Boy oh boy, has Vancouver been soaking up the sun. If you’re looking for ways to beat the heat this weekend, then we’ve got more than a few options for you. After all, we got to take advantage of summer fun while we can!

Here are 10 things to do around Vancouver this weekend.

Try a few new restaurants

This city has been blessed with a few new names over the past few weeks, so we did a little roundup for you! There are dumplings to try, cocktails to drink and lunches to be had, and we say you should make the most of them.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

Go chasing waterfalls

Safely, of course. But, this province is home to some of the most gorgeous waterfalls in the country, ranging from hidden gems to massive destinations. But heads up, because there are quite a few wildfire warnings throughout the province, and you don’t want to have to deal with that when you’re 3 hours from home. The good news? We’ve got great options in our own backyard!

Where: Click the link above for our picks

Watch the Olympics

It almost seems like a dream, but the Tokyo Olympics are officially kicking off this weekend. What’s more, you’ll be able to watch a serious amount of them for free! Shoutout to the CBC for making things available online, on CBC Gem, and with a dedicated app.

Where: Click the link above for more info

Explore Vancouver’s incredible Gardens

Vancouver’s urban garden scene is absolutely incredible, and we might even call it one of the best in the country. Our top pick? The underrated and relatively private Nitobe Memorial Garden, but that’s only after we checked the other ones out.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

Check out the Sea to Sky Gondola

The Sea to Sky Gondola is back, and just in time for summer! This incredible attraction along the Sea to Sky Highway offers stunning views, mountaintop trails to explore, and food and drink options so that you can kick back and take it all in. As far as day trips go, this is top-notch.

When: Open throughout July
Where: 36800 BC-99, Squamish
Tickets: $55.95 for GA, $14.29 for Ride-Down Only

Find your favourite kind of ice cream

Nothing sums up summer more than a scoop of delicious ice cream, and Vancouver is absolutely filled to the bring with options. From plant-based treats to some truly zany flavours, you can have a scoop a week and still have stuff left on your list when summer ends.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

See a VR Art Installation

The art installation UNINTERRUPTED has returned to Vancouver! What was once a massive projection on the Cambie Bridge is now an immersive VR experience showing the ‘salmon’s homeward journey’. What’s more- it’s free to check out for yourself!

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: Shipyard Commons, North Vancouver
Cost: Free

Have some fun at Playland

A trip to the amusement park is guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face. Especially when the alternative is screaming in fear as you enjoy some downright thrilling rides. Plus, they’ve got nighttime spots available every Friday and Saturday!

When: Open Thursday to Sunday weekly
Where: 2901 E Hastings Street
Tickets: $39.50 for GA

Be cool in the pool

Looking for something a little more relaxed? There are now 5 public pools open around the city! Honestly, Vancouver’s public pool scene is second to none, with a couple of spots being right up there for the best public pools on earth (looking at you, Kits and Second Beach!). Since swimming in the ocean is more or less a no-no, this is a great way to stay cool this summer.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: Click the link above for more info

Listen to some music

The Vancouver Folk Music Fest has returned for 2021! While they’ve stuck with virtual programming, they have made all the concerts free for you to enjoy. Our advice? Put on one you like the sound of, and enjoy some close-to-home tunes for your next night on the patio.

When: Streaming throughout the weekend
Where: Online

Check out Vancouver Pride

Vancouver Pride’s 2021 season is now in full swing! There are both in-person and virtual events to check out, from drag brunches to workshops and more. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s probably an event for you!

When: Events throughout the weekend
Where: Online
Cost: Varies per event

That’s what we’ve got for you this weekend! Have fun out there, folks!