 

vancouverpolicemuseum.ca    @PoliceMuseum  

Vancouver Lookout 

604-689-0421 -555 W Hastings St -Take a glass elevator up 168 meters (553 feet) to enjoy a 360° view that includes Stanley Park, historic Gastown, the Northshore mountains, and the vibrant downtown core. Vancouver Lookout has been an iconic element of the city’s skyline since 1977.  Learn about our city from information panels located throughout the deck or follow the complimentary self-guided audio tour. Free Wi-Fi is available. One entry per Privilege Pass holder and one guest per day.

Check www.vancouverlookout.com for hours of operation prior to arrival.  

Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours

Enjoy any of these amazing walking tours The Forbidden Vancovuer Tour, The Lost Souls of Gastown Tour, The Dark Secrets of Stanley Park Tour, and The Rea lly Gay History Tour . To redeem your pass for your complimentary tickets please email us at [email protected]

All privilege pass reservations are subject to tour availability.

  forbiddenvancouver.ca   

BC Sports Hall of Fame  

 604-687-5520 – Gate A of BC Place – BC Sports Hall of Fame celebrates extraordinary achievement in BC sport history and inspires future generations to make their dreams come true. We welcome everyone to celebrate and discover some of Canada’s most talented athletes, through interactive imagery and artifacts! VISIT WED - SUN. 

Please contact our front desk (604-687-5520) for stadium event closures.

bcsportshall.com  @bcsportshall

Gray Line Westcoast Sightseeing - Hop on Hop off

604-451-1600 - Enjoy  2 passes on our Hop-On, Hop-Off City Sightseeing Tour .  Privilege Pass must be presented at Canada Place stop only. Note:  Hop-On, Hop-Off passes do not include any attractions or packages.

westcoastsightseeing.com    @WESTCOASTsights

Rogers Arena Tours

604-899-7440 – 899 Griffiths Way – Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the premier sports and entertainment facilities in North America with a Rogers Arena tour. Explore the house of the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks. See first-hand where we’ve staged world-class entertainment and sports for over 25 years and welcomed over 25 million fans from across the globe.

TOURS AVAILABLE WED-SAT 10:30AM, 12:15PM, 2PM. LIMITED AVAILABILITY . Book: [email protected] rogersarena.com/tours

Museum of Vancouver

604-736-4431 – 1100 Chestnut St, Vanier Park – Take in Vancouver’s past–from Indigenous history in through the 1970s in the Vancouver Stories Galleries. Gain a deeper understanding of our city through stories, objects, and shared experiences. MOV hosts special exhibitions too, with different art, design and histories being featured every few months. Visit our website to stay up to date on MOV’s workshops and special events too!    

Privilege Pass free admission is not valid for workshops or special events.

museumofvancouver.ca   @museumofvan

H.R. MacMillan Space Centre

Privilege  Pass holders and one guest will receive free admission to our daytime or evening general admission programming. Admission includes a show in the Planetarium, time to browse the Cosmic Courtyard gallery, a live science demonstration (for daytime visits only), and a tour of the observatory (for evening visits only).

Online ticketing is not available for those looking to redeem this offer. The offer must be redeemed at the door. Free admission cannot be used for group visits or special events. To confirm ticket availability before you visit contact us at [email protected] or call 604-738-7827. Visit spacecentre.ca for hours of operation and show times.

Vancouver Maritime Museum

604-257-8300 – 1905 Ogden Ave, in Vanier Park  - Travel back in time aboard the RCMP St. Roch and discover some of the world’s great maritime treasures, visit our latest art exhibition, explore our newly renovated children’s gallery, or brush up your knowledge of shipwrecks, explorers and pirates.   Please, NO backpacks or large bags inside Museum.   Open 10am – 5pm Tuesday through Sunday

Check website for hours of operation.

vanmaritime.com   @vanmaritime 

Old Hastings Mill Store Museum

604-734-1212 – 1575 Alma St – Vancouver’s oldest building (c.1868) once served as the general supply store for Hastings Sawmill on the south shore of Burrard Inlet. OPEN SAT-SUN.

hastingsmillmuseum.ca

Museum of Anthropology

604-822-5087 – 6393 NW Marine Dr –     PLEASE NOTE: MOA is temporarily closed to the public until mid-2024 for Great Hall seimic. Check MOA’s website for up-to-date information about the museum’s reopening date (TBA).

When MOA is re-opened (date TBA), the Privilege Pass is valid for free regular museum admission for Privilege Pass holder and one guest. Valid for walk-ups only. Not valid for special ticketed events. A valid Privilege Pass and one piece of government-issued photo ID must be presented at the point of entry.  moa.ubc.ca  @moa_ubc

UBC Botanical Garden, Greenheart Tree Walk &  Nitobe Memorial Garden

604-822-4208 – 6804 SW Marine Dr –  Dr – UBC Botanical Garden offers access to  acres of spectacular gardens and the Greenheart TreeWalk all nestle along the  BC coastline. A short distance away is the tranquil Japanese Nitobe Memorial  Garden, 1895 Lower Mall Note Greenheart TreeWalk Tours are based on  availability. Please see website for hours.    

botanicalgarden.ubc.ca   @ubcgarden

Beaty Biodiversity Museum

604-827-4955 – 2212 Main Mall, on the UBC campus –  Experience Vancouver’s natural history museum. Look through the giant jaws of a suspended blue whale skeleton, explore a working research collection, and view hundreds of displays featuring real birds, insects, plants and fish!  Hands-on activities and films for all ages. Check website for days, hours, and special programming.

beatymuseum.ubc.ca  @beatymuseum 

Bloedel Conservatory

604-257-8584 – 4600 Cambie St (Queen Elizabeth Park) – Experience Bloedel Conservatory, a fun, family-friendly indoor attraction located at the peak of Vancouver in Queen Elizabeth Park. Discover exotic birds, koi, and over 500 kinds of tropical plants inside the dome. NOT VALID  FOR SPECIAL EVENTS.

