Looking for COVID-19 modified things to do in Vancouver this September 2020? Our team, in conjunction with Tourism Vancouver and Vancouver Attractions, we have uncovered 17 things to do in Vancouver this September 2020 to not only rediscover our beautiful west coast city at this time but to experience it with more exclusivity than ever before!
Bonus: We’ve included a few exclusive staycation discounts below
Discover What’s New
The annual marathons might be postponed but that doesn’t mean you can prepare for one! The following events are only available for a limited time:
Attend* MOV’s traditional Drum Making Workshop with Derrick Whiteskycloud*Hosted in MOV’s Largest event venue and complete with physical distancing measures plus required sanitizing upon arrival.
Classic Family Fun
The following are currently open however must be booked in advance …which could be a very welcome adjustment in these previously crowded summer hot spots!
While some attractions are operating at reduced capacity and with additional procedures are in place, these outdoor attractions are just waiting for you visit
Did you know that Vancouver once had more neon lights that Las Vegas? Did you know that the largest Copper mine in the British Empire is a short drive from Downtown Vancouver? Check out both this September and remember visitors must book ahead to tour some of these popular spots:
Bonus Get a $100 credit for Vancouver’s top attractions at vancouverattractions.com click to save before you book. Stay safe in Vancouver and enjoy this unique time in our city.
Do you have a Vancouver event or attraction to share?Let us knowfor a chance to be featured.
We’re all certain about one thing right now: nothing is very certain. While store hours, safety protocols, back-to-school, and our summer plans all remain variable at this time, there is no denying that there is something unifying in knowing that we’re all in this together.
It’s in this silver-lined spirit that, in conjunction with Vancouver Attractions, we have uncovered more than one way to not only rediscover our beautiful west coast city at this time but to experience it with more exclusivity than ever before! Below are 14 family-friendly ways to safely enjoy Vancouver this August.
Family Favourites
The following famous family favourites must be booked in advance however for many of us, this is a very welcome adjustment in these previously crowded summer hot spots!
That’s right! These popular summer tourist attractions are also open however at reduced capacity and additional procedures are in place. Does this mean an opportunity to experience some of the most iconic West Coast views in the middle of summer, without the crowds and photo-bombers? Yes.
Bikes, Carriage Rides and Golf — Oh my! | Stanley Park
Can you believe that 60,000 aquatic species only make up a fraction of this park’s fun!? If you’ve spent any time in the park lately, you may have noticed that with the traffic closures and increase buzz of socially distant visitors, there is an almost a “small-town” feel and an increased sense of community present as these countless, safely spaced gatherings share perhaps a new appreciation of our beautiful city’s iconic park. Rent a ride and cycle down to these attractions, all with new safely protocols in place:
Anthropology, Natural History, and a Copper Mine | Museum Madness
Did you know that the once largest copper mine in the British Empire is only a short (and beautiful!) drive from downtown Vancouver? Again visitors must book ahead to tour some of these popular spots:
Bonus Get a $100 credit for Vancouver’s top attractions at vancouverattractions.com click to save before you book. Stay safe in Vancouver and enjoy this unique time in our city.
Do you have a Vancouver event or attraction to share?Let us knowfor a chance to be featured.
Remember when you would rather stay in or play host rather than go out? In this age of social distancing, many are finding Skype and Netflix parties are keeping us more social than ever — however with that same old twist: the venue (and for some of us — the wardrobe) never changes; however in ever-innovative Downtown Vancouver Style that hasn’t stopped these Vancouver based virtual social events from helping us stay connected! Know of a virtual event you’d like to share? We want to hear from you! We’re all in this together, and we look forward to sharing your local events, or sending a shout out to businesses who have taken steps to innovate entirely and support their customers virtually. — so reach out to us in the form below, on any of our social channels, or simply #StayVancouverHotels to get our attention.
What’s Happening in our Virtual Vancouver?
