Disclaimer: This post was written because I wanted to share the lovely experience we had at Harrison Hot Springs and Harrison Mills. Our stay was generously provided by Tourism Harrison and Rowena’s Inn By The River. As usual, I only put my name behind brands I trust.
Harrison is best known for its hot springs and quaint atmosphere but boy, this little town is not the same as it was when I was a kid (not that long ago, I think. Haha.). It is still serene and the views are stunners but it is also full of adventure and perfect for a little family getaway. I recently visited this cute little town with the fam and my bestie and we had such a memorable time I needed to share it! Here’s 5 reasons to make a visit with the fam before summer’s end.
Close to the City
Number 1 reason in my books: it’s only about a 90 minute drive from Vancouver! The kids don’t have to spend hours in a car to get to stunning views and exciting adventure. Having it so close to home means minimizing that ‘I need a vacation after my vacation’ feeling.
Variety of Accomodations (including budget friendly options!)
By skipping YVR, you already save a few hundred bucks. You can find great waterfront hotel options, such as the Harrison Hot Spring Resort and Spa.
Want to do it on a tight budget? You can book one of the many campsites – there are a ton to choose from. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town centre, drive 20 minutes to Rowena’s Inn By The River in Harrison Mills. Situated right next to the water, you’ll get Harrison style views along with the natural serenity of the surrounding woods. We stayed in a 2 bedroom luxury cottage. There are 1 bedroom and 3 bedroom options as well.
Upon entering the room we found it to be extra spacious and even big enough for up to 6 people (more if most are kids!). Each bedroom had a queen sized bed and there is also a sofabed.
The beds were comfy – I slept like a baby! And the girls had their own private space in the living room pull out sofa bed. Liv joined us in one of the bedrooms in the middle of the night but we didn’t mind. The beds were big enough to comfortably accomodate all three of u
I loved that there was a kitchen area complete with coffee station, fridge, dishwasher, microwave and dishes. Inside the fridge, we found chocolate covered strawberries and wine, gifted by Rowena’s.
Some of my favourite features of the cottages were the heated floors in the spacious bathroom and high ceilings throughout. The front patio was also a nice spot. J did his post run stretches there under the morning sun. Liv and I did a workout on the grassy area right beside our cottage. (Check it out here.)
I liked that we took a break from the busy-ness of Hot Springs side and spent the night in a quieter area. It felt really good to wake up to serenity. It filled me like the city use to. I still love the city but that was what I needed on this particular weekend.
Yummy Local Food
We found delicious eats that won’t break your budget. Muddy Waters Cafe offers fresh and delicious farm-to-table dishes and treats. My bestie and I had the crab and steelhead sandwich and salad with homemade dressing. It was basically a giant crab cake – YUM! We also had a glass of local white wine. They have an expresso bar that was constantly pumping out iced coffees. Basking Robbins Ice Cream and Rocky Mountain Chocolate is right next door. Stop in to pick up a chocolate Sasquatch foot for the kiddos.
Beach and Water
We don’t know about you but it is difficult to have a vacation without beach or water. Harrison has BOTH! Harrison Lake and the Lagoon is beside one another. There are two playgrounds on the beach which Liv couldn’t get enough of. You will find that it’s a popular attraction for families and kids of all ages. If you’re seeking adventure, head over to the ever popular floating waterpark.
Harrison Festival of the Arts
Did you know that Harrison has a Harrison Festival of the Arts every year? This is a free event that features the best in visual and performing arts from around the globe. There is music, theatre, visual & literary art – there’s something for the whole family! We checked out the waterfront artisan market and some of the live performances. Got kids? Kids also have a chance to get an interactive and hands-on experience with art on the Children’s Day or at workshops. There are also nightly shows in the hall. All kids 12 and under get into the hall shows free of charge. Be sure to check their website to check the dates before booking your trip.
More Attractions
There area also trails and hiking areas, water activities (river rafting, waterpark, parasailing), biking, golfing, farm tours, Sasquatch museum, Agassiz speedway.
Would I visit again?
Throughout the 48 hours, I kept telling J, “I like it here – we GOTTA come back!”
I’m really grateful to have the opportunity to explore Harrison in a different way. I truly enjoyed this quaint little town and the relaxing nature that it offers. The Harrison Arts Festival and other activities gave us a dose of adventure we needed but it was also a nice change to slow it down and be present.
Have you been to Harrison?
Nourish Through Movement 