No More Gatekeeping: Vancouver is the Perfect Summer Getaway

If you're from Texas, you've probably been living your best life in the brief 70-degree spring weather we've been graced with recently. Wouldn't it be amazing to enjoy that lovely, non-scorching weather all summer long? What if I told you that you could hop on a flight this summer to experience another vibrant city filled with greenery, art, and sunshine—all in that perfect 70-degree weather? Of course, I'm talking about the glistening "City of Glass," Vancouver, Canada.

If you're asking, "What's so special about Canada? Hockey? Maple syrup? A moose sighting?" well, you're partially right. But Vancouver, in particular, offers so much more! With its breathtaking landscapes, a wide range of outdoor activities, access to incredible wildlife viewpoints, and an array of phenomenal festivals, it's a place that will leave you in awe — especially when you can enjoy it all in pleasant, bearable weather.

Vancouver Knows How to Party! If you're a fan of Austin's vibrant festival scene, you'll be excited to know that Vancouver is a festival-lover's paradise, offering a wide array of exciting events throughout the year! From spring blooms to summer jazz, here are a few must-see festivals:

• Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival (March 28 – April 23, 2025)
   A celebration of spring with arts, culture, and over 43,000 cherry trees in full bloom. Enjoy photo ops, "Bike the Blossoms," evening strolls, and a Japanese fair.

• DOXA Documentary Film Festival (May 1 – 11, 2025)
   A showcase of over 80 Canadian and international documentaries, offering captