Things To Do
in Burnaby
Burnaby sits on the eastern edge of Metro Vancouver, blending urban amenities with abundant green space. It hosts diverse neighborhoods, shopping and parks that are easy to reach from Vancouver by car or transit. The city is known for a thriving multicultural food scene and family friendly attractions.
From Burnaby Mountain viewpoints to the shores of Burnaby Lake, visitors can enjoy nature and culture just minutes from downtown Vancouver.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Burnaby Village Museum, where you can wander through the charming streets of this recreated 1920s village. Enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the historical buildings and engaging in interactive exhibits. Make sure to grab a fresh pastry from the on-site bakery to fuel your exploration.
After a morning of history, head to the nearby Deer Lake Park for a relaxing picnic by the lake. You can rent a kayak or paddleboat to enjoy the water, or simply walk along the scenic trails that wind through the park. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Burnaby Art Gallery, housed in a former mansion, to appreciate local art.
As the sun sets, make your way to Metropolis at Metrotown, one of Canada's largest shopping centers. Indulge in dinner at one of the many restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. After dinner, catch a movie at the cinema or enjoy an evening stroll in the nearby gardens.
Begin your morning with a visit to the beautiful Central Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the trails surrounded by lush greenery. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and squirrels, as you explore the park's serene landscapes. Don’t forget to stop by the park's pond to watch the ducks swim and feed them if you have some bird seed.
In the afternoon, head to the Greater Vancouver Zoo located a short drive away in Aldergrove. Spend a few hours observing a variety of animals in their natural habitats and learn about the conservation efforts in place. Enjoy a light lunch at the zoo's café while discussing your favorite animals with your companions.
Return to Burnaby and unwind with a visit to the Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area. As dusk falls, hike to the top for breathtaking views of the city skyline and the distant mountains. Bring a warm blanket and enjoy a sunset picnic while taking in the beauty of your surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🚌Public transit monthly pass | $96-110 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city centre | $1,800-2,400 |
| 🛒Grocery staples for a week | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Vancouver while staying in a quieter, greener city
- Strong multicultural food scene and family friendly attractions
- Nightlife options are more limited than in downtown Vancouver
- Weather can be rainy and cool for extended periods, especially in winter
Places to Visit in Burnaby
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of Vancouver, Burrard Inlet and surrounding mountains; best at sunrise or sunset.
Lakeside reflections, trees and pathways ideal for serene nature photography and wildlife shots.
Architectural lines and forest trails with sweeping city views from higher elevations.
Lush paths, ponds and duck habitats offering good light for closer nature photos.
Cultural campus grounds with colorful art installations and seasonal events.
Food in Burnaby
Burnaby Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Popular in Burnabys many Asian eateries; look for steamed dumplings, buns and pastry boxes in mall food courts and markets.
Must-Try!
Interactive dining with marinated short ribs and other Korean dishes common along Kingsway and in Brentwood town centre.
Fresh salmon prepared grilled or in contemporary bowls and sushi across many local eateries.
Ramen bowls, donburi and bento options found in various neighborhoods around Metrotown and Brentwood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vast range of quick bites from across Asia, sushi and Western staples in a single, bustling hub.
Chinese grocery with ready to eat meals, fresh sushi and heat at home options, popular for street style bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queuing is expected in stores, transit, and restaurants; respect personal space and speak politely in public spaces.
Tipping is customary for service sectors; practice mirrors restaurant staff compensation and is appreciated for good service.
Use crosswalks and obey traffic signals; allow priority to buses and cyclists where indicated.
Safety
Tipping in Burnaby
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tipping is customary for good service. Plan to tip 15-20% at sit down restaurants; rounding up at cafes and small services is common but not required. For taxis and delivery, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and major credit or debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Some smaller vendors may prefer cash, and many places add a digital receipt option via mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry spells are common but expect occasional showers. Long daylight hours make outdoor photography and park visits very pleasant; outdoor markets and patios are in full swing.
Mild days with cooler evenings and vibrant foliage; rain increases later in the season, so bring a light rain jacket and a compact umbrella.
Milder than inland regions with more rain than snow; expect overcast days but occasional clear, crisp spells perfect for cityscapes after a rain shower.
Blossoms and fresh greens return; rain is common but sunny windows bring great photography light and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
Burnaby at Night
Hiking in Burnaby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest paths leading to sweeping city and water views; moderate difficulty with several lookout points.
Gentle to moderate loops around the lake with wildlife and water features ideal for photography and family walks.
Waterfront and woodland corridors offering easy hikes and scenic bridge crossings within Burnaby.
Popular forest trails with streams and rugged sections for more serious hikers; great for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Burnaby by plane.
Main international gateway for the region, about a 25–40 minute drive depending on traffic; well connected by car, taxi, and transit via the Canada Line to nearby hubs.
Smaller regional airport about an hour from Burnaby, suitable for domestic and some international flights; typically accessed by car or regional transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of Burnaby residents are families drawn to good schools, parks and community programs.
Many professionals live in and around Metrotown and Brentwood with easy access to Vancouver jobs.
Strong Chinese, South Asian and Filipino communities contribute to a diverse local culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favored sport in the region with community leagues and proximity to major teams in Vancouver.
Active in local parks and clubs; youth and adult leagues are common year round.
Public courts and indoor facilities are widely available through city parks and recreation programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burnaby.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Burnaby is peppered with vegetarian options across many Asian and Western restaurants. Look for tofu dishes, vegetable cantons and noodle bowls, and ask for no meat or fish stock. Many places are happy to customize sauces or replace animal broths with vegetable stock.