Courtesy of Downtown Vancouver BIA (Facebook)
Missing the hustle and bustle of Downtown? Downtown Vancouver BIA is proud to present Part 1 of “Downtown Sounds”, easy listening to virtually showcase the buskers and musicians we work with in our placemaking & public space programs. Listen, support, and follow the new playlists, launching every Thursday. Learn More at www.dtvan.ca
The Workout for Fitness Haters . Local actor and Instagram sensation Jason Sakaki is known for recently livestreaming his one-man production of Les Miserables. Advertised as a “workout/dance class for people who do not like to workout/dance”, make space for big moves and expect a lot of lighthearted fun! Learn more via Instagram
To be or not to be quarantined? Brought to you by the cheeky students of SFU’s School for Contemporary Arts, watch the online recreation of the iconic Shakespeare play.Learn more at sfu.ca
Dancing should be fun. Keep your feet moving and heart pumping in an energizing follow-the-leader style fitness class. You will dance to some of today’s hottest music and leave sweaty and energized. Follow the leader (Jared Byrne) style cardio dance in a sweaty dance party that you can have at home. Expect big queen energy pop hits from Beyonce and Lady Gaga. Learn more at popqueencardio.com
Courtesy of @popqueencardio Instagram
Capture Photo Fest. Held every April, Capture is a photography and lens-based art exhibition in galleries and public spaces. Based in Metro Vancouver, you can browse the digital catalog from submissions all around the world and observe public art pieces (online!).Learn more at facebook.com/CapturePhotoFest
The Best Aquatic Screensaver Ever. You know who else is #stayinghome? Our aquatic pals at the Vancouver Aquarium!…That doesn’t mean they’ve stopped being ADORABLE though! If you want an uplifting backdrop, catch their virtual show for free and from the comfort of your home. See what our city’s Jellyfish, Penguins and Otters are up to right now
#MuseumsAndChill Vancouver has joined the countless International Council of Museums (ICOM) establishments around the globe offering virtual tours. Locally this includes the Vancouver Art Gallery and MOVLearn More
The Best New Video Party App
Courtesy of VentureBeat.com
The new all-ages isolation app we hope is here to stay. You may have already heard of it but passed it up based on the assumption it was just another video call platform — we did at first! The House Party free app allows anyone with a smartphone to:
Until next time, thank you to all who are doing their parts in healthcare, essential services and by staying home to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We’re in this together Vancouver and as we dream of travelling later, we look forward to discovering which clever indoor innovations our beautiful city will come up with next. #stayhomestaysafe
It’s no secret a lot of people in Vancouver are already enjoying early bird summer fun by this time each year because of the beautiful attractions available in the area. So when it comes to the school holidays, there are tons of exciting activities that are designed to entertain both residents and tourists — of all ages.
Leave it to Vancity to line up almost too many fun activities to keep us all busy this Spring Break 2020. Whether you are a parent looking to join in on the fun or you’re simply looking for an entertaining week for your children while you’re at work, Vancouver is the ideal place to be for the spring break holiday. You have to check these out:
There are both drop art activities (every Sunday!) and advance booking workshops available for kids at the Vancouver Art Gallery this coming spring break holiday 2020. Learn more: vanartgallery.bc.ca
Entertain your kids (and let’s be honest, Frozen II kept us all entertained) with these must-watch child-friendly matinee movies! Take note that some of these shows are available only during the morning time slot of the school holiday break.
YMCA Vancouver offers spring break camps for children of all ages. It is crucial to book ahead of time as these camps are typically fully-booked. There are tons of activities designed to keep kids active and laughing during these, typically 4-day long, day camps.
Admission: Varies. Please visit ymca.ca to learn more
Adults & Adolescence
Celtic Fest Vancouver
Photo courtesy of wildernesscommittee.org
This event is ideal for anyone skipping town to Vancity this March — but not willing to skip St. Patrick’s Day: Celticfest has you covered! There are themed activities designed for adults in line with the celebration. Note: Due to recent health concerns, events for 2020 may be smaller compared to the previous years. Please visit www.celticfestvancouver.com for details and updates.
