33 Fun Things to do in Vancouver in Winter (2024 Guide!)

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A lot of people will claim summer is the best time to visit Vancouver (and, let’s be real, the summer is pretty amazing in Vancouver), but you shouldn’t forget about the winter! Vancouver has a mild climate that makes it ideal for sightseeing and exploration in winter too. 

In fact, I visit Vancouver a lot in winter just because I love the fact that the city is much quieter. Oh, and I can also get out to ski and enjoy other outdoor winter activities! Plus, I live in Edmonton, so Vancouver’s mild winter temperatures are very appealing in comparison.

Based on all the time I’ve been lucky enough to spend in Vancouver over the years, I’ve written this blog to share the best things to do in Vancouver during the winter to help you plan your trip. I’ve also included other important info for visiting Vancouver in winter so you can be fully prepared for one epic winter holiday.

Things to do in Vancouver in Winter

1. Hit the slopes

Skiing is the most quintessential Canadian experience, and Vancouver has no shortage of awesome options! 

If you don’t want to travel too far outside the city, check out the local North Shore mountains – Grouse (accessible by transit), Seymour, and Cypress. These three mountains are within 30 minutes of downtown Vancouver. A day of skiing or snowboarding costs around $85 CAD depending on which resort you visit – that’s some of the cheapest skiing in Canada!

If you’re okay to drive a bit further, Whistler Blackcomb is an internationally renowned ski resort that good for beginners all the way to pros. It’s one of the biggest ski resorts in Canada with 36 lifts and over 200 runs!

It takes about two hours to drive from Vancouver along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to make it to Whistler. Prices at Whistler Blackcomb aren’t cheap with lift tickets starting at $190 CAD. There are early bird discounts though, so if you know you’re planning to ski here, book in advance to save money!

Related Read: Whistler is one of the best stops on the road trip from Vancouver to Calgary – find out what the others are!

2. Go ice skating at an outdoor rink 

Ice skating is a fun way to spend a winter afternoon in Vancouver. Indoor skating rinks are located throughout Vancouver, mostly at community and recreation centers. It usually costs under $10 CAD to rent some skates and enjoy the rink.

Robson Square in downtown Vancouver also has a fun outdoor skating rink set up temporarily during the winter months. It’s always decked out in holiday decorations and has a fun, festive environment. After, you can go to Robson Street for a hot chocolate and some shopping. It’s the perfect way to spend a winter’s day/night in Vancouver!

The Robson Square rink is open from December to February and is completely free to use. If you don’t have your own skates, you can rent them there for around $5 CAD.

3. Visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is an iconic landmark in the city, but it’s an especially awesome thing to do in Vancouver in the winter! 

It’s a great place to visit in the winter because there are usually fewer tourists and visitors, so you can explore at your own pace and have some time there by yourself. You might even be able to get a solo picture on the suspension bridge (check me out in the picture above!).

And although snow is not guaranteed in Vancouver, there are usually a few days or weeks of snow. So, if you’re lucky enough to be there when it does, it’s pure magic!

The Capilano Suspension Bridge also offers the Canyon Lights show in the winter, which makes for a really special evening out. At this time, you can visit in the evenings and see everything lit up with Christmas lights!

The price to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge is $79 CAD which includes a free shuttle from downtown as well as parking. You should buy your tickets in advance as there are limited ticket sales. You can purchase your tickets online here!

Of course, a lot of the best sightseeing tours in Vancouver also pay Capilano Suspension Bridge a visit. If this sounds more like your style, you can book this highly-rated full day tour. Besides visiting Capilano, your guide will also take you to popular spots including Gastown, Granville Island, and Chinatown.

Transport is completely taken care of as is your admission to Capilano Suspension Bridge and the Vancouver Lookout. This tour lasts for 6.5 hours and costs only $176 CAD per person. It’s a great way to see a ton in Vancouver in a short amount of time! You can read the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and reserve online here!

If you still aren’t sure if you’d like to visit, you can read our honest review of the Capilano Suspension Bridge to see if it’s worth it for you.

Book tickets to the Capilano Suspension Bridge here or opt for a VIP experience on this guided tour!

4. Watch a hockey game

Okay, I know I said skiing was the quintessential Canadian experience, but I was wrong. Hockey is! When in Vancouver, you’ve got to catch a game and see the Vancouver Canucks in action at Rogers Arena!

Prices can vary with the day of the week and the location of your seat. But whether you are up close to the ice or way at the back of the arena, grab a beer and hot dog and enjoy the game!

Getting tickets to an NHL game can be hard. My best advice is to buy tickets online here through the trusted booking system Viator. You can easily choose seats within your budget and know that you are purchasing legit tickets. Alternatively, you can try Stub Hub for second-hand tickets.

If there are two Canadian teams playing such as the Oilers (my team) vs Canucks, tickets are very hard to get. Look for games against USA teams.

Check here if there are tickets available for an NHL game while you’re in Vancouver!

5. Head to Whistler 

Ready for a road trip? Whistler is a two-hour drive away from Vancouver on the famous Sea to Sky Highway and is an amazing place to explore in the winter. Besides skiing and snowboarding, there’s so much to do that we wrote this guide on all the winter activities in Whistler!

Whistler Village is fun to explore, with tons of great shops, restaurants, and bars. Plus there are outdoor activities galore and luxurious hotels and spas to indulge in. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Whistler in December, then you can check out a range of festive events too!

One thing I recommended doing while in Whistler is visiting Scandinave Spa Whistler. It’s the perfect place to relax on a cold winter’s day.

Or, try an adventure activity such as snowmobiling! This snowmobiling experience is one of the most raved-about experiences in Whistler. Your guide will take you on a three-hour tour through the mountains, across frozen lakes, and even to the 2010 Olympics location. The tour includes instructions, all safety gear, and an expert guide for $293 CAD.

Another great option is this zipline tour. Yes, that’s right, you can zipline even in the snow here in Whistler. This particular experience operates all year round (sun, rain, or snow!) and it is easily one of the best tours in Whistler. It costs $179 CAD and only lasts for 2.5 hours, so you can spend the rest of your day exploring!

Whether you go for a day trip or spend a few nights (book your hotel now for the best selection!) you’ll love your time in Whistler.

Getting to Whistler:

You can either drive yourself to Whistler, take a shuttle, or go on an organized day trip from Vancouver. If you are driving, we have a full guide on the road trip from Vancouver to Whistler that outlines the best stops. We recommend renting a car in Vancouver with Discover Cars to find the best rental car price.

Alternatively, book this shuttle transport from Vancouver to Whistler. This is a luxury shuttle bus with free WiFi, washrooms, and extra legroom. It’s $46 CAD for a one-way ticket and I’d recommend planning to stay a couple of nights in Whistler if you go this route since shuttles take a bit longer so it would make for a very long day trip.

An organized tour is likely your best option if you’re short on time. This particular full-day tour combines your trip to Whistler with the Sea to Sky Gondola ride. It costs $231 CAD and includes your Sea to Sky Gondola ticket, as well as all of your transportation, free time in Whistler to explore, and a bonus stop at the stunning Shannon Falls.

This tour has a maximum group size of 30, so it doesn’t feel like you’re part of a massive herd. It’s also very well organized and everything runs super smoothly, so you don’t waste time hanging around when you could be exploring! You can book this day trip from Vancouver to Whistler easily online here!

6. Enjoy all the lights 

Checking out some awesome light displays is a fun way to get into the holiday spirit!

Capilano Suspension Bridge puts on a pretty impressive light show during the winter. I went a few years ago and loved it. The bridge is much quieter at night and the lights are spectacular!

My favorite though is the Granville Island Festive Lights held every year from the start of November until the new year from 4-10 pm. It’s completely free to visit too.

The Stanley Park Bright Nights is a fun, family-friendly event to check out. You can go for a train ride and see some magical light displays. After, grab something hot to drink, check out the stalls to buy seasonal gifts, and just enjoy the festive environment! Admission is by donation.

Finally, you can always spend some time driving around the streets of Vancouver, or even walk in a nearby neighborhood to enjoy the lights on houses and businesses! We Canadians really love Christmas lights, and you’re sure to see this as you drive around both downtown Vancouver and through suburban neighborhoods.

7. Explore Science World 

It’s no secret, but Vancouver can get pretty rainy during the winter months. So, when you need an inside day, head to Science World! It is immediately recognizable from its unique spherical shape that dominates the Vancouver skyline in False Creek. 

They have tons of interesting exhibits and shows about all things science. They have a lot of child-orientated activities so it’s a fun place to bring the family!

Science World is easily accessible by the SkyTrain (close to the Main Street station) and it costs $34.85 CAD to enter with cheaper rates for kids.

8.  Go snowshoeing 

Vancouverites love to hike and that easily carries over into the winter with snowshoeing!

Snowshoeing is a fun winter activity and a great way to get some exercise. Both Seymour and Cypress Mountains have extensive trail options that are well-marked and good for all fitness and experience levels. Dog Mountain on Seymor is a very popular route that I’d recommend! 

If you don’t have your own, snowshoes can be rented from Yes Ski & Snowboard Rental Vancouver for $20 CAD a day. They can also direct you to other trails and give you great tips.

