Hi everyone, David here! 👋
If you’re planning a trip to Metro Vancouver, you’ve probably heard of Vancouver and maybe Surrey — but let me tell you about one of the region’s best-kept secrets: Burnaby.
Located just east of Vancouver, Burnaby is an incredible mix of nature, culture, education, and modern living. It’s a city where you can go hiking in the morning, shop at a massive mall in the afternoon, and enjoy sunset views over the mountains by evening.
As someone who’s explored this city many times, I can confidently say that Burnaby offers some of the most underrated attractions in British Columbia. Whether you’re a student, family traveler, or solo explorer, there’s something here for you.
So, let’s dive into the best visitor attractions in Burnaby — and why this city deserves a spot on your BC travel list.
🌿 1. Burnaby Mountain Park – Views, Trails, and Totem Poles
Let’s start with one of my favorite places: Burnaby Mountain Park.
This spot sits high above the city, offering spectacular views of Vancouver, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore Mountains. It’s a perfect place for sunset lovers and photographers.
What to Do:
- Stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the park.
- Visit the Kamui Mintara (“Playground of the Gods”) totem poles, a gift from Burnaby’s sister city, Kushiro, Japan.
- Hike or bike along the multi-use mountain trails.
- End your day with dinner at Horizons Restaurant, which features panoramic views and West Coast cuisine.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall, when the skies are clear and sunsets are breathtaking.
🎓 2. Simon Fraser University (SFU) – A Campus Above the Clouds
Right next to Burnaby Mountain Park is Simon Fraser University, one of Canada’s top universities and a must-see for visitors.
SFU isn’t just an academic hub — it’s an architectural masterpiece designed by the legendary Arthur Erickson. The concrete structures blend beautifully with the natural mountain setting.
Why Visit:
- Explore the SFU Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, featuring Indigenous artifacts and cultural exhibits.
- Walk around the Academic Quadrangle, often used in film shoots for its futuristic look.
- Enjoy coffee at one of the student cafés while taking in the panoramic view.
Fun Fact: On clear days, you can see downtown Vancouver and the Pacific Ocean from campus.
🛍️ 3. Metropolis at Metrotown – Shop, Eat, and Explore
If you love shopping, you’ll feel right at home at Metropolis at Metrotown, one of the largest shopping centers in Canada.
With over 330 stores, multiple dining options, and entertainment venues, it’s a full-day destination for visitors.
Must-Do Activities:
- Shop major brands like Apple, Uniqlo, Zara, and Hudson’s Bay.
- Catch a movie at the Cineplex Metropolis.
- Explore T&T Supermarket for Asian snacks and treats.
- Try bubble tea, ramen, or sushi at one of the mall’s many eateries.
Pro Tip: If you visit during holidays, the mall hosts fantastic seasonal decorations and events.
🚣 4. Deer Lake Park – Nature and Culture in the City
For a mix of nature and heritage, Deer Lake Park is unbeatable.
This central Burnaby gem features walking trails, a scenic lake, and several of the city’s key cultural institutions.
Things to Do:
- Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle around the peaceful Deer Lake.
- Visit the Burnaby Art Gallery, located in a historic mansion.
- Explore the Burnaby Village Museum, a recreated 1920s village complete with a carousel, blacksmith shop, and costumed interpreters.
- Attend summer concerts at the Deer Lake Park Festival Lawn.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for paddling, or December for the museum’s charming Heritage Christmas event.
🚶 5. Central Park – Urban Green Escape
Not to be confused with New York’s famous park, Burnaby’s Central Park is a lush 90-hectare forested area right in the city center.
Located between Kingsway and Boundary Road, it’s perfect for walking, jogging, or just relaxing under the trees.
Highlights:
- Walking trails through Douglas fir and cedar forests.
- Swan-filled ponds and picnic areas.
- Pitch & Putt Golf Course for casual fun.
- Tennis courts and playgrounds for families.
