How We’re Spending Our Summer Weekends
Summer in Vancouver certainly looks different this year. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic we have altered vacation plans, postponed weddings, and cancelled family reunions. Rather than dwelling on what could have been, we are prioritizing a focus on silver linings. We’re grateful to be reminded of what matters: our loved ones, our health, and our community. With that in mind, we’re exploring all that Vancouver has to—safely—offer this summer. From days spent hiking or at the beach, to leaning on the restaurants and small businesses who are doing their part to keep us safe, here’s where you’ll find us this summer.
Katie
“On the weekends, when I’m not at work here in Vancouver, I live on the Sunshine Coast. Hopkins Landing Beach and Roberts Creek Beach are two of my favourite places to spend a Saturday or Sunday.”
Trish
“I love to hike. On the North Shore, St. Mark’s Summit offers beautiful high up vistas of the coastline where I live on the Sunshine Coast. When I’m home in Gibsons, the area is bursting with local hikes, my favourite of which is Soames Hill Regional Park.”
Anita
“Welks General Store on Main Street is a great local business that I love to support. If I’m looking to do some after-work shopping, it’s one of my first stops.”
Monika
“When I’m in the mood to grab take out on my way home from work, I love Greenleaf Sushi, Field and Social, or DD MAU.”
Ameei
“When I’m looking to get outside, I love Lynn Canyon. There’s a kid-friendly suspension bridge, various trails, a lake, and waterfalls complete with swimming holes. If I’m looking for a challenging hike, the Grouse Grind is a 2.9km trail straight up the face of Grouse Mountain, commonly referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster. If you aren’t “one with nature” by the time you reach the peak, you’re definitely one with your sweat. It’s a great workout with a view to boot.”
Natalie
“Mount Pleasant breweries like Faculty Brewing, Main Street Brewing, and 33 Acres have recently added the cutest mini patios on their sidewalks, making it easy to safely enjoy delicious beer while social distancing”
Marianna
“When I do any shopping these days, it’s usually for my kids. Steveston has an amazing kids shop called Steveston Village Maternity. They carry great local brands, and are owned by an amazing couple who are very helpful. They’ve adjusted amidst the pandemic by offering online shopping, curbside pick-up, and deliveries.”
Sherry
“Summer beach days are all about my dog Charlotte! Her favourite off-leash park is McDonald Beach in Richmond. Nothing makes me happier than playing fetch with a stick and watching her play with all her furry friends.”
Emma
“Cardero’s is my favourite restaurant and they are certainly nailing the social distancing and ambiance. I thoroughly enjoyed my evening with my girlfriends. I felt extremely comfortable and safe. The atmosphere was incredible, everyone was warm and welcoming and extremely accommodating.”
Janet
Image: Earnest Ice Cream Instagram
“What’s better than ice cream on a warm summer night? Our favourite neighbourhood ice-cream shop is Earnest Ice Cream on Fraser Street. We normally get 3–4 different flavoured pints at a time to enjoy at home.”
If you can, we encourage you to safely explore all that your community has to offer. Visit us over on Instagram to let us know how you’re spending your summer weekends.
