Summer in Vancouver: 6-10
June is here, and the days are getting warmer and longer. There’s a definite feel of summer in the air. If you’re making your bucket list for summer 2014, we have some ideas. All week long we’re sharing our favourite ways to get out and enjoy summer in Vancouver.
Summer in Vancouver: Five (More) Ways to Enjoy It
6. Cross a Suspension Bridge
One of the best things about living in Vancouver anytime of year is just how close we are to nature. One great way to appreciate this spectacular setting we live in is to walk across one of the North Shore’s two suspension bridges. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a paid attraction, but it includes a number of things to do in addition to the bridge, including the Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk. Also, BC residents can get a year-long pass for the same price as one admission, so you can return again and again. If you’d rather not pay and you don’t mind crowds, the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is a lot of fun, and there are great nature walks on the other side, and your kids will enjoy dangling their toes in Lynn Creek on a hot summer day.
7. Catch a Show Outdoors
What’s better than theatre in a natural setting? Not much. Bard on the Beach is kicking off next week. While your seats are under cover, the backdrop on Vanier Park is spectacular so you can enjoy the beauty of summer in Vancouver without getting wet if it rains. For a more full-immersion outdoor experience check out Theatre Under the Stars. This year they’re showing Shrek and Legally Blonde in beautiful Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park. Shrek, especially, is very kid-friendly. And if you’re afraid of inclement weather, don’t be – you can buy rain insurance and switch your tickets to another day in the event of a downpour.
8. See the Fireworks
Nothing says ‘summer in Vancouver’ quite like the Celebration of Light. The spectacular fireworks display is returning this summer with the first show on July 26, 2014. The first firework doesn’t go off until 10:00pm so it’s not the most kid-friendly event, but if you have a night owl, you live nearby or your kids are a little older it’s definitely worth checking out. Or get a sitter and enjoy a date night!
9. Have a Picnic
Make sure to add a family picnic to your summer in Vancouver bucket list for 2014. Wondering where to set up your blanket and lunch? Tourism Vancouver has seven suggestions. If you want to rent a shelter or organize a larger picnic, there are instructions to help you do just that on the City of Vancouver web site.
10. Ride a Bicycle on the Seawall
The seawall around Vancouver is beautiful, with well-laid-out cycling paths. Plus – bonus points – it’s always a few degrees cooler along the water. So load up the kids and take a family bicycle ride. Choose English Bay, Coal Harbour, Yaletown or Stanley Park. Or break it up into a few days and take a few trips. Whatever you do, don’t forget to stop off for ice cream as a reward when you’re finished!
