Things To Do
in Surrey

Surrey, Canada, is a vibrant city located in the Greater Vancouver area, known for its diverse communities, beautiful parks, and dynamic cultural scene. It boasts a rich blend of urban and rural landscapes, featuring everything from bustling shopping centers to tranquil nature reserves. With over 100 parks and numerous recreational facilities, Surrey is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The city also hosts various cultural festivals, showcasing its multicultural heritage and community spirit.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Central Surrey
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Surrey Central SkyTrain station and enjoy breakfast at a local café. Explore the nearby Holland Park, which features beautiful gardens and walking trails.

afternoon
:

Head to the Surrey Museum to learn about the city's history and cultural heritage. Afterward, visit the Guildford Town Centre for shopping and lunch at one of the many eateries.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then catch a performance at the Surrey Arts Centre, which showcases local talent and touring acts.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike at Tynehead Regional Park, where you can enjoy scenic views and wildlife sightings. Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the park's designated areas.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bear Creek Park, home to a miniature train, gardens, and a playground. Afterward, head to the nearby Surrey Nature Centre for educational exhibits.

evening
:

Finish your day with dinner at a well-reviewed Asian restaurant in the area, followed by a stroll along the waterfront at Crescent Beach to enjoy the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2.75
🏨Hotel night$100-$200
🛍️Groceries for a week$50-$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse cultural experiences and cuisines.
  • Abundant parks and outdoor activities.
  • Family-friendly attractions and events.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be rainy and overcast in winter.

Places to Visit in Surrey

Visit one of these nice places.

Holland Park

This park features stunning gardens, pathways, and the iconic Surrey Memorial Hospital, perfect for capturing nature and architecture.

Crescent Beach

A picturesque beach known for its scenic views, sunsets, and vibrant community life, ideal for coastal photography.

Tynehead Regional Park

With its lush greenery and serene trails, this park offers a beautiful backdrop for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Surrey

Surrey's culinary scene is a delightful reflection of its multicultural population, offering a diverse range of flavors and dining experiences. From vibrant food markets to cozy cafés, the city has something for everyone.

Surrey Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Butter Chicken

A creamy, spiced curry dish popular in Indian restaurants throughout Surrey.

Must-Try!

Pho

A delicious Vietnamese noodle soup known for its rich broth and fresh herbs, served in many of Surrey's eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Surrey Farmers Market

Open on Sundays, this market showcases fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local food vendors.

Food Trucks at Holland Park

A rotating selection of food trucks offering diverse street food options, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Surrey experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cool and rainy, with temperatures averaging around 0-5°C (32-41°F), while summers are warm, with highs often reaching 25-30°C (77-86°F). The transitional seasons of spring and fall are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Annual rainfall is common, particularly from October to March, contributing to the lush greenery of the region.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Diversity

Surrey is home to many cultures, and it's important to show respect and understanding towards different customs and traditions.

Queueing

Canadians generally value politeness; queueing in an orderly manner is expected in public spaces.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated in both social and professional settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Surrey is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, visitors should take standard precautions. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night, avoid displaying valuables in public, and be aware of your surroundings. The local police service is responsive and community-oriented, ensuring a safe environment.

Tipping in Surrey

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, while baristas and taxi drivers also appreciate tips.

Payment Methods

Most businesses accept credit/debit cards, and contactless payments are widely available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Warm weather dominates, with plenty of outdoor festivals and events. Ideal for beaches and hiking.

Fall

Enjoy the vibrant autumn colors in the parks and cooler temperatures, perfect for photography and hiking.

Winter

Expect cooler temperatures and occasional snowfall, suitable for indoor activities and cozy dining experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Surrey at Night

Surrey's nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of options from casual pubs and bars to dance clubs and live music venues. The city hosts various events throughout the year, including cultural festivals and concerts, making it a lively destination for night owls. Popular areas for nightlife include the Guildford Town Centre and the Whalley area, which feature numerous bars and restaurants that stay open late.

Hiking in Surrey

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Nicomekl River Greenway

This scenic trail follows the Nicomekl River, offering a peaceful hiking experience with opportunities to spot wildlife.

Serpentine Fen

A unique wetland area, the Serpentine Fen features boardwalks and trails that provide a glimpse of the local ecosystem and diverse plant life.

Airports

How to reach Surrey by plane.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Located approximately 30 minutes from Surrey, YVR is the primary international airport serving the region, offering flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Surrey has a mix of walkable urban areas and more suburban neighborhoods. The city has invested in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, including sidewalks and crosswalks. Areas around shopping centers and parks are typically more walkable, while some residential areas may require a car for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

South Asian Community

Surrey has a large South Asian population, contributing to the city's vibrant cultural scene and diverse culinary offerings.

Indigenous Peoples

The area is home to Indigenous communities, with cultural events and activities that celebrate their heritage and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is very popular in Surrey, with numerous local clubs and leagues for all ages. The city hosts several youth tournaments and events.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey holds a significant place in Canadian culture, and Surrey has several teams and arenas for both recreational and competitive play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Surrey can be heavy during peak commuting hours, especially on main thoroughfares like King George Boulevard and Fraser Highway. Public transportation is available through TransLink, which operates buses and SkyTrain services, providing convenient access to various parts of the city and surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Surrey.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Surrey offer vegetarian and vegan options, catering to those with dietary restrictions.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free menus, ensuring that celiacs can enjoy a meal without worries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Surrey offers access to a comprehensive healthcare system, including several hospitals and clinics. The Surrey Memorial Hospital is the largest facility, providing emergency services and specialized care. Residents and visitors can access general practitioners and specialists, with many healthcare providers accepting insurance plans.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide