Urban Unwind: A Three-Day Getaway in Chilliwack

BC Ale Trail, Circle Farm Tour, Farm Experiences, Itineraries, Outdoor Adventure, Summer

You love the buzz of a city stroll but still crave that little thrill — a dash of adventure, craft brews that impress, small shops overflowing with local gems, and just enough nature to feel worlds away.

In Chilliwack, you don’t have to pick one over the other — you get it all, bundled into one unforgettable escape.

Before You Explore:

• Check road conditions HERE, find out the right gear for your adventure HERE, and share your plans with someone you trust.
• Stay on the marked trails, leave nature untouched, and return it exactly as you found it. Pack out all waste!
• Prioritize safety around water, wildlife, and fire.
• Honour the land you travel through—move with care, awareness, and gratitude.

This is how we Protect This Gift—together. Learn more HERE.

Day 1: River Thrills and Riverside Strolls

Your trip kicks off with a hearty breakfast at Uptown Grill (102-46168 Yale Road), a local favourite known for big plates and a classic diner feel (and they open at 7:00 am, so you’re sure to get a meal before the big adventures of the day begin). Pancakes, Omelettes, and bottomless coffee — this is the kind of breakfast that fuels a full day of action. We recommend ordering their Perogies Platter!

Then it’s time for some real adrenaline. Gear up for White Water Rafting with Chilliwack River Rafting (49704 Chilliwack Lake Road), a top-tier guided rafting experience in the Lower Mainland! Tours typically launch around 8:30 AM, and there’s nothing like the jolt of cold water and roaring rapids to shake off travel fatigue. First-timer or seasoned paddler, it’s pure fun, framed by rugged canyon walls and wild river views.

After you return, feast on a hearty and delicious meal prepped for you by the team at Chilliwack River Rafting! 

After your adventure, it’s time to slow things down. Start at Vedder Park (45450 Petawawa Road) and meander along the flat, gravel Vedder Rotary Trail — a gentle 20-minute walk that hugs the river’s edge.

This well-loved path is alive with cyclists, runners, families with strollers, and even the occasional horseback rider. Let the quiet rush of the water and views of the mountains lead you to Vedder Bridge, where crossing over lands you at Sidekick Brewing (106-45530 Vedder Mountain Road).

Sidekick Brewing is perfectly perched beside the Chilliwack River, making it an ideal spot to kick back and take it slow. Think laid-back atmosphere, refreshing craft beers*, and a deep-dish pizza that’s well worth the wait.

We recommend the Detroit-style Mediterranean Summer pizza — loaded with red sauce, artichokes, preserved cherry tomatoes, black olives, capers, candied lemon peel, feta, and green olive chimichurri. No rush — just good food, great drinks, and even better company. Get to know their brews HERE, and see what’s on tap HERE.

*Please drink responsibly.

When you’re ready to wrap up the day, make your way to Kent’s Ice Cream (5535 Vedder Road) for a sweet finale — because no perfect day ends without ice cream. Try one of their ice cream sandwiches (the Oatmeal Chocolate Chip is a must — and gluten-free!).

Day 2: Highland Cows & Downtown Chilliwack Charm

Start the day the right way — nestled in the heart of historic Downtown Chilliwack, District 1881 (46128 Yale Road) feels like stepping into a storybook, with its lively lanes and European-inspired charm. Wander into brick-and-mortar boutiques, cozy hobby shops, and inviting fine dining spots, each corner offering something new to uncover.

While you’re there, stop by Smoking Gun Coffee Roasters (46168 Yale Road) for a locally roasted, perfectly brewed espresso — with its warm, community atmosphere, it’s a must-visit favourite that adds an extra touch of magic to your Chilliwack adventure. We recommend ordering the Breaky Sando as it is a MUST-TRY!

Get ready for an afternoon unlike any other with a Guided Farm Tour at Yonder Highlands (book a tour for the address), where you’ll meet gentle Highland Cows and experience one of B.C.’s most magical farm adventures.

Start at The Birdhouse, their whimsical treehouse gift shop complete with washrooms, local treasures, and a warm welcome from your guide. Then set out on a scenic one-kilometre trail through stunning farm landscapes. Along the way, you’ll feed, pet, and learn all about these rare, majestic cattle, with antique displays and educational stops that bring their story to life.

Your tour wraps up back at The Birdhouse — the perfect spot to pick out a keepsake and soak in the views a little longer. Want to make the most of it? Add a Day Pass and linger in this special place. Book your tour HERE.

Lunch brings you back to District 1881, this time to Field House Brewing Co. (102-9251 Woolly Dog Alley), where small-batch beers pair perfectly with fresh, farm-to-table plates in a space that’s every bit as photogenic as the food. Sip on their Dutch Pale Ale* and dig into the Prosciutto & Goat Cheese Pizza — a local flavour combo you absolutely won’t want to miss!

*Please drink responsibly.

Now it’s time to wander through the shops of Downtown Chilliwack and District 1881 — each one a little adventure waiting to be found:

Fraser & Co. Modern Vintage | 9345 Mill Street

• A dreamy blend of timeless style and modern charm. Discover clothing, home goods, and gifts that bring beauty and joy into everyday life — all carefully chosen to inspire a life well-loved. Visit them HERE.