Alternatively, go on this guided snowshoe tour. The tour includes pick-up from your downtown Vancouver hotel and takes you up into the mountains where there is loads of snow! You’ll strap on your snowshoes and get instructions on how to walk in them before you set off.

This tour is suitable for total beginners – I promise you’ll get the hang of it really quickly! It also includes warm drinks and snacks, as well as plenty of commentary about the area and the culture of the Squamish First Nation. It lasts for about 4 hours and costs $98 CAD per person. You can read recent reviews and book online here!

9. Enjoy the winter wonderland that is Grouse Mountain 

Grouse Mountain is called the “Peak of Vancouver” because it has epic views of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains at the top. While it’s a popular place to go skiing and snowboarding, there are so many more things to do at Grouse. 

Every trip to Grouse will start with a gondola ride to the top. From there, you can check out options to go snowshoeing, skating, ziplining, or just walk around and enjoy the views. I highly recommend an evening visit so you can experience the twinkling Light Walk!  

If you’re after a truly magical experience, you can also go for a sleigh ride at the top of Grouse Mountain. Your gondola ticket includes the sleigh ride with it, so there’s no extra charge. Look for the sleigh rides behind Santa’s Workshop throughout the winter as long as there’s enough snow!

Grouse has a full-service restaurant and cafe, so you can make a day of it and enjoy this winter wonderland. It costs $87 CAD to ride the gondola to the top of Grouse Mountain, which is the only way to get up here in the winter.

Book your Grouse Mountain Gondola tickets online here!

10. Ride the hop-on-hop-off bus 

Taking a hop-on hop-off bus might mark you as a tourist in the city, but it is definitely one of the best ways to see a lot of Vancouver in a short amount of time for an affordable price!

Especially during the winter when it can be cold and rainy, you’ll appreciate a warm bus to travel in!

The Vancouver hop-on-hop-off bus pass is valid for 24 or 48 hours, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. There are over 30 stops, including popular locations like Gastown, Chinatown, Stanley Park, and the Robson Shopping District. All buses are equipped with headsets and audio commentary so you can learn more about the city and what you’re seeing.

The price for the hop-on hop-off bus is $65 CAD for a 24-hour pass or $80 CAD for a 48-hour pass. Once you have a pass, you can ride as much or as little as you want all day!

Tickets are limited so book your bus pass in advance here!

11. Explore the Vancouver Christmas Market 

Ready for a little taste of Germany in the middle of Vancouver? The Vancouver Christmas Market is inspired by the classic Christmas markets in Germany and Europe, with delicious food, festive music, twinkling lights, and shopping. 

The Christmas Market is located at the Jack Poole Plaza – the same place as the famous Olympic Cauldron! Admission starts at $13 CAD for adults and $7 CAD for kids (online only, prices at the gate are more expensive). Once inside, you can explore the many different stalls with treats and handicrafts. I highly recommend treating yourself to some Glühwein (mulled wine) and schnitzel!

The market typically opens from mid-November until December 24 between 11:30 am and 9:30 pm except on Christmas Eve it’s only open until 6 pm.

Related Read: For more Christmas events, check out our blog about visiting Vancouver in December!

12. Explore Stanley Park

No trip to Vancouver is complete without spending at least some time in Stanley Park. This park is huge and it’s located right in the heart of downtown! As you’d expect with such a large park, there are plenty of things to do in Stanley Park from walking the trails, golfing, visiting the brewery, bicycling, to visiting restaurants and the Vancouver Aquarium!

Although it is winter, Stanley Park is still open and accessible. Just do as the Canadians do, and wear a few layers. An umbrella is also handy during the rainy winter months in the city.

One of the best ways to explore Stanley Park is on a bicycle. Since the park is so large, it’s hard to get around the entire thing on foot, so a bike just makes sense! The cycling trail around the Stanley Park Seawall is 12 kilometers/7.5 miles long and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to cycle at a moderate pace. There are many different bike shops near the entrance to Stanley Park and you can expect to pay around $20 CAD for a 1.5-hour rental.

You can also just join a bicycle tour in Stanley Park. Our pick is this particular bicycle tour that includes cycling around Stanley Park and going to a few other main attractions such as Gastown, Chinatown, and taking the Aqua Ferry over to Granville Island! And the best part? It is a full-day guided tour that doesn’t cost much more than you would pay for a bicycle rental for the day at only $103 CAD! You can book your spot on this tour here!

13. Wander the VanDusen Gardens

The VanDusen Gardens are beautiful year-round, but they transform during the colder months and are one of the best things to do in Vancouver in winter.

During the winter months, the gardens transform into the magical Festival of Lights. All 10 acres of the gardens are decorated with over 1 million lights! There are themed light displays throughout the gardens with festive music playing in the background.

