The air is warm, the windows are open, your favourite song is playing and there’s a great looking roadside attraction just a few kilometers up the road. These are the little moments that make summer road trips the best way explore BC and beyond.
Summer moments call for summer beverages, which is why we’ve partnered with Western Family to compile a list of this summer’s best road trips and road drinks. From Root Beer in Leavenworth to Cola in Coombs, here’s where to go and what to drink this summer in (and around) B.C.
Harrison Hot Springs - 133 km
Located just 1.5 hours from Vancouver, the town of Harrison Hot Springs was literally built on the premise of slowing down and enjoying yourself. Situated at the southern end of Harrison Lake in the Fraser Valley, you can easily do the whole trip on less than a tank of gas. Home to dozens of old growth trails, independent restaurants, cozy resorts and of course, steamy hot springs, Harrison is one of the most convenient and serene summer getaways in B.C. Stay refreshed in Harrison with ice cold Happy Camper Lemon Lime Soda.
Coombs, BC - 120km
Coombs Old Country Market has made the tiny Vancouver Island town of Coombs one of the most popular road trip destinations in the province; and for good reason. This whimsical spot is known for its infamous goats, which can often be found grazing on the cafe’s grassy roof. As if that weren’t enough, this local gem boasts a taqueria, gift shop, donut shop and open air produce market. Come for the goats, stay for donuts. Speaking of G.O.A.T., enjoy Western Family’s Kickin’ Back Original Cola flavour along the way.
Leavenworth, WA - 343 km
Why limit your adventures to BC? Leavenworth is a Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains, located about 4 hours from downtown Vancouver. With alpine rooftops, adorable shuttered windows, latticework features, horse-drawn carriages, beer gardens, and more, this unique summer destination will transport you to the small German village of your dreams (without the long travel time). “Washington’s Bavarian Village” boasts spectacular scenery, exceptional old-world hospitality, and fun activities for all ages, including year-round festivals, skiing, hiking, rock climbing and more. Embrace the Oktoberfest spirit with Western Family’s Road Trip Root Beer
Gibsons, BC - 46.1 km
Gibsons is a coastal community and the main marine gateway of the sunshine coast. With fantastic restaurants and an artsy-small town feel, this seaside getaway is absolute perfect for anyone wishing to unwind near the water. During your visit, be sure to visit Persephone Brewing, where you can enjoy wood-fired pizza and family-friendly games on the brewery’s absolutely gorgeous farmland, complete with fields of hops, botanicals and fresh produce, all of which is used in the beer. Despite being less than 2 hours from Vancouver, this whimsical spot is truly a whole world in itself. If you’re interested in mixing things up, be sure to pack some Happy Hour Diet Tonic Water for the trip there.
Kaslo, BC - 729km
The farthest destination on the list is certainly well worth the trip. Kaslo, BC, also known as the “Little Switzerland of B.C.” is known for its expansive mountain views and historic architecture. Featuring buildings from the late 19th century, this popular winter getaway is also a gorgeous destination in the summer months, especially if you love hiking and biking or spending lazy summer days out on the lake. It’s also home to the SS Moyie, the world’s oldest intact passenger sternwheeler ship. Remember to slow down with a Just Chillin’ Lemon Ice Tea.
Awesome summer moments call for awesome summer beverages. Whether you crave classic soft drinks, sparkling water, or lemonade, Save-On-Foods offers great tasting Western Family drinks at an affordable price. With 13 different flavours, including diet options, Western Family beverages are perfect for sipping en route to your next destination. Pack up the car then pack up the cooler, it’s time to hit the road!
You can purchase your Western Family soft drinks and plenty of road trip snacks at Save-On-Foods. To learn more, visit westernfamily.ca
