The Best of Winter in Vancouver

Just because the days are short—and, let’s face it, probably gray and rainy—doesn’t mean that Vancouver isn’t still a fun city to visit in the winter. The holiday season is packed with exciting events, and January and February are a time to indulge with Dine Out and the Vancouver Hot Chocolate festival. From skiing and boarding the nearby city mountains to skating in the heart of the downtown core, we’ve got winter wrapped up.

Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
Vancouver’s most famous urban space, the thousand-acre Stanley Park, epitomizes everything that locals here love about the outdoors, and visitors have many ways to explore the expansive grounds. Hiking trails weave around totem poles and hemlock trees, while at the beaches, you can swim, people-watch and picnic. Rent a bike or a pair of in-line skates for a scenic ride along the Seawall, or wander through the many gardens where rhododendrons, azaleas and roses bloom.
6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9, Canada
Part of the North Shore mountain range, this 4,039-foot peak offers jaw-dropping views of the city. It’s busiest in the winter, when four chairlifts service 33 ski runs, but remains popular in the summer thanks to the steep, 1.8-mile Grouse Grind hiking trail. Those wishing to skip the sweat can ride the gondola to the summit—the ticket price includes access to lumberjack shows, the grizzly refuge, and guided eco-walks. Pay extra to zip-line, throw axes, or ascend Eye of the Wind, the world’s first and only wind turbine with a viewing pod. Afterward, hit one of the eateries like the self-service Lupins or The Observatory, which serves upscale West Coast cuisine.
1253 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Located “around the bend,” in the beautiful Granville Island district is the Dockside Brewing Company. There’s eight different brewed beers here. My favourite was the Jamaican brew, blended with hibiscus. The piece de resistance is the gorgeous outdoor patio with a fireplace and scenic view of the marina False Creek in the background. This is a great place for a group or a party. I’m glad I got to see it! For more: http://nearafar.com/2011/06/21/vancouver-foodie-wrap-up/
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