It’s a truly magical experience and a great way to get into the holiday spirit! The price is $24 CAD to enter the gardens.

14. Go snowtubing

Vancouver is surrounded by mountains, so you can always go skiing or snowboarding, but if you’re looking for something that is all fun and requires no skill, try snow tubing!

Cypress Mountain has great snow tubing at Gnarly’s Tube Park that adults and kids alike will enjoy. Snowtubing is like tobogganing, but even more fun and comfortable in the big, comfy tubes. After you experience the thrill of rushing downhill at who-knows-how-many miles per hour, you can link the tube to a conveyor belt to pull you right back up.

Cypress is located in North Vancouver, about 30-45 minutes from downtown. The price of the tubing is announced every year so be sure to check before you go.

Related Read: Snow tubing is also one of best things to do in Calgary in winter!

15. Visit Victoria to see the Butchart Gardens Christmas Display 

The beautiful city of Victoria is only a ferry ride away and one of the highlights of this city is the spectacular Butchart Gardens. Now I know what you’re thinking … there’s not much to see in a garden in the winter. But this is the exception!

This winter tour to Butchart Gardens gives you a front-row seat to the spectacular Christmas displays. The flowers may be sleeping, but the tour arrives just in time to see the twinkling lights at every turn. The gardens are draped in thousands of lights and it’s so beautiful. While I’m a huge fan of the gardens in the summer, there’s something magical about it during the Christmas season.

Not only that, but this tour includes the scenic ferry ride to and from Victoria and some time to see the city itself while you’re on Vancouver Island. It honestly felt like a Hallmark movie!

This full-day tour takes care of all the details for a fun winter day trip to Victoria for $290 CAD.

Book this Christmas tour to Victoria here!

16. Go on a food tour 

Vancouver is an awesome city to visit restaurants and bars, so definitely spend some time checking out something new. Because it’s a very international city, there are so many different types of cuisines to try out. 

A food tour through Vancouver is one of the best ways to try some delicious bites and see more of the city. This tour by Secret Food Tours through Vancouver is a great option and I joined the tour on a winter visit one time.

I loved getting a chance to try a variety of dishes from classic Canadian poutine to some great sushi and even a “secret” dish that I won’t spill the beans about! On top of that, you’ll visit some hidden gems only locals know about and can return to after the tour. The food tour is through Gastown, which is the oldest and trendiest part of Vancouver.

The guide will also provide lots of information about Vancouver’s culture, history, and food. Just make sure to bring an appetite – you’ll need it! The tour costs $135 CAD and is a small group of just 12 people, although you can upgrade to a private tour if you like.

This is a popular food tour, so make sure to book in advance!

17. Explore Granville Island

Granville Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vancouver, and I totally understand why. It’s a great stop on your Vancouver itinerary any time of the year, but winter is especially nice since it’s less crowded with tourists, making it easier to explore. 

You can read about all the best things to do on Granville Island before you go, but some of the highlights include visiting the market, grabbing a beer at the brewery, and browsing the many shops and art galleries.

Thanks to Vancouver’s mild winters, you can still enjoy the scenery by taking a walk and watching boats in the marina. To warm up, you can visit one of the excellent restaurants for a bite to eat and drink.

Of course, the Granville Island Public Market is one of the main attractions here. Luckily, it’s an indoor market, so you can enjoy it as much as you want in the winter! While you can explore by yourself, there’s something great about taking this VIP market tour – especially if it’s your first time here. You’ll be shown around the market in a small group and get to taste some of the delights from the market’s best spots!

This tour starts at 10:30 am and lasts for two hours, so it’s basically like brunch and lunch combined! You’ll have an expert local guide to tour you around the market as you sample at least 20 of the best culinary delights on offer. Think fluffy doughnuts, truffle salami, fine cheeses, chocolate, and even Thai food. My mouth is watering already!

This tour costs $186 CAD including all of the food you’ll sample. It has rave reviews (read recent reviews here!) and is thought to be one of the best culinary experiences on Granville Island! In fact, it’s even received the designation as a Canadian Signature Experiences tour which basically means it has the tourism stamp of approval as an authentic Canadian travel experience. You can book your spot on this market tour online here!

Related Read: There are also some other great tours on Granville Island with options for all seasons!

18. See Vancouver from above 

Vancouver is a beautiful city, but, it’s a whole other experience getting a bird’s eye view. This Vancouver seaplane tour is guaranteed to be an epic, once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

The tour is about 30 minutes and will take you soaring above the city, with epic views of the harbor, downtown, and mountain peaks. The take-off and landing on the water are also pretty fun, and if you haven’t done it before, be prepared to get your heart racing!