bloedelconservatory.ca   @bloedel_conservatory

VanDusen Botanical Garden

604-257-8335 – 5251 Oak St – Explore VanDusen Botanical Garden, an inspiring 55-acre outdoor oasis with over 7,500 plant species and varieties. Spot local wildlife, find your way through the hedge maze and relax in a serene setting located in the heart of Vancouver. Bring a picnic or dine on the patios of Shaughnessy Restaurant or Garden Café. NOT VALID FOR SPECIAL EVENTS INCLUDING FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS.

vandusengarden.ca @vandusengarden

Richmond Olympic Experience  604-296-1400 – 6111 River Rd, Richmond – Celebrate Team Canada and discover inspiring stories from local Olympic and Paralympic athletes in Canada’s only Olympic Museum. Relive the excitement of Vancouver 2010, ride our interactive sport simulators, and check out the latest Olympic torches from Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022.

therox.ca   @RmdOlympicExp 

Richmond Art Gallery

 604-247-8300 – 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond – Featuring contemporary art exhibitions by BC, national and international artists, as well as a variety of free art programs and tours for all ages and interests. Visit our website for our current programming schedule. Our location inside the Richmond Cultural Centre is easily accessible by car with free parking on site, or by the Canada Line only a few blocks away.  

www.richmondartgallery.org

Richmond Museum   

604-247-8300 – 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond – A place to explore, a place to reflect, and a place to discover the many stories of Richmond. Enjoy our latest exhibit, Richmond Kids , and discover what it is like to grow up in Richmond. Come and find out what Richmond Kids have to say, what they loved, and what made growing up in Richmond unique throughout different time eras.

richmondmuseum.ca  

Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site

 604-664-9009 –  12138 Fourth Avenue,  Richmond – Be transported in time and explore one of BC’s few restored canneries. Through interactive and immersive exhibitions, tours, and programs, this site honours the historical significance of Canada’s West Coast fishing industry - and the communities behind it. 

Free admission for youth 17 and under, Privilege Passes are not accepted for special events and paid programming.  

gulfofgeorgiacannery.org   @gogcannery

Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site

 604-238-8050 – 5180 Westwater Dr, Richmond – Explore the 8-acre historic site and its collection of heritage buildings representing life and work in the fisheries, canneries, and shipyards of Steveston. Learn about the diverse backgrounds of the people who shaped this unique community.  

Free guided heritage tour admission for passholder and guest, or 20% discount for a guided heritage River Boat Tour (limit 2 per pass). Both tours offered during summer season only.  For open hours, tour times and booking details please see website for booking details. 

 britanniashipyards.ca

The Squamish Connector offers transportation to and from the Sea to Sky Gondola, Privilege Passholders, and one guest, enjoy 15% off regular round trip rates, valid for passport holders and one guest. PHONE IN RESERVATIONS ONLY: 604 318 5855  Check their website for times: www.squamishconnector.com

Steveston Tram

 604-238-8081 – 4011 Moncton St, Richmond – Visit the museum at the gateway to Steveston Village to explore the beautifully restored Tram Car 1220 and experience the beginnings of Richmond’s transportation history. Learn about the workings of the tram car, who rode the Interurban rail system, and how it affected the Steveston fishing, farming and canning community, with our newly opened permanent exhibit. 

 stevestontram.ca

Steveston Museum and Post Office

604-238-8026 – 3811 Moncton St, Richmond – Located in the heart of Steveston Village, the Steveston Museum and Post Office is home to exhibits about the historic fishing community and the Japanese Canadian history pre and post internment during the Second World War. There is also a working Canada Post office on site   OPEN DAILY.

stevestonmuseum.ca @stevestonmuseum

Lulu Island Winery

 604-232-9839 – 16880 Westminster Hwy, Richmond –   Sharing our passion and championing experiences, LuLu Island Winery brings the quality and warmth of Okanagan wine country to bustling life in the city.

With a lush 10-acre vineyard on site, stunning grapevine tunnel, and state-of-the-art production facility, we relish the opportunity to be a refuge for the community — a place to slow down, enjoy, and share with others. We are open daily to all — for friends, family, and pets too! Enjoy a complimentary wine tasting, no reservations required!

  luluislandwinery.com   @LuluIslandWine 

Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre

604-990-3755 – 3663 Park Road, North Vancouver – a renowned nature museum, attracts both residents and tourists with its informative and interactive displays. We boast exceptional environmental education initiatives catering to all age groups, captivating interactive displays, enjoyable and affordable programs, and a well stocked gift shop featuring local products. OPEN DAILY.

Enjoy 15% off at our gift shop when you present your Privilege Pass.

ecologycentre.ca

Maplewood Farm

 604-929-5610 – 405 Seymour River Pl, North Vancouver – Maplewood Farm offers the unique experience to see and interact with domestic  farm animals inside city limits! OPEN DAILY.    NOT VALID ON SPECIAL EVENT DAYS.

maplewoodfarm.bc.ca   @maplewood_farm

MONOVA: Museum of North Vancouver

604-990-3700 – 115 West Esplanade, North Vancouver – located on the traditional lands of the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations Experience the Cultures & Histories of this unique area. Don’t forget to check out our Feature Exhibit when you visit.

VISIT WED-SUN.

  We reserve the right to change hours of operations without notice, special events and programs requiring registration or a fee are not included with this offer.

