Vancouver in winter has a different rhythm than much of Canada. While other cities dig out from blizzards, this coastal gem blends mild weather with easy access to snowy adventures just minutes away. Whether you are visiting with family or planning a safe, well-rounded trip, the city has something for everyone. Here are the top things to do in Vancouver in winter 2025.
Experience Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a year-round must-see, and winter may be its most magical season. Canyon Lights transforms the park into a glowing wonderland, with the suspension bridge, Cliffwalk, and treetop walkways lit up in dazzling colours. Families can enjoy photo opportunities, holiday snacks, and seasonal drinks at the Cliff House Restaurant. For international travellers, it is an iconic Vancouver experience that balances light activity with pure enchantment.
Go Skiing or Snowboarding Just 30 Minutes Away
Vancouver is one of the few cities where you can go from downtown to the slopes in less than half an hour. Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, and Mount Seymour all offer skiing and snowboarding for every skill level. Grouse is especially family-friendly, with rentals and lessons for beginners, while Cypress boasts the largest terrain. Seymour offers a more local vibe with lower prices and smaller crowds.
Snowshoeing and Winter Walks
If downhill sports are not on your list, snowshoeing is a fun alternative. Grouse Mountain has the Light Walk, a gentle, lantern-lit trail that feels almost storybook-like. Cypress and Seymour also feature marked snowshoe trails where you can enjoy fresh air and panoramic views. For those who prefer to keep things simple, walking through Stanley Park in winter provides peaceful scenery and plenty of photo-worthy moments without straying far from the city.
Holiday Events and Festivals
Winter 2025 in Vancouver brings plenty of family-friendly events. Beyond Canyon Lights, there is the Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden, Bright Nights at Stanley Park, and Lumière in the West End. These light displays and festivals add a festive spark to the season and provide fun outings for families looking to fill their evenings with colour and atmosphere.
Warm Up with Vancouver’s Food Scene
Cold nights call for comfort food, and Vancouver has no shortage of options. Families can enjoy casual bites at Granville Island Public Market or savour West Coast dining at one of the city’s celebrated restaurants. International cuisine is also a highlight, from ramen and dumplings to Michelin-recommended spots across the city. Warm drinks from local cafés like Pallet, Timbertrain, or 49th Parallel are also perfect for chilly afternoons.
Day Trips for More Adventure
If you have extra time, winter day trips from Vancouver are easy. Whistler, just under two hours away, is world-famous for skiing and après-ski culture. The Sea-to-Sky Highway to get there is as memorable as the destination, with ocean and mountain views the entire way. Closer to the city, a drive to Deep Cove or Horseshoe Bay provides winter scenery without the need for snow gear.
Why Winter in Vancouver is Worth It
Vancouver delivers a winter unlike anywhere else in Canada. Mild weather in the city makes exploring comfortable, while snow-covered mountains nearby offer classic Canadian adventures. Add in light festivals, family-friendly attractions, and endless food options, and you have the recipe for a safe, memorable, and well-balanced winter trip.
Winter 2025 in Vancouver promises experiences that combine the best of city life and outdoor adventure. Whether you are marvelling at Canyon Lights, skiing on the local mountains, or enjoying a quiet stroll by the water, Vancouver shows off a season that is both magical and manageable. For families seeking comfort, variety, and memories that last, this is a destination that truly delivers.
