This small city right outside of Vancouver offers some distance from the big city life, with fields full of blooming flowers in the spring, rolling mountains, and a lively local community.
U-Haul’s annual list of the top 25 Canadian growth cities for 2024 measured cities across the country by the net gain of one-way rentals in the year. While Alberta took the top spot for provinces, B.C. was right behind in second place. A few B.C. destinations made the list, including the community of Chilliwack.
While it’s a city, the area has a peacefulness to it that will make you feel far away from hustle and bustle. It’s set in the Fraser Valley, where there’s sprawling farmlands alongside mountain views that make it especially picturesque. In between are lakes and rivers, and untouched nature that’s ripe for exploration.
The surrounding area makes this the perfect spot for anyone who loves an adventure. Weekends here can be full of hiking, paddling, and fishing.
The Harrison Tulip Festival brings many out to the Fraser Valley in the springtime, to walk among the seemingly endless rows of blooms. It was formally known was the Chilliwack Tulip Festival, but is now just outside of the city in Agassiz.
The region has a ton of other farm experiences too, from berry picking to corn mazes.
The lush forests and deep valleys of the area have their draw, but so does the downtown area here. It has its own vibrancy with beautiful public art murals all around, historic buildings, and local storefronts. There’s also a great good scene here, with an emphasis on eating local thanks to the farm-fresh ingredients available.
District 1881 is a go-to neighbourhood here that’s especially charming, with lots of restaurants and shops along the pedestrian alleys.
With stunning nature, scenic farmland and a charming community, it’s no wonder people are heading to Chilliwack.