Occasionally the Museum closes for private community functions, please check online or call before you visit. monova.ca/visit/

The Polygon Gallery

604-986-1351 – 101 Carrie Cates Ct, North Vancouver - Located on  Vancouver’s North Shore waterfront, The Polygon Gallery is one of Canada’s most  internationally acclaimed photography and media art galleries. Accessible by  car, bus, or a 12-minute Seabus ride from downtown Vancouver. VISIT WED-SUN

thepolygon.ca     @polygongallery

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

604-985-7474 – 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver – Appreciate nature from three breathtaking perspectives – the world famous Capilano Suspension Bridge, the seven bridges of Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk, a thrilling cliffside journey high above Capilano River.

Enjoy complimentary admission for you and one guest when you present your valid Privilege Pass and photo ID to Groups and VIP. For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.capbridge.com/travel-trade/

Reservations: Reservations are required in advance of your visit and are subject to timeslot availability. Please email [email protected] to request a reservation booking.

Blackout Dates:  Long weekends through the year and during Canyon Lights December 20, 2024 – January 5, 2025.

Free Shuttle use is permitted seven days a week.

Grouse Mountain

604-980-9311 – 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver – Take the Skyride to The Peak of Vancouver for stunning views and mountain top experiences year-round.  A truly rewarding and memorable experience.

Free Mountain Admission after 5pm for you and one guest . Blackout dates:   Not available on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, statutory holidays, or between December 25-January 1. 

Please visit grousemountain.com for hours of operation. grousemountain.com

Britannia Mine Museum  

Discover the Underground. Pan for REAL Gold! and experience the thrill of the award-winning BOOM! Show.

BOOM! takes visitors on a multi-sensory, live-action adventure exploring the story behind the iconic Mill building.

Located on the Sea-to-Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler.

Open Daily. Visit www.britanniaminemuseum.ca for up-to-date hours and tour times.

Pre-Book to guarantee your entry time using promotional code TOURISMCHALLENGEPPASS2024

ID and Privilege Pass must be shown on arrival for offer to apply

Black Out Dates – All statutory holidays, special events and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from June 28 to September 3rd.

Visit www.britanniaminemuseum for up-to-date hours and tour times.

The Squamish Connector offers transportation to and from the Britannia Mine Museum, Privilege Passholders, and one guest, enjoy 15% off regular round trip rates, valid for passport holders and one guest. PHONE IN RESERVATIONS ONLY: 604 861 3532. Check their website for times: www.squamishconnector.com

Sea to Sky Gondola

604-892-2550 – 36800 Hwy 99 Adventure by Nature! Enjoy a scenic 10-minute gondola ride 885m above sea level to our Summit Lodge. From there, visit a viewing platform for sweeping views of the Howe Sound Fjord and Coastal Mountains, cross the 100m long suspension bridge, or go for a walk or hike along our many trails.    Blackout dates: Long weekends throughout the year and Friday – Sunday from June 14th to September 15th, 2024.

  seatoskygondola.com   @seatoskygondola 

The Squamish Connector offers transportation to and from the Sea to Sky Gondola, Privilege Passholders, and one guest, enjoy 15% off regular round trip rates, valid for passport holders and one guest. PHONE IN RESERVATIONS ONLY:  604 318 5855   Check their website for times: www.squamishconnector.com

Railway Museum of BC

Enjoy a self-guided walking  tour of our beautiful Railway Museum of BC. Wander through our large collection of vintage locomotives and rolling stock including the famous Royal Hudson!     

Join us every Saturday, long-weekend Sundays and select Thursdays all Season long in Squamish for the full experience. Explore the entire 12-acre Museum site and enjoy unlimited rides on our Mini-Rail train, Track Speeders and BC-21 Budd car to the restoration shops.

wcra.org @WCRHP @CNRHCC @visitrmbc

Check our Website for updates.

Audain Art Museum

604-962-0413 – 4350 Blackcomb Way, Whistler – Experience the art of BC, from the traditional works of the province’s First Peoples through to its contemporary masters, in Whistler. Not valid during events or exhibition openings.

audainartmuseum.com

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler

Connect with our Cultural Ambassadors on an hourly guided tour beginning with a welcome drum song, a short film, and a guided tour through the Great Hall and Gallery 1. Continue exploring a collection of contemporary art, exhibits and artifacts from both Nations in Gallery 2 and 3 as well as a traditional Istken Pithouse and Longhouse on the Mezzanine Patio, and enjoy a walk through the Salish Stroll Forest.

Explore the Gallery & Gift ShopEnjoy a 10% discount in the Gift Shop*. (Discount offer limited to one visit). *Open Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 5pm, Closed on Mondays. See Slcc.ca/visit for up to date hours before you visit.  

The SLCC is open Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 5pm (Closed Monday), and occasionally closes early for private events. Visit slcc.ca/visit for up-to-date hours.

slcc.ca   @SLCCWhistler

PNE FAIR 

Vancouver's favourite summer tradition! 

Enjoy Gate Admission for 2 to the PNE Fair: August 17 – September 2, 2024 (11am-11pm), closed Mondays except Labour Day.

Hastings Racecourse & Casino

604-254-1631 – 188 N Renfrew St – We’ve been capturing the imagination of Vancouverites and visitors alike since 1889. Each April through October, we are Vancouver’s exclusive source for live thoroughbred horseracing. Join us at Hastings Racecourse and Casino today and find out why we’re “Bred for Excitement” since 1889.

Pick up a  free program on race days from our Guest Services located in the Diamond Club on the 2nd floor available to October 20. Check the schedule at  www.hastingsracecourse.com for race times. 

And enjoy 10% off food purchases at Jerome's Pub year round. Please note that patrons must be 19+ to dine at Jerome's. 

hastingsracecourse.com 

Burnaby Village Museum and Carousel

6501 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby - Centuries of history packed into a 10-acre site. An open-air museum with 38 exhibits to explore including period-specific homes, businesses, Indigenous Learning House, Vintage Carousel and a traditional school house.

