10 Scenic Year-Round Experiences and Things to Do in Burnaby Canada

Key takeaways:

• Burnaby offers a mix of urban convenience and natural escapes, perfect for year-round exploring in British Columbia.

• From mountains to museums, this vibrant city has something for outdoor adventurers, culture lovers, and families alike.

• The city’s parks, festivals, and local gems make it a quieter, more relaxed alternative to nearby Vancouver.

Tucked between the buzz of Vancouver and the calm of the Fraser Valley, Burnaby is one of British Columbia’s most underrated destinations. Known for its expansive green spaces, multicultural communities, and easy transit access, Burnaby blends city energy with nature’s peace. It was originally a farming and industrial town, but has grown into a thriving city full of lakes, festivals, food, and panoramic mountain views. Whether you’re hiking forest trails, shopping at Metrotown, or paddling across Deer Lake, there’s always something happening in every season. This list of year-round experiences is perfect for anyone ready to explore Burnaby beyond the brochure.

Table of Contents

1. Walk the trails of Burnaby Mountain and enjoy the Kamui Mintara totems

2. Paddleboard or rent a kayak at Deer Lake Park

3. Visit the Burnaby Village Museum

4. Hike through Burnaby Lake Regional Park

5. Discover local art at the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts

6. Explore the Great Trail at Central Park

7. Take in views from the top of Metrotown

8. Attend Burnaby Blues and Roots Festival

9. Tour local food spots in the Heights

10. Go ice skating at Bill Copeland Sports Centre

1. Walk the trails of Burnaby Mountain and enjoy the Kamui Mintara totems

Burnaby Mountain is one of the city’s most iconic spots for locals and visitors looking for panoramic views and peaceful forest trails. The mountain offers multiple walking and biking paths, many of which lead to scenic lookouts over Burrard Inlet and the North Shore Mountains. At the summit, you’ll find Kamui Mintara, also known as the Playground of the Gods—an awe-inspiring set of wooden totem poles gifted from Japan. The area is both spiritual and photogenic, perfect for morning walks, meditation, or sunset photography.

The mountain is accessible year-round and is especially beautiful during fall when the leaves change colors or spring when wildflowers bloom. Nearby Simon Fraser University gives the area a youthful, intellectual vibe, and the mountaintop café makes for a great stop after your hike. Whether you’re visiting for a quick photo or an extended hike, Burnaby Mountain delivers peace and elevation. It’s a must-see for any first-time visitor.

2. Paddleboard or rent a kayak at Deer Lake Park

Deer Lake Park is a beloved nature escape located in the center of Burnaby, offering a tranquil lake, walking trails, and wide green lawns. During warmer months, you can rent a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe and explore the still waters surrounded by tall grasses and local wildlife. Birds like herons, ducks, and even the occasional beaver can be spotted along the shores. The scenery is peaceful, making it an ideal location for relaxing afternoons or low-key adventures.

Even if you’re not up for paddling, the surrounding park offers scenic walking trails that circle the lake and lead to viewpoints and art centers. Pack a picnic, rent a pedal boat, or simply watch the clouds reflect on the water’s surface. It’s family-friendly, couple-friendly, and perfect for solo travelers looking to unwind. No matter the season, Deer Lake provides a fresh breath of nature in the heart of the city.

3. Visit the Burnaby Village Museum

Step back in time at the Burnaby Village Museum, a living history exhibit that recreates a 1920s British Columbian town. Complete with blacksmith demonstrations, an old-fashioned ice cream parlour, a carousel, and costumed interpreters, the museum is a delight for visitors of all ages. Walking through its cobbled streets and heritage buildings feels like traveling a century into the past. Seasonal events like Heritage Christmas or Fall Harvest Days bring the site to life with music, crafts, and lights.

Admission is often free or donation-based, making it an affordable cultural experience year-round. It’s especially popular during the holidays, when the whole village is transformed into a festive wonderland with carolers and twinkling lights. Educational and immersive, the museum is perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone seeking a nostalgic afternoon. It’s one of Burnaby’s most beloved attractions for good reason.

4. Hike through Burnaby Lake Regional Park

Burnaby Lake Regional Park is a vast wetlands ecosystem offering birdwatching, hiking, and a peaceful escape into nature. A well-maintained 10-kilometer loop trail circles the lake, with viewing platforms and wooden boardwalks that let you get close to the marshland wildlife. It’s a favorite for joggers, cyclists, and nature lovers year-round, especially in spring and summer when the ecosystem buzzes with activity. You’ll likely see ducks, geese, turtles, and even bald eagles along the way.

The area is also a natural learning hub with interpretive signage and frequent visits from local school groups. Trails are wide and mostly flat, making them accessible for all ages and fitness levels. For photographers and birders, the early morning and evening hours are especially rewarding. Burnaby Lake is not only one of the city’s largest natural parks—it’s also one of the most beautiful to explore on foot.

5. Discover local art at the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts

Located near Deer Lake, the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts is Burnaby’s go-to destination for creativity, performances, and exhibitions. The center hosts everything from local theater shows and live music to visual art classes and rotating gallery exhibits. Inside, the airy halls feature work from BC artists, and outside, the surrounding gardens and sculptures offer art in nature. It’s a quiet, inspiring space perfect for a rainy-day visit or cultural afternoon.