The Parisienne Market | 9373 Mill Street

• Step into a touch of Paris right here in Chilliwack. With vintage treasures, chic fashion, and elegant décor, this shop feels like wandering through a French market — romantic, charming, and full of surprises. Visit them HERE.

The Local Space | 101-46132 Yale Road

• Your go-to for Canadian-made delights. From bath treats and cozy apparel to unique gifts by over 100 local brands, it’s the perfect place to uncover one-of-a-kind finds while supporting small businesses. Visit them HERE.

Spruce Collective | 103-9251 Woolly Dog Alley

• Warm, welcoming, and full of whimsy. Explore homewares, kitchen essentials, stationery, and more — ideal for thoughtful gifting or picking up a sweet little something just for you. Visit them HERE.

Raquel Rosalie Jewelry | 105-45939 Thunderbird Lane

• Minimal magic designed to go wherever life takes you. These delicate, lasting pieces are made to be worn every day, adding a hint of shine and simplicity that never fades. Visit them HERE.

Discover more shops in Downtown Chilliwack HERE, and District 1881 HERE.

Cap off the day with dinner at Hugo’s Mexican Kitchen (106-45945 Thunderbird Lane) in District 1881, where vibrant flavours, a welcoming patio, and a Margarita* lineup that begs for “just one more round” set the mood. Don’t miss wrapping up your night with their irresistible Churro Bowl — four churros nestled around three scoops of ice cream, all drizzled with rich cajeta (goat’s milk caramel).

*Please drink responsibly.

Day 3: Woodland Loops & Homegrown Finds

On your final day, trade pavement for peaceful forest paths and head to the Chilliwack Community Forest (51642 Allan Road), a vast network of trails tucked into the city’s eastern hillsides.

Explore the Broken Tree Loop, a 3.1 km circuit with 163 m of elevation gain that takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete. Generally considered moderately challenging, it’s a perfect starter hike for the season, with only the uphill stretch on the loop offering a real push.

Wander through shaded, well-marked trails with lovely forest views, enjoy the easy parking and uncrowded feel, and keep an eye out for birds or mountain bikers sharing the trail. Just remember the bug spray if you’re out in the warmer months!

This is one last chance to soak in Chilliwack’s wild beauty before heading home.

No trip to Chilliwack is complete without a visit to Minter Country Garden (10015 Young Road). This vibrant local nursery is a wonderland of tropical plants, stunning home décor, floral creations, giftware, and seasonal finds. Wander through rows of flowers and lush greenery — it’s the perfect place to slow down and maybe pick up a living souvenir.

Bonus tip: head to the back and see if you can spot their resident emus, Elvis and Emma!

When you’re ready for a bite, step inside Cultivate Café (located inside Minter Country Garden!) for a fresh, nourishing lunch. (Just be sure to check their hours — they’re closed Mondays.) We recommend the Cultivate Banh Mi, stacked with pork belly, pickled veggies, slaw, cucumber, cilantro, and a hit of sriracha on a soft roll — yum, right?

Before you leave Minter Country Garden, pop next door to Switzer’s Vintage Decor. This charming shop is brimming with vintage home treasures, hobby finds, and playful trinkets — the perfect final stop to uncover something truly one-of-a-kind.

Let’s Get Going!

Now that you’ve got your itinerary set, let’s find you a place to rest your head each night!

Hazelnut Inn | 42402 Yarrow Central Road

• Tucked into Chilliwack’s countryside, Hazelnut Inn is a handcrafted fairytale escape like no other. Sleep in the North Star, a retired pirate ship turned dreamy hideaway. Cozy up in the Under Hill, a hobbit-style burrow nestled beneath the earth. Or plan for the Copper Crown, a castle tower suite currently under construction, perfect for a regal retreat. With private gardens, soaker tubs, and magical touches throughout, this whimsical inn books up fast — step into the story before it’s gone. Click HERE to book your stay.

Pro Tips for a Smooth City Escape:

• EV Charging: Stations are available in the parking lot of District 1881 (46037 Princess Avenue) and the Tourism Ch’illiwack Visitor & Info Centre (44150 Luckakuck Way).
• Rafting Essentials: Bring quick-dry clothes, water shoes, and a waterproof bag — you will get wet!
• Shopping Hours: Many shops and cafés are closed on Mondays — check ahead and plan accordingly.
• Guide Tour: Be sure to book your Highland Cow Farm Experience with Yonder Highlands before travelling to Chilliwack – click HERE to get started!
• Reservations Recommended: Sidekick Brewing and Hugo’s Mexican Kitchen can get busy (local hotspots!) — book ahead if you’re visiting on a weekend.

So, what do you think? Pretty much the perfect day, right? We sure think so.

We’d love to come along for the ride — so don’t forget to tag us @tourismchilliwack and use #ShareChilliwack to show us your adventures.

Catch you out there — in The Great Outside!

Learn more about The Great Outside, click HERE.