Ready to enjoy the outdoors? While Vancouver is a fantastic city all year round, it’s especially spectacular to enjoy when the weather warms up in spring. When the rain dries up, the city comes to life with various festivals, events, and outdoor activities. So, let’s check out some of the best things to do in Vancouver during spring!
Cherry Blossom Festival
First, the Cherry Blossom Festival is a must-see event in April when the city gets covered in pink and white. You can take guided walks, bike tours, and photography workshops to admire the beauty of these delicate flowers. The top spots to see cherry blossoms in Vancouver are Queen Elizabeth Park, Stanley Park, and the University of British Columbia.
Van Dusen Botanical Garden
Plus, don’t forget about VanDusen Botanical Garden. The stunning 55-acre garden showcases a variety of plants and flowers from around the world. In the spring, cherry blossoms, daffodils, and tulips bloom everywhere. The garden also features a hedge maze, a Korean pavilion, and an Elizabethan knot garden, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Sakura Days Japan Festival
If you’re visiting the gardens, check out the Sakura Days Japan Fair on April 15 & 16, 2023. It’s a celebration of all things Japan, focusing on Japanese food, arts, and culture. The best part? Most activities are outdoors, allowing you to soak up the springtime vibes while immersing yourself in Japanese culture.
Stanley Park
If it’s time to enjoy B.C.’s beautiful parks, we can’t leave out Vancouver’s precious gem, Stanley Park. One of the top attractions in the city, Stanley Park offers a natural oasis with miles of trails, seawalls, and breathtaking views of the North Shore mountains. You can also spot various wildlife in the spring, including eagles, herons, and beavers.
Granville Island
If you’re looking for culture and art, head to Granville Island, a vibrant hub filled with artist studios, galleries, theaters, and a bustling public market. You can sample fresh local produce and artisanal goods and catch outdoor performances, festivals, and events. Head out on the water and catch the Aquabus to take you to Science World or Olympic Village. Or grab a few friends and take a brewery tour at Granville Island Brewing Co. and enjoy the tasting room.
Richmond Night Market
If you’re looking for a unique and exciting night market experience in Vancouver, be sure to check out the Richmond Night Market. This market is a summer staple in Vancouver, and it opens on April 28th this year and features over 100 food vendors, merchandise stalls, and live performances. From bubble tea and Japanese street food to handcrafted jewelry and souvenirs, the Richmond Night Market has something for everyone. The market has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, attracting thousands of visitors every weekend. So, head over to the Richmond Night Market, and experience the bustling energy of this night market for yourself.
Vancouver Art Gallery
If we get a leftover rainy day, the Vancouver Art Gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing works by local and international artists. In the spring, you can explore various exhibitions, attend lectures and workshops, and engage with the art and the artists behind it. The gallery also offers guided tours and interactive exhibits, making it a great destination for families.
Mountain Hiking & Roller Coaster
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Grouse Mountain is the place to be, offering various year-round activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing. In the spring, you can join guided wildlife tours, observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat, or take a scenic gondola ride to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views of the city.
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed adventure in Vancouver, look no further than the Eagle Coaster. Starting at the top of the Eagle Express Quad Chair on Black Mountain, this exciting ride takes you on a journey over 1700 meters with a 279-meter vertical drop. One of the most incredible things about the Eagle Coaster is that riders can control their speed by using the brake, so you can safely reach thrilling speeds of up to 40 km per hour, winding down the track with forested vistas and exciting bends in the track. Don’t miss out on this exhilarating experience that is sure to be a highlight of your Vancouver trip.