Get 20% off regularly priced gift shop items and get 2 free admissions to Haunted Village.

burnabyvillagemuseum.ca  @bbyvillage

  Burnaby Art Gallery

 604-297-4422 – 6344 Deer Lake Ave  – Visit the Burnaby Art Gallery for historical and contemporary exhibitions featuring local, national and international artists.   Closed Mondays, holidays and during exhibition installation. For current times and exhibitions visit our website.

burnabyartgallery.ca  @BurnabyArtGallery

Colossal Creations Replica Museum

604-649-0756 – 2963 Forestridge Pl, Coquitlam – featuring 100+ works of art by Cosimo Geracitano including replica paintings of Leonardo DaVinci, Vincent Van Gogh, Eugene Delacroix and many more. “A private collection of paintings that must be one of the great artistic wonders in Canada” Joseph Brean, National Post.

Book online  www.colossalcreations.ca/visit     USE PROMO CODE TC2024

 @colossalcreationsmusuem

Tourism New West at Anvil Centre

604-526-1905 - 777 Columbia St, New Westminster - The Anvil Centre is home to the New Media Gallery, New Westminster Museum & Archives, The Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame, Community Art Gallery, Anvil Theatre and the Anvil Conference Centre.  Oepn  10am-5pm daily.  

tourismnewwest.com  @tourismnewwest

Irving House Museum

604-527-4640 – 302 Royal Ave, New Westminster –   Located in the heart of the Royal City, Irving House is one of the oldest community heritage sites in BC. Take a tour with our costumed guides . Visit our website for hours of operation.

 nwmuseumarchive.ca

salishan Place by the River

604-532-3536 – 23430 Mavis Ave, Fort Langley – OPENING FALL 2024 - Langley's newest museum and cultural centre will be connecting visitors to art, culture, and stories of Langley in the heart of historic Fort Langley. Visit our website for more details.

tol.ca/salishanplace 

Museum of Surrey

604-592-6956 – 17710 – 56A Ave, Surrey – reflecting the incredible diversity of the people of Surrey by honoring our environment and telling the amazing stories of Surrey’s communities through exhibitions, special events, and programming. All exhibits and programs celebrate Surrey’s past, present and future with innovative, dynamic and delightful learning, storytelling, and shared experiences. Enjoy 15% savings at the Gift Shop. Closed Mondays Open Tues to Sat 9:30am-5:30pm. Open Sunday Noon to 5pm. 

surrey.ca/museum

Surrey Nature Centre

604-502-6065 – 14225 Green Timbers Way, Surrey – 604-502-6065 – 14225 Green Timbers Way, Surrey – Nestled beside Green Timbers Urban Forest, the Surrey Nature Centre is a place for kids and adults to explore nature. Join our guided programs for all ages, or go for a walk in the forest. Borrow fishing rods, browse nature exhibits and displays, and meet our resident salamander Sammy.  surrey.ca/parks-recreation/surrey-parks/surrey-nature-centre

Historic Stewart Farm

604-591-4627 – 13723 Crescent Rd, Surrey – Welcome to 1900 rural Surrey farm life!  History comes alive in the restored Victorian farmhouse and grounds along the Nikomekl River.  

surrey.ca/heritage 

Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada

604-513-4777 – 23433 Mavis Ave, Fort Langley – Experience life as a 19th century voyageur at Fort Langley National Historic Site, where the colony of British Columbia was born. Mingle with fur traders, pan for gold, learn the blacksmith’s art or stay overnight in a Hudson’s Bay Company-themed oTENTik at Vancouver’s only fort (extra cost).   

  parkscanada.gc.ca/fortlangley   @FortLangleyNHS  @LHNFortLangley

Greater Vancouver Zoo

 604-856-6825 – 5048 - 264th St, Aldergrove (Exit #73 off Hwy #1) – Dedicated to education and conservation, the Greater Vancouver Zoo is home to many rescued, donated and orphaned animals. The mission of the Greater Vancouver Zoo is to inspire appreciation of the ecosystems and support conservation efforts by engaging the community. Discover the sights and sounds of 140 species on 120 acres in the heart of the Fraser Valley.  

Safari Express Miniature Train and Quadracycles are not included. gvzoo.com   

Enjoy RunGo Premium free for one month. RunGo offers voice navigation on running and walking routes around the world. RunGo Premium gives you access to premium routes, unlimited custom route creation and more. 

Learn more about RunGo Premium options at    routes.rungoapp.com/gopremium and our curated route creation service for hotels and communities at   www.rungoapp.com/hotels

RunGo Free 1 Month trial:    routes.rungoapp.com/gopremium/freetrial 

Canadian Museum of Flight

604-532-0035 – 5333 216th St, Langley – Offering “a great family day out” to our aviation discovery centre, inspiring young people towards a passion for aviation and STEM more generally and telling stories of our aviation heritage and future. VISIT WED-SUN    canadianflight.org 

Maple Ridge Museum 

604-463-5311 – 22520 - 116th Ave, Maple Ridge – Featuring Indigenous pre-contact history, history of European settlement of historic Maple Ridge, alongside a model railway diorama of the Port Haney area and lower mainland.  On temporary display is an exhibit on local geology and a pop up exhibit featuring 1950s fashion styles. 

mapleridgemuseum.org

The Reach Gallery Museum

604-864-8087 – 32388 Veterans Way, Abbotsford – an award-winning hub of cultural activity, providing audiences with a robust range of exhibitions, programs, and experiences, publishing unique curatorial research, and nurturing the growth of the artistic, historical, and cultural communities in Abbotsford and the Fraser Valley.    VISIT TUES-SAT. 

