Summary
Burnaby is more than just a suburb of Vancouver; it is also an independent city that is flourishing in its own right. In fact, it is the third largest city in the province. Nestled between the Burrard Inlet and the Fraser River, with the Canadian Rockies providing a magnificent backdrop, Burnaby is undoubtedly an exceptional urban area.
Due to its close proximity to Vancouver, Burnaby is frequently overlooked by visitors. However, it is a city brimming with offerings, making it an excellent destination for a day trip from the larger metropolis. Additionally, spending a few nights here is advisable to fully appreciate all that it provides. Below are the most noteworthy activities in Burnaby:
1. Explore the Roaring Twenties
A celebrated epoch globally, the 1920s is recognized for its music, culture, and architecture. The Burnaby Village Museum exemplifies this period, illustrating what life was like then in the city.
This open-air museum replicates a 1920s village featuring 31 buildings extending over four hectares of land. Some structures are genuine heritage buildings relocated to the site, while others are replicas.
Wander along the streets and admire significant buildings such as Tom Irvine’s House, Central Park Theatre, Bell’s Dry Goods, and the Vorce Tram Station. Following your stroll, enjoy a ride on the iconic C.W. Parker Carousel.
2. Enjoy Scenic Views
Burnaby Mountain, standing at 370 meters high, provides breathtaking vistas of the Burrard Inlet and downtown Vancouver. Spend an afternoon atop the mountain to soak in the magnificent views.
Consider bringing a picnic to find a serene spot to enjoy the surroundings, or dine at Horizons Restaurant while admiring the scenery. The area also offers mountain biking and hiking trails, alongside a children’s playground.
On occasion, wildlife such as deer, coyotes, raccoons, and even black bears can be observed at Burnaby Mountain. Additionally, there is a charming rose garden to explore.
3. Visit Parks
Burnaby boasts several splendid parks where families can allow their children to play or engage in enjoyable activities themselves. If visiting with a canine companion, numerous parks welcome dogs as well.
Among the city’s parks, Central Park stands out as the premier choice. This 90-hectare park is famous for its award-winning playground, but it also features tennis courts, lawn bowling, picnic areas, and walking trails.
Additionally, Robert Burnaby Park offers opportunities for disc golf and tennis, while Kensington Park is known for its sports fields, suitable for football and baseball.
4. Birdwatching
Birdwatching enthusiasts can observe great blue herons, ospreys, bald eagles, and green herons at Burnaby Lake. This glacial lake is essential for any birdwatcher, although nature lovers will enjoy their time here as well.
Over 70 species of birds inhabit the area around the lake, many of which can be spotted by walking along its 19 kilometers of trails. Aside from avian life, you can also witness other wildlife and vegetation during your hike around the lake.
Burnaby Lake is home to an equestrian center, which maintains six kilometers of horseback riding trails. Kayaking, canoeing, and rowing are also available on the lake.
5. Appreciate Art
The Burnaby Art Gallery, housed within a heritage residence, presents both contemporary and historical art pieces. Spend a couple of hours exploring the exhibition and appreciating the artwork.
Most displayed works are from local or regional artists, with a selection from national and international artists as well. The gallery emphasizes emerging artists, offering educational initiatives for the community.
Furthermore, the gallery regularly hosts events and special exhibitions. After viewing the art, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful onsite garden.
6. Tour the Campus
Perched atop Burnaby Mountain is one of Canada’s premier universities, Simon Fraser University. The university’s campus is remarkable, making a stroll around it highly recommended.
The campus houses the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, which showcases an extensive collection of Northwest Coast Indian artifacts. The Simon Fraser Gallery, with over 5,000 art pieces in its collection, is also located onsite.
The award-winning UniverCity is a planned community situated right on campus. It accommodates over 4,000 students and features shops, restaurants, and outdoor art installations.
7. Indulge in Shopping
Burnaby features several shopping malls ideal for enthusiasts seeking a shopping spree, along with independent boutiques located throughout the city.
Metropolis at Metrotown is the largest mall in the city and ranks as the second largest in Western Canada. Other notable venues include Lougheed Town Centre Mall and Brentwood Town Centre.
For a unique experience, visit Canada’s largest Asian mall, Crystal Mall, or stroll along Hastings Street to explore local designer boutiques and artisan gift shops.
