If you’re planning a visit to Surrey this winter to catch the immersive exhibit Beyond Van Gogh, why not make a day (or a night) of it? We’ve got some ideas for all the things that you can see and do to extend your visit.
Naturally, first and foremost, you’re here to see the exhibit! An Instagrammers dream, Van Gogh’s masterpieces come alive, appear and disappear, and flow across multiple surfaces. Using the artist’s own dreams, thoughts and words to drive the experience as a narrative, you’ll move along huge walls wrapped in light and colour that swirls and dances as it refocuses on the flowers, cafes and landscapes of his famous artworks. The show is on from February 1 to March 5, 2023, and tickets are selling fast.
The exhibit is being held in the historic neighbourhood of Cloverdale, at the Agriplex at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, a perfect location for exploring!
Arrive early or stay late and enjoy a cocktail at Vault Restaurant (5764 176 Street). The restaurant was an old bank in a former life, but still uses the original vault as a private dining room! They’re loved locally for their inviting, retro vibe, tasty food and signature cocktails.
Craft beer more your style? Head over to the Hawthorne Beer Market (5633 176 Street) for their long list of local craft beers. Order a flight and try ales from across the region including some choice options from the South of the Fraser Ale Trail, like Surrey’s Russell Brewing, Delta’s Four Winds Brewing and Richmond’s Fuggles & Warlock.
Discover Surrey’s Spice Trail at Chatora Indian Restaurant (5737 176 Street). The fresh pakoras, creamy curries, and rich chai hold a magic that is entirely their own. Be sure to order the Chatora Makki Chop, a crispy, crunchy twist on a corndog, we guarantee you won’t be able to eat just one.
Or make a reservation for dinner at Charcoal & Woodz (17530 64 Avenue) and enjoy Mediterranean-fusion cuisine featuring fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Dishes here are prepared slowly and with care, and everything is made from scratch, including their renowned “Dave’s Hot Sauce” – a sweet and spicy blend of habaneros and honey.
After your Van Gogh visit, grab a latte and a treat from Republica Coffee Roasters (5674 176 Street) or Boothroyd Heritage Coffee (16811 60 Avenue), and explore Cloverdale’s small, independently-owned shops and businesses. You’ll find the latest clothing trends, vintage treasures, unique home décor and beautiful plants. And just up the road, the Honeybee Centre (7480 176 Street) is not only a working honeybee farm, but their shop is full of all things bees and honey.
Interested in adding another cultural experience to your visit? The Museum of Surrey (17710 56a Avenue) is a portal into Surrey’s past, illustrated in the permanent “Surrey Stories” exhibit and Indigenous Hall. The current feature exhibit, Surrey on Screen, is a fascinating look at the role that Surrey has played in the film industry. And they’ve got a super fun kids area, the TD Explore Zone.
In fact, there’s so much to explore around Cloverdale and the Beyond Van Gogh exhibit that you’re probably going to want to stay the night. Comfortable, affordable and conveniently located, Surrey’s hotels have got you covered while you enjoy your own “starry night”!