This is the perfect show for just about anyone – whether or not you’re into the arts. Tickets are available for show dates running March 13 to 22, 2020. The event is scheduled to take place at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Expect a world-class performance from these elite theatre actors. Learn more at Shenyun.com
The best place for children (and adults who are kids-at-heart!) is the Playdome 2020. This Indoor carnival is well-known for providing endless fun and excitement to its guests of all ages. It will take place at BC Place and the same is only available during the spring break holiday.
Admission: Guest Passes start at $11.00. Learn more at bcplace.com
Flyover Canada hosts a spectacular feature show during the spring break holiday. The theme changes every year to ensure that there is always something new and exciting that attendees can look forward to. Admission: Visit flyovercanada.com for pricing and promo codes
Indeed, Vancouver has a lot in store for us this coming spring break 2020. If you are traveling to the city for the upcoming holiday, be sure to book your stay with us to receive exclusive discounts.
Take note that the list mentioned above is not exclusive. There are still other entertaining activities designed to keep both residents or tourists busy this spring break!
Spring Sneak Preview
Planning your April 2020? This April 14th the Canada WNT will be playing Australia at BC Place! Tickets on sale now Visit canadasoccer.com for details.
The number of tourists who travel or spend a holiday in Vancouver keeps on increasing every year. It is not a surprise why the city’s tourism industry is flourishing. There are many reasons why people love to keep on coming back to this wonderful destination.
One of the most anticipated events of 2020, Vancouver International Wine Festival, will again kick off the new year. More commonly known as the VanWineFest, this event holds the record of being Canada’s premier wine and food show, pouring more than 750 wines from more than 16 countries, in only 8 short days. (Now who said math class wouldn’t be useful!) These wines will, of course, be accompanied by the most welcome of chaperones: their respective winemakers and vineyard owners.
Rated the “#1 Food, Wine & Hospitality Event in Canada” by New York’s BizBash (for the past 6 years in a row!) this year’s celebration will take place starting from February 22 to March 1, 2020.
We have something special for our valued guests like you. Book your stay with us and enjoy a FREE admission ticket to one of the world’s largest wine and food festivals. More details are available at the end of this post!
Knowing The History
The popular Vancouver International Wine Festival was inaugurated in 1979. During that time, the festival was organized to last for only two days. In its first public event, only around 1,000 people attended the festival. What makes this event even more meaningful is the fact that it was created in typical Vancity Style: for fundraising purposes. Since then, the VanWineFest has grown to raise more than $9.2 million and latest reports now boast an average of 25,000 admissions to the festival!
There is a theme or feature each year – This year France is the feature country!
One of the popular areas in the festival is, of course, the Tasting Room, where all the magic happens. In this area, you can see several brand owners and wine producers who will showcase their products to everyone. All attendees have a chance to have a taste of their share of the 750+ wines available for display.
The best part of all, however, is that several of these wine products are sourced from 15 other countries. As such, if you are going to be there, you will also get an opportunity to check out the top brands from the participating wineries abroad. Most of these wineries are award winners and considered senior leaders in the industry.
Where else can you visit with award-winning wineries and winemakers from across 5 different continents, while trying their finest wines in only 10 consecutive days …without a private jet? (Seriously, we’re interested if you know! You can find us in the tasting room)
If you are traveling to Vancouver for this iconic festival, be sure to arrive at least one day before the scheduled event. Not only will you have more time to prepare for the line up of activities prepared for all attendees, you’ll be in Vancity! This foodie paradise has more to see and do than can possibly be achieved in 10 days’ time — wine fests aside! However that’s not the only reason: as much as possible, try to avoid being late for this event so that you can still catch all the highlights and avoid line-ups.
Whether attending from Kits, Kelowna or out-of-country entirely, another thing to keep in mind is that if you do plan to stay in downtown Vancouver, you’ll want to book your stay ahead of time. Each year this Wine Festival brings in thousands of travelers to the city.
Until February 13th, you can still save on select downtown hotels using promo code VIWF. If you book a hotel with StayVancouverHotels.com, you will receive a FREE International Festival Tastings event ticket for the most anticipated Vancouver International Wine Festival ever:
Can you believe it’s already been a decade!? If you can make it to Vancity a few weeks before the Vancouver International Wine Tasting event don’t think for a minute February isn’t a perfect month for tourism! Celebrating 10 years since the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic games the city has countless events going on – including Vancouver’s Annual Just for Laughs festival and the grand re-opening the Sea to Sky Gondola
Check out the countless other fabulous Vancity events this February 2020 events here.
