Burnaby Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see, do, eat, and experience in Burnaby, Canada. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Burnaby

Located in the eastern suburbs of Vancouver, Burnaby is a bustling city in Lower Mainland, British Columbia, Canada. It is the third-largest city in British Columbia and home to a diverse population, including ethnic Chinese, Korean, Filipino, and South Asian communities. Burnaby has a lot to offer visitors, from cultural attractions and natural wonders to outdoor adventures and a vibrant food scene.

Planning your itinerary to this charming city can be a daunting task, but don’t worry. This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover the best things to see, do, eat, and experience in Burnaby.

List of Places to Visit in Burnaby

Here is a list of places you must visit while in Burnaby:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Burnaby Village Museum: This open-air museum offers a glimpse of life in the early 1900s. Visitors can stroll through the streets, visit the homes, and interact with costumed guides who bring history to life.

  • Simon Fraser University Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology: Home to an impressive collection of artifacts from around the world, including First Nations artifacts, this museum offers a fascinating insight into ancient cultures.

  • Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre: This museum and cultural center celebrates Japanese-Canadian heritage through exhibitions, events, and workshops.

Natural Attractions of Burnaby: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Burnaby Mountain Park: This park offers breathtaking views of the city and is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking.

  • Deer Lake Park: This beautiful park features a tranquil lake, walking trails, a beach, and outdoor concerts in the summer.

  • Burnaby Lake Regional Nature Park: This park is a popular destination for birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking. It is home to over 200 bird species, beavers, otters, and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Burnaby

Burnaby offers several stunning hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best:

  • Trans Canada Trail: This trail runs through Burnaby and offers scenic views of the city and its surrounding mountains.

  • Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area: This park features several hiking trails with varying degrees of difficulty and stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

  • Central Valley Greenway: This paved trail is perfect for cycling and runs through Burnaby, connecting Vancouver, Burnaby, and New Westminster.

Best Things to Do in Burnaby: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Burnaby:

  • Take a gondola ride up Burnaby Mountain for panoramic views of Vancouver.

  • Visit the Fusion Festival, a popular summer event that celebrates Burnaby’s cultural diversity through food, music, and dance.

  • Enjoy a round of golf at Burnaby Mountain Golf Course or Riverway Golf Course.

  • Take a self-guided public art walk and discover Burnaby’s impressive collection of over 75 public artworks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Burnaby

Here is a one-week itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Burnaby:

Day 1: Visit Burnaby Village Museum and Deer Lake Park.

Day 2: Explore Simon Fraser University Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, and Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area.

Day 3: Visit Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre and the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts.

Day 4: Take a day trip to nearby Indian Arm Provincial Park for hiking and kayaking.

Day 5: Take a gondola ride up Burnaby Mountain and visit the Mountain Top Plaza.

Day 6: Visit Burnaby Lake Regional Nature Park and Central Park.

Day 7: Explore the city’s food scene and buy souvenirs to take home.

Food and Drink Scene of Burnaby

Burnaby is home to a vibrant and diverse food scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Japadog: This Japanese-inspired hot dog is a popular street food in Burnaby.

  • Dim sum: Burnaby has a large Chinese community, which means you’ll find plenty of delicious dim sum restaurants.

  • Fish and chips: Enjoy fresh fish and chips at one of the many seafood restaurants along the Fraser River.

Local Beverages

  • Local craft beer: Burnaby has several breweries that offer a range of craft beers, including Dageraad Brewing, Steamworks Brewing, and Wild Thyme Spirits.

  • Bubble tea: This popular Taiwanese import is a must-try in Burnaby.

Where to Stay in Burnaby: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Burnaby offers several accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best:

  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Burnaby Conference Centre: This hotel features spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and on-site dining options.

  • HI-Burnaby: This budget-friendly hostel offers dormitory and private rooms, a shared kitchen, and a communal lounge.

  • Lake City Inn and Suites: This hotel is conveniently located near Burnaby’s major attractions and features comfortable rooms, free parking, and breakfast.

What to Buy in Burnaby: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products you can buy in Burnaby:

  • Handmade ceramics and pottery from the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts gift shop.

  • Local craft beers from Burnaby’s breweries.

  • Traditional Chinese teas and tea sets from Burnaby’s tea shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Burnaby

Burnaby is a multicultural city, and visitors can expect to encounter a diverse range of cultures and traditions. Some customs to keep in mind include:

  • It is common to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.

  • It is customary to bow in greeting when meeting someone, especially elders or people in authority.

Best Time to Visit Burnaby

The best time to visit Burnaby depends on your preferences. The summer months (June to August) offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities and festivals. The winter months (December to February) are ideal for skiing and winter sports in nearby mountain resorts, while the fall months (September to November) offer beautiful foliage and mild weather for hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Burnaby

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Carry cash as some small businesses may not accept credit or debit cards.

  • Tip 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas, including parks and beaches.

  • Litter or leave trash behind.

  • Jaywalk as it is illegal and dangerous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Burnaby

Burnaby is a safe city, but visitors should exercise caution and take basic safety precautions, such as:

  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

  • Use crosswalks to cross the street.

Health in Burnaby

Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system, which means visitors can use emergency healthcare services for free. However, non-residents are advised to purchase travel health insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses.

Getting to Burnaby: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Burnaby

The closest airport to Burnaby is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which is located 25 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Burnaby

The city is well-connected by bus services, including local and regional transit options. The main bus station is located at Metrotown Station, which connects to Vancouver and other nearby cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Burnaby by train or car.

How to Get Around in Burnaby

Burnaby has an efficient public transport system with buses and rapid transit lines connecting to nearby cities and attractions. Visitors can also rent a car or bike to explore the city at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Burnaby: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to add to your itinerary:

  • Vancouver: The bustling metropolis of Vancouver is only a 20-minute drive away from Burnaby.

  • Whistler: This world-renowned ski resort is only a two-hour drive away from Burnaby.

  • White Rock: This charming seaside town offers beautiful beaches and scenic walks along the waterfront.

Conclusion

Burnaby is a diverse and culturally rich city that offers a range of attractions, activities, and experiences for visitors. Whether you’re interested in learning about history and culture, exploring the outdoors, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Burnaby has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your itinerary and make the most of your visit to this charming city.

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