From cherry blossoms to mountain peaks, these unforgettable Vancouver traditions will have you planning your next spring escape before unpacking. In this guide, I’ve rounded up 10 of the most iconic and traditional things to do in Vancouver in spring — a mix of must-see spots, local favourites, and once-in-a-season experiences that are practically made for memory-making.
Table of Contents
If you’re dreaming of a spring escape that’s equal parts vibrant, outdoorsy and effortlessly cool, Vancouver should be top of your list. This coastal Canadian city transforms into a lush, lively playground filled with pink cherry blossoms, ocean breezes, and cultural gems each spring. Whether you’re wandering flower fields, devouring street food, or cycling along the Pacific, there’s a sense of renewal in the air you can’t ignore.
And the best way to get there? Air Canada. With direct flights from Singapore and a reputation for world-class service, they’ll get you to the action comfortably and in style, leaving you rested, relaxed, and ready to chase cherry blossoms.
Welcome to Spring’s Best-Kept Secret
Tucked between the snow-capped mountains and the sparkling Pacific, Vancouver is the kind of city that doesn’t just do spring — it lives it. When March rolls around, the city sheds its winter coat and bursts into bloom. Streets are lined with cherry blossoms, café patios buzz with conversation, and locals head outdoors like it’s a full-time job.
Spring here isn’t just a season. It’s a celebration of everything Vancouver does best: natural beauty, global flavours, and a relaxed but adventurous lifestyle. You can hit the slopes, dine by the water, hike a forest trail, and return for sunset cocktails. It’s urban, wild, calm, and energising — a perfect blend of city life and natural wonder.
10 Unmissable Vancouver Spring Experiences
1. Lose Yourself in a Sea of Blossoms at the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival
Every April, Vancouver becomes a pink paradise as over 40,000 cherry trees erupt into bloom across the city. Gifted from Japan in the 1930s, these trees have become part of Vancouver’s cultural DNA. The Cherry Blossom Festival is more than just a visual treat — it’s a city-wide celebration with bike rides, live music, guided walks, art installations and even “cherry jam” concerts under the petals.
Head to Queen Elizabeth Park, Stanley Park or the Kitsilano neighbourhood for some of the best blossom sightings. And bring your camera — or better yet, your best friend — because the photo ops are endless.
Eat Your Way Through Richmond Night Market’s Food Wonderland
As spring evenings grow warmer, Richmond Night Market kicks off — and it’s a total sensory overload (in the best way). This legendary outdoor market is a long-standing tradition, drawing locals and visitors for its jaw-dropping variety of Asian street food, quirky desserts, carnival games, and live performances.
Think: juicy grilled squid on skewers, deep-fried bao buns, colourful shaved ice towers, and bubble waffles so good they’ll ruin all others. It’s like stepping into a bustling night market in Taipei or Tokyo with a Vancouver twist. Open Fridays to Sundays, it’s the perfect evening adventure for foodies and families..
3. Walk Through a Dream at the Abbotsford Tulip Festival
About an hour outside the city lies a fairytale field of colour — Abbotsford’s Tulip Festival, where millions of tulips bloom in sweeping rainbow rows. But this isn’t just a quick photo stop — the Tulip Forest Experience lets you wander through immersive floral paths surrounded by blooms taller than your knees.
It’s a peaceful, soul-soothing way to spend a morning or afternoon. With mountain backdrops and fresh air, you feel like you’re in another world entirely. Don’t forget to stop by the on-site cafés or farm shops for locally roasted coffee and tulip-themed treats.
4. Soak Up Botanical Bliss at VanDusen Garden
Tucked away in the heart of Vancouver is VanDusen Botanical Garden, a 55-acre oasis where nature shows off year-round — but spring might be its finest hour. Wander past magnolia trees in full flower, stroll through a maze of rhododendrons, and listen to the birdsong echoing off peaceful ponds.