thereach.ca

BC Hydro – Powerhouse at Stave Falls

604-462-1222 – 31338 Dewdney Trunk Rd, Mission – A National Historic Site of Canada that offers a look into the development of electricity in British Columbia. Whether it’s self-guided or guided, you’ll experience High Energy with any tour at the Powerhouse. You’ll also get to play with interactive displays and see the original turbines and generators.   For hours of operations and tour times please visit  b chydro.com/stavefalls   @bchydro 

Agassiz-Harrison Museum & Visitor Centre

604-796-3545 – 7011 Pioneer Ave – Located in downtown Agassiz the Agassiz-Harrison Museum & Visitor Centre is housed in the historic Canadian Pacific Railway Station built in 1893. Discover local and regional history and art in the exhibit galleries and museum gift shop. VISIT WED-SAT   

agassizharrisonmuseum.org

 Kilby Historic Site

604-796-9576 – 215 Kilby Rd, Harrison Mills – Travel back to an early 1900’s rural community and visit a 1906 General Store Museum complete with original merchandise. Observe the antics of our friendly farm animals. Taste freshly churned butter, or watch a ‘revealing’ show. This 5-acre Fraser Valley living history site includes a home-style café & unique country gift shop. VISIT THURS-SUN.   

The Yale Historic Site  

  250-800-1831 – 31187 Douglas St, Yale – located along the banks of the mighty Fraser River, come explore the stories that shaped history in unexpected ways. Stroll along the pathways to experience the tranquil surroundings under the shade of the historic copper beech tree, wander through the pews of the St. John the Divine Church and visit the Creighton House as it undergoes a reimaging of how it shares the stories of the community. Just a bit further down the road, take a moment to relax in the gardens of the On Lee property. The site of a store and home of a prominent member of the Chinese community in Yale is off the beaten path but well worth a visit   

Days of operation: Wednesday to Sunday / Opening hours: 10 am - 5 pm

historicyale.ca  @HistoricYale

Hell’s Gate Airtram

604-867-9277 – Highway #1 via Exit 170 at Hope – Exchange Mountain ranges aboard one of the only gondolas in North America that descends 500 feet and enjoy many things to see and do. CHECK WEBSITE FOR OPERATING HOURS.

hellsgateairtram.com   @hellsgatetram 

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A beautiful 18th century landscape garden that makes a great out day for all ages.

The kids will love the playbarn at Godstone Farm

Claremont Landscape Gardens

Image: credit National Trust

Welcome to Visit Surrey

Less than half an hour from central London, Surrey is a beautiful, exciting and diverse place to visit that’s full of surprises.

With vibrant towns surrounded by spectacular countryside, including the scenic Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty , there’s plenty waiting for you to explore. 

Surrey is England's most wooded county and home to rolling hills and valleys, so come and explore our wonderful world-famous gardens, ancient heathlands, stunning scenic views and beautiful waterways. 

We have a fabulous range of accommodation for you to choose from and world-class attractions and events to keep you entertained.

Discover top quality places to dine , many serving locally sourced, seasonal food and drink, to make the most of your visit.

Life is about experiences and in Surrey you can try everything from wine tasting and gin making to paddleboarding, boat hire and classic car drives in the Surrey Hills.

Whether travelling alone or with the family, you will be sure of a truly unforgettable experience wherever and whenever you choose to visit Surrey.

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16 Unique & Fun Things to do in Surrey, BC

From niche museums and beautiful beaches to lush trails and quaint historic escapes, there’s actually many things to do in Surrey, BC that most visitors don’t expect.

Growing up in the Lower Mainland, Surrey wasn’t often considered a destination to visit or do day trips. But things are quickly changing. In fact, Surrey is one of the fastest growing cities in Canada, not to mention the largest city in Metro Vancouver where land mass is concerned.

So, what is there to do in Surrey? Read on for a roundup of our favourites activities and places to visit!

Head to Crescent Beach

We know that beaches aren’t often what come to mind when you think of Surrey, but this sprawling city is indeed home to a beautiful waterfront, and one of the best places to watch sunset in Metro Vancouver.

We’re talking of course about Crescent Beach, a picturesque beach and residential community in South Surrey that makes for a perfect summer (or sunset) excursion.

With gorgeous views over Boundary Bay, and a walkable promenade lined with quaint houses, this is by far one of the most scenic places to visit in Surrey… with a much more laid-back feel than nearby White Rock.

Whether you want to sunbathe, enjoy some beach volleyball, or simply grab a bite at one of the Beecher Street hot spots, visiting Crescent Beach is definitely one of the best things to do in Surrey… so come see for yourself the next time you visit!

NOTE: The beach here is pretty rocky. If you prefer sandy beaches, then time your visit for low tide.

Explore Tynehead Regional Park

Just off of the Trans-Canada Highway, you’ll find another Surrey gem: Tynehead Regional Park, a large park in North Surrey with kilometres of scenic trails, a fish hatchery, a dog park, and even its own butterfly garden.

If you’re looking for outdoorsy things to do in Surrey, visiting this park is a must. The Tynehead Perimeter Trail is a popular pick for first timers, but you can easily choose your own adventure once you enter the park.

Be sure to pack a picnic too, because there’s several picnicking areas to choose from!

Enjoy some craft brews

Craft beer is practically a religion in the Lower Mainland these days, and Surrey is no exception. While you won’t find a microbrewery on every corner here like in Mount Pleasant , there’s still great options if you’re looking for some hyperlocal brews.

Central City Brewing has been around since 2003, and its signature Red Racer beer can be found in bars and restaurants all around the Lower Mainland. Their original brewpub is located conveniently by Surrey Central Skytrain Station, although their new 125,000 square foot facility on Bridgeview Derive (with tasting room) is well worth a visit.

There’s also Russell Brewing Co , which has been championing craft beer methods since 1995, making it one of the oldest microbreweries in Metro Vancouver. While their long awaited Tasting Room is set to open later this year, you can find their inventive pours in over 1200 locations across the country. Click here to find the closest location near you.