Honestly, this was one of my most memorable experiences in the city. We even wrote a full blog on what a seaplane tour in Vancouver is like. Trust me, it’s something we still talk about.

The price for this tour is $187 CAD and in my opinion, is worth the splurge. And yes, this tour is totally doable in the winter months too!

Book your seaplane flight here to get the reserve now, pay later option!

19. Go hiking

When in Vancouver, do as the locals do and get outside! Hiking (year-round) is a popular outdoor activity in and around the city, and is a great option to explore some of the natural beauty while getting exercise! Plus, almost all of the parks in and around Vancouver are free, meaning if you’re traveling on a budget, this is for you! We also have a list of free Vancouver activities you can check out.

Because Vancouver has a mild climate, a lot of the low-elevation hikes can be done year-round without worrying about snow and ice. But, once you get up into the mountains – which is worth it for the views! – you’ll need to get some snowshoes. 

We have a whole roundup of some of the best hikes in Vancouver to get you started. However, one of my favorites is Lynn Canyon. Not as many people know about Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge when compared with Capilano, however, this one is free and, better yet, accessible by a gorgeous hike through the forest.

This one-way loop hike will take about 1.5 hours and is a fairly easy hike. Due to its low elevation, you can enjoy it year-round. You will start at the parking lot of the Regional Park, and walk past the yellow gate towards Lynn Creek. You’ll then walk over the suspension bridge, so make sure to snap some pics and enjoy the water rushing under your feet.

The only downside to Lynn Canyon is that it is a little tricky to get there if you don’t have a car. Without a car, your best best is to join this Lynn Canyon tour that includes transport. Luckily that tour is very highly rated and your guide is a professional photographer, so you just know the photos you get will be amazing!

Some other great hikes with a low elevation include Quarry Rock over in Deep Cove, Stanley Park and Seawall, and the Fort-to-Fort Trail.

20. Try out fat biking

First of all… just what is fat biking? A fat bike is a bike outfitted with large, oversized (i.e. fat) tires and rims. This allows the bike to be taken out on all kinds of different terrains. Fat biking is the perfect activity to try during the winter because you can cycle in the snow! 

If you know how to ride a bike, you know how to ride a fat bike! So, why not try out this fun activity and go for a snowy bike ride while visiting Vancouver in the winter. 

Fat biking is still gaining popularity in Vancouver, so, you have to do a bit of planning to find somewhere to try it. The main place to go fat biking is Squamish, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Vancouver. Here, there are places to rent fat bikes like RideHub, and an extensive network of trails to explore! If you’ve never tried it before, be careful, as it is a bit slippery and takes some practice. 

21. Try a sweet treat

If you have a massive sweet tooth like me, a perfect winter activity is grabbing a homemade goodie and a coffee. I say it’s good any time of year, but there’s a cozy feel to it in the winter that you can’t beat.

For a treat with a view, head to Kits Beach Coffee for one of their melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chip cookies. You think you’ve had a million cookies, well none like this! It was a little chewy, a lot chocolatey, and even had some crunch. Pair that with a vanilla latte and the scenic location near Kits Beach and I’m sold!

Nemesis Coffee has a few locations around the city, but my favorite is the one in Gastown. They have SO many treats that look almost too good to eat. But don’t worry, we tried a few! Their tiramisu croissant is basically famous and it lived up to the hype. There’s also cruffins (croissant/muffin) with flavors like cookies n’ cream and strawberry cheesecake.

If you’re after something a bit more substantial to pair with your coffee, the Belgian waffles at Café Medina are incredible. Think light, fluffy goodness with some unique toppings. I’m a fan of salted caramel and milk chocolate lavender, but I don’t think anything is bad here! There’s a reason it’s our go-to brunch spot.

If you happen to be visiting anytime from mid-January to mid-February, you’ll also be in town for the Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival. There are over 100 flavors of hot chocolate to try at vendors all over town.

Or to see sweet treats on display, head to Gingerbread Lane at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. These gingerbread houses are masterpieces and so much more impressive than the ones I made as a kid! Professional chefs craft these displays with a different theme every year and we love looking at all the little details!

22. Hit up a cross-country ski trail

While downhill skiing might be one of the most popular wintertime activities in Vancouver, cross-country skiing is another fun way to get outside. Cross-country skiing is also more accessible, as it is easier to learn and not as expensive as downhill skiing. 

A few of the local mountains have cross-country ski trails, but one of the best places to try the sport is Cypress Mountain’s Nordic Area. Here they have 19 km (12 mi) of groomed trails, many of which are open for night skiing! There are also skiing lessons for beginners and on-site rentals. 

23. Breweries, breweries, and more breweries

Despite Vancouver’s mild climate, you’re likely going to hit some cold and rainy days while visiting Vancouver in winter. What better way to warm up than visiting a brewery?

Vancouver is a hot spot for craft breweries, and there are honestly so many to choose from. If you’re new to the city or only here for a short time, we highly recommend joining this specific brewery tour or reading our breakdown of the best Vancouver breweries to help narrow it down!

There are breweries all over the city, so chances are you’ll find yourself near one! But my can’t-miss breweries are Granville Island Brewing and Parallel 49 Brewing.

The easiest way to visit some of the best breweries in the city is on a tour! We love this behind-the-scenes brewery tour because you get to learn more about how all the tasty brews are made. It includes visits to three top breweries, a designated driver, and of course, lots of beer! It’s no wonder this is the highest-rated brewery tour in the city! You can read the reviews here, but we highly recommend it from our experience.

Related Read: Don’t have long in the city? Our guide to spending 1 day in Vancouver will help you hit all the highlights!

24. Visit the Fraser Valley on a wine tour 

You’ve hit up some of the breweries in Vancouver, so time to switch gears and try some local wine. The Fraser Valley is a region located east of Vancouver, about an hour’s drive away. This region is home to some amazing vineyards and wineries. Joining a wine tour like this one is the perfect way to explore the area and try some delicious local wine!

The full-day tour includes visits to four wineries, hotel pick-up, transportation between wineries, and even a behind-the-scenes tour! And, of course, there will be lots of wine to try and bring home for later. Although the vines will be bare, the wine will still be flowing!

This tour costs $180-$220 CAD depending on the day you book and lasts for about 6 hours. The price covers plenty of wine samples, transport, your guide, as well as a charcuterie board lunch.

Book our FAVORITE Fraser Valley wine tour here!

Related Read: Visiting wineries is one of the best things to do in Kelowna in the winter months with most wineries open all year around! You can easily drive from Vancouver to Kelowna.

25. Go shopping 

Shopping is a perfect indoor activity for a winter day, but also a great seasonal activity, especially around the holiday season. Luckily, there are tons of great options to go shopping in Vancouver!

If you’re a fan of high-end shops, visit Robson Street in downtown Vancouver. There are also local stores here like Roots or popular chains such as Zara. If you prefer shopping in malls, Pacific Centre in Vancouver or Metrotown in nearby Burnaby are large malls with tons of options. Finally, you can check out outlet malls like McArthurGlen to score some deals. 

If you are in Vancouver after Christmas, make sure to check out the many, many Boxing Day and Week sales! You’ll definitely find something to buy as a gift or souvenir at a great deal!

Related Read: Another way to escape the cold is heading out of town! Check out our 2-day Las Vegas, Nevada itinerary to get some sunshine during the winter!

26. Explore the Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium houses over 65,000 different animals, with everything from fish, octopuses, alligators, sea urchins, otters, seals, and even sea lions! We have a full guide to the Vancouver Aquarium with all the tips on visiting!

The Aquarium is committed to education and conservation, so they have an extensive marine mammal rescue program. It’s a family-friendly destination with tons of programs aimed towards children and adults to learn about all the amazing marine life.

A visit to the Aquarium starts at $42 CAD per adult and $27 CAD per child and you must purchase tickets in advance online. Tickets are for specific days and time slots as they limit the number of people allowed inside.

And, of course, the Aquarium is the perfect place to go on a winter afternoon, as it’s warm and dry and offers hours of entertainment. If you’ll be in Vancouver for a while, consider a member pass to save money and go multiple times.

27. Eat fresh seafood

As a coastal city, there are so many good seafood restaurants in Vancouver. It’s definitely worth prioritizing while in the city because it’s pretty hard to beat! Even just sushi – which you can find on every street corner – is fresh, cheap, and delicious. 

If you want to really experience some amazing seafood, you can check out some of the popular restaurants such as Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House, an upscale oyster bar and seafood bar, or The Captain’s Boil, for lobster and shellfish! 

For something a little less fancy, grab a lobster roll from The Lobster Man on Granville Island! Trust us, you won’t be disappointed. It’s something I always go for when I’m in town!

If you want to see where all this amazing fresh fish is caught, Steveston Village (Richmond) is a cool area located along the water. You can walk down Fisherman’s Wharf and actually see all the daily catches!

28. Day trip to Squamish 

Squamish is a city located north of Vancouver and it’s simply stunning and worth a day trip from Vancouver to visit!

You can drive yourself from Vancouver to Squamish with our road trip guide that follows the epic Sea to Sky Highway. Make sure you stop at the Sea to Sky Gondola located just outside of Squamish. Take the gondola up to the top of a mountain and enjoy panoramic views, walking trails, and a cafe. You can purchase your gondola tickets online here to guarantee your ride.