Remember! If you do plan to attend the Vancouver Festival this year, be sure to use promo code VIWF to receive a free ticket when you book your downtown Vancouver hotel stay. Offer ends February 13, 2020 – Click here to book.
Vancouver is one of those cities that only feels dangerous at dinnertime, but before your mind jumps to the latest crime podcast, let us explain. With more than 3000 restaurants in this trendy oceanside city, amazing eateries can be found around every corner. Even the most fanatical foodie can feel overwhelmed by so many choices.
With so many great options, how do you choose? You’re in luck! We’ve got you covered with our top 9 not-to-be-missed restaurants in downtown Vancouver, and a special offer to refresh your palate – details at the end of this post!
French Fusion with Vegan Options
Catching a bite in Cole Harbour? Experience fine-dining and a snap-worthy backdrop at this iconic Vancouver landmark. The Five Sails waterfront restaurant is conveniently located on Canada Place Pier, mere stiletto steps away from the Hotel Fairmont Pacific Rim… Learn more
Making the top 40 in a city boasting 3000+ restaurants is impressive, however, more impressive still is placing among the Top 5 Seafood Restaurants by Vancouver Magazine! Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar has also received awards for Best Upscale Restaurant, Best Dessert, Premier [service and hospitality] Crew… Learn more
Hawksworth restaurant offers a contemporary venue which has also helped them achieve the title Best Upscale Restaurant in Vancouver not once, but four times! The diverse culinary techniques and elegant atmosphere makes it just one of the six amazing restaurants located in the Rosewood Hotel… Learn more
Vancouver’s Bacchus Restaurant at the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa is a hidden gem that is complete with a piano lounge and is ranked the 3rd Best Restaurant in all of Vancouver. Spoil yourself with their expansive selection of Canadian specialty cheeses and decadent desserts… Learn more
Historic Speakeasy Atmosphere & Impressive Wine List
Can’t decide between History Gastown or a Shoppers Paradise? Enjoy the best of both at Fairmont Hotel’s Notch8 Restaurant & Bar. Hoping to take it up a Notch? Stop in for afternoon tea or private dining experience. Learn more
You may already frequent one of JOEY’s 27 North American locations, however, not all Joey’s are created equal. Recently partnering with DoorDash means this Canadian-based franchise plans to bring their amazing cuisine home to you – or even better, directly to your hotel room. Learn more
If you’ve found yourself in English Bay be sure to warm up and take in the oceanview. Whether it’s a quiet fireside view of the seawall sunset, late-night live music or a 7:00 am British Columbia Classic Smoked Salmon Bagel Breakfast, the Sylvia Restaurant & Lounge has you covered… Learn more
French Cuisine Made with Local West Coast Ingredients
The Tableau Bar Bistro is impressively located in Coal Harbour’s popular boutique hotel: The Loden, voted 2nd best hotel in all of Vancouver. Whether ordering this exquisite room service or sipping an Aperitif immersed in this Parisian atmosphere, patrons are sure to enjoy the very best of French cuisine and local west coast ingredients. Learn more
Authentic french toast for breakfast, and “Ital-Asain” fusion for dinner? Only a 25-minute stroll from The Tableau Bistro, La Pentola sustainably offers traditional “nose-to-tail” dishes in this calm and traditional setting and is located in yet another boutique hotel making Vancouver’s Top 5 Best Hotel List: The OPUS
Planning ahead? If you were impressed with the international wine selection on these menus then those planning to visit Vancouver this February 22nd – March 1st, 2020 are also eligible to receive ONE FREE International Festival Tastings event ticketat the 2020 Vancouver International Wine Festivalwhen you use promo code “VIWF” with a hotel booking. Our promo to attend Canada’s premier food and wine event will be made available to our subscribers this November 6th – so don’t miss out!
