What to Do in Vancouver This Summer

I will say that Vancouver is one of the best places to be during the summertime. It’s not too breezy and it’s not scorching hot, it’s just the perfect temperature for Aperol spritzing on a patio. So I want to share my suggestions on what to do in Vancouver this summer. Or any summer really!

Curtis and I always try to make the most of our summers, I feel they go by so quickly and we want to soak it all in. We try not to leave, maybe a weekend in the Okanagan or to the island, but generally spend our evenings and weekends in the city.

There’s a lot to do outside in Vancouver, us locals make the most of the summer months—June, July, and August—with tons of festivals, parties, outdoor adventures, and more.

1. Bike around the seawall

I suggest going early or in the evening since the seawall can become busy during the day. But the views are amazing, it’s easier to get around and you can stop off at 2nd or 3rd beach.

2. See Bard on the Beach

This is their 30th anniversary year and it’s a fun experience to do. See a classic Shakespeare play, with a modern twist under the stars in Vancouver.

3. Go to a Vancouver Canadians Game

Curtis and I go to a game or two every season, it’s inexpensive, fun and that sushi race gets me every time. Try to go on a fireworks day, just an added bonus. Ticket cost around $16!!

4. Take a day trip to Othello Tunnels

Want to escape the city for a few hours? Only 1.5 hours and you can walk along these old tunnels, with amazing views and bring back some Chilliwack corn.

5. Visit Bowen Island

Again, not in Vancouver, but it’s so easy to get to! You can grab a small ferry from Granville Island or Coal Harbour and 20 minutes later you’re in Bowen Island. Grab some food, walk around the small village, shop the local artisans and then head back into town.

6. Have a drink on a patio

Take advantage of the weather and spend time on a patio with a cocktail or two. Time flies by when you’re having fun with your friends, sipping an Aperol Spritz or two and people watch.

7. If you have kids (or not), visit the PNE

It can be a fun day, going on amusement rides, eating food, there’s a lot of live music, events and take your chance at winning a doll.

8. Do a beer crawl at local breweries

Grab some friends and hit up a few local breweries for an evening. Some even serve up some good food or have a food truck parked out front. You can choose around Olympic Village/Mt. Pleasant area, easy to bike to from the city, or transit to.

9. Swim in one of Vancouver’ outdoor pools

I might be biased, but Kitsilano pool is my favourite. With its white bottom, turquoise water and its spectacular views, I love going to this location. Also five minutes from my house LOL.

10. Enjoy an ice cream

Honestly, I enjoy an ice cream any time of the year, but damn does it taste better when it’s hot out! We have a few gourmet ice cream spots, like Rain or Shine, Earnest, Uno Gelato, so take your pick.

11. Be a Vancouverite and go on a hike

Nothing is more Vancouver than going for a hike. We have a few good ones just by, even Stanley Park has a few easy trails to do.

12. Shop local at a farmer’s market

I love hitting up a farmer’s market on a weekend and buying some seasonal veg or fruit. Even alcohol or baked goods. Curtis and I usually go to the one in Kits and end our time grabbing lunch at the food trucks.

What are your favorite activities to do in the summer? Share them below!