By: Zobia Khalid, SFU Student
Downtown Langley blends a small-town vibe with the liveliness of a city. This place showcases the talent and culture of artists such as Langley muralist Judy Pohl. An afternoon walk here can reveal the beauty and culture of Langley with attractions such as shops, art, and nature. In Downtown Langley, you’re bound to find something to pique your interest, so here is a guide on how to spend a day in this charming town.
If you’re feeling tired, you can energize before starting your day with a coffee or tea from Hot & Toasty Café, which is home to creamy matcha lattes that match the lime-green colour of the walls. Cozy Bean Bakery is another option for your morning caffeine-kick, where you can enjoy a smores drink or sparkling lemonade while sitting near their hand-painted windows. This area along the Fraser Highway boasts a variety of cafés and restaurants, making it a fantastic spot to begin your adventure. If you’re in the mood for brunch, EGG BOMB is an excellent choice. While they do have lovely egg-based dishes, their honey butter bread is a must-try. Make a reservation in advance though, as this restaurant is quite popular.
After fuelling up, explore the thrift stores just up the street, each with their own unique charm. Cherry Pick Vintage provides a comforting atmosphere with their lighting, cozy seating area, and friendly staff. Nova & Co Consignment Shop is a classy boutique where you can bring your sparsely-used clothing to find them a new home. Thrifters’ Paradise and PENNY PINCHER are budget-friendly options with more than just clothing up for purchase — I was able to get a pot for just 50 cents at PENNY PINCHER.
For later in the day, don’t miss Krazy Bob’s Music Emporium. This gem offers CDs, cassettes, vinyls, and more at very affordable prices. Plus, the sweet-yet-hilarious staff often give out small free gifts, enhancing the overall experience. A few minutes’ walk away is the Hayloft Vintage Mall, a large space with piles and piles of antique furniture and small decorative pieces such as pillows, candles, vases and tables — all of which you’re sure to get lost in.
Downtown Langley is renowned for its beautiful murals, making it perfect for a mural walk — visit the Downtown Langley website to plan your route. After, you can people watch or enjoy lunch at McBurney Plaza, an outdoor space that hosts local performers at various points during the summer. The Tacoholic Taco Shop is a great spot for authentic Mexican food, such as their street tacos and carnitas. Naka Bistro has tons of options in terms of vegetarian food, like their rama delight and tom yum soup — for most dishes, you can substitute any meat ingredient with vegetables or tofu. Looking for a place to eat and park for a bit with friends? The Raving Gamer Bistro lets you play board games while you eat and talk. You can take a look at which games they have available to play on their website.
When you’re ready to explore more, Sendall Gardens is just a 20-minute walk, bus ride, or five-minute drive from Downtown Langley, and hosts beautiful plants and wildlife. Nearby, check out the duck pond at the Nicomekl River Trail, or stop by the Pleasantdale Creek Trail. You can plan a bike trail or walking route by taking a look at what’s listed on the City of Langley website. Remember to stay safe and hydrated when doing so!
