Fun Things To Do In Vancouver This Weekend

Beliza
•
Dec 05, 2024

Are you looking for fun travel and entertainment? If the answer is “yes”, Vancouver is your best option. Located on Canada’s Pacific coast, British Columbia province, Vancouver is the largest metropolitan area in the country after Toronto and Montreal. Numerous attractions and cultural events are scattered around the city, so you won’t have time to get bored.

Discover in this article some fun things to do in Vancouver this weekend with your family. Book now!

Located on Canada's Pacific coast, Vancouver is the largest metropolitan area in the country after Toronto and Montreal.

Photo by Adi K

What Is Vancouver Most Famous For?

Vancouver is popular for many reasons that make it stand out from other cities. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Film and Television: Vancouver is a major film and television production center, known as the “Hollywood of the North”. Many famous movies and TV Shows have been filmed here.
Stanley Park is the largest urban park in Canada, with an area of 4,049 km². Fun fact, is 10% larger than Central Park in New York City.
One of the most important environmental organizations in the world, Greenpeace was founded by a group of activists in 1971 in the city of Vancouver. Today, it is an organization recognized worldwide for caring for the planet.
40% of Vancouver residents are non-native speakers. Vancouver is the city with the second largest international population after Toronto in Canada.
The Vancouver Aquarium is the fifth largest aquarium in the world, located within Stanley Park. Its main purpose is to rescue and rehabilitate marine animals and return them to their natural habitat.

You May Also Like: 25 Fun Facts About Canada: What Is It Known For?

10 Fun Things To Do In Vancouver This Weekend

Bike or Walk the Stanley Park Seawall

Want to take the best pictures of Vancouver’s skyline? This is possible while biking or walking through Stanley Park. Discover all that Stanley Park has to offer on this tour through the bike-friendly streets of the West End and into the interior of the amazing place. Here are some details about this wonderful route:

Length: The full Seawall route in Stanley Park is approximately 9 kilometers (5.5 miles).
Multi-functional: The route is divided into two lanes: one for cyclists and skaters, and one for pedestrians, making for a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Highlights:

Brockton Point: Here you can see the Brockton Point Lighthouse and several totem poles.
Totem Poles: Located near the Brockton Point parking lot, they are one of the most visited attractions in British Columbia.
Lost Lagoon: A beautiful lake in Stanley Park, an ideal place for bird-watching and enjoying nature.
Third Beach: A quiet and secluded beach, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sunset.

Take the best pictures of Vancouver's skyline while biking or walking through Stanley Park

Photo by Alireza on Unsplash

Visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge

The 27-hectare Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a unique British Columbia setting. Enjoying spectacular views of the canyon and river, and exploring the park’s unique history and ecosystem through interactive exhibits, are just some of the activities you can do in Vancouver this weekend with your family. Here are some details about this fascinating place:

Length: 140 meters.
Height: 70 meters above the river.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Attractions:

Cliffwalk: A thrilling ride over the canyon.
Totem poles: The bridge connects manicured gardens adorned with First Nations totem poles.
Special Events: The park hosts several events such as Canyon Lights from November 22, 2024, to January 19, 2025.

The 27-hectare Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a unique British Columbia setting

Photo by Tim Trad on Unsplash

Watch Canucks at Rogers Arena

Are you a field hockey fan? If the answer is “yes”, Vancouver has a place waiting for you. Since 1995 Rogers Arena has been hosting entertainment and sporting events such as Canucks games. Experience the excitement in the stands of Rogers Arena and celebrate their victories. Here are some details you should know:

Capacity: 18,910 seats for field hockey games.
Facilities: Plenty of food and beverage options, including The Sportsbar, are open during all Canucks games and major sporting events.

What You Need To Know About the Vancouver Canucks:

League: The Canucks are a member of the National Hockey League (NHL).
Foundation: The team was founded in 1970 as an expansion team.
Achievements: The Canucks reached the Stanley Cup Final in 2011, but were defeated by the Boston Bruins.

Ski Grouse Mountain Trails

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Vancouver this weekend, Grouse Mountain is the place to be. Here beginners and experts alike venture out on one of the trails and feel the thrill of the moment. Here are some details about Grouse Mountain Trails and the most popular activities:

Elevation: The mountain reaches a maximum elevation of more than 1,200 meters.
Slopes: Grouse Mountain offers 33 ski runs with four chairlifts.

Activities and Services:

Lessons and Rentals: Grouse Mountain offers ski and snowboard lessons for all skill levels, as well as equipment rentals.
Dining: Enjoy a meal at the mountain’s restaurants, such as the Altitudes Bistro or the Grouse Nest Café.
Scenic Chairlift Ride: Take a ride on the Skyride for breathtaking views of Vancouver and the surrounding mountains.

