The sun is out, and it’s waking us all from our winter slumber. Netflix may be asking if you’re still watching, but the weather is inviting you to come out of hibernation. It’s time to get outdoors and enjoy all that Vancouver has to offer safely this spring.

Everyone is feeling the weight of the pandemic. Restrictions aren’t always predictable, and rules can change. Keep these two tips in mind as our day trip ideas get you energized for spring.

Outdoors Trumps Indoors

With the odds of contracting Covid-19 twenty times lower outdoors than indoors, it’s a no brainer to keep activities outside. Pack essentials like camping chairs, extra shoes and hand sanitizer to make the outdoors more comfortable.

Crowd Control

With everyone outside, many popular hotspots in Vancouver can still be crowded. You can avoid crowds with a few tweaks to your day. Opt for earlier times in the day for your visit, try for a weekday if you’re able, or simply trek a few extra steps to keep your distance. With no shortage of landmarks or gorgeous vistas, there’s room for everyone to enjoy Vancouver safely.

When you keep yourself and others safe, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Let your guard down enough to enjoy your surroundings, because it’s time to get that vacation feeling back. Whether Vancouver is steps away or a short car ride away, here are three day trips to take advantage of all the city has to offer.

Day Trip 1: The Day in Bloom

Spend a day devoted to smelling the roses. There’s nothing like the smell of fresh flowers to get you excited for spring. And Vancouver isn’t without options. Visit the classic VanDusen Botanical Garden by reservation, and you can swing by the Bloedel Conservatory, too. If you’re downtown, head to Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden for a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Turn your garden visit into a full day at Stanley Park, which has you covered for flowers and extra fun. The park is home to six gardens, and if you haven’t visited yet, you’re in for a treat. The classic Stanley Park Rose garden has over 3500 rose bushes. Meanwhile, the Shakespeare Garden is an underrated haven. At this arboretum, you can stroll to find trees mentioned in the Bard’s works. With plaques of Shakespeare as your guide, you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to the English countryside.

Day Trip 2: For the Active Heart

In a place like Vancouver, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to keep you healthy, happy, and safe. Make like a tourist and cycle around the seawall, the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path. Don’t have a bike? Renting a mountain, cruiser or tandem bicycle is no problem with various rental options around the city. Step outside the city and you can behold the breathtaking site of North Vancouver’s multiple suspension bridge parks. Visit the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park to cross seven suspended bridges over 110 feet of beautiful BC forest. Or check out a mini (and free!) version of the park at Lynn Canyon Park.

Day Trip 3: Play it Safe

For those who miss exploring a new city, here’s something for you. Explore Vancouver in a Covid-conscious way and see it in a new light. Vancouver Mysteries offers outdoor games to play in small groups with guides at a distance. Or grab your contactless game kit to play with the people in your bubble. You can even accept your secret mission to save the city or solve a detective challenge. If you’re more of a listener than a player, you’ll love a walking tour from Forbidden Vancouver. The 100% outdoor, socially distanced tour will fascinate you with stories of Vancouver’s secret past of dark crime and scandal.

After a long day, retire to a cozy spot. To recreate a vacation away, consider a staycation at a hotel or rental pad. Vacation rentals can provide an extra touch of comfort these days with private entrances and entire homes to yourself. If you’re looking for a longer-term rental, we’ve got you covered. Check out Ronin’s listings here, and happy exploring!