Head to the historic town centre of Cloverdale

Cloverdale may best be known for its annual rodeo, but it’s also a worthwhile place to visit year round thanks to several attractions (which we’ll cover below), like the Museum of Surrey, BC Vintage Truck Museum, and the Cloverdale Flea Market.

Often considered the historic heart of Surrey, Cloverdale is filled with heritage buildings and a quiet charm that feels worlds removed from the glass condos and shopping malls popping up elsewhere in the city.

Truth be told, the historic main drag of Cloverdale (176th Street) is pretty quiet these days, but it’s a spot where you can explore some independent shops, browse for antiques, admire some public art, and grab a bite to eat.

Pop culture fans might also recognize it as Smallville, or Greendale from the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Thanks to its historic charm, Cloverdale is a favourite for film crews.

Beyond Cloverdale’s main strip though, there are lots of worthwhile attractions in the neighbourhood. We’ll showcase some of our favourites below.

Stop by the Museum of Surrey

Yes, Surrey has a museum dedicated to Surrey! Who knew?

This underrated attraction is unknown to many Metro Vancouverites, but if you’re looking for something a little different/educational to do in Surrey, particularly with young ones in tow, then the Museum of Surrey makes a great choice… especially on a rainy day.

Located at the Heritage Campus in Cloverdale, the museum has a goal of “celebrating Surrey’s past, present and future through innovative, dynamic and delightful learning, storytelling, and creating shared experiences”.

They do this through interactive exhibits, events, and programs… and a pretty baller kids play area. Best of all, it’s free, making it one of the most budget-friendly Surrey activities you can enjoy.

Visit the BC Vintage Truck Museum

When we said Surrey had niche museums, we meant it… and if you’re looking for a quirky Surrey activity to check off your list, then why not consider a visit to Cloverdale’s BC Vintage Truck Museum ?

Sure, their opening hours are fairly limited, but if you happen to catch them open, you’ll be treated to a hefty collection of vintage cars dating back to 1914, alongside tons of memorabilia and signage.

Rummage for goodies at the Cloverdale Flea Market

For almost 50 years, Cloverdale’s Flea Market has been one of the top draws for visitors from across the Lower Mainland who come in search of crafts, clothing, collectibles, and virtually everything you can imagine.

Held every Sunday, this “weekly treasure hunt” offers an array of eclectic goods as well as fresh produce, meaning there’s pretty much something for everyone here.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and unique activity to enjoy in Cloverdale, make sure you time your visit for a Sunday so you can enjoy this iconic weekly event.

Hop on the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway

If riding through Surrey on a vintage train sounds like your idea of fun, then be sure to add the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway to your list of things to do.

This historic attraction in Surrey offers two main experiences: the Sullivan Excursion, and the Discovery Centre Tour.

Departing from Cloverdale Station, the Sullivan Excursion allows visitors to experience commuter rail as it would have been a century ago.

This bookable experience involves a 55 minute roundtrip ride from Cloverdale to Sullivan Station (usually) on board the BCER 1225 , a train which worked in Vancouver, Burnaby and Steveston from 1913 – 1958.

On certain occasions though, special event trains will be used instead, so be sure to check their website for more details.

Besides train rides, visitors can also enjoy a one hour tour of the Discovery Centre, where you can see restoration efforts up close, learn more about the region’s rail history, and explore the Transit Museum set up at the (replica) Cloverdale Station.

Visit the famous Peace Arch

Visiting a border crossing isn’t usually a priority in most places, but the Peace Arch (found in South Surrey) is different.

This monument can be found at the Westernmost point of the US-Canada border, with a park that stretches across both countries, making it one of the few places in Canada where you can walk over to the US without clearing passport control (so long as you stay in the park, and leave via Canada, of course).

This bright white arch has stood for over 100 years as a symbol of peace between Canada and the US, and was even (fun fact) a hotspot for cross-border couples to get married during border closures throughout the pandemic.

Now open again, Peace Arch Park is well worth a visit if you’re looking for unique places to visit in Surrey… plus, it’s probably one of the coolest picnic spots that Metro Vancouver has to offer.

Look for famous filming locations

While Vancouver has a reputation for being “Hollywood North”, other cities of the Lower Mainland get their fair share of screen time as well, and Surrey is no exception.

The list of productions that have filmed in Surrey is extensive. As previously mentioned, Cloverdale has been used for shows like Peacemaker, Smallville, the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, and Supernatural.

Crescent Beach has also been featured in productions like Psych and Tron: Legacy.

And various parts of the Surrey Central area have been used in shows like The Flash, Supergirl and the 100.

So, if you’re looking for quirky and geeky Surrey activities, make sure to add “hunting for filming locations” to your list!

Visit the Historic Stewart Farm

The Historic Stewart Farm is a historic gem tucked away in Surrey’s Elgin Heritage Park, offering a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of dwellers who lived here in the early 1900s.

Consisting of eight heritage buildings, the farm is now considered one of the top heritage sites in Surrey, and a great place to immerse yourself in local history through a tour around the farm’s scenic grounds.

The crown jewel of the property is the Queen Anne Revival farmhouse, originally built in 1894. Today, it has been lovingly restored to its former glory, and can be explored via a guided tour from on-site staff, or on your own.

Walk around Green Timbers Urban Forest & Surrey Nature Centre

For another fun outdoorsy thing to do in Surrey, a visit to Green Timbers Urban Forest (and the nearby Surrey Nature Centre) is a great bet.

This park is one of the largest in Surrey, offering 10km of trails in a lush second-growth forest. It may be hard to believe, but back in 1929, this forest had been completely logged and bare. But, decades of replanting and regrowth later, it is now more beautiful than ever, with plenty of spaces and trails for visitors to enjoy.

