Abbotsford is a city that has it all: farm-to-table dining, arts and culture, outdoor adventure and more. But if you’re looking for something different, something that will surprise and delight you, then you’ll want to check out these 10 under-the-radar experiences in under-the-radar Abbotsford.
Fitness fun in Abbotsford
If you’re looking for a way to stay active and have fun in Abbotsford, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your style. You can join a spin class at The Goddess Movement, play tennis or pickleball at Great West Fitness and Tennis Club, scale the walls at Project Climbing Centre, or kayak on the Fraser River with Fraser River Kayak Adventures. Whatever you choose, you’ll get your heart pumping and your adrenaline flowing in Abbotsford.
Learn about life on a dairy farm at EcoDairy
Have you ever wondered where your milk comes from? Abbotsford’s EcoDairy is part functioning farm, part educational experience, where you can get up close and personal with the resident cows and learn how your milk is made. EcoDairy has developed a partnership with Science World, Vancouver’s popular science center, to develop dynamic displays and presentations to teach visitors all about dairy farming. You’ll also get to learn about the technology involved in making milk, such as the robotic milker that lets the cows choose when they want to be milked. After you’ve developed a new appreciation for dairy products, you can sample the farm-fresh milk, yogurt, and – of course – ice cream.
Hike Sumas Mountain
Up for a challenge? The Sumas Mountain Trail summits Abbotsford’s Sumas Mountain, gaining more than 700 meters in elevation over 6.5 kilometers in length (each way). The route will take you into the forest, past ravines, over a bridge, through creeks, and along Chadsey Lake before eventually leading to the mountain peak. On a clear day, the views from the top overlook the Fraser Valley below – just be sure to pack sunscreen, as not all sections of the trail are under shade. On a rainy day, the trail will be muddy and the views may be blocked by fog and clouds, but with proper gear, it can still be fun to get outside and get wet.
Shop and dine at Tanglebank Gardens
Tanglebank Gardens is more than just a nursery – it’s also a boutique store and a bistro that offer a unique shopping and dining experience in Abbotsford. You can browse through the selection of plants, home decor, gifts, and gourmet foods at the store, or enjoy a delicious meal made with fresh ingredients from the garden at Brambles Bistro. The menu changes seasonally and features dishes like roasted beet salad, mushroom risotto, lamb burger, and apple crumble. You can also join one of their cooking classes or workshops to learn new skills and recipes.
Visit Clayburn Village Store
Step back in time at Clayburn Village Store, the oldest operating general store in British Columbia. Built in 1912, the store still retains its original charm and character, with wooden floors, antique shelves, and vintage signs. You can find a variety of products here, from candy and tea to pottery and soap. You can also enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at the store’s tea room, which serves scones, sandwiches, cakes, and more. The store is located in Clayburn Village, a historic site that was once a thriving brick-making community. You can explore the village and see some of the original buildings and structures that date back to the early 1900s.
Experience farm life at Maan Farms
Maan Farms is a family-owned and operated farm that offers a variety of fun and educational activities for visitors of all ages. You can meet and feed the farm animals, pick your own berries, play in the corn maze, slide down the giant slides, or jump on the jumping pillow. You can also learn about the farm’s history and practices through guided tours and interactive exhibits. If you’re feeling brave, you can try the haunted corn maze in October, which is one of the scariest attractions in the Lower Mainland. And don’t forget to taste some of the farm’s products, such as the award-winning berry wines, the homemade fudge, or the famous butter chicken.
Shop till you drop at Highstreet Shopping Centre
If you’re looking for some retail therapy in Abbotsford, you’ll want to head to Highstreet Shopping Centre, an open-air mall that features over 90 stores and services. You can find everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and home decor here, as well as a movie theater and a fitness center. Some of the popular brands at Highstreet include H&M, Sephora, Marshalls, Old Navy, and Indigo. You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes at the mall, such as Milestones, Famoso, Starbucks, or Mink Chocolate Cafe.
Taste craft beer at Field House Brewing Co.
Field House Brewing Co. is a craft brewery that focuses on creating innovative and quality beers using local ingredients. You can sample their beers at their tasting room, which has a cozy and rustic vibe, or at their outdoor beer lawn, which has a fire pit and live music. Some of their signature beers include the Dutch Pale Ale, the Sour Wheat Gose, the Dark Sour, and the Salted Black Porter. You can also pair your beer with some of their tasty food options, such as pizza, tacos, salads, or cheese boards.
Pamper yourself at Clayburn Comforts Soap & Body Works
Clayburn Comforts Soap & Body Works is a small business that makes natural and organic soap and body products using locally sourced ingredients. You can visit their studio and shop in Abbotsford, where you can see how they make their products and buy some for yourself or as gifts. They offer a range of products for your skin, hair, bath, and home, such as soap bars, shampoo bars, lip balms, body butters, bath bombs, candles, and more. You can also book a private workshop with them and learn how to make your own soap or body products.
