REVIEW | No Wheels? No Worries!
Photo Credit: City of Vancouver
So you failed your road test, or maybe you’re one of the people patiently waiting to take your N, or perhaps you’ve been putting off your learner’s test for months. Whatever the reason, if you won’t have a car or license in time for summer, there’s no need to stress. As long as you have an open mind, a few hours to spare, and a Compass Card on hand, Vancouver has plenty to offer this season. From local festivities to outdoor events, the city is packed with activities that are easy to reach by transit, bike, or foot—no car required.
Gastown Sunday Set
This year, the Gastown Sunday Set is making its debut, and it's already shaping up to be a must-add to your summer bucket list. Every Sunday from Jun. 15 to Aug. 31, Water Street transforms into a vibrant, car-free playground where culture meets community. This series features weekly programming and events, including art competitions, flower markets, and live performances by local artists. Easily accessible by public transit, the Gastown neighbourhood is open for you to roam without the hassle of traffic. Simply hop on the nearest bus and make your way down to discover new tastes and sounds in one of Vancouver’s most historical areas.
Doodle Days Ahead
Art studios and DIY workshops around the city offer a creative escape from the heat. U Paint I Fire, located in Kitsilano, is a cozy ceramics studio where you can spend hours unleashing your creativity with no experience required. From there, it’s just a quick bus ride to Granville Island, where you’ll find Beadworks tucked away. The DIY jewelry haven is perfect for crafting your summer accessories. This walk-in boutique allows you to browse hundreds of beads and charms to design your own bracelet, necklace, or keychain. You can experience a similar, hands-on experience at 4Cats Arts Studio. There, you can discover unique and guided workshops, from painting abstract waves to sculpting your own ice cream bowl. With locations on Main Street, Kitsilano, UBC, and Dunbar, these studios are easily accessible by transit and perfect for students exploring the city without a car.
Starry Sounds and Screens
Whether you’re into movies, music, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Vancouver has something for you. Every Thursday from Jul. 3 to Aug. 14, downtown Vancouver welcomes all to enjoy an open-air theatre with its Summer Movie Nights programming. Only a hop, skip, and a SkyTrain away, this outdoor venue enhances your typical film viewing. Just a few blocks away, you’ll find the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, which invites you to experience movies under the stars with Sunset Cinema screenings. For all our music lovers, there’s something for you too! Vancouver Civic Theatres has launched Summer Sounds, a free open-air concert series happening downtown.
Beat the Heat
If you’re looking for a cool spot to unwind this summer, there are many places near Vancouver to explore by transit. Take advantage of BC’s quiet forest pools and scenic bays, including White Pine Beach, Lynn Canyon’s 30 Foot Pool, and Deep Cove. Take the Millennium Line to Moody Centre, then hop the number 182 bus directly to White Pine Beach, and explore tucked-away clearings beyond the main beach for an undisturbed swim. Alternatively, visit Deep Cove and swing by one of the local eateries for a bayside picnic. Want something closer to the city? Head over to Wreck Beach, just West of UBC, for a more secluded and intimate coastal experience.
Fresh Summer Finds
Vancouver’s farmers' markets make for the perfect weekend getaway, even if you don’t own a getaway car. Amidst the city’s scorching heat, these spots become vibrant oases filled with fresh produce, refreshing beverages, and artisan goods. With markets popping up in various neighbourhoods all summer long, you’re guaranteed to easily reach one on foot, by bike, or by transit. Throughout the season, you can find them at False Creek, Downtown, Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant, Riley Park, Trout Lake, and the West End. With dozens of local vendors and food trucks at each location, these markets offer an easy and affordable way to enjoy summer.