Vancouver becomes a beautiful winter wonderland with snow-covered mountains and sparkling city lights. Whether you love exploring the outdoors or prefer cozy indoor activities, the city has something for everyone. From exciting adventures in the snow to warm, inviting attractions, Vancouver offers plenty of fun during winter. This guide will help you find the ten best things to do in winter in Vancouver.
1. Explore Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a must-visit destination in Vancouver during winter. This sprawling urban park offers breathtaking views of snow-dusted trees and serene, frosty landscapes. A walk or bike ride along the Seawall, even in winter, is a refreshing way to experience the natural beauty of Vancouver’s iconic park. The stillness of the park, combined with the chilly winter air, creates a peaceful atmosphere perfect for strolls.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Vancouver Aquarium in the park, where you can learn about marine life while staying warm. Winter is also the perfect time to enjoy the park’s quieter trails, where you might spot some local wildlife. Whether you’re visiting for the scenery or just want to enjoy some time outdoors, Stanley Park is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored.
Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-681-6728
2. Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park becomes even more magical during the winter months. Imagine walking across the iconic suspension bridge with snowflakes gently falling around you and the surrounding snow-covered forest. The park’s Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk are just as enchanting, offering elevated walkways that give you a bird’s-eye view of the snowy landscape.
Winter also brings the annual Canyon Lights display, where the entire park is illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a truly magical experience. As you cross the bridge, the lights reflecting off the snow add a layer of beauty to the already stunning surroundings. This winter wonderland is a visual delight and a serene and peaceful escape, making it a must-visit during the colder months.
Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-985-7474
3. Check out the Burnaby Village Museum
Burnaby Village Museum offers a charming and nostalgic winter experience, transporting visitors back to the early 20th century. The museum’s heritage village is beautifully decorated in winter, with festive lights and holiday displays creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can wander the historic streets, explore the old-fashioned shops, and even ride the vintage carousel.
The museum also hosts seasonal events like holiday-themed crafts, live performances, and demonstrations that showcase life in the past. Winter is the perfect time to visit, as the village comes alive with the warmth of the holiday spirit, offering a cozy and educational outing for all ages. Whether interested in history or looking for a delightful winter activity, Burnaby Village Museum is a must-see destination.
Address: 6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby, BC V5G 3T6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-297-4565
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4. Must Visit the VanDusen Botanical Garden
The VanDusen Botanical Garden transforms into a winter wonderland each year, offering a unique and enchanting experience during the colder months. The winter highlight at VanDusen is the Festival of Lights, where the garden is adorned with over a million twinkling lights, creating dazzling displays illuminating the night.
Visitors can stroll through themed areas, including a Gingerbread Wood and a Candy Cane Lane while enjoying festive music and warm beverages. The garden’s serene atmosphere and vibrant light displays make it a perfect winter outing for families and couples.
Even outside of the festival, the garden’s winter landscape is beautiful to explore. Its diverse plant life and peaceful surroundings provide a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-257-8463
5. Survey the Museum of Anthropology at UBC
The Museum of Anthropology at UBC is a fascinating destination to explore during the winter months. This world-renowned museum showcases an incredible collection of artifacts from indigenous cultures worldwide, focusing on the First Nations of the Pacific Northwest.
Winter is a perfect time to visit, as the museum offers a warm and inviting space to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. The museum’s striking architecture, featuring large windows framing views of the snowy landscape, adds to the experience.
Highlights include the impressive totem poles, intricate carvings, and immersive exhibits that provide insight into the lives and traditions of indigenous peoples. Visiting the Museum of Anthropology is educational and deeply inspiring, making it a must-do activity during a winter trip to Vancouver.
Address: 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-827-5932
6. Don’t Forget to Visit the Science World
Science World is a fantastic winter destination, especially for families with kids. Located in the iconic geodesic dome at the edge of False Creek, Science World offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that make learning fun for all ages. During the winter, the indoor attractions provide a warm and exciting escape from the cold.
Kids will love exploring the various exhibits, from the wonders of physics and chemistry to the mysteries of space and the human body. Special seasonal exhibits and films are often featured during winter, adding to the experience.
The engaging displays and live science demonstrations ensure that there is something new and exciting to discover with every visit. Science World is the perfect place to spark curiosity and creativity, making it a must-visit during winter.
Address: 1455 Quebec St, Vancouver, BC V6A 3Z7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-443-7440
7. Must Go for Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to enjoy Vancouver’s winter landscapes. With numerous trails in and around the city, snowshoeing offers a peaceful and immersive way to explore snowy forests, mountains, and lakes. Popular spots like Cypress Mountain, Mount Seymour, and Grouse Mountain offer trails ranging from easy to challenging, catering to all experience levels.
Cypress Mountain
Cypress Mountain offers stunning snowshoeing trails winding through ancient forests. With breathtaking views and varying difficulty levels. It’s perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Rent snowshoes on-site and embark on a memorable winter experience.
Address: 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver, BC V7V 3N9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-926-5612
Mount Seymour
Mount Seymour is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Vancouver, offering a variety of activities year-round. In winter, its slopes are transformed into a skier’s paradise, with a wide range of trails suitable for all levels. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking in its lush forests during warmer months. Mount Seymour also provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists.
Address: Mount SeymourNorth Vancouver, BC V7G 1L3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-986-2261
Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Vancouver, offering a variety of activities year-round. In winter, it transforms into a winter wonderland, with skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and scenic chairlift rides during warmer months. The mountain is also home to the Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife, where visitors can see grizzly bears and other animals up close.
Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-980-9311
8. Enjoy the Winter Wonderland at Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is the ultimate winter destination in Vancouver, offering a wide range of activities that make the most of the snowy season. Just a short drive from downtown, Grouse Mountain transforms into a winter wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snowshoeing among the popular options. The mountain’s Skyride gondola provides stunning views of the city and ocean below, making the journey to the top an experience.
In addition to the outdoor activities, Grouse Mountain offers a magical Light Walk, where the forest trails are illuminated with twinkling lights, creating a festive atmosphere. The mountain is also home to the Peak of Christmas, a seasonal event featuring Santa’s workshop, reindeer, and holiday-themed activities. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just looking to enjoy the winter scenery, Grouse Mountain has something for everyone.
Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-980-9311
9. Whales Watching at the Vancouver Aquarium
Winter is a great time to visit the Vancouver Aquarium, where you can experience the wonders of marine life in a cozy indoor setting. While outdoor whale watching may be off-season, the aquarium offers the chance to see and learn about whales, dolphins, sea otters, and other fascinating creatures up close.
The aquarium’s interactive exhibits and educational programs make it a fun and engaging experience for kids and adults alike. During winter, the aquarium often hosts special seasonal events and exhibits, adding extra excitement to your visit.
The underwater viewing galleries provide a mesmerizing perspective on the marine world, while the daily feedings and shows offer insight into the lives and behaviors of these incredible animals. Visiting the Vancouver Aquarium is essential for anyone interested in marine life, providing a memorable and educational winter outing.
Address: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Phone: +1 778-655-9554
10. Get on an Extended Panorama Flight by Seaplane
For a truly unique winter experience in Vancouver, consider taking an extended panorama flight by seaplane. This thrilling adventure offers a bird’s-eye view of the city’s stunning winter landscapes, from the snow-capped mountains to the icy waters of the Pacific Ocean.
As you soar above Vancouver, you’ll see the city’s iconic landmarks, such as Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, and the North Shore Mountains, all blanketed in snow. The seaplane experience is both exhilarating and serene, providing a new perspective on Vancouver’s natural beauty.
Whether looking for a romantic escape or a unique family adventure, an extended panorama flight by seaplane is a must-do activity that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your winter trip to Vancouver.
Winter in Vancouver offers an array of unforgettable experiences, from exploring snow-covered landscapes to enjoying cozy indoor attractions. Embrace the season’s magic by visiting these top winter destinations and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Vancouver’s winter charm is unparalleled, making it a must-visit destination during the winter months!