Little wonder why it is often referred to as BC’s “Birthplace of Reforestation”.

Try out an escape room

Getting locked in a room and solving puzzles to escape may sound like a TERRIBLE thing to do in Surrey, but it’s actually a lot of fun… and a unique idea for a date night or outing with friends.

E-Exit in Surrey offers a variety of themed escape rooms where you get to solve puzzles and brave challenges in order to find your way out… perfect for a rainy day activity, or if you’ve exhausted all the other things to do in Surrey we’ve already mentioned.

Head out to spend a day at White Rock

With a central location in the Lower Mainland, Surrey makes a great base for various day trips across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

One of our favourites is White Rock, a gorgeous waterfront town with chill beach vibes, a variety of restaurants, and a lovely promenade with sweeping views over Semiamhoo Bay.

From walking the longest pier in Canada to enjoying sweet patio time, there’s tons of great things to do in White Rock. .. which is why we’d highly recommend the trip there from Surrey.

Hit the casino

Another rainy day activity to enjoy in Surrey is a visit to the casino!

While it’s not exactly Vegas, Elements Casino  in Surrey has hundreds of slot machines, a variety of fun table games, and a few different spots to grab a bite.

They also often host special events and live music, making it a fun entertainment venue if you’re looking for something a little different to do in Surrey.

Attend Surrey Fusion Festival

Lastly, we couldn’t write a list of cool things to do in Surrey without mentioning the annual Surrey Fusion Festival!

This epic festival bills itself as the “ultimate celebration of food, music and culture”, and takes place every July. You can think of it as an amalgamation of food, music, and culture from dozens of countries around the world, with varied pavilions and tents showcasing the diversity that Surrey is known for.

If you happen to be in Surrey during the summer, be sure to add this event to your list. After all, it’s the largest free multicultural festival that British Columbia has to offer.

Did we miss any of your favourite things to do in Surrey?

Let us know in the comments so we can add more recommendations to our list!

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SHTM launches Innovation Challenge to celebrate World Tourism Day

In celebration of World Tourism Day 2021, the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (SHTM) has launched the #SHTMatSurrey Innovation Challenge 'Nobody is Left Behind', to generate innovative ideas on how to make the hospitality, tourism, transport, and events industries more inclusive.

World Tourism Day is celebrated globally on 27 September each year. This year's theme is 'Tourism for Inclusive Growth', which serves as the focus of the #SHTMatSurrey Innovation Challenge. The challenge was launched following a webinar that was held to discuss research activities within SHTM, focusing on the topic of inclusion, featuring:

• Professor Gang Li (Director of COVE )
• Professor Caroline Scarles (Director of DIGMY )
• Professor Xavier Font (Director of SWELL )
• Anita Mendiratta ( SHTM Executive-in-Residence Autumn 2021 ).

The #SHTMatSurrey Innovation Challenge is open to SHTM students across all undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Students are encouraged to form a team with students from other departments within or outside of the University.  

A number of industry partners, including STR , the Institute of Hospitality , VisitBritain , and It’s A Penalty , provide specific real-world issues to be addressed in the challenge. Entries are expected by Monday 1 November 2021.

Finalists will be invited to give a presentation in front of judges for a chance to win the following prizes:

• COVE Award for the most innovative use of data
• DIGMY Award for the most innovative use of digital technology
• SWELL Award for the most innovative way to achieve sustainable development goal(s)
• SHTM Award for overall performance.

Announcing the challenge, Acting Head of SHTM, Professor Iis Tussyadiah  commented: “We are keen to be transformational in our approach to education. We want our students to be agents of change, who will continue to make a difference in the industry and society. With this innovation challenge, we want to encourage our students not only to recognise important societal issues, but also to start thinking critically and generating innovative ideas to solve them.”

For more information regarding the Innovation Challenge, please email: [email protected]

Find out more about our courses in the  School of Hospitality and Tourism Management .

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Destination Spotlight: Surrey, BC tracks rising tourism sentiment during campaigns

Destination marketing strategy + research and analysis + topic: measuring success.

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• Destination Spotlight: Surrey, BC tracks rising tourism sentiment during campaigns - 4 August 2022
• Destination Spotlight: Richmond, VA leans on sentiment data to validate tourism messaging - 27 July 2022
• Destination Spotlight: City of Melbourne measures against competition using live sentiment analysis - 14 July 2022

4 August 2022

0 comments(s), surrey, bc is canada’s 12th most loved destination, according to 2021 tourism sentiment data. the city’s reputation is rising, too. discover surrey relies on tourism sentiment index to measure the progress it is making through integrated campaigns and uses it to share the results..

The only city in British Columbia, Canada with a bigger population than Surrey is its neighbour, Vancouver. Surrey lies between the Fraser River and border with the United States and is on track to become BC’s biggest city by 2030 . As part of the Metro Vancouver region, Surrey is often seen as a suburb of its popular neighbour. But the city’s reputation as a distinct tourism destination is on the rise as Discover Surrey uses campaigns finely tuned to local experiences to drive visitation. Tourism Sentiment Index allows Discover Surrey to track how those efforts result in positive sentiment.

Metro Vancouver is home to many distinct cultural groups. Surrey is on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territories of the Salish Peoples, and it is home to significant communities from Asia, as well as the Americas, Europe, Africa and Oceania. Tourism experiences in Surrey are often reflections of those cultures. Since 2008, the city has hosted the annual Fusion Festival to celebrate the food, music and culture of its residents. Visitors can also enjoy more focused experiences, like Diwali Fest , the rodeo and live theatre on the beach.

Ange Chew joined Discover Surrey as Executive Director in July 2020. She has seen that, despite having diverse attractions, Surrey is often caught in the role of suburb and known as a place to live, not a place to do and see things, aside from playing golf. The city has the most golf courses in the Lower Mainland, British Columbia’s most densely populated region.

