What is there to do in Vancouver mid-March?

Question

I'm flying into Vancouver March 17th with my girlfriend - we'll be in town for a week. What are some fun things to do there?

I know it has been a rough winter... is the weather still miserable there? Any indoor attractions in case the weather is too bad to make it to Capilano bridge?

Any suggestions are appreciated!

Answer 1

Hi,

Unfortunately, it's still a bit nasty here, but there's lots to do anyway if you bring a nice raincoat. It's raining, but not too cold.

That being said, I highly recommend a jaunt up to Whistler. You could spend a day there, or make it an overnight trip. If you're a skier/snowboarder, it's one of the best places in North America to go. Even if you're not, it's a beautiful drive (although 2hrs away) and the town of Whistler is quite nice, too.

A little closer to the city are Cypress, Grouse (near Capilano Suspension bridge...more on that later), or Seymore. Each are 30 min to an hour from downtown. Each offer (in my humble opinion) very good conditions and they are having a good year. If you don't ski, you could try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

If something a little less sports-oriented is your thing, then you could try Granville Island. It's one of my favorite spots in the city. They've got lots of little shops that are not just for tourists.

Stanley Park is a great place to spend significant time (even in the rain...that's why yo need a raincoat). We had a lot of damage there in November after a series of massive storms, but it is still a beautiful place to go.

Lastly, Capilano Bridge...stay away. Far away. It is a massive tourist trap. Sure, it's nice to look at, but at $20+ entrance fee, it's not worth it. There is an equally nice suspension bridge, called the Lynn Canyon suspension bridge nearby and virtually unknown and free.

The bar scene and nightlife is not particularly exciting, but the restaurants are. Sushi in general is quite inexpensive and high quality.

Enjoy! You are going to have a great time.

Answer 2

I just left there Thursday after a short vacation to visit a friend. Besides the Capilano Bridge, be sure to see Stanley Park, Granville Island (be sure to check out the Public Market and maybe plan on eating lunch there), Gas Town and Chinatown. Amarcord is a great Italian restaurant. The weather in Vancouver is always going to be kind of rainy. In the four days I was there, we had one sunny day. The other days were cloudy, rainy, and chilly. Just do like the locals, wear a hooded jacket and carry an umbrella and you'll be fine.

Answer 3

Yes, the weather will most likely be very cool and wet for the remainder of March. But at least we don't have snowdrifts! Indoor activities in Vancouver: going to the local coffee shop (which we have many) for a coffee and a chat; visiting Science World for the lasted exhibit; seeing a movie at one of the downtown cinemas (Tinseltown; 5th Avenue; Empire Granville 7); visiting the Museum of Anthropology at University of British Columbia (UBC); shopping at the local malls (Harbour Centre; Pacific Centre; Sinclair Centre; Park Royal); go to a nightclub to dance the night away or watch a live band; visit the Vancouver Aquarium in Stanley Park; catch a hockey game with the Vancouver Canucks at GM Place; and of course there are many pubs and restaurants in Vancouver. And, the Celtic Festival (March 14-18) will be winding down but there should still be some activities going on.
http://www.celticfestvancouver.com/
Here's a useful guide for planning things to do in Vancouver:
http://www.where.ca/vancouver/
The nightlife in Vancouver:
http://www.pubclub.com/pacificnw/vancouverclubs.htm

Have a great trip!

Cheers,

Petra M, Vancouver

Answer 4

There's lots of stuff to do. If you're brave enough to try skiing then definitely try it. There are many places that aren't really time consumers or day long expiditions but are really cool to check. Check out www.tourismvancouver.com for some cool places to check. As for march 17, Vancouver has a wicked St. Patty's Day celebration with parades and tons of beer.

Answer 5

Take a fascinating trip up into the mountains by railway on the new Whistler Mountaineer train. Take the ride in the Glacier Dome which is more or less first class. You can enjoy the the incredible views. Be sure to check out the zipline adventure in Whistler.

Answer 6

well you can dive. Just get on the #1 and keep going. you can go on the bus. its cheap. the best way is to go by train, but it is expensive. both greyhound and via rail offer student discounts if that helps. you do realize that the rockies aren't close to Vancouver right? It's like a day and half to get there!

Answer 7

You look like you are all ready for Mar. 17.

Answer 8

UBC SUB BUILDING******PUB of course,lol