The 72-Hour Vancouver Winter Adventure

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      Vancouver is almost unparalleled in its variety of things to do and ways to get there to do them. But when the temperature drops, the rain rolls in, and a car is preferred for making the most of what this region has to offer, the can-do nature of the is hard to ignore. Its multi-angle rearview mirror and 160-watt stereo system make it perfect for cruising about town, while safety features like Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control allow you to journey off-road with ease. And with the Civic’s Eco-assist system, you won’t blow your gas budget while doing so.

      This three-day winter itinerary was created with a “doing more with less” attitude in mind. You’ll find the unique and adventurous spirit of life on the West Coast around every corner.

       

      Day One: Greasy spoons, craggy cliffs, and celebrity-approved dining

      Vancouver Bites! (Flickr)

      Any adventure into the wild world of the West Coast should begin with breakfast, but not just any breakfast will do. From autographed photos of X-Files stars adorning the walls to mismatched thrift-store coffee cups and a legendary $2.95 breakfast, Bon’s Off Broadway offers the kind of unique brunch that has to be experienced.

       

      The best way to see Lynn Canyon is from its free-to-cross suspension bridge.
      Colin Knowles (Flickr)

      Get into the old-growth of the outdoors by hitting the trails in North Vancouver’s Lynn Valley. While everyone is lined up for the toll booth of the Capilano Suspension Bridge, you’ll be traversing its lesser known cousin, the Lynn Canyon Suspension bridge, which stretches across a beautiful canyon of raging waters, waterfalls, and deep pools below.

       

      temperpastry (Instagram)

      Warm up with artisanal chocolates and pastries at Temper Chocolate and Pastry in Dundarave, then grab a sandwich and Stumptown Coffee to go and make your way through a wonderfully scented walk in one of the lesser known alternatives to VanDusen: Park and Tilford Gardens.

       

      Ruth Hartnup (Flickr)

      For a wholesome dinner, climb the mountain of pleasant to Main Street’s Burdock & Co. where self-proclaimed domestic goddess and celebrity foodie Nigella Lawson recently visited, tried near everything on the menu, and proceeded to rave about its refined dishes crafted from organic ingredients.

       

      Day Two: Chinatown brunch, followed by skates and soda

       

      Jeff Hitchcock (Flickr)

      Start in Chinatown by choosing between a more traditional breakfast of congee at Gain Wah—one of Keefer Streets longest running and lesser known Chinese cafes.

       

      karinli (Flickr)

      Drop into Erin Templeton’s storefront studio to peruse one-of-a-kind handbags. Conversely, head into Gastown to Neighbour, a men’s shop that carries a carefully curated collection of clothing, accoutrements, and accessories.

       

      Skate rain or shine at the rink under Robson Square.
      Stephen Rees (Flickr)

      Lunch is a quick stop at Viet Sub, a tiny Robson Street Bánh mì sandwich shop that’s easy to miss, but impossible to forget. Then, head to the rink! You’ll be able to rent skates under Robson Square, where a gorgeous sheet of ice awaits your blades.

       

      wyn lok (Flickr)

      Rest up during the ride to Burnaby, where the trip will be worth it—the tasty wonders and retro vibes of the Glenburn Soda Fountain and Confectionery do not disappoint. The Honda Civic’s Eco-Assist system helps you keep these inter-city driving costs down by optimizing the vehicle’s operation to maximize fuel efficiency.

       

      Kasey Eriksen (Flickr)

      On the way back you’ll be just in time to catch a Vancouver Giants game, where you can enjoy dinner rinkside, too. Don’t let the big boys make you feel bad about your skating skills earlier in the day; you did just fine.

       

      Day 3: Mountain adventures, Finnish traditions and what’s up East Van?

       

      Tim Welbourn (Flickr)

      Start the day in East Van with a legend of the Drive: Joe's Cafe. The whole place has an Old-World feel to it that distinctly belongs to Commercial Drive.

       

      kris krug (Flickr)

      Enjoy a scenic drive to Cates Park with a few friends. The Honda Civic comes with Siri Eyes Free, so you’ll be able to let your friends know you’re on your way to pick them up without taking your eyes off the road. Immerse yourself in the park’s scenery, or grab a bite at the concession stand, which is now operated as Wally’s Burgers, the landmark diner that held court on Kingsway for more than 40 years.

       

      Snowshoeing on Seymour. No gondola required.
      Mount Seymour

      If you’re up for some snowshoeing, you’re in luck, because Mount Seymour is only a 20-minute drive from Cates Park. Once there, you’ll be able to rent a set for you and whoever else you have in tow. Set out on your own, or choose one of their many themed guided tours.

       

      Hastings Steam And Sauna

      Come off the mountain and purify your mind and body with a relaxing sauna. At Hastings Steam & Sauna, you’ll be able to rent your own private, cedar-lined sauna so you can take a moment to reflect on all the fun you’ve been having lately. This place has been serving up rejuvenation since 1926!

       

      What’s Up? Hot Dog! (Facebook )

      Rested, relaxed, and hungry, you’ll be close enough to take dinner at either the fun times going on at What’s Up? Hot Dog! Where the Elvis pinball machine on hand pairs nicely with the Mac N’ Cheese Dog and great service; there’s also plenty of vegetarian options too.

       

      You Made It

      Following the quirky, historic, and lesser known gems that this list uncovers is only the beginning. Hopefully, it inspires you to find your own path to winter bliss, because everyone’s idea of West Coast life is a bit different. That’s what makes it so fun to be a part of. Happy adventuring.

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