Explore Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge

If you want to leave Vancouver with the best photos you can’t miss the Lynn Canyon photo tour. The temperate rainforest nature will be in front of you to be captured by your lens under the instructions of a professional photographer. Here are some details about the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge hike:

Length: The hike to the bridge and back is approximately 2.25 kilometers (1.4 miles).
Suspension Bridge: The bridge is 50 meters above the canyon floor and offers breathtaking views of streams and waterfalls.
Stairs: The hike includes many wooden stairs, so be prepared for a bit of a climb.
Wildlife: Keep an eye on local wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds.
Availability: The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit in any season.

If you want to leave Vancouver with the best photos you can't miss the Lynn Canyon photo tour

Photo by Glen Jackson on Unsplash

Visit Vancouver Aquarium

At the Vancouver Aquarium, there’s plenty to do this weekend with your family. It houses over 65,000 animals in 20 high-level exhibits, including dolphins, seals, sea lions and sea otters. If you are a marine life lover you can’t miss this wonderful place. Check out some details:

Address: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2
Hours: Open daily, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (may vary on holidays).
Interactive Experiences: Participate in animal enrichment programs, visit the wet lab, and enjoy a 4D movie experience.
Marine Mammal Rescue Center: One of the world’s largest hospitals dedicated to sick, injured, or orphaned marine mammals.
Education and Conservation: The aquarium is dedicated to ocean education, conservation, and marine research.
Holiday Splash: From November 12 to January 5, the aquarium is transformed with more than 1 million sparkling lights, enchanting decorations, and daily visits from Scuba Claus.

Jellyfish at the Vancouver Aquarium

Photo by Krysten Merriman on Unsplash

See Cirque du Soleil: ECHO

You will surely be fascinated by the combination of art and animal kingdom at Cirque du Soleil with ECHO. A story that shows the balance between humans, animals, and the space we share. Fantastic characters, inspiring music, abstract costumes, lighting, and unique acrobatics will take you on a wonderful journey. Here are some details about the show:

Location: Under the Big Top, Concord Pacific Place, Vancouver, BC.
Date: October 9, 2024 to January 5, 2025.
Duration: 125 minutes, with a 25-minute intermission.
Backstage Tour: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the best of Cirque du Soleil.
Meet & Greet: Elevate your experience with an exclusive opportunity to meet the artists.
Group Offers: Save up to 25% per ticket on reservations of 10 or more people.

Dinner Cruise from Granville Island

In Granville Island, Vancouver, several cruise options await you, offering unique experiences in a perfect setting. The combination of great food and breathtaking views of the harbor and the city is something you can’t miss. These are the most outstanding dinner cruises:

Harbour Cruises: They include a delicious buffet and live music. It is considered an emblematic experience of the city and allows you to enjoy the beauty of the harbor while you dine.
Accent Cruises: Their vessels are available year-round for groups and private events, and offer full service on board.
Shore Lunch Cruise: Although not an evening cruise, this is an excellent option to enjoy a buffet lunch while taking in the views of the city.

Take Aquabus to Explore Gastown

During your stay in Vancouver, you’ll probably want to get around easily. If so, don’t hesitate to buy your Aquabus Ferry ticket. You can book a day or month-long pass and enjoy the scenic views of downtown Vancouver along False Creek. Enjoy the views of the waterfront, stop by the stores to do your shopping, and dine in a nice place are some things you can do in Vancouver during the weekend. Check out some details:

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.
Frequency: The boats make stops every 15 minutes or less, so you won’t have to wait long.
Accessibility: All routes are wheelchair and bicycle accessible.
Routes: The Aquabus has 13 boats that stop at different points along False Creek.
Reservations: Although not always necessary, it is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance to secure your spot.
Weather: Wear appropriate clothing for the weather, including a light jacket if it’s a cool night.

The Aquabus has 13 boats that stop at different points along False Creek

Photo by Colleen Ford

Expert Tips for Visitors in Vancouver

Take advantage of Vancouver’s efficient public transportation. Use the SkyTrain, buses, and the Aquabus to easily get around the city without worrying about traffic or parking.
Enjoy Vancouver’s varied cuisine and participate in a tour to taste local dishes in neighborhoods such as Gastown or Little Italy.
You can also enjoy the offer of food trucks with cheaper prices.
Participate in Vancouver’s local festivals throughout the year, such as the International Jazz Festival and the Vancouver Folk Festival. These events are a great way to experience the local culture.