Even when it’s raining (or snowing), it’s not hard to have some date-night fun around this city. And if you need some inspiration, we’ve got you covered with some romantic date ideas for all kinds of weather – just to be prepared. Without further ado, here are 15 romantic date ideas for this fall & winter in Vancouver.
See the best of Vancouver’s changing colours
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While cherry blossom season gets a ton of love (and rightfully so), Vancouver is also downright beautiful during the fall. If you’re looking for a simple activity that’s still packed with romance, then check out our guide to the best places to see fall colours in Vancouver. Mix in a lunch or dinner at a nearby restaurant to kick things up a notch, too!
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Walk around Granville Island
No matter how you slice it, Granville Island is a great option for a romantic date. Pick up some groceries from the market (and a couple of sweet treats while you’re at it). Go on a gallery tour and see if there are any live shows playing that night. Or, just stroll around the area and grab a bite to eat afterwards!
Where: 1689 Johnston Street and surrounding area
Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
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This winter, you can walk under (and above) twinkling lights that change colours across one of Canada’s most famed suspension bridges. As long as you and your person aren’t afraid of heights, it doesn’t get more romantic than that.
When: Saturday, November 19th to Sunday, January 22nd
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Cost: $62.95 GA for a day pass
Explore the Nanaimo Bar Trail
We think the history of the Nanaimo bar in BC is as fascinating as it is delicious. And if you agree, you can go on this self-guided tour of Vancouver Island’s most unique Nanaimo bar-inspired treats, which includes ice cream, savoury bites, and even fancy drinks. This one’s definitely a bucket list date idea!
Where: See locations above
Check out a new Italian restaurant
They say the way to most peoples’ hearts is through their stomachs, and on that, we can definitely agree. And since Vancouver is home to a wealth of authentic Italian food, we thought we’d go ahead and share some of our favourite spots. From Robba da Matti to Mangia Cucina & Bar, here are some tasty options to check out.
Where: See our picks above
Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
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For the next step up the culture ladder, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra is a can’t-miss option. Between the gorgeous setting and the wondrous music, you’ll feel like you’re sitting in New York or Paris instead of Vancouver. And, to blend the two worlds, they also do live scores for much-loved movies every once in a while.
Where: 601 Smithe Street
Go on a food tour in Chinatown
For those who don’t know, this cultural and culinary walking tour takes guests through tons of iconic spots in the heart of Chinatown – and gives folks the opportunity to sample authentic fare from a variety of restaurants. And whether you’re an avid foodie or more of a history buff – this is a great option when considering fun day activities in the area. And once you’re ready to transition to nighttime – there are plenty of cool bars in Gastown and Strathcona to check out!
Where: See locations above
Grab a drink at a lobby bar
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We’ve said it before in our list of indoor date ideas and we’ll say it again: It never hurts to dress up and grab a couple of rounds at a fancy hotel bar. If the vibes are right and you feel like whisking your honey away to a cozy spot, who says you need a special occasion as your reason?
Where: See our picks above
Vancouver Christmas Market
Believe it or not, this year’s annual Christmas Market is right around the corner, opening Saturday, November 12th. The only risk with this activity is that your date might catch you in the act as you’re buying them a holiday gift. But if you feed them enough bratwurst, pretzels, and mulled wine – that shouldn’t be a problem.
When: Opens Saturday, November 12th
Where: Jack Poole Plaza
Cost: $18 for GA
Vancouver Art Gallery
It’s hard to deny that hanging around a beautiful building and looking at art is anything but a romantic idea. Of course, it’s also nice that it’s just a stone’s throw away from some of the most delicious restaurants in the city, making for a fantastic (if a little pricey) duo of romantic experiences. But winter is a time to splurge!
Where: 750 Hornby Street
Hang out at Lonsdale Quay
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Similar to Granville Island, the Lonsdale Quay has enough stuff going on to entertain any kind of romance. Our top pick though? Spend a few hours at the Polygon Gallery (& check out the new Home Sweet Home exhibit) then go for a waterfront stroll before getting a lovely dinner nearby. Our recent obsession? Mediterranean-inspired fare and cocktails at Finch & Barley. Bonus points if you time the walk with a sunset!
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court
Check out a retro-themed bar
While there are many themed bars in Vancouver, spanning tropical-inspired to speakeasy-esque, we have to say there’s something special about retro-themed bars. Luckily for Vancouverites, the only problem you’ll have is choosing one (or a couple) for a fun night out with your person. From this 60s/70s-inspired spot in Mount Pleasant to Glitch Retro Arcade, here are our top picks.
Where: Check out our picks above
Find a new hangout spot
From a classic Vancouver coffee shop to a hidden gem that makes you feel like the only two people in the world, there are plenty of options when it comes to cozy spots around the city to, well, cozy up in. And in terms of newcomers to the scene, watch out for the opening of the highly-anticipated Novella Coffee Bar in Mount Pleasant.
And if you’re feeling more winter patio vibes, there are plenty of covered and heated patios to choose from, including Batch on Plaza.
Where: See our picks above
VanDusen Botanical Garden
Ok, time for an outdoor option (weather permitting!). Thanks to its incredible array of plants and flowers, the VanDusen Botanical Garden is a beautiful option any time of year. And on a nicer day, it’s a downright otherworldly experience for you and that special someone to stroll through.
Plus, if you go during the Festival of Lights, you can walk arm-in-arm with your honey surrounded by over one million twinkling lights.
Where: 5151 Oak Street
Bloedel Conservatory
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Meanwhile, the Bloedel Conservatory is a great way to spend a rainy day in the city. Filled to the brim with tropical birds and plants, the conservatory will lighten pretty much any day, and especially if the rain is coming down heavy. And besides, if the skies clear while you’re in there you can take a walk through Queen Elizabeth Park afterwards.
Where: 4600 Cambie Street
Can you feel it in the air? Autumn colours are here, and winter is just around the corner. We hope this list helps inspire your next move this upcoming season, and that you make some core memories over the next couple of months.