If you don’t want to drive yourself to Squamish, you can also join a tour! This specific private tour costs $627 CAD and will take you on a fun day adventure in Squamish. It provides all transportation and includes visits to Shannon Falls, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, a ride on the gondola, and the Capilano Salmon Hatchery with lots of interesting commentary along the way! 

The truth is, there are plenty of fun things to do in Squamish, so be sure to check it out!

29. Sightsee at the Vancouver Lookout

I don’t know how many times to say it – Vancouver is beautiful! So, naturally, you will want to take every opportunity to see the sights and enjoy the views. The Vancouver Lookout is the best way to do exactly that.

The Lookout is located downtown, near the Vancouver Harbour. It opened back in 1877 and is 168 meters (550 feet) tall. You can access this view from a 40-second ride in a glass elevator, which in and of itself is pretty cool. The venue is also open for private gatherings and events, so you can dine in style.

It costs $18 CAD to visit the Vancouver Lookout.

Purchase your ticket online here to access FREE cancellation

30. Relax in a hot tub

After a few days of exploring Vancouver in the winter, you need a place to relax. So, get yourself to a spa in the city and chill out in a hot tub. The Fairmont Pacific Rim is an upscale hotel that has a large day spa as well as a heated rooftop pool and hot tub that you can soak in. 

Other options for a relaxing spa day include CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La or Sense, A Rosewood Spa. Many of the large hotels have spa services, so check them out and enjoy some peaceful R&R!  

31. Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery

One of the best indoor activities in Vancouver to do on a winter afternoon is to visit the Vancouver Art Gallery. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, this gallery houses some of the most amazing art collections. They have rotating exhibitions that often focus on local Canadian artists or commentaries on current events.

The Art Gallery is open daily and costs $29 CAD to enter. If you happen to be around on the first Friday of the month, you can actually enter for free from 4-8 pm! Spend a few hours here and immerse yourself in the world of art.

32. Explore Canada on a simulated flight ride 

You might be in Vancouver, but did you know there’s a way to actually explore the whole country? FlyOver Canada is a simulated flight ride that gives you epic views of Canada’s diverse and dramatic landscapes. The ride is eight minutes long and totally immersive. You are sitting in a seat that moves slightly over the screen, so you truly feel like you are flying.

From this “flight” you will see everything from the west to north to the east coast of Canada, including the plains of the prairies, rivers, and lakes, and all the cities along the way. If Vancouver is your first stop in Canada, then this flight might be the perfect activity to help curate your Canada bucket list!

It costs $30 CAD for this epic experience.

Book your FlyOver ticket easily here!

33. Learn all about historic Gastown

Gastown is one of the oldest, and most interesting, neighborhoods in Vancouver to explore. It is considered the historic heart of Vancouver and has beautiful cobblestone streets and architecture from the early 20th century. It’s a place of history, but also a great place to eat, shop, and drink!

This Gastown walking tour is a great place to start exploring this neighborhood. It’s a theatrical and informative tour where you’ll learn all about the origins of Vancouver and the juicy stories about what happened over 100 years ago. The tour is about 1.5 hours and costs only $38 CAD.

Read the hundreds of 5-star reviews and book this tour of Gastown here!

Where to Stay in Vancouver in Winter

There are so many places to stay in Vancouver even I struggle to choose after over 15 visits to the city and even living here for a while. I love staying close to Stanley Park on the West End but love the atmosphere of Gastown. Then there’s Yaletown, close to Granville Island and located on the beautiful harbor. I love walking the seawall here!

It’s safe to say you’re going to struggle to choose a great place to stay in Vancouver this winter, but I’ll try to narrow it down for you. If you want more suggestions, our guide on where to stay in Vancouver is a good place to start.

West End

The West End borders Stanley Park, is close to English Bay, and is still within walking distance of the Granville Island ferry. It’s a downtown area that’s safe and inviting with lots of restaurants, bars, and cafes.

There’s not a lot for budget travelers in this area but those on a mid-range budget will love the Sonder at Revival. Or, those on a luxury budget The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver which overlooks Coal Harbour.

Gastown

Gastown sits on the eastern side of downtown not far from Coal Harbour. The area is best known for its amazing restaurants and bars but also its history. The area is also known to be a little rough around the edges, but it’s safe and I often stay in this area.

If you’re on a budget The Cambie Hostel is in a great location with a social little bar attached to it. It’s also super convenient to book on either Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.

If you can spend a little more, stay at the EXchange Hotel Vancouver (pictured above!), or for luxury travelers, the Fairmont Pacific Rim is a top choice that sits on the border of Coal Harbor and Gastown.

