Overview
Peace Arch Provincial Park sits at the Douglas/Blaine border crossing between Surrey, British Columbia, Canada and Blaine, Washington, USA. It is one of the few places in the world where a public park straddles an international border, and visitors on both sides can walk freely within the park grounds without crossing into the other country's jurisdiction.
The centrepiece is the Peace Arch monument itself, constructed in 1921 to commemorate the centennial of the Rush-Bagot Agreement and the long-standing peace between Canada and the United States. The arch bears the inscription "Children of a Common Mother" on the Canadian side and "Brethren Dwelling Together in Unity" on the American side.
The surrounding grounds are maintained as a formal garden park, with manicured lawns, seasonal flower displays, and mature trees. The Canadian side is administered by BC Parks, while the American side is managed by Washington State Parks. Both sides are generally open to foot traffic during daylight hours, though the actual border crossing for vehicle and pedestrian entry into either country is handled through the adjacent CBSA/CBP port of entry — not through the park itself.
The park is modest in size but carries significant symbolic weight, and it draws visitors interested in history, photography, and a peaceful garden setting close to the urban centres of Surrey and Blaine.
Before You Go
Understand what the park is — and is not
Walking within the park grounds does not constitute a formal border crossing. However, if you step beyond the park's designated area into the other country, you are legally required to present yourself at the port of entry. Border officers patrol the area, and attempting to use the park as an informal crossing is a serious legal matter.
Visas and entry
If you plan to cross between Canada and the United States through the adjacent port of entry, entry requirements apply. For up-to-date visa and entry information, visit TravelerPulse's Visas section and check the official websites of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for the most current requirements.
What to bring
- Valid government-issued ID is advisable even if you are only visiting the park, as border officers may ask for identification
- Sun protection and water on warm days — shade within the park is limited in some areas
- Cash or card for any nearby parking or amenity fees; verify current parking arrangements locally or on the BC Parks website
Accessibility
The park's paved paths and flat lawns make it reasonably accessible for visitors with mobility considerations. Verify current accessibility facilities directly with BC Parks before your visit.
Getting There
By car
The park is located directly at the Peace Arch/Douglas border crossing on Highway 99 (BC) / Interstate 5 (Washington). From downtown Surrey or Vancouver, take Highway 99 south toward the US border. Parking is available near the park on both the Canadian and American sides; verify current availability and any fees locally, as arrangements can change.
By public transit
From Surrey Central Station, TransLink bus routes serve the South Surrey area. Verify specific route numbers and schedules at translink.ca, as service patterns change. The Blaine, WA side has limited public transit connections from the US.
By train
Amtrak's Cascades service stops at Bellingham and Vancouver (Pacific Central Station), but there is no train station immediately at the border. Travellers arriving by Amtrak would need onward ground transportation.
On foot or by bicycle
The park is walkable from nearby White Rock and South Surrey residential areas for those already in the vicinity. Cyclists should check local cycling infrastructure, as the Highway 99 corridor is heavily trafficked.
Things to See & Do
The Peace Arch monument
The arch itself is the primary draw. Walk around and through it, read the inscriptions on both faces, and observe the iron gates set into the arch — inscribed "May These Gates Never Be Closed." The monument is a Canadian National Historic Site and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
Gardens and grounds
The park's formal gardens are maintained with seasonal plantings that peak in spring and early summer. The lawns are used by picnickers, families, and visitors simply enjoying a quiet outdoor space close to the city. Flower displays, particularly in late April and May, are a highlight.
Photography
The arch provides a striking and historically resonant subject. Early morning light from the east illuminates the Canadian face of the arch. The surrounding gardens, particularly when in bloom, add colour and context to images.
Picnicking
Both the Canadian and American sides of the park have open lawn areas suitable for picnicking. Facilities such as benches and waste bins are present; verify availability of covered shelters or tables locally.
Seasonal events
Annual ceremonies, including Canada Day (July 1) and U.S. Independence Day (July 4) events, have historically taken place at or near the park. Verify current programming with BC Parks or local tourism offices.
Practical Information
Hours and admission
BC Parks generally maintains Peace Arch Provincial Park for daytime use. Admission to the park grounds has historically been free. Verify current hours and any parking fees directly with BC Parks (env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks) before visiting, as operational details can change.
Facilities
Restroom facilities are available within the park. Verify their current status and seasonal availability locally.
Weather
The park's location in the Fraser Valley lowlands gives it a temperate oceanic climate. Summers are mild and relatively dry; winters are cool and wet. Rain gear is advisable outside summer months.
Emergency contacts
In Canada, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies. In the United States, also dial 911. For non-emergency park concerns on the Canadian side, contact BC Parks through their official website.
Currency and payments
The park itself does not have retail facilities. Nearby amenities in South Surrey accept major credit cards. If crossing into Blaine, WA, USD is the local currency.
Safety
The park is a well-maintained, low-risk environment. The primary consideration unique to this location is the international border. Visitors should remain clearly within the designated park boundaries and not attempt to cross into the adjacent country outside the official port of entry — border enforcement agencies monitor the area.
Keep personal belongings secure in the parking area, as vehicle break-ins can occur at busy border-adjacent locations. Do not leave valuables visible in parked cars.
Traffic in the surrounding Highway 99 corridor can be heavy, particularly during peak border crossing hours. Exercise caution when walking near the roadway to access the park.
