Vancouver eastern suburbs Travel Guide

A detailed guide to Vancouver's eastern suburbs, including places to visit, hiking routes, food, accommodation, local culture, and transportation options.


Introduction to Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

Nestled in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Vancouver’s eastern suburbs offer a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and local charm. From hiking and biking trails to museums and historical sites, there’s something for everyone in this part of town. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, the top things to do, and the must-try dishes and local products to bring home.

List of Places to Visit in Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Vancouver’s eastern suburbs are a treasure trove of cultural attractions, including museums and historical sites that showcase the city’s rich history and heritage.

Burnaby Village Museum

Located in the heart of Burnaby, the Burnaby Village Museum offers a glimpse into life in the early 1900s. The museum features costumed interpreters, historic buildings, and exhibits that showcase the city’s history and culture.

Fort Langley National Historic Site

Step back in time to the 1800s at Fort Langley National Historic Site, where you can explore the original fort buildings, watch live demonstrations, and learn about the fur trade and gold rush that shaped the region’s history.

Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre

The Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre celebrates the history and contributions of Japanese Canadians to the cultural fabric of Vancouver. Exhibitions and programs showcase Japanese Canadian art, history, and culture.

Natural Attractions of Vancouver Eastern Suburbs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you love the great outdoors, then Vancouver’s eastern suburbs won’t disappoint. With its stunning landscapes, scenic views, and abundant wildlife, this part of town is a playground for adventure seekers.

Deer Lake Park

Deer Lake Park is a 304-acre park that offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and picnicking. The park also features a boathouse, a beach, and a performance amphitheatre.

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Golden Ears Provincial Park is a massive park that covers over 60,000 hectares in the mountains to the east of Maple Ridge. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area

The Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area is a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. The trails offer stunning views of the city, as well as the chance to see wildlife such as black bears and coyotes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

With its rugged terrain and stunning natural landscapes, Vancouver’s eastern suburbs are a great place for hiking and mountain biking. Here are some of the best routes to explore.

  • Burnaby Mountain Trail
  • Coquitlam Crunch
  • South Shore Spirit Trail
  • Maple Ridge Dykes
  • Pitt Meadows Greenway

Best Things to Do in Vancouver Eastern Suburbs: Activities and Tours

From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do in Vancouver’s eastern suburbs. Here are some of the best activities and tours to check out.

  • Biking the Trans Canada Trail
  • Visiting the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
  • Paddleboarding on Deer Lake
  • Guided tour of Fort Langley National Historic Site
  • Visiting the Burnaby Village Museum

Week-Long Itinerary for Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

For those planning a week-long trip to Vancouver’s eastern suburbs, here’s a sample itinerary that covers the best sights and experiences.

  • Day 1: Arrival, check into accommodation, hike Burnaby Mountain Trail, dinner at a local restaurant
  • Day 2: Visit Deer Lake Park, rent a kayak or canoe, picnic lunch, visit the Burnaby Village Museum
  • Day 3: Guided tour of Fort Langley National Historic Site, lunch in Fort Langley town, visit the Fraser Valley Antique Mall
  • Day 4: Drive to Golden Ears Provincial Park, hike Golden Ears Summit Trail, dinner at local restaurant in Maple Ridge
  • Day 5: Visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, lunch at a local restaurant in North Vancouver, explore Stanley Park in the afternoon
  • Day 6: Biking the Trans Canada Trail, picnic lunch, visit the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre in the afternoon
  • Day 7: Shopping for local products, souvenir hunting, departure

Food and Drink Scene of Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

Must-Try Dishes

Vancouver’s eastern suburbs offer a diverse range of culinary options that reflect the area’s multicultural background. Here are some of the must-try dishes.

  • Japadog: Japanese-style hot dogs
  • Butter Chicken: Indian curry favorite
  • Hong Kong-style Egg Waffles: a crispy, fluffy dessert
  • Poutine: French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy
  • Dim Sum: Cantonese-style bite-sized dishes

Local Beverages

Vancouver’s eastern suburbs have a vibrant craft beer and wine scene, with several breweries and wineries to visit. Here are some of the top choices.

  • Steamworks Brewery
  • Old Abbey Ales
  • Township 7 Vineyards and Winery
  • Chaberton Estate Winery
  • Backyard Vineyards

Where to Stay in Vancouver Eastern Suburbs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Vancouver’s eastern suburbs offer a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the top choices.

  • Element Vancouver Metrotown
  • Best Western Plus Coquitlam Inn Convention Centre
  • Guildford Hotel
  • Sandman Hotel Vancouver City Centre
  • Auberge Vancouver Hotel

What to Buy in Vancouver Eastern Suburbs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Vancouver’s eastern suburbs offer plenty of souvenir and local product shopping opportunities. Here are some of the top choices.

  • Jamie’s Whaling Station & Adventure Centres: Gifts and souvenirs related to outdoor adventures
  • Old Hand Coffee: specialty coffee roasters
  • Krause Berry Farms & Estate Winery: artisanal jams and preserves
  • The Soap Dispensary: eco-friendly personal care products
  • The Loft Country Children’s Clothing: handmade children’s clothing and accessories

Local Culture and Customs of Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

Vancouver’s eastern suburbs are home to a vibrant multicultural community. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.

Best Time to Visit Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

The best time to visit Vancouver’s eastern suburbs is in the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them great seasons to explore the outdoors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Be mindful of cultural sensitivities
  • Dress appropriately for outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Leave trash at hiking trails or parks
  • Disturb local wildlife
  • Make noise or cause disturbance in residential areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

Vancouver’s eastern suburbs are generally safe, but visitors should take the usual precautions against theft and petty crime. When hiking or exploring parks, be aware of wildlife and stay on designated trails.

Health in Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

Vancouver’s eastern suburbs have excellent healthcare facilities and emergency services. It’s recommended that visitors have appropriate travel and health insurance before embarking on their trip.

Getting to Vancouver Eastern Suburbs: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

The closest international airport to Vancouver’s eastern suburbs is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Other nearby airports include Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

Bus Stations Near Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

Vancouver’s eastern suburbs are accessible by several bus lines, including Greyhound and Quick Shuttle. Bus stations in the area include Pacific Central Station and Surrey Central Station.

Other Options

Other transportation options include driving, car rentals, and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft. The area also has several bike paths and cycling routes.

How to Get Around in Vancouver Eastern Suburbs

The best way to get around Vancouver’s eastern suburbs is by car, although public transportation is also available. TransLink provides bus and rail service throughout the region.

Where to Go Next from Vancouver Eastern Suburbs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your stay in the Vancouver area, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider.

  • Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains
  • Squamish Adventure Centre
  • Vancouver Island and Victoria
  • Bowen Island
  • Harrison Hot Springs

Conclusion

Whether you’re in the mood for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Vancouver’s eastern suburbs offer something for everyone. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be well-equipped to explore this part of town and discover all the hidden treasures it has to offer.

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