Weather
Temperatures in Vancouver over the winter months are relatively mild (at least, by Canadian standards), and while there’s a good chance you’ll encounter rain, snow is a rare sighting in the city. If you’re heading up to Vancouver’s local mountains, expect snowy conditions and the temperature to be colder than downtown. Check Vancouver’s current and historical weather conditions here.
What to Wear
Because the temperature is quite mild, it’s best to dress in light layers, so you can easily adjust for a sunny day. Make sure to pack a rain jacket and an umbrella. If you’re thinking about heading up to the local mountains, make sure you bring warmer layers (or your ski gear) as well as gloves, a scarf, and a hat. Bring some good walking shoes – Vancouver is a great place to explore on foot!
Getting Around
Connect from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to downtown Vancouver with the Canada Line – Vancouver's rapid transit rail. Taxis, Lyft, and Uber are also available.
Downtown Vancouver is compact and walkable. Visit our Getting Around page for more information.
Grab A Deal
Your delegate badge comes with perks! You’ll save on admission to some of our top attractions, enjoy special offers at some of our favourite restaurants, as well as savings at spas, boutiques and tours. See a list of offers here.
VanDusen Festival of Lights
Want to discover firsthand why Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world? You could…
Just For Laughs VANCOUVER
Get set to chuckle at the Just For Laughs Comedy Fest.
Adventure on Grouse Mountain
Just 25 minutes from downtown, Grouse Mountain offers more than just skiing and snowboarding. Along with the impressive views from the Eye of the Wind, check-out skating, light walks, and the Snowshoe Fondue tour.
Set Sail to Granville Island
Grab a False Creek Ferries or Aquabus mini-tugboat over False Creek to Granville Island. The spot is famous for its public market, but you’ll also find plenty of tempting cafes, artisan studios and other souvenir-worthy diversions.
Taste Vancouver's Culinary Scene
From ocean-fresh seafood to innovative farm-to-table creations, Vancouver’s eateries offer a global culinary journey in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Sample local delicacies or try celebrated flavours at Vancouver's MICHELIN Recognized restaurants.
Admire Vancouver's Art Galleries
The city’s galleries range from the acclaimed Vancouver Art Gallery right on Robson, through to smaller, independent spaces such as Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery and Uno Langmann, Delve into Indigenous Northwest Coast Art with a visit to the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art or the Museum of Anthropology at UBC (temporarily closed until June 2024).
Discover Vancouver's Neighbourhoods
Exploring Vancouver’s diverse neighbourhoods is a great way to spend the afternoon. Grab a coffee and wander downtown areas such as hip Yaletown, the beach-side West End, or historic Gastown.
Shop 'Til You Drop
Whether you need to pick up souvenirs for those at home, or treat yourself to something special, Vancouver’s shopping scene will not disappoint. Downtown shopping is centred around Robson Street, with Pacific Centre mall anchoring one end. Stroll nearby neighbourhoods like Yaletown, Kitsilano, and Gastown for independent boutiques and shops, or hit McArthurGlen Designer Outlet to fill your suitcase with deals.
Experience Vancouver Attractions
Capilano Suspension Bridge will give you a glimpse into our temperate rainforest – while there, thrill seekers should check out the attraction’s Cliffwalk feature! Stanley Park is also a great choice for a rainy day, as is the 4D movie experience, Flyover.
Tour the City
Westcoast Sightseeing’s hop-on, hop-off buses have stops at most of Vancouver’s top attractions. Tours offered during the winter include Landsea Tours & Adventures Vancouver Delights excursion.