Yaletown

Yaletown sits on the waterfront and is surrounded by green spaces. It’s arguably one of the nicest parts of the city and is close to the Granville Island ferry, David Lam Park, and Coopers Park. It’s a gorgeous area and the seawall is the perfect place to walk at sunset. Mainland Street, in the heart of Yaletown, is the perfect place to go for a drink and bite to eat and many of the best best restaurants in Yaletown are located here.

For the medium budget, I’d pick the GEC Granville Suites Downtown purely for its amazing location. Luxury travelers can have it all by staying at the Opus Hotel.

Other areas to stay in Vancouver include Coal Harbour (which I’ve kinda covered), and Mt Pleasant or Main Street (not a great location in my opinion).

Getting Around Vancouver 

Transportation and ease of navigating a new city are super important to consider when planning a trip. It will help you determine where to stay and what you’ll be able to visit while in the city. In Vancouver, there are a few different options for transportation in and around the city.

Driving

This is probably the best form of transportation if you want to explore anywhere outside of downtown Vancouver and participate in activities like hiking or skiing, which require getting a bit further away. Traffic in downtown Vancouver can be fairly busy, just like any city center.

There is ample parking available both on the streets and in parkades, though it can be expensive. Some hotels provide parking, so check ahead of time. 

If you can rent a car so you can explore Vancouver with ease! Just be prepared to pay for parking unless your hotel includes it.

Car share

A great option besides renting a car is using a car share service like Modo or Evo. These services allow you to rent a car and pay based on the time it’s used (i.e., pay for 30 minutes, two hours, or the full day, depending on how long you drive for).

You can pick up and drop off the car at specific checkpoints around the city and the best part is they get lots of free parking. This makes it super easy to use a car for just the time that you need it. 

Public transportation

Vancouver’s public transit system is not as extensive as many other major cities, but it is still a good way to get around to main attractions. The SkyTrain provides excellent access to some of the neighboring cities, such as Burnaby, New Westminster, or Surrey, so it offers a good option if you plan on exploring outside of downtown. It also runs from the airport, so again, a good option to get into the city from the airport. 

There are also many buses in the city that run frequently. Note that public transportation options are extremely limited overnight, with only a couple of night buses and no SkyTrian options after around 1 am. All public transportation is run by the company TransLink and is fairly affordable; a single trip costs $3.20 CAD, and a day pass costs $11.50 CAD.

Taxis and rideshares

Taxis are available throughout the city, as are Uber and Lyft. These are good options in the downtown core but can get pricey if you are going further outside of that region. For example, the taxi cost from YVR Vancouver Airport to Downtown Vancouver is about $30-$50 CAD.

Aquabus

The Aquabus is one of the more unique ways to get around Vancouver. These small boats visit 8 locations in the harbor all the way from The Village to Granville Island. The Aquabus costs $20 CAD for a full-day pass or round-trip tickets start at $4.50 CAD but prices vary depending on the route you take. You can check out all their routes and prices here.

Walking and biking

Vancouver is a very walkable city, and it is possible to walk just about anywhere in the downtown core.

Biking is also a good option, as there are dedicated bike lanes throughout most of the city. You can rent bikes all over the city and pretty much ride everywhere you want to downtown. I love doing this, especially on a beautiful day!

Renting a Car in British Columbia

If you’re arriving in British Columbia via plane, then I can’t recommend getting a rental car enough. British Columbia is a large province, and traveling between the best places to visit in BC requires transport. Although you can use public transport on some occasions, this means your trip will not only require more time but more planning.

Car rental in Canada isn’t relatively cheap, but it’s not that expensive either, especially if you get a budget car. The cheapest car with a pick-up and drop-off in different locations is around $100 CAD per day. The price does vary though, depending on the time of year. For car rentals, I use the website Discover Cars. It’s a search engine with lots of deals with good customer service. In fact, I’ve used Discover Cars all over the world, including in Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!

Another popular option is to rent a campervan or motorhome (only for the brave in winter). Using Motorhome Republic, you can search hundreds of deals across multiple companies to pick a great vehicle and the cheapest price. Having a motorhome is a stunning way to see Canada and you can often camp for free or very cheap in the most beautiful places imaginable! Read my tips on using Motorhome Republic here before you book!

Thanks for reading!

While you may have to contend with a bit of rain in Vancouver, don’t let that scare you off. There are so many awesome things to do during the winter! Take advantage of the temperate climate and nearby mountains to explore this beautiful city. Vancouver is worth visiting at any time of year!

I hope this guide on the best things to do in Vancouver during winter has helped plan your upcoming trip. If it has, stay a while and check out more of my blogs such as:

How to plan the most romantic honeymoon in Vancouver

15 easy day hikes in Vancouver

Vancouver food tour review

The BEST Boat Cruises in Vancouver