Things To Do
in Burnaby

Burnaby is a vibrant city located in British Columbia, Canada, known for its diverse communities and lush green spaces. It is the third-largest city in the province and is situated adjacent to Vancouver, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The city features a mix of urban and natural attractions, including shopping centers, parks, and cultural institutions.

Burnaby is also famous for its scenic views of the mountains and the iconic Burnaby Mountain.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day at Burnaby Mountain, where you can hike the trails and enjoy stunning views of the Burrard Inlet and the North Shore Mountains.

afternoon
:

Visit the Burnaby Village Museum, an open-air museum that showcases the history of the area through preserved buildings and interactive exhibits.

evening
:

Dine at the Riverway Restaurant, which offers delicious Canadian cuisine with a scenic view of the golf course.

day 2
Day 2: Shopping and Entertainment
morning
:

Head to Metropolis at Metrotown, one of Canada’s largest shopping malls, to explore a wide variety of stores and boutiques.

afternoon
:

Catch a movie at the Cineplex Odeon located within the mall or enjoy some leisure time at the nearby Central Park, featuring beautiful walking paths and a lake.

evening
:

Experience Burnaby’s nightlife at the The Keg Steakhouse + Bar for a great dining experience and then check out local pubs for live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20
Coffee$4
🍺Beer$7
🏨Night in a hotel$150
🚌Public transport ticket$2.75

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural diversity and vibrant community.
  • Access to beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Proximity to Vancouver for additional attractions.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Higher cost of living compared to some other regions.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Burnaby

Visit one of these nice places.

Burnaby Mountain

A stunning lookout point with panoramic views of the city, mountains, and ocean, ideal for breathtaking sunset photos.

Deer Lake Park

A picturesque park featuring a tranquil lake, walking paths, and beautiful gardens, perfect for nature photography.

Diefenbaker Park

A scenic park known for its unique sculptures and art installations, providing a great backdrop for artistic photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Burnaby

Burnaby offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, making it a food lover's paradise.

Burnaby Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Butter Chicken

A popular dish in many Indian restaurants in Burnaby, featuring chicken in a rich and creamy tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Poutine

A classic Canadian dish consisting of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, available at many local eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Burnaby Farmers Market

Open seasonally, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and street food options from various vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Burnaby has a temperate oceanic climate with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is common, particularly in the fall and winter months, contributing to the lush greenery of the region. Snow is possible but typically light and infrequent.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians are known for being polite; using 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated.

Queuing

Always form an orderly line when waiting for services, whether in stores or at bus stops.

Respect for Nature

Take care to respect the natural environment by disposing of waste properly and following park rules.

Safety Guide

Safety

Burnaby is generally considered a safe city, but it is always wise to take standard safety precautions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are easily accessible, with local police and fire stations readily available. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with emergency contacts and procedures.

Tipping in Burnaby

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, while rounding up your fare is common for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and many places also accept mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Burnaby is mild with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer months are warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying parks and lakes, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Fall brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, offering a picturesque setting for hiking and visiting local farms.

Winter

Winters are cold and can be snowy, particularly in the nearby mountains, making it a great time for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Burnaby at Night

Burnaby's nightlife offers a mix of laid-back pubs, lively bars, and entertainment venues. Many establishments feature live music, karaoke, and events. The area around Metrotown has a concentration of bars and restaurants, making it a popular spot for nightlife enthusiasts. Additionally, there are various cultural events and festivals throughout the year that enhance the nightlife experience.

Hiking in Burnaby

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lynn Canyon Park

Located nearby, this park features beautiful trails, a suspension bridge, and scenic views of waterfalls.

Mount Seymour Provincial Park

A short drive from Burnaby, Mount Seymour offers hiking trails with stunning vistas and opportunities for winter sports.

Airports

How to reach Burnaby by plane.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Located approximately 20 km from Burnaby, YVR is the main international airport serving the region, offering flights to and from numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Burnaby is relatively walkable in certain areas, particularly around urban centers like Metrotown and Brentwood. The city has a network of sidewalks and pedestrian pathways, making it easy to navigate on foot. However, some suburban areas may require a vehicle for convenience. Public transport options such as SkyTrain and buses also enhance accessibility.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

South Asian Community

Burnaby has a large South Asian population, contributing to the city’s cultural diversity, cuisine, and festivals.

Chinese Community

The Chinese community in Burnaby is significant, with many restaurants, shops, and cultural events that reflect their heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a beloved sport in Burnaby, with local teams and leagues for all ages, plus the Burnaby Winter Club hosting events.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played in Burnaby, with numerous community leagues and facilities available for both youth and adults.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Burnaby can be heavy, especially during rush hour. The city's roadways connect to major highways, which can lead to congestion. Public transportation, including the SkyTrain, is a convenient alternative for commuting and can help avoid road traffic.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Burnaby.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Burnaby offer vegan and vegetarian dishes, particularly in Asian and fusion cuisines.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Burnaby is provided through a mix of public and private options. The city has several hospitals and clinics, with access to general practitioners and specialists. Emergency services are well-equipped, and residents can access 911 for urgent situations. It is advisable to have health insurance for non-residents.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide