Winter Activities in Vancouver, BC

Say goodbye to artificial lights and climate control – the fresh air is calling at these five outdoor skating parks in Vancouver. [Photo courtesy of Yellow Pages]

A walk along the beach is far less romantic in the rain. From vibrant bouldering walls to cavernous trampoline gyms, Vancouver offers an abundance of indoor locations for active couples to explore when the weather’s dreary.

’Tis the season for all things merry and bright here in Vancouver. From the snow-covered evergreens atop Grouse Mountain to the twinkling Carol Ships floating along False Creek, the city is aglow with festive wonder. There’s plenty of holiday fun to be had, so grab your near and dear and check out these local activities that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. [Photo courtesy of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park]

It's always a great idea to plan a fun family outing at Christmas time. Luckily for all of us here in Vancouver there are so many fabulous things to do and experience over the 2016 holiday season. Here's our list to get the family Fa-la-la-la-ing the whole season through!

Every year, parents across the city hunt for that perfect, priceless shot of their tykes posing with Jolly ol’ Saint Nick. Sitting on the big guy’s lap and telling him what you want for Christmas is a rite of passage for little ones. Whether you love the classic mall Santa or prefer an outdoor experience complete with elves and reindeer, Vancouver has some great options for festive meet-and-greets for the 2015 holiday season.

Away from the civic hype, the tourists and the photo-snappers, here are the display galleries that draw me in week after week. These local Vancouver galleries support Canadian art in all its embattled glory; they may be small, but their power over me is strong.

Make your date night a memorable one this holiday season with an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Be mesmerized by a million twinkling lights at one of several light displays across Vancouver, or glide across a frozen pond hand in hand under the star-filled sky. If you’re looking for a seasonal activity to enjoy with that special someone, here are a festive date night ideas.

There’s so much to do and so little time during the holidays. With all the hustle and bustle, the festive season seems to fly by so quickly. That's why it's extra important to remember to make time for that special someone – even if that means setting aside just one evening to spend together. Check out these holiday date ideas in Vancouver and create memories you’ll cherish forever.[Photo courtesy of Grouse  Mountain]

Visitors to Vancouver are often warned of the city’s rainy reputation, but that doesn’t make cancelling a day at the beach any less disappointing. Coming to the rescue are the city’s many museums, recreation centers and art galleries, which provide engaging experiences no matter what the sky decides. [Image courtesy of the Museum of Anthropology]

So, how are those New Year’s Resolutions holding up? There’s always time to get back on track and combine getting fit with saving money and helping out a charitable cause. Sign up for a community class at these caring fitness studios in Vancouver.

Looking for something fun to do with the family in Vancouver? It's not always easy to pick the right activity that appeals to all ages, but the museums on this list are great for everyone. They involve hands-on learning that will thrill parents and children alike. Check out the options, and breathe a sigh of relief. Problem solved!

Families with young children can easily feel cooped up and go stir crazy during Vancouver’s rainy months. Metro’s best indoor playgrounds, listed below, are no-brainers for those days when it’s simply too dreary to head to the park. They offer ample space for kids to exert their energy, and many have cafés and WiFi on the premises, so parents are entertained too.