8. Fishing Opportunities
Being surrounded by water, it is unsurprising that Burnaby offers excellent fishing opportunities. Residents and visitors can fish in the river, the inlet, or one of the city’s picturesque lakes.
Burrard Inlet is particularly popular for fishing, especially for those interested in saltwater species like flounder, herring, and dogfish. For freshwater fishing, consider renting a canoe or rowboat at Deer Lake Boat Rentals to try your fortune on Deer Lake.
Although it is feasible to fish at Burnaby Lake, it may not be the most advantageous location for fishing. Plenty of additional fishing opportunities exist outside the city, including Como Lake in Coquitlam and Vancouver’s Sanctuary Pond.
9. Experience a Steam Train Ride
This experience appeals to individuals of all ages, particularly those visiting the city with children. The Burnaby Central Railway features a classic steam train, offering an exhilarating experience.
Journey aboard the vintage steam train through Confederation Park, enjoying its nostalgic whistle along the way. The track spans over three kilometers and continues to expand.
The Burnaby Central Railway operates trains from Good Friday until Canadian Thanksgiving, between 11 am and 5 pm. If this is a passion of yours, make sure to visit the city in the summer to ride on a steam train.
10. Visit Local Farms
Burnaby is home to over 40 operational farms, offering opportunities for tours to explore several of them. Families can enjoy self-guided tours of the farms in the region.
Guests can visit impressive greenhouses, vegetable farms, community farms, as well as those with animals. Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, or enjoy a meal at one of the farm’s onsite cafés.
Visitors can also meet farm animals, purchase seeds for their gardens, or acquire beautiful pottery. Cycling along the city’s urban trails and designated bike lanes is one of the most enjoyable ways to visit the local farms.
11. Wander Through Gardens
Although not located directly in Burnaby, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is essential for anyone who appreciates breathtaking gardens and landscapes. This garden is situated in Vancouver’s Chinatown and grants free entry.
Designated by National Geographic as the world’s top city garden, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a sight to behold. Visitors can wander through the garden and admire its Feng Shui and Taoist designs.
This authentic Chinese garden boasts ponds and bridges and is inhabited by frogs, fish, and turtles, alongside significant objects such as dragons, bats, and phoenixes.
12. Ski Lodge Visits
Grouse Mountain is accessible year-round, making it possible to visit the ski lodge regardless of the season. While winter offers the ultimate skiing experience, the views are breathtaking at all times of the year.
Grouse Mountain Resort manages the ski and snowboard area, which features four chairlifts and 26 runs. Dramatic views of Greater Vancouver can be enjoyed while ascending a lift or course down the slope.
The Grouse Grind hiking trail is particularly popular during summer and fall. Known for its difficulty, this trail climbs to an altitude of 853 meters from start to finish.
13. Beach Retreat
While Vancouver is popular for beach activities, for a more tranquil retreat, visit Barnet Marine Park. Arrive in the morning for a peaceful walk or enjoy the spectacular sunset over the Burrard Inlet.
The beach at Barnet Marine Park is excellent for swimming, especially in the summer. Weekends can become crowded, but a weekday visit might allow you to enjoy the beach in solitude.
Bring a blanket and savor a delightful picnic while listening to the gentle sound of water and inhaling the fresh air. Public restrooms and parking facilities are available, and dogs are always welcome.
14. Golfing Spots
Burnaby hosts two exceptional public golf clubs that will meet the expectations of even the most passionate golfer. Both are 18-hole courses set in picturesque landscapes.
The Burnaby Mountain Golf Course rests at the foot of Burnaby Mountain and features rolling topography and tree-lined fairways, boasting a 60-stall driving range.
The Riverway Golf Course is a championship-level course, strategically designed with various hazards, making it ideal for challenging oneself.
15. Culinary Experiences
Burnaby, with its rich cultural diversity, offers a vast array of dining options that can satiate any palate. Visitors truly have the opportunity to delight their taste buds in Burnaby.
Enjoy Greek, Italian, Vietnamese, Thai, and Indian cuisine, among many other global culinary traditions. You can also sample local specialties in the Burnaby Heights area.
Whether seeking affordable eats or gourmet dining experiences, visitors will find diverse options in Burnaby. For those looking to indulge, the esteemed Pear Tree Restaurant offers exquisite meals, while Cockney Kings Fish & Chips is renowned for having the finest fish and chips in the province.
