Fort Langley Day Trip
Enjoy a day trip from Vancouver to Fort Langley, where you can explore the "Birthplace of BC," plus many boutique shops and restaurants.

Escape the city and take a journey back in time with a day trip to Fort Langley. Located east of Vancouver in the Fraser Valley, this charming village and National Historic Site can be reached in under two hours by public transit. You can easily spend a full day exploring the historic fort, browsing unique shops, and enjoying the small-town atmosphere.
Why Visit Fort Langley?
- Step into History: The Fort Langley National Historic Site, a former Hudson's Bay Company trading post, is where British Columbia was officially proclaimed a colony in 1858.
- Charming Village: The main street (Glover Road) is lined with beautifully restored heritage buildings that now house antique shops, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
- Multiple Museums: In addition to the fort, you can visit the BC Farm Museum and the Langley Centennial Museum to learn even more about the area's history.
- A Relaxing Getaway: It offers a pleasant and scenic change of pace from the bustle of Vancouver.
What to See & Do
- Explore the Fort: At the National Historic Site, interact with costumed interpreters, watch blacksmithing demonstrations, pan for gold, and learn about the lives of fur traders and First Nations people.
- Shop for Antiques & Gifts: Wander through the village's many unique shops, known for their excellent selection of antiques, home decor, and local crafts.
- Visit the BC Farm Museum: Discover an impressive collection of vintage farming equipment and learn about the agricultural history of the region.
- Walk the Fort-to-Fort Trail: Enjoy a scenic walk along the Fraser River on a portion of this historic trail.
Food & Drink Options
- Trading Post Eatery: A popular local brewery and restaurant on Glover Road offering hearty burgers, sandwiches, and craft beer.
- Wendel's Bookstore & Cafe: A cozy spot perfect for coffee, baked goods, and light meals, with a great patio overlooking the park.
- Sushi Hinode: A local favourite for excellent value on sushi and Japanese cuisine.
- Ice Cream & Treats: Several spots in the village offer ice cream and other sweet treats, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Plan for a Full Day: With the travel time and the number of things to see, it's best to dedicate the better part of a day to this trip.
- Check Restaurant Hours: Some restaurants in Fort Langley are closed on Mondays, so there are more dining choices later in the week.
- Public Washrooms: Washrooms are located just inside the main entrance of the Fort Langley National Historic Site and also inside the BC Farm Museum.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Free to visit the village. Admission fees apply for the National Historic Site and other museums.Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Address: 23433 Mavis Ave, Langley Twp, BC V1M 2R5, Canada
Phone: (604) 513-4777
Official Website: Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada
Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada Reviews
Rated
Fort langley is great place to learn about Canada’s history, explore old lifestyles. Cute cafe to grab some coffee plus great kids area. Workers are friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely check out the blacksmith shop. The place is great to spend a day with family or friends. Lots of interesting things.
Harman Brar - 3 weeks ago
Wow, it was a great place to learn about Canada’s history. I was amazed this village is preserved for our next generations of Canadians… the one in the fur area was welcoming and she was amazing in explaining Canada’s history… she is awesome!!!!! Thank you so much for being so welcoming and explaining the history of how different furs impact our history….
Christopher John Fernandez - a month ago
This is just a marvel to watch. The place has been preserved and takes to actual historic times.
There's a small café that serves excellent summer beverages.
We spent around 5 hours, still felt it's not enough to explore the whole place.
Chaina Kohli - a month ago
What i LIKED:
*currently free admission
*entering the buildings and stepping back in time to see how early settlers lived over a century ago
*lots of historical relics
*Chief Dan George exhibit (limited-time feature)
* cosy indoor Kids play space
* gold panning
* reservable tent suites for overnight stays
* indoor and outdoor seating areas
What could be better:
*Although there are staff on site to answer questions, it's a self-guided tour and since we did the loop counter-clockwise, we didn't see the 2 signboards with maps until the end. One of those should be positioned closer to the entry.
*There were paper embossers stationed at various attractions inside the fort, (marked with signage that had an X icon) but we weren't provided any paper to "stamp" or given a heads up to look for them
* more interactive elements, like demonstrations of how they would prepare & cook food, ironwork/blacksmithing, or a chance to try bartering/trading goods with staff
Ruby E. - a week ago
Established in 1827 it was established for fur trading and agricultural activities to ensure regular income for inhabitants.
Presently, it is built in a village for displaying the life style, activities and different functions performed by inhabitants of Langley.
Different shops display how carpenters, bakers, fur makers, farmers etc. use to live and work. Mainly, beaver skin was used for furs. Also, there are many activities for children to perform.
S Kaushal - 3 weeks ago
Directions
Skytrain and Bus Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Expo Line | Surrey Central Station | 0 Minutes |
How to get to Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada by Skytrain and Bus
From any Expo Line station, travel to Surrey Central Station. Exit the station to the bus loop and find Bay 2.
Catch the #501 Langley Centre bus. Ride it to the Carvolth Exchange bus loop (approx. 30-40 minutes).
At Carvolth Exchange, transfer to the #562 Walnut Grove bus at Bay 11. Ride this bus to the stop at 96 Avenue and Glover Road in Fort Langley (approx. 15-20 minutes). The historic village is all around you.
To return to Vancouver, simply reverse the trip.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Photo Gallery
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A glimpse inside Fort Langley National Historic Site cc licensed photo by The Hadfields -
Photo Credit: Darcy.Rezac - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Arbron - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Arbron - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Arbron - cc license via Flickr