It’s hard to believe that we’re more than halfway through the summer. Where does the time go, anyway? We can’t answer that, but we do know where the time will go. We’ve created a list of some things you need to do around Vancouver before the summer is over. Now, it’s up to you to get out there and do them!
Here are 15 things to do around Vancouver before the summer ends.
Shipyards Live
Shipyards Live is pretty much everything you need on a hot summer night. This ongoing experience offers a combination of live music, a local market, and even a beer garden to kick back at! Pair that with food trucks and a rapidly growing restaurant scene, and this is a must-do activity.
When: Weekends until September 18th
Where: Lonsdale Quay Area
Cost: Free to access
Vancouver Mural Festival
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After a hiatus from in-person events last year, Vancouver Mural Fest is more or less back to regular programming. That means you can enjoy live music and events, guided tours of neighbourhoods around the city, and of course, a ton of new murals going up that you can see for yourself!
When: On until August 22nd
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: Varies per event
PNE Fair 2021
That’s right folks- the PNE Fair is back this summer as well! This iconic experience is pretty much the best way to enjoy Playland at the PNE, combining the already thrilling rides with live music and entertainment. Come on, how can you watch a SuperDogs show and not have a smile on your face?
When: Starts August 21st
Where: 2901 E Hastings St
Cost: $15 for adults, $12 for children and seniors
HSBC Rugby Sevens
One of Vancouver’s most beloved sporting events is back, and just in time for the end of summer! The HSBC Rugby Sevens is a global affair, hosting teams from around the world and often packing BC Place to the brim. Stay tuned, because tickets are getting released this week!
When: September 18th and 19th
Where: BC Place
Tickets: Onsale Thursday, August 12th
Hike up Grouse Mountain
The Grouse Grind is undoubtedly one of the most popular bucket list activities in Vancouver, but it’s earned its place on the list. We advise that you wait for maybe a less smokey day, and head out during the week to avoid any major crowds. Rest assured- the effort is worth it!
When: Open throughout the summer
Where: Grouse Mountain
Cost: $20 (for the download ticket)
Ride a new Mountain Coaster
Maybe you’re more into going down the mountain than getting up it. Well, Cypress Mountain might just have the answer. Their brand-new mountain coasters zips you down a 1.7km-long track at speeds of up to 42km/h. For a little bit of a nature-based thrill, this is your best bet.
When: Open throughout the summer
Where: 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver
Cost: $29 for GA (includes lift ticket)
Head to the beach
You didn’t think we’d forget a summertime trip to the beach, would you? No, the question here is not which one to go to, but how you’re going to fit them all in before the summer is over. After all, you’ll be treated to quite a few incredible vistas of the city and the surrounding area for your efforts.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Putt around a bit
We get it- golf is hard and eminently frustrating. But, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who has bad things to say about mini golf. From classic outdoor experiences to glow-in-the-dark options, it turns out that Metro Vancouver is home to quite a few spots you need to visit!
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Go Chasing Waterfalls
Whether you’re popping out for a day or working it into a weekend getaway, a stop at one of BC’s many waterfalls is always a good idea. After all, we’ve got some pretty darn incredible ones right in our own backyard, but the adventurous few will be treated for their efforts.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Have some fun at a waterpark
While Cultus Lake is always a good option, you should know that BC is home to quite a few spectacular waterparks. Swing by for a little bit of fun in the sun, and enjoy some thrilling rides with friends and family. Feeling a little more relaxed? Don’t worry, because Vancouver’s outdoor pools are also open all summer long.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Explore Vancouver’s incredible Gardens
Speaking of relaxing options, Vancouver is home to some absolutely beautiful gardens, from a wide variety of inspirations. That means you could check out the massive U of A Botanical Garden, or you could head down to East Van for a picnic in one inspired by those in Italy. And, we’re just scratching the surface!
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Grab a drink on a patio
When the Vancouver summer weather is perfect, it’s tough to pass up a trip to a local patio, and especially when there are so many amazing ones to choose from! Click the link above for some we’ve really liked this summer, or try and swing by the Big 3- Joe Fortes, Black + Blue, and Reflections: The Garden Terrace.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Try a new restaurant
It’s been a year of great change for Vancouver’s restaurant scene. And while we’re bummed about the loss of some personal favourites, it’s also nice to see some incredible new ones take their place. If you need a starting point, we recently rounded up some of the most noteworthy openings this summer.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Get a scoop of ice cream
Last but not least, who can resist a scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day? You might answer with ‘vegans’ and you’d usually be right, but thanks to Vancouver’s amazing vegan scene that’s a non-issue here. So, whether you’re diving into the classics or trying something new, this is the perfect way to cap off a day.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Alright folks, that’s our roundup of the best things to do around Vancouver before summer ends! Hopefully, a few of these picks are up your alley. Have fun out there!
