23 Reasons Why You Should Visit British Columbia Right Now

Our license plate says "Beautiful British Columbia" so you know it's true.

Have some time off? Looking for a vacation destination? Look no further!

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There are so many places to go, things to do and sights to see!

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Don't you want to come here, take an Instagram photo and be able to caption it: #NoFilter

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1. Whistler

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The home to the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler is the place to be in any season! If you are into outdoor sports, Whistler is for you. The skiing and snowboarding can't be beat. Even in the off-season, you can go mountain biking, hiking, ziplining, and kayaking! If outdoor sports aren't your thing, you can take the gondola to see the sights or curl up by the fire and have some hot chocolate!

2. The Queen Charlotte Islands or Haida Gwaii

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There are a number of things you can do here, including hiking, fishing, bird watching, and seeing totems made.

3. Whale watching

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Jealous of Taylor Swift and her friends when they went whale watching? You can do the same with several tours that will take you out into the water to see the magnificent creatures. You can spot Orcas, humpback whales and Pacific grey whales!

4. The waterfalls

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The other side of Canada may have Niagara Falls, but BC has Alexander Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Della Falls and many more! Go on a hike and then experience the sounds and the sights of stunning waterfalls!

5. The food

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Yes, you can get Tim Hortons here (Timbits!!) but there's more than just that! Try the food from the Richmond Night Market or the food from the famous Japadog food cart! There's no shortage of locally sourced food and cuisine from around the world.

6. The wine country

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Looking for some alcohol to go with your vacation? Okanagan Valley is a great place to try some wine. Did you know that BC is known for its ice wine?

7. The hiking trails

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Uh, that view though. There are hiking trails all over BC but this one is particularly famous - Stawamus Chief in Squamish. Another great hike is the Grouse Grind which is a steep hiking trail that starts at the base and takes you to the top of Grouse Mountain. Even for people who don't necessarily like hiking, it's worth it when you get to the top and you see the view.

8. The lakes

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I mean, look at the colour of the water! This particular lake is called Emerald Lake but there are others in BC that also have that beautiful bright blue colour!

9. The suspension bridges

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Don't be scared! The Capilano Suspension Bridge is 136 meters long and 70 meters above the Capilano River! It was originally built using hemp rope and cedar planks. Since then, it's been updated to make it slightly more secure. If you don't want to pay the access fee, visit the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge instead! It's only slightly shorter and it's free.

10. Barkerville

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Did you know that Barkerville is the largest heritage site in Western North America? Founded in 1862, it's the place to go back in time. Watch a judge hold Victorian criminals accountable, pan for gold, visit Chinatown, experience school in an 1800s style. There are over 140 historic buildings and displays to explore!

11. The Sea-to-Sky Highway

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How will you get to Whistler? Take the Sea-to-Sky Highway. You will see ocean bays, monstrous mountains and waterfalls.

12. Fort Langley

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Recognize the building? Several movies and TV shows have filmed here! Fort Langley is the home of the Fort Langley National Historic Site, a former fur trade post of the Hudson's Bay Company. There are a number of historic buildings to see, such as the servants' quarters and a blacksmith shop!

13. Chinatown in Victoria

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Victoria is home to Canada's oldest Chinatown and the second oldest in North America. It's characterized by very small and winding streets with various shops and restaurants to visit. Did you know that it's home to Canada's narrowest road named Fan Tan Alley?

14. The Victoria Inner Harbour

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The gorgeous Inner Harbour has much to offer. From tasty seafood, to amazing street vendors lined up everywhere, it's a great place to spend your time during the day and even better during the evening. You can take a romantic evening stroll and see the parliament buildings lit up or see the famous Empress hotel.

15. Inside Passage

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Fancy a cruise? The Inside Passage refers to a coastal route for ocean vessels along passages that weave through the islands on the Pacific coast of North America. Explore BC's portion of the route which includes the narrow and protected Strait of Georgia, the Johnstone Strait and the Hectate Strait.

16. The hot springs

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You'd be lying if you didn't think this was awesome. BC is home to an amazing array of hot springs. Feeling like you want to relax in a cave? Check out these hot springs in Ainsworth!

17. University of British Columbia campus

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Beyond this being a good university, it has a stunning campus. Many people consider it to be a city in itself because of its size. It's surrounded by 2,000 acres of forest, access to a nude beach, a beautiful botanical garden and a killer library. Seriously, one of their libraries looks like something straight out of Harry Potter.

18. Granville Island

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Granville Island is most famous for its large public market. It features a farmers' market, vendors and artists offering local Vancouver goods. It ranges from a variety of cheese to handmade crafts. While you're there, catch an improve show by Vancouver's only professional improvisational theatre, Vancouver Theatresports League.

19. Water Activities

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There are so many places to go surfing and do various water sports. Tofino is where many people go to surf. You can also go water rafting in Nahatlatch River. Or go kayaking or canoeing in any lake! The possibilities are endless!

20. Stanley Park

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The Seawall is a stone wall that was constructed around the perimeter of Stanley Park. It's the best way to see the sights while cycling, rollerblading or walking along the wall.

21. Chemainus Theatre Festival

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Come and enjoy the vibrant theatre culture in Chemainus! They put on several shows each season. Shows range from classic plays, comedies, dramas, and musicals!

22. The Northern Lights

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With a little bit of luck, you might be able to see the Northern Lights on Idaho Lookout in the West Kootenays.

23. Camping

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There are too many places to mention where you can go camping. If this photo makes you want to go camping, head to Roche Lake Park near Kamloops. If sleeping in a tent isn't your thing, many places offer cabins as an alternative.

Damn, British Columbia! You're beautiful.

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