The garden’s spring events calendar includes plant sales, guided tours, and seasonal exhibits. There’s even a charming café where you can sip tea while gazing out at the blooms. It’s a gentle, grounding escape from the urban pace and a local treasure that never feels touristy.
5. Cycle the Stanley Park Seawall Like a True Vancouverite
There’s nothing more iconic — or soul-reviving — than a ride (or stroll) along the Stanley Park Seawall. Stretching 9 kilometres around the edge of the city’s most famous park, this waterfront path offers unbeatable views of the harbour, the North Shore Mountains, and Vancouver’s skyline reflected on the water.
In the spring, the air is crisp and clean. The cherry trees along the path are in bloom, and seals often pop their heads up to say hello. Rent a bike from Denman Street and take it slow — this ride fills your lungs and clears your head.
6. Snack, Shop and Soak It All In at Granville Island
A spring day at Granville Island Public Market is a feast in every sense of the word. This place is a hub of creativity and culinary goodness, featuring artisan cheese, local seafood, First Nations artwork, and handmade jewellery.
Grab a fresh doughnut or a sourdough sandwich and head outside to the pier, where buskers strum guitars and boats bob in the marina. With the weather warming and tulips popping up in every corner, the island feels like a little village frozen in springtime — and the views across False Creek are spectacular.
7. Walk Among Giants at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
For a rush of adrenaline and a proper nature fix, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers a thrilling walk through the treetops. The 137-metre-long suspension bridge sways gently over a lush canyon, surrounded by Douglas firs and the soothing sounds of the Capilano River below.
The rainforest-like landscape is at its greenest in spring, with moss-draped trees and blooming forest flowers adding extra magic to the experience. Don’t miss the Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk, which take you deeper into this enchanted Pacific Northwest forest.
8. Set Sail for a Whale Watching Adventure
April and May are prime months for whale watching in Vancouver, as orcas and grey whales migrate through British Columbia’s coastal waters. Join a local tour from Granville Island or Steveston Harbour and set off on an ocean adventure where you might also spot porpoises, seals, and even humpback whales.
Something is humbling and unforgettable about seeing a whale breach just metres from your boat — and with trained naturalists on board, you’ll leave knowing more about marine life than when you arrived. Dress warm and bring binoculars!
9. Embrace Patio Season in Gastown and Yaletown
When the sun comes out, Vancouverites flock to patios like it’s a competitive sport. And in historic Gastown and stylish Yaletown, you’ll find some of the best alfresco dining in the city. Whether oysters and bubbly in a candlelit courtyard or craft beers under string lights, the vibe is always relaxed, social, and thoroughly springtime.
Gastown’s cobblestone charm meets culinary creativity, while Yaletown offers waterfront views and sleek cocktail bars—ideal for date nights or long weekend lunches. Dress in layers, bring your sunglasses and don’t skip the local rosé.
10. Ski in Whistler in the Morning, Sip Wine by the Beach in the Afternoon
Where else in the world can you ski fresh mountain powder in the morning and be back on the beach for sunset? Spring skiing in Whistler, just two hours from Vancouver, is a uniquely Canadian experience. Milder temps, soft snow and epic views make for a dreamy day on the slopes — all without the winter crowds.
Afterwards, head back to Vancouver, ditch the ski jacket, and trade it for a beach blanket or patio chair. Pack layers and thank us later.
Spring Starts Here — Book It
Spring in Vancouver is more than a season—it’s a sensation—a celebration of nature, culture, and joy. And thanks to Air Canada, getting there is seamless. They’re the perfect partner for your next great escape, offering reliable service, direct flights to Singapore, and a warm Canadian welcome.
Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms, sipping seaside cocktails or skiing with the clouds, springtime in Vancouver is waiting — and it’s worth every second.
Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips, or advice, I’d love for you to share them in the comment section below!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost if you purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.
Check out my Instagram page or join the Truly Expat Facebook group.
Pin it for later
