3 Day Itinerary

Spend three days exploring Burnaby at an easy, balanced pace. This itinerary blends neighbourhood culture, outdoor spaces, local food and arts experiences, with time to wander, rest and discover what makes the city feel welcoming and connected.

Day 1
Morning
Start your day at Deer Lake Park, Burnaby’s cultural and creative heart. Depending on your pace, you can explore one or both of these nearby attractions, each offering a different way to experience the city’s history and arts scene.

Burnaby Art Gallery

Discover rotating exhibitions featuring local, regional, and international artists inside a historic heritage home surrounded by landscaped gardens. Take time to explore the galleries, then step outside to enjoy the quiet paths and views around Deer Lake.

Burnaby Village Museum

Step back into the early 20th century with recreated storefronts, costumed interpreters, and a ride on the restored historic carousel. The open-air village offers a relaxed, hands-on way to experience Burnaby’s past at your own pace.

Afternoon
Head toward Metrotown for an easy, flexible afternoon of lunch, browsing and downtime. This area is well connected by SkyTrain and offers plenty of options, whether you’re in the mood to shop, snack or simply take a break between activities.

ZUBU Ramen

Refuel with a casual lunch at ZUBU Ramen, a popular Japanese restaurant known for comforting bowls of ramen, hand roll sushi, gyoza and shareable dishes. It’s a relaxed stop that works well for both quick bites and lingering lunches.

Metropolis at Metrotown

Spend the afternoon exploring Metropolis at Metrotown, British Columbia’s largest shopping centre. Browse a mix of global and local brands across fashion, tech and lifestyle, or focus on a few highlights if time is limited.
Families and curious shoppers may enjoy stops at MUJI and UNIQLO for everyday basics and seasonal finds, while the T&T Supermarket snack aisles offer a fun browse through international treats. If you’re looking to slow things down, catch a movie at Cineplex Metropolis or pop into the arcade for a short break before continuing your day.

Evening
After a full afternoon of exploring, stay close to Metrotown for a relaxed evening without extra travel. This part of the city offers plenty of dining options, making it easy to settle in, enjoy a good meal and wind down for the night.

Trattoria

Sit down for dinner at Trattoria, a welcoming Italian restaurant known for house-made pasta, wood-fired pizza and classic comfort dishes. It’s a great place to slow the pace, share a meal and enjoy a warm, unfussy dining experience before heading back to your hotel.
If you still have some energy, take a short stroll around Station Square or nearby streets to stretch your legs and soak in the evening atmosphere. Otherwise, return to your accommodation and rest up for the next day’s adventures.

Day 2
Morning
Start the day with something a little different, beginning at Crystal Mall for breakfast and an easy wander through one of Burnaby’s most loved food hubs. Then enjoy a light, nostalgic outdoor experience nearby before heading into the afternoon.

Crystal Mall

Begin your morning at Crystal Mall, a well-loved Burnaby food hub known for its lively mix of cafés, bakeries and food stalls. Wander the indoor marketplace and choose from handmade noodles, baos, bubble tea and classic breakfast bites. It’s a relaxed, year-round place to sample global flavours and ease into the day.

Burnaby Central Railway Credit CK.LEE

Burnaby Central Railway

Head to nearby Confederation Park for a ride on the Burnaby Central Railway, a volunteer-run miniature railway that delights visitors of all ages. Climb aboard 1/8-scale steam and diesel trains as they wind through wooded sections of the park, offering a charming and unexpected experience that’s especially popular with families and train enthusiasts.

Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring Burnaby Heights, a lively neighbourhood known for its independent businesses, cafés and long-standing local favourites. Take your time browsing shops, popping into specialty stores and enjoying the friendly, walkable feel that defines this part of the city.

Panino Mio

Stop for lunch at Panino Mio by La Grotta Del Formaggio, a casual neighbourhood spot serving fresh, made-to-order panini inspired by Italian flavours. With generous fillings and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s an easy, satisfying choice for a midday break while exploring the Heights.

The Honey Hub

Continue your stroll with a visit to The Honey Hub, where local honey and bee-inspired products take centre stage. Browse jars of artisanal honey, beeswax candles, honey-based snacks and small gifts that celebrate nature and local makers.

Evening
Spend the evening at The Amazing Brentwood, a modern urban destination with a wide mix of restaurants, shops and entertainment. It’s an easy place to settle in for the night, whether you’re looking for a casual dinner or something playful to end the day.

La Taqueria

Enjoy dinner at La Taqueria, known for flavour-forward Mexican street food made with fresh ingredients. Choose from tacos, burritos and shareable plates that are quick, satisfying and perfect for a relaxed evening out.

The Rec Room

After dinner, head to The Rec Room for some after-dinner fun. From arcade games and interactive experiences to casual lounging and drinks, it’s a lively way to wrap up the evening before heading back to your accommodation.

Day 3
Morning
Ease into your final day at a relaxed pace, starting with good coffee before heading up the mountain. This morning balances small local stops with open views and quiet moments outdoors.

Modus Coffee Roasters

Start the morning at Modus Coffee Roasters, a Burnaby favourite known for thoughtfully roasted coffee and well-made pastries. Grab a coffee and something sweet to go, or take a few minutes to settle in before heading out for the day.

Burnaby Mountain Park

Continue up to Burnaby Mountain Park for a peaceful morning surrounded by forested trails, open viewpoints and landscaped gardens. Wander at your own pace and take in panoramic views across the city, Burrard Inlet and beyond. Along the way, you’ll encounter public art installations, including the Kamui Mintara (“Playground of the Gods”) sculptures, and plenty of quiet spots to pause, take photos or simply enjoy the scenery.

Afternoon
After a morning outside, keep things simple with a comforting lunch nearby before shifting into a more cultural experience. The afternoon offers time to slow down, explore and reflect on the stories that shape Burnaby.

Pho 99 (SFU)

Head to UniverCity for lunch at Pho 99, a go-to spot for warming bowls of pho and Vietnamese comfort dishes. It’s a relaxed, no-fuss option that’s popular with students and locals alike, and an easy place to refuel before the afternoon.

Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre

Spend the afternoon at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre, where exhibitions explore Japanese Canadian history, art and cultural expression. The museum offers a thoughtful, engaging way to learn about stories that have shaped Burnaby and the region, adding depth and context to your visit.

Evening
End your trip with an evening that feels unhurried and memorable. A lakeside dinner followed by a live performance brings together food, setting and culture for a thoughtful close to your stay.

Hart House Restaurant

Head to Deer Lake for an early dinner at Hart House, a historic restaurant set within a heritage home overlooking the lake. Enjoy a seasonal menu in a warm, elegant setting that’s ideal for a pre-theatre meal without feeling rushed.

Shadbolt Centre for the Arts

After dinner, walk over to the nearby Shadbolt Centre for the Arts to catch a live performance. From theatre and music to dance and special events, the centre is Burnaby’s premier performance space and a fitting way to end your three-day stay.

Places to Stay

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