The Shadbolt also runs workshops in ceramics, painting, and dance—making it more than just a venue, but a creative community hub. Many performances are affordably priced, and some events are donation-based, making art accessible to all. Whether you’re attending a jazz night or browsing the gallery with a coffee in hand, you’ll leave more inspired than when you arrived. It’s a place where Burnaby’s artistic spirit truly shines.

6. Explore the Great Trail at Central Park

Central Park is one of Burnaby’s oldest and most accessible green spaces, located near Metrotown and spanning over 90 hectares. A section of the Trans Canada Trail (The Great Trail) runs through this park, offering shaded forest walks, running paths, and benches under towering Douglas fir and cedar trees. The trail here is wide, quiet, and ideal for beginner hikers, dog walkers, and cyclists. It’s a natural retreat tucked right into the urban grid.

What makes Central Park unique is its blend of nature and amenities. You’ll also find tennis courts, pitch-and-putt golf, and outdoor fitness equipment along the trail. In the fall, the colors here are spectacular, and in winter, the peaceful wooded paths still draw daily walkers. It’s an ideal escape when you don’t want to travel far but still want fresh air and a change of scenery.

7. Take in views from the top of Metrotown

Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown isn’t just the largest mall in British Columbia—it’s also home to some of the city’s best rooftop views. On the top floors or select rooftop parking levels, visitors can take in sweeping vistas of the city skyline, North Shore Mountains, and even Mount Baker on a clear day. It’s an unexpected spot for photos and a quick break between shopping or dining. Plus, Metrotown is a cultural hub, with food courts serving everything from ramen and bao to bubble tea and poutine.

Inside, you’ll also find movie theaters, arcades, and seasonal pop-ups—making this a destination for more than just retail therapy. During the holidays, Metrotown becomes a festive wonderland with massive displays, live music, and community events. Whether you’re there to shop, snack, or just chill with a view, it’s a year-round hangout with something for everyone.

8. Attend Burnaby Blues and Roots Festival

Each August, Burnaby Blues and Roots Festival brings top-tier music talent to the scenic lakeside lawn at Deer Lake Park. This one-day event is a blend of soulful rhythms, picnic vibes, and nature—all set to a backdrop of trees and water. Families lay out blankets, friends bring lawn chairs, and the sound of blues, folk, and roots music fills the air. It’s a relaxed, welcoming environment perfect for discovering new artists or enjoying legends on tour.

The event includes food trucks, local vendors, and beer gardens, creating a true festival atmosphere without the chaos of larger city events. It’s a fantastic excuse to spend the whole day outside with good people and great music. Even if you’re not a die-hard blues fan, the experience is worth it for the location and community alone. Tickets are reasonably priced, and the memories are priceless.

9. Tour local food spots in the Heights

The Heights is a historic and multicultural neighborhood in North Burnaby packed with locally loved eateries and cafes. It’s the kind of area where you can start your day with an Italian espresso, grab a handmade sushi roll for lunch, and end with Salvadoran pupusas or Persian kebabs. Walking Hastings Street feels like a food tour, with independent businesses and neighborhood pride in every block. There’s something soulful and community-driven about every bite here.

Beyond restaurants, The Heights also hosts seasonal food events, weekend pop-ups, and farmers markets. It’s an excellent place to support small businesses while tasting flavors from around the world. Many spots have been family-owned for generations and offer recipes you won’t find anywhere else in Metro Vancouver. Bring your appetite—you’ll want to stay longer than you planned.

10. Go ice skating at Bill Copeland Sports Centre

When winter arrives, head to Bill Copeland Sports Centre for a classic Canadian experience: indoor ice skating. Open year-round for public skates, hockey, and figure skating lessons, this rink is great for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Rental skates are available on-site, and the facility is clean, welcoming, and beginner-friendly. It’s a perfect rainy-day or winter activity that feels festive without the fuss.

Whether you’re lacing up for the first time or reliving childhood memories on ice, skating here is a fun and affordable way to stay active. During December, themed skate nights and holiday decorations add extra charm to the experience. It’s also a good way to meet locals or just get moving after a day of sightseeing. Don’t worry if you wobble—everyone does at first, and the staff is always helpful.

What to do if you have kids?

Burnaby is extremely family-friendly with parks, playgrounds, museums, and nature trails that cater to all ages. Kids will love riding the vintage carousel at Burnaby Village Museum, exploring the boardwalks around Burnaby Lake, or spotting ducks at Deer Lake. Central Park and Confederation Park also offer splash pads and play areas. Many of the city’s community centers host seasonal events, classes, and public swim sessions year-round. Just pack snacks, sunscreen, and layers—and let them roam and discover the outdoors at their pace.

Where can I find free events in Burnaby Canada taking place this weekend?

To discover free concerts, festivals, public workshops, cultural events, and park activities happening this weekend in Burnaby, head over to PlanMyWeekend.ai. This AI-powered platform curates real-time local events based on your location and interests, including many free or donation-based options. Whether you’re looking for live music at a park, a family day at a museum, or a community food fair, it’s all in one place. Just enter “Burnaby” and your dates, and you’ll have a weekend plan in seconds.

Final thoughts

Burnaby is a beautiful blend of urban life and wild escapes—a place where every path leads to something different, no matter the season. Whether you’re hiking forest trails, paddling across a lake, exploring cultural festivals, or just enjoying a quiet afternoon at a café, the city offers something meaningful and memorable. It’s perfect for those who want Vancouver’s energy without the intensity—and with more space to breathe. So pack your walking shoes, your sense of curiosity, and a camera. Burnaby’s waiting, year-round.