Green Timbers Urban Forest Park has 10 kilometres of nature trails, inside the city of Surrey. Source: waferboard, Flickr

“But we also have the most municipal parks, so how do we leverage other assets like that to be a product we can sell? Where the sentiment is high, we say let’s leverage this interest and build products around that,” Chew said. “Tourism Sentiment Index helps with creating a roadmap for how to overcome perceptions, like ‘there’s not much to do in Surrey.’ We can take that to our board and say this is what we need to do to move forward.”

Chew also uses sentiment data to talk to city leaders about changing other perceptions, including the impact of Surrey often being named in news coverage about incidents of crime.

“The media mentions Surrey specifically, not just ‘Metro Vancouver’ or ‘in the Lower Mainland’ like they do when something happens in Burnaby or Richmond (other cities in Metro Vancouver region),” Chew said. “That’s a challenge for us. We can see when our sentiment goes down for specific incidents that happen in Surrey.”

Through her work understanding sentiments around Surrey, Chew led Discover Surrey to launch a new program to put forward one of the city’s strongest experiences and to build positive sentiment: Surrey Spice Trail .

“We have such a large South Asian population in Surrey and 750 restaurants, so we thought about a culinary option,” Chew said. “We realized we can own South Asian food, so we thought, ‘Let’s create this trail.’”

Surrey Spice Trail started in the summer of 2021 with a promotion to showcase the multicultural cuisine available across the city’s six neighbourhoods. The program really took off when Vikram Vij , a well-known chef and television personality, added his Surrey restaurant, My Shanti , to the program.

“Having Vikram Vij come on first, the cachet of his persona helped get this off the ground,” Chew said. “We wanted to get 10% of the businesses involved and make sure we had restaurants in each of the six neighbourhoods.”

One year later, the goal has been achieved with 75 restaurants, cafes and retailers now on the trail. The growth has been supported by the success of Discover Surrey’s promotional tactics. They have used paid advertising, earned media, social media and an interactive website to ensure visitors can access the trail.

“We use Tourism Sentiment Index when we are in campaign mode,” Chew said. “We look to see if what we’re doing bumps up our score.”

It does, and she shares the sentiment data with the city council, Discover Surrey’s board, and local businesses through an industry newsletter. 

At the outset, Discover Surrey saw a 25% increase in positive sentiment over the provincial average during the Spice Trail campaign. Chew says similar upticks occur with each tactic, including television coverage that provides a positive message about Surrey.

“With the coverage from Global TV , the perceptions of Surrey can change. They should, because the city has changed,” Chew said. “This helps to contradict those perceptions about crime.”

Discover Surrey’s efforts to give consumers a better idea of the city’s varied leisure experiences and the efforts of local businesses that deliver those experiences have boosted the tourism industry. The city is benefiting from regional travel with high numbers of visitors from British Columbia, the neighbouring province of Alberta, and Washington state, just across the US border. Accommodation rates have returned to 2019 levels.

“They are choosing to stay in Surrey and spend a few days here, while there is still occupancy available in Vancouver,” Chew said. “Vancouver relies on international travel, and that hasn’t come back.”

Surrey’s positive reputation is also earning other attention. In March, Tourism Sentiment Index released the 50 most loved Canadian destinations , based on 2021 sentiment data. Surrey was 12th in the country. This accomplishment was entered in the parliamentary record when one of the city’s legislative representatives shared the news with the provincial government and congratulated Discover Surrey.

Sentiment analysis can help your destination, too

Tourism Sentiment Index provides sentiment analysis through an array of products: on-demand data through TSI Live, quarterly rankings, monthly reports and more. To learn how your destination can access and apply sentiment analysis, contact the team at Tourism Sentiment Index .

Featured image credit: BC NDP, Flickr

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Tourism Event Marketing grant

The Discover Surrey Tourism Event Marketing Grant  provides eligible associations and organizations  with funding to assist with the costs to promote a festival or event.

This program is designed to provide marketing funding to event organizers for new and existing cultural events, festivals and tournaments that demonstrate the potential to grow tourism and attract overnight visitors to the city of Surrey.

Preference will be given to events that take place during non-peak seasons – November through May.

The intent of the Discover Surrey Tourism Event Marketing Fund is to:

• Develop Surrey’s profile as a destination for vibrant arts, culture, food, beverage, recreational and sporting events.
• Grow tourism by attracting visitors from outside the city to attend events in Surrey, particularly during non-peak seasons (November – May).
• Support events which increase the potential for overnight stays in Surrey.

There will be two application intakes:

• Wednesday, January 31, 2024, by 4:00 pm
• Friday, June 28, 2024, by 4:00 pm

To be considered, all applications must be submitted via email to Mary Ann Bell at [email protected] and must follow the guidelines outlined. 

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Sport Tourism Strategy

See Surrey's Sport Tourism Strategy to see how we are attracting major sporting events to the area.

Working with Discover Surrey , the City of Surrey has developed the Sport Tourism Strategy . Our goal is to establish Surrey as a leader in the Sport Tourism industry while maximizing both economic benefits and sport development opportunities for Surrey residents and businesses.

Learn more about Surrey's sporting initiatives .

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Squamish Tourism Challenge

Tourism Squamish welcomes you back to the Squamish Adventure Centre for the 2024 Tourism Challenge!

1. Visit the Squamish Adventure Centre located at 38551 Loggers Lane, Squamish, BC.

2. Present your passport and ID to one of our friendly staff members at the Visitor information desk.

3. Receive two questions related to our beautiful community or surrounding Sea to Sky.

4. Answer the questions correctly.

5. Collect your three stamps.

Thanks for participating, we hope you have fun in Squamish!

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