As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us are looking forward to spending quality time with loved ones, whether it’s a cozy gathering at home or a fun-filled getaway. At Harbour Air, we offer the perfect way to enhance your holiday experience with breathtaking flights to some stunning destinations in British Columbia and Seattle.
18 Oct, 2024 | 2 min read
Picture yourself enjoying a flight over stunning coastal landscapes, landing in charming towns, or exploring vibrant communities. Regardless if you’re popping over for Thanksgiving dinner or escaping for the long weekend, here are a few top destinations (and pumpkin patches) you can visit this Thanksgiving weekend:
Photo credit: Malahat Skywalk
The capital city of British Columbia is a delightful mix of historic architecture and modern charm. Stroll through the Butchart Gardens, enjoy waterfront dining, or simply soak in the fall colors in Beacon Hill Park. If you’re looking for an exciting half day attraction, visit the Malahat Skywalk. There is a free shuttle service that will take you from Downtown Victoria right to the Skywalk.
Where to stay:
Fairmont Empress , now is the ideal time to plan a getaway to Vancouver Island! With fewer crowds, idyllic weather and delightful dining experiences, your perfect Fall getaway awaits. Celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving with a scrumptious turkey feast in Q at the Empress while enjoying up to 20% off our best available rates, or enjoy our popular Turkey To-Go dinner from the comfort of your home.
Local Pumpkin Patch: Galey Farms
Galey offers a corn maze, railway, market and a sprawling pumpkin patch!
4150 Blenkinsop Road
Victoria, BC V8X 2C4
Photo credit: Discover Vancouver Island
Known for its artistic community and stunning landscapes, Salt Spring Island is a perfect getaway for families. Explore local farmers’ markets, visit art galleries, or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. Fly from Richmond (YVR South) to enjoy the island’s relaxed vibe, which makes it a wonderful spot to unwind together. There is Salt Spring Car Rentals where you can rent a car and take it around the island to explore! A stop at Salt Spring cheese is a must as well as a dinner at Auntie Pesto’s.
Where to stay:
Harbour House Hotel. This hotel is located walking distance from the dock, with most of their rooms offering beautiful waterfront views where you can catch the sunrise. Visit the newly renovated hotel and get comfortable in their “airy and sleek” rooms.
Salt Spring Island, 121 Upper Ganges Rd
Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2S2
Local pumpkin patch: Byron Family Farms
Dueling as a farm market that offers fresh veggies and poultry and a pumpkin patch, this family run farm will give all the cozy thanksgiving vibes you’re looking for.
536 Beaver Point Rd.
Salt Spring Island, V8K 2J9
Photo credit: Tripster
Just a short flight away, Seattle offers an urban adventure filled with cultural experiences and delicious cuisine. Visit iconic sites like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, or enjoy family time at the Seattle Aquarium. It’s a great way to blend holiday traditions with exciting new experiences.
Where to stay:
Level, located in the heart of Seattle, this apartment like hotel features spacious luxurious rooms. Relax by the either the outdoor or indoor pool, visit nearby restaurants or stop by the nearby Pike Place Market. When staying at level you have a gourmet kitchen that you could use to prepare a thanksgiving meal, making it a home-away-from-home!
110 Boren Ave N,
Seattle, WA 98109, United States
Local Pumpkin Patch: Carpinito Brothers Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
Just outside of Seattle, this family friendly patch boasts a ‘sea of pumpkins’ and a fun corn maze! Bring the whole family as this is fun for everyone!
27508 W Valley Hwy N
Kent, WA 98032
Photo credit: npa.ca
Known for its vibrant arts scene and waterfront parks, Nanaimo is a fantastic place for a family getaway. Explore the local shops, enjoy outdoor activities, or take a walk or a bike ride through the harbourfront walkway. For a fun self guided adventure, try out the Nanaimo bar trail, where you can explore the city while also trying new treats, gourmet dishes, and fun drinks!
Where to stay:
Coast Bastion hotel. This hotel is located right on the water with stunning views of the harbour! The best part is its pet friendly so you can bring your entire family along for the fun in their newly renovated accommodations.
11 Bastion St
Nanaimo, BC V9R 6E4
Local pumpkin patch: Silver Meadows Farm
This patch offers fresh produce, a twisting corn maze, baked goods, and so much more!
1019 Errington Rd
Parksville, BC V9P 2C8
Photo credit: Tourism Richmond
As fall settles in, Richmond offers plenty of activities to enjoy the season. Visit the lively Richmond Night Market for delicious street food and live entertainment, or take a leisurely stroll along the wharf at Steveston to soak in stunning waterfront views and fresh fish and chips. Explore local parks like Garry Point Park for picturesque autumn scenery, and be sure to check out the farmers’ markets celebrating the harvest season.
Where to stay:
Fairmont Vancouver Airport. Located a short distance from our Richmond (YVR south) dock this gorgeous hotel is located practically inside YVR! With rooms overlooking the tarmac you can watch flights come in and out of this busy airport. You can hop on the Canada line which can take you further into Richmond or take a cab, uber, or evo to explore more places in the area!
Vancouver International Airport, 3111 Grant McConachie Wy
Richmond, BC V7B 0A6
Local Pumpkin patch: Country Farms
There is live entertainment, plenty of pumpkins and a market to enjoy! After a scenic hayride past duck ponds and waterfalls, guests can pick their pumpkins while taking in the farm’s charming decorations of corn stalks, sunflowers, and whimsical touches.
12900 Steveston Hwy.,
Richmond, B.C.
Photo credit: 604 Now
Fall in Vancouver is all about soaking up the beautiful colors and cozy vibes! You can explore the trails in Stanley Park, visit charming pumpkin patches, or check out the local farmers’ markets for fresh, seasonal treats. Don’t forget to sip on a warm drink at a cozy cafe and maybe catch the newest arrivals at the Vancouver Aquarium, Tofino and Luna the sea otter pups —it’s the perfect way to enjoy the season!
Where to stay:
Fairmont Pacific Rim, Located in the heart of the city, right across the street from our downtown Vancouver harbour this luxurious hotel is perfect for a long weekend stay. There’s so many harbour-view rooms to choose from, visit the spa, have a drink in the lobby lounge, or have a dinner at the Botanist. Your Vancouver thanksgiving getaway is ready for you!
1038 Canada Pl,
Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9
Local pumpkin patch: Maan Farms
Located just outside of Vancouver there is SO much to do at this farm, loved by locals it’s very popular this time of year. There are so many pumpkins to choose from, tasty treats to try, cute farm animals to visit, and so much more!
790 McKenzie Rd
Abbotsford, BC V2S 7N4
Whether you’re flying to spend the holiday with family or taking a trip together, our convenient flights make travel stress-free. With multiple routes and quick flight times, we ensure you can maximize your time with loved ones.
Book your Harbour Air flight today and take a journey filled with laughter, adventure, and gratitude. Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting memories this Thanksgiving!
We wish you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with love and joy!