Things To Do
in Duncan
Duncan is a city located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its rich heritage and culture, with a strong focus on indigenous art and history. The city features many totem poles and artwork that showcase the local First Nations traditions.
Duncan also offers outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking in the nearby forests and lakes.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hiking trails and scenic walks in and around Duncan, including Mount Tzouhalem and the Trans Canada Trail.
Enjoy paddling adventures on Cowichan Bay and nearby lakes, surrounded by stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Visit the numerous wineries and vineyards in the Cowichan Valley to sample local wines and indulge in picturesque vineyard tours.
Play a round of golf at one of the scenic golf courses in the area, offering panoramic views and challenging holes.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing walk at Maple Bay, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. Grab a coffee at a local café before heading on your way.
Spend the afternoon hiking in Cowichan Valley Provincial Park. The scenic trails offer the perfect opportunity for photography and spotting wildlife.
End your day with a dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant. Enjoy some of the freshest produce and meats from the region.
Kick off your day with a kayaking tour around the Gulf Islands. The calm waters are perfect for beginners and offer stunning scenery.
Head to a local adventure park for zip-lining or rock climbing. It’s a great way to get your adrenaline fix and appreciate the natural surroundings.
Wrap up your adventure with a casual meal at a beachside grill. Relax and watch the sunset over the water.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery surrounding the area, including mountains and ocean views.
- A strong sense of community with friendly residents.
- Access to various outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
- Rich local culture with art galleries, markets, and festivals.
- Proximity to Vancouver Island's attractions and amenities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living, particularly in housing.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Seasonal weather variations can lead to rain and cloudy days, especially in winter.
- Some amenities that are standard in larger urban areas may not be available.
Places to Visit in Duncan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Cowichan Valley, Gulf Islands, and Mount Prevost. Great spot for hiking and photography.
Scenic bay with picturesque views, ideal for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Traverse through beautiful landscapes and bridges, providing plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Food in Duncan
Duncan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Must-try local dish known for its freshness and rich, buttery flavor. Best enjoyed at The Old Firehouse Wine and Cocktail Bar located in the heart of Duncan.
Must-Try!
A traditional Indigenous fry bread that can be found at the Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre's Thunderbird Cafe, offering a delightful blend of historic and modern culinary styles.
Explore the local wineries and taste the award-winning wines, such as Pinot Noir and Ortega, paired with local cheeses and charcuterie at Unsworth Vineyards or Blue Grouse Estate Winery.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of the Duncan Farmer's Market, open on Saturdays, for an array of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. Try the freshly made crepes and handmade chocolates.
Experience authentic Scottish fare such as Scotch eggs, haggis, and fish and chips while enjoying the lively ambience and hospitality at Lion Rampant Scottish Pub.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Duncan, it is important to show respect for the local First Nations culture, including the Cowichan Tribes. This involves understanding and acknowledging their traditional territories, customs, and protocols.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Duncan. It is customary to greet people with a smile and a friendly attitude, and to use polite language in interactions.
Duncan is surrounded by natural beauty, and residents generally have a deep respect for the environment. It is important to engage in sustainable and eco-friendly practices, and to show consideration for the local flora and fauna.
Safety
Tipping in Duncan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Duncan, Canada, especially in the service industry such as restaurants, hotels, and taxis. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service.
Payment in Duncan, Canada is predominantly done using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms and enjoy mild weather
Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and beach visits
Beautiful foliage and harvest festivals
Opportunity for snow sports and festive holiday events
Duncan at Night
Hiking in Duncan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination featuring a variety of trails that offer stunning views of Cowichan Valley and the surrounding area.
Offers scenic trails along the Cowichan River with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
A less crowded hiking spot that features beautiful forested trails and great views from the summit.
A historic trestle bridge with a trail that provides access to the Cowichan Valley Trail, perfect for a leisurely hike.
A challenging hike that rewards with panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Saanich Inlet.
Aiports
How to reach Duncan by plane.
The largest airport in British Columbia and one of the major international airports in Canada, located approximately 65 miles (105 km) north of Duncan.
A smaller international airport located about 70 miles (113 km) northeast of Duncan, serving both domestic and limited international flights.
Located approximately 25 miles (40 km) south of Duncan, this airport is the primary airport serving Victoria and the Southern Vancouver Island area.
Located about 136 miles (219 km) south of Duncan, it's a major hub for international flights in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Duncan, primarily of British and Irish descent.
Includes several First Nations with cultural and historical significance in the region.
Includes individuals of Chinese, Indian, and Filipino descent, among others.
A smaller but growing demographic group within Duncan.
Includes various other smaller ethnic backgrounds contributing to the cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular team sport in Duncan, with many local clubs and leagues for all ages.
Ice hockey has a strong following in Duncan, with youth leagues and community support for local teams.
As one of Canada's national sports, lacrosse is played and celebrated in Duncan, with community teams and events.
Baseball is enjoyed in Duncan, with various youth leagues and recreational teams participating in local competitions.
Running, including events and competitions, is popular in Duncan, supported by local running clubs and trails.
Curling has a dedicated community in Duncan, with local rinks and club activities throughout the winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Duncan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including flavorful salads, plant-based burgers, and vegan-friendly baked goods. Diners can explore options at the Old Firehouse Wine and Cocktail Bar and The Old Fork.
Visitors with gluten-free requirements can enjoy an assortment of gluten-free offerings, such as gluten-free pizza, pasta, and baked goods, at Hudson's On First and The Old Fork.