2020 has afforded Vancouverites a rare opportunity to reconnect with the communities around them. As August winds down, the appeal of local vacations continues to grow, and this growing city is proving to be an ideal destination for an end of summer staycation!
Located in the heart of Metro Vancouver and just fifteen minutes away from downtown, Burnaby is Vancouver’s friendly neighbour. From fun outdoor activities to delicious eats from around the world, there are so many diverse things to see and try in the city.
Burnaby’s ratio of parkland to residents is one of the highest in all of North America. 25% of Burnaby’s land is designated as open green space and parks — of which the city boasts well over 200! Outdoor adventurers and adrenaline seekers alike can get in touch with Mother Nature by:
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Renting a boat — from a kayak or canoe to a rowboat or pedal boat — and paddling around Deer Lake.
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Going on a sunrise, afternoon, or sunset stroll along the Burrard Inlet shoreline at Barnet Marine Park.
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Taking in the fresh air of the immense douglas fir, western hemlock, cedar, maple groves, and poplar trees at the 86.4-hectare Central Park.
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Biking at Mountain Air Bike Skills Park, the world’s largest and only outdoor wood pump track that is free to the public.
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Setting off on a vigorous climb up the Velodrome Trail — Burnaby’s answer to the Grouse Grind — or going on a leisurely hike along the network of 26 multi-use trails covering 28 kilometres at Burnaby Mountain. At the top of the hill, you can walk across the meadow to the Kamui Mintara Playground of the Gods — a towering totem pole display in tribute to Japan’s Aboriginal community — and marvel over the breathtaking views of the Burrard Inlet and Indian Arm in the distance.
Kamui Mintara at Burnaby Mountain. Photo: Tourism Burnaby.
Burnaby’s arts and culture scene celebrates the mix of history and multiculturalism that makes this Western B.C. city rich in storytelling and creativity.
Search for and discover the innovative beauty of horticulture artwork — the cross-section of art and the environment — throughout Burnaby. Frogs, salmon, bears, owls and horses are just a few of the fascinating eco-sculptures you will find displayed around the city.
Step back into history and be transported to 1920s Burnaby at Burnaby Village Museum, where you’ll see period-costumed townsfolk strolling the streets and reenacting village life in the homes, shops, and businesses.
Burnaby VIllage Museum. Photo: Tourism Burnaby.
You can travel across Canada and around the world right in Burnaby, a foodie city full of endless local and international cuisine choices.
For a dinner to remember, enjoy some fine dining at Hart House for local and sustainable Mediterranean-inspired menu for a lakeside view of Deer Lake and the Burnaby skyline, the exquisite spices and colors of authentic Indian cuisine at Indian Bombay Bistro, or Burnaby’s newest addition, Time & Place, for modern Pacific Northwest meal at Hilton Vancouver Metrotown.
Wanting to take-out some sweet treats? Order a box of handmade French macarons from Chez Christophe and try their bold signature chocolate blends, indulge in the Dalgona latte and waffles from the Instagrammable La Forêt cafe, or pick-up authentic Italian and European delicacies from Cioffi’s meat market and deli.
To make your visit a true staycation, you can book a reservation at these Burnaby accommodations with some special perks:
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Executive Suites Hotel for credit towards various Metro Vancouver attractions,
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Accents Inn Burnaby for 25% off your stay, or you can donate that 25% to Variety, the Children’s Charity,
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the centrally-located Happy Day Inn for 10% off your stay, or
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Element Vancouver Metrotown for a room upgrade, complimentary gift, and a $10 donation toward Burnaby Neighbourhood House for each night booked.
Go to tourismburnaby.com/summer to plan your visit.
