May 25, 2026 Team Contributor
Vancouver never runs out of ways to spend a weekend, whether you are visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city as a local. From waterfront adventures and buzzing night markets to mountain attractions and seasonal festivals, the city’s event calendar stays active throughout the year.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver during the weekends.
1. Stroll or cycle around Stanley Park
The Stanley Park Seawall remains one of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions, offering scenic ocean views, biking trails, and sunset walks.
- Time: Open daily, bike rentals usually from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Cost: Free entry; bike rentals from around CAD 7 per hour
2. Spend the day exploring Granville Island
Granville Island continues to attract food lovers and art enthusiasts with its public market, artisan shops, cafés, and waterfront patios.
- Time: Usually, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
3. Visit the Richmond Night Market
One of Metro Vancouver’s most popular seasonal attractions, the Richmond Night Market returns every spring and summer with international street food, shopping stalls, games, and live entertainment.
- When: Seasonal, spring through fall
- Time: Friday to Sunday evenings
- Cost: Admission from around CAD 8
4. Experience the Shipyards Night Market
Held on Friday evenings in North Vancouver, the Shipyards Night Market features free live music, food trucks, local vendors, and waterfront views.
- When: Fridays during warmer months
- Time: Usually from 3 p.m. onward
5. Ride the Grouse Mountain Gravity Coaster
Grouse Mountain’s Gravity Coaster has quickly become a favourite outdoor attraction near Vancouver. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, wildlife encounters, and gondola rides throughout the year.
- Time: Daily operating hours vary seasonally
- Cost: Admission packages from around CAD 25
6. Relax at English Bay Beach
As temperatures rise, English Bay becomes a hotspot for beach walks, sunset watching, paddleboarding, and casual picnics.
7. Attend seasonal food festivals
From the Spot Prawn Festival to recurring farmers markets and food celebrations, Vancouver’s culinary scene keeps weekends lively across every season.
- Where: Various Vancouver locations
- When: Seasonal weekends
- Time: Usually mornings to mid-afternoon
8. Discover Vancouver’s Art and Gallery Spots
Several downtown galleries and cultural spaces host free admission nights, film screenings, and rotating exhibits throughout the year. These events regularly appear on Vancouver’s monthly event calendars.
- When: Seasonal throughout the year
- Cost: Many events offer free entry
9. Catch live concerts and entertainment
Major venues like Rogers Arena and BC Place continue to host concerts, comedy shows, sporting events, and touring performances nearly every weekend.
- Time: Mostly evening events
- Cost: Ticket prices vary by event
10. Take a scenic day trip to Squamish or Whistler
Just outside Vancouver, destinations like Squamish and Whistler offer hiking, mountain biking, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures suitable for every season.
- Where: Sea-to-Sky Corridor, British Columbia
- Time: Best as full-day trips
- Cost: Many outdoor attractions are free
Whether visitors prefer outdoor escapes, cultural experiences, or vibrant food markets, Vancouver continues to deliver unforgettable weekend experiences across every season. With many attractions operating year-round or returning annually, the city remains one of Canada’s best destinations for spontaneous weekend adventures.
Domestic travel is rising across Canada as more travellers opt for short-haul getaways. This shift is also expanding regional connectivity, with Porter Airlines launching new Ottawa–Kelowna flights. The trend is boosting interest in British Columbia, with Vancouver emerging as a top weekend destination for Canadians.
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