It’s also right next to Metrotown, so you can pair a shopping trip with a relaxing nature stroll.
🖼️ 6. Burnaby Village Museum – Step Back in Time
If you love history (like I do!), the Burnaby Village Museum is a must-see attraction.
It’s a living museum that brings early 20th-century British Columbia to life.
What You’ll Find:
- Authentic heritage buildings and vintage cars.
- Costumed interpreters demonstrating old-time crafts.
- A working blacksmith shop, general store, and schoolhouse.
- A beautifully restored carousel from 1912.
Admission is usually free, making it one of the best-value experiences in Metro Vancouver.
Insider Tip: Visit during the Heritage Christmas season for festive lights, treats, and music.
🎨 7. Burnaby Art Gallery – Creativity in a Historic Setting
Located near Deer Lake, the Burnaby Art Gallery is housed in the elegant Ceperley Mansion.
It showcases rotating exhibitions of Canadian contemporary and historical art, focusing especially on works on paper.
The gallery’s garden and nearby walking paths make it ideal for a quiet afternoon outing.
Fun Fact: The mansion was once a private residence built in 1911 — one of Burnaby’s oldest surviving heritage homes.
🏞️ 8. Burnaby Fraser Foreshore Park – Riverfront Relaxation
If you prefer a peaceful riverside atmosphere, head to Burnaby Fraser Foreshore Park along the Fraser River.
This long, scenic park features walking and biking trails with views of boats and distant mountains.
What to Do:
- Walk the Foreshore Trail, perfect for sunrise or sunset views.
- Bring your dog — there’s a large off-leash area.
- Enjoy a riverside picnic or barbecue.
Pro Tip: Rent a bike to ride all the way to Vancouver’s River District along the connected trails.
🍜 9. The Amazing Brentwood – A New Urban Experience
If you love trendy spots and great food, The Amazing Brentwood should be on your list.
This massive redevelopment near Brentwood SkyTrain Station has become one of Burnaby’s coolest destinations, blending shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Rec Room – for arcade games, bowling, and casual fun.
- Cactus Club Café and Tap & Barrel – for great food and views.
- Brentwood Plaza – often hosts pop-up markets and music events.
It’s also a great place for people-watching or a stylish evening out.
🎉 10. Festivals and Events in Burnaby
Burnaby might be a city, but it still has a strong sense of community. If you visit at the right time, you’ll catch one of its vibrant annual events:
- Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival (August) – A summer music festival at Deer Lake Park.
- Canada Day at Edmonds – Family fun with live music and food trucks.
- Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Museum – Magical winter decorations and lights.
- Shadbolt Centre Art Festivals – Year-round performances and exhibits.
Each event offers a glimpse into Burnaby’s cultural diversity and creative spirit.
✈️ Getting Around Burnaby
Burnaby is well connected to the rest of Metro Vancouver by the SkyTrain (Expo and Millennium Lines). You can reach downtown Vancouver in just 20–25 minutes.
For visitors, public transit is reliable and affordable — plus, most attractions are close to SkyTrain stations or easy to reach by bus.
Pro Tip: Get a Compass Card for easy tap-in/tap-out travel across the entire transit network.
🌇 Final Thoughts
Burnaby might not make the headlines like Vancouver or Whistler, but it’s one of British Columbia’s most livable and visit-worthy cities.
From serene parks and lakes to vibrant shopping centers and art galleries, it’s got a little bit of everything — all within a 30-minute ride from downtown Vancouver.
As someone who’s explored the city many times, I can say this confidently: Burnaby is where nature and urban life meet in perfect balance.
So next time you’re in Metro Vancouver, take a day (or two!) to explore Burnaby — and see for yourself why locals love calling it home.
📌 Quick Facts About Burnaby
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Province | British Columbia |
| Population | ~260,000 |
| Known For | Parks, shopping, education (SFU), and cultural diversity |
| Major Attractions | Deer Lake Park, Burnaby Mountain, Metrotown |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September for outdoor activities |