Written by: Creative Wife Joyful Worker
Photography: Julie Christine Photography
Growing up in Abbotsford I have spent a fair bit of time in Chilliwack, BC. There are a number of great places to see and things to do in Chilliwack, the one’s listed below are just some of my very favorites.
Chilliwack is the home of one of my favorite summer destinations, Cultus Lake. Over the past few years I have become more familiar with locally owned businesses in Chilliwack and am so excited to share some new gems and other places I frequent within the city.
I am very passionate about supporting local businesses as I know it goes right back to supporting local families who provide for the community.
As always I love hearing your favourites as well, if you think I missed a local favorite, make sure to share in the comments below. Would love to check it out and add it to the list.
10 Locally Owned Places to See & Things to Do in Chilliwack, BC
1. Cultivate Cafe
The first thing I said when I walked into Cultivate Cafe was, “Has this always been here?”
I honestly couldn’t believe that I had never been before, I was instantly drawn to the inviting atmosphere and minimalist decor, knowing right away that I was going to love it. Throughout our visit there were so many simple touches that added such a memorable experience.
As we ordered our food we were given some craft paper and crayons for the kids to colour on, genius! It’s simple for the business owners, occupies the kids beautifully and keeps parents stress level at bay.
We enjoyed lunch with the ladies of Culture Co. and they shared some of the vision that the owners of Cultivate Cafehave. One of peaked interest for me was their events room, which is connected to the cafe by two barn style sliding doors.
This room would be great for long table dinners, networking events, baby showers, birthday parties, corporate meetings… and so on! So much potential with their gated patio and large glass garage door entry/exit.
When visiting Cultivate Cafe make sure to order food, come hungry because you are going to want to try a few things. I was in love with the tacos and flatbread, Evelyn gobbled up the mac and cheese too!
The owners, husband and wife duo Cameron and Peggy, both work at the cafe and have out done themselves with creating a tasteful menu and inviting atmosphere for all ages.
2. Minter Country Garden
Literally right next to Cultivate Cafe is Minter Country Gardens, which makes it already a must visit! I could spend hours in their nursery, so many plants to browse and such a wide range of gifting items from their country garden store.
We couldn’t leave without a couple pumpkins to add to our fall decor, the girls were stacking them all out front in their gorgeous display.
3. Circa Vintage
I could spend hours here! So many beautiful vintage items that are so beautifully curated and displayed. Next time I am going back without the kids so I can really spend some time taking a look at everything.
A new addition to downtown Chilliwack, though Circa Vintage owner, Darby, has been repurposing old vintage finds for a number of years. Previously they were stationed in Fort Langley for over 14 years and a original vendor at Spruce Collective “the marketplace”. It was only natural for their own storefront to open up and what a perfect spot!
Circa Vintage is a modern take on the classic vintage shop. The store is styled to show you just how easy it is to repurpose and reuse old items within your modern home to make them a focal point and topic of conversation.
Popular items in the store include: gorgeous wool blankets, vases, vintage rugs and jackets, old farm tables, antique china and vintage quilts. My kids were a fan of the vintage hats, we couldn’t help but style them.
4. The Book Man
Another shop that I could have spent hours in. The Book Man is filled head to two with books (over a quarter million!)for all ages, new and used.
Right when we walked into The Book Man we were greeted by their shop cat and my kids were smitten. Such a gorgeous kitty, that was so calm and soaked up their pets and love.
Around the corner from the entrance the girls got a chance to explore kid friendly books and play with their selection of toys. As a friend stayed with them we ventured off to explore the store.
As mentioned, there are A LOT of books! Be prepared to spend time going through the drawers, bring a rolling cart along for the journey and get lost in the aisles as you hop from section to section. On your way out don’t forget to swing around back for a photo in front of their mural.
5. Harvest Cafe
I can’t come here and not get the kids a donut, every time they just call our names.. haha! But seriously, when you go in Harvest Cafe for a visit you will know what I mean. Oh and if donut’s aren’t your thing — their egg’s benedict are 10/10!
Harvest Cafe is often busy but with their large sitting area you can most likely always find a spot to sit and relax. It’s a nice and bright open seating area that allows for so much natural light to fill the space.
6. The Button Box Boutique
The Button Box Boutique is one of the first local shops that I became familar with in Chilliwack, BC. I kept hearing about their awesome selection of clothing and gift ideas from friends that I had to check it out for myself.
Now almost every time that I go into Chilliwack I make an effort to stop into The Button Box to see what’s new. It’s been a part of the downtown Chilliwack core for a number of years and very close to Harvest Cafe and just down the road from The Book Man & Circa Vintage. Find a good parking spot and take a stroll to visit each destination
7. The Refinery House
This space was love at first sight. I had to refrain myself from whipping out my camera and taking photos of all the pretty things! I’m also in love with The Refinery House’s business concept, that focuses on self care as a whole.
The sole focus of The Refinery House is to focus on becoming the best version of yourself. From self care services like hair and make up to soul focusing treatments like counselling and physio they are here to connect with you.
You are meant to feel welcomed and all are invited within the Refinery House. Browse their website to see their endless service offerings of both beauty and health services.
I was treated to a blow out and style by owner and stylist, Aly. She was such a kind soul with a huge passion for connecting within her community. She has exciting news about growth in the near future and continues to train and provide opportunities for aspiring creatives within her field
8. Chilliwack River
There are so many spots to stop along Chilliwack river that are great for having a fire, BBQ, fishing, family photos… you name it.
We drove five minutes down the road from The Refinery House to this gorgeous location. Julie, who was capturing the day, shared that she was just recently at this exact spot for a family photo session.
9. Old Yale Brewing
I’ve been meaning to venture into Old Yale Brewing for some time now as I often see them at local events and BC Liquor Stores. I’m a big fan of their fruitier/lighter beers, like the Moon Dance Mango Wheat and Knotty Blonde Ale, MMMMmm!
Old Yale Brewing has been crafting since 1999 and have been in their newest establishment for two years now. When I got a tour of the tasting room and brewhouse I was also introduced to their currently under construction add-on. Their idea for a larger tasting room is motivated by a vision to create a warm, inviting atmosphere which can be accompanied by local musicians to entertain. Looking forward to this!
Be on the lookout for their name to pop-up within other local creators as they are often collaborating with locals. I heard that they may have something in the works with Fieldhouse, Raven’s Brewing, and more!
If you are planning to visit their tasting room you may want to plan for one of their events nights. Every week they host events in their tasting room. You can find Open Mic Night on Sundays, where all musicians, singers, and comedians are welcome to join the stage from 3PM-7PM.
10. Cultus Lake
We spent so much time at Cultus Lake this summer, from renting a boat at the Cultus Lake Marina and playing at the Cultus Lake Waterslides to just hanging out with the kids at the waterfront and the park.
Have Fun Exploring Chilliwack!
