Ah, the end of the weekend is here once more. But rather than get down about it, we’re choosing to see what we have to look forward to in Vancouver this week! After all, when you’ve got this many options to enjoy, the hardest part is choosing one!

Here are 10 of the best things to do this week in and around Vancouver.

Vancouver Aquarium

After almost a year of complete closure, the Vancouver Aquarium reopens to the public this week! Expect all the exhibits you know and love, plus a couple of new options, like the Marine Mammal Rescue exhibit and a state-of-the-art 4D theatre.

When: Opens Monday, August 16th
Where: 845 Avison Way
Cost: $42 for GA

Watch a football game

It might sound like a dream, but the first professional sports game in over a year will take place at BC Place this week. The BC Lions face off against the newly-renamed Edmonton Elks this weekend, and tickets are available now.

When: Thursday, August 19th
Where: 777 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: $30+

Vancouver Mural Fest

Things are more or less back to normal for the Vancouver Mural Festival this year, with local art tours, musical performances, and a pop-up patio all planned for it. And of course, it also means dozens of new public art murals going up, too.

When: On throughout the week
Where: 2105 Main Street
Cost: Varies per event

The Magic Hour

For a little more personal experience, the Presentation House Theatre in North Van has opened a new immersive, walk-through show. Following a loose narrative, guests get to explore the entire theatre space, which has been re-done to resemble an admittedly very weird house.

When: Showing until August 22nd
Where: 333 Chesterfield Ave, North Vancouver
Cost: $27 per person

Explore Vancouver’s incredible Gardens

In contrast to the beaches, Vancouver’s incredible urban gardens never seem to be as popular during the summer. We don’t care, though, since it makes them that much more serene to visit on a summer day. Toss a little picnic in there or grab a snack at some of the bigger options to complete your experience.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

Watch a movie

It hasn’t happened in a while, but there’s no better way to spend a rainy day (or a super hot one) than at the movies! We like supporting local businesses, so we recommend that you check out the showtimes at The Cinematheque, the Rio Theatre, and VanCity Theatre. The added bonus? These often show older movies, which are perfect if you’re not in the mood for a summer blockbuster.

When: Showtimes throughout the week
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: Varies

Voxel Bridge

Turns out, this new artwork from the Vancouver Biennale is the largest of its kind in the world! Some 19,000 square feet of space has been transformed under the Cambie Street bridge, and it blends real-world graphics with some impressive AR technology.

When: Open throughout the week
Where: Cambie Street Bridge Underpass
Cost: Free to access

Chilliwack Corn Maze

On the other hand, a trip to the corn maze is about as classic as activities get. The massive Chilliwack Corn Maze is set to open this weekend, and as always there’s a new design to explore! This year, look forward to a very cute forest setting, alongside the word ‘WANDER’.

When: Open throughout the week
Where: 41905 Yale Road W, Chilliwack
Cost: $14.50+ for GA

Walk in the footsteps of a culinary legend

It’s a pretty simple rule that if you like food, then chances are you like Anthony Bourdain. So, why not enjoy some of his top picks in the city this weekend? While his visit took place over 10 years ago, all 4 of his go-to’s are still kicking around!

Where: Click the link above for more info

Bike to Shop

Half our friends are at least casually into cycling, and we think this is a great option for them. This initiative from HUB Cycling offers people a bunch of free stuff and sweet deals all around the city. And to access it, all you have to do is register.

When: On throughout the week
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: Free with registration

That’s our roundup for the things to do in Vancouver this week! Have fun out there, folks!