This article was published on October 19th, 2014

If both time and budget are tight, but you need a getaway this fall, it’s time to consider an autumn staycation. For Vancouver residents, it can be as simple as a weekend getaway to the Fraser Valley.

There is plenty of fun things to do in the Fraser Valley, especially for a fun couples get-away. For a weekend adventure, head out on a Saturday morning. Start off with heading to a number of local agri-businesses, where you can pick up fresh, locally made ingredients, including honey, meats, jerky’s and sausages, cheese, pumpkins, and squash. There are many family run, small businesses that pride themselves on producing top quality products, and the Fraser Valley has an abundant amount to check out.

A central location to stay in the Fraser Valley is the Coast Hotels Abbotsford Suites, just moments away from at the Sumas exit on Highway 1, which makes it easy to get to, but far enough away for a peaceful nights rest. The hotel offers clean, contemporary hotels rooms, free WiFi, fitness center, indoor pool, and hot tub. Near the hotel are a number of restaurants and stores, all within walking distance. Just down the block there is also a giant Costco.

After checking into the hotel, head over to Castle Fun Park for a fun evening of arcade games, mini golf and fun time in the batting cage. Finish off the evening with a relaxing soak in the hotel hot tub.

When you get up on Sunday morning, there is a complimentary continental breakfast in the hotel lobby. After you’ve checked out and loaded up the car, just down the road is a Starbucks, the perfect spot for a morning pick-me-up.

Finally, before heading home to Vancouver, head over to Taves Farms for a more romantic day some down-home, farm adventures, games, animals, and U-pick treats.

A weekend getaway doesn’t have to be expensive or take a lot of time to get to, but it can be a lot of fun. Remember to fill-up on gas before heading back home; Sumas has some of the cheapest gas in the lower mainland!