Abbotsford, BC, offers a delightful blend of handmade and homegrown experiences, from tasting local flavours to discovering the rich history of Historic Downtown Abbotsford and indulging in farm-fresh adventures. Here’s a look at our overnight fall getaway to this charming destination.
A Taste of Abbotsford Night Market
Our trip kicked off at the Taste of Abby Night Market, a lively seasonal event celebrating the local flavours of Abbotsford and the Fraser Valley. We indulged in a variety of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients and sipped on locally produced beverages while enjoying live music. It was the perfect way to bid farewell to summer and welcome the crisp fall season.
Overnight Stay at Sandman Hotel
After the night market, we retreated to our overnight stay the Sandman Hotel Abbotsford Airport. The hotel provided a cozy and convenient base for our explorations.
Exploring Historic Downtown Abbotsford
The next morning, we strolled through Historic Downtown Abbotsford, a quaint neighbourhood brimming with independent boutiques, popular local restaurants, and vibrant coffee shops. With over 225 businesses nestled in this walkable area, it’s an area of Abbotsford that beautifully blends its rich heritage with modern charm.
We took advantage of Downtown Dollars, which act like gift certificates and can be used at various local businesses. It’s a fantastic way to support the community while enjoying a bit of shopping and dining.
Brunch at Ann Marie’s Cafe
For brunch, we headed to Ann Marie’s Cafe, a beloved local spot known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and classic diner vibe. The cozy, retro decor, complete with checkered floors and vintage accents, invites you to sit back and relax. Their menu is a tribute to hearty, homestyle cooking, with generous portions and a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. We enjoyed the BLTC (Bacon Lettuce Tomato Classic); Club Classic (Turkey Breast Sandwich); Kid’s Silver Dollar Pancakes; and Kid’s Stack’em up Breakfast.
Sweet Treats at The Pastry Portal
The Pastry Portal is a haven for pastry lovers, with an array of freshly baked treats that are as beautiful as they are delicious. We couldn’t resist trying their regular croissant and a savory ham and cheese croissant. Both were perfectly flaky, buttery, and just the right balance of light and indulgent.
Farmhouse Eats at Lepp’s Bakehouse & Delicatessen
We also made our way to Lepp’s Bakehouse & Delicatessen, a local gem known for its fresh baked goods, sandwiches and more. Highlights of the visit include The Lola sandwich featuring Lepp’s oven-roasted chicken paired with a flavourful blend of spicy mayo and adobo sauce, brightened up with fresh cilantro, crunchy cucumbers, and pickled carrots. We also had a creamy bowl of chowder and a raisin & oatmeal cookie to finish off.
Shopping at Yes Chef
We spent some time browsing at Yes Chef, a culinary store filled with high-quality kitchenware and gadgets. It’s a must-visit for any cooking enthusiast!
Fall Fun at Maan Farms
Our next stop was Maan Farms offering a variety of fall festivities. From exploring the Forested Pumpkin Patch and visiting barnyard animals to enjoying delicious fall treats like samosas, naan tacos, and butter chicken at Mama Maan’s Kitchen, it was a fun and delicious experience for all ages.
Taves Family Farms Applebarn
We continued our farm adventures at Taves Family Farms Applebarn. We picked apples, wandered through the Magical Sunflower Garden and corn maze, and explored Farmville with its adorable farm animals. It’s a perfect spot for some wholesome family fun.
Dinner at BRGR BRGR
Dinner was at BRGR BRGR in Historic Downtown Abbotsford, a trendy burger joint that takes the classic burger to new heights. With its industrial-chic decor and a menu filled with gourmet options, it’s the perfect spot for burger aficionados. We tried the CHKN Club featuring a succulent grilled chicken breast topped with aged cheddar, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and creamy garlic aioli—offering a comforting yet elevated taste. The SMKD BRGR pairs a juicy beef patty with aged cheddar, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a signature BRGR sauce, enhanced by a sweet, smoky bacon jam.
Ice Cream at Banter Ice Cream
We ended our day on a sweet note at Banter Ice Cream. This artisanal ice cream shop is known for its inventive flavours and creamy textures. We sampled some unique flavors: Cinnamon Toast Crunch—a nostalgic blend of sweet, cinnamon-spiced cereal and creamy ice cream; Vegan Strawberry Matcha—a refreshing mix of fruity and earthy notes; and Madagascar Vanilla—a rich, deep take on a classic favorite.
Abbotsford is a vibrant destination filled with local charm and diverse experiences. This fall getaway left us refreshed and eager to return for more adventures in this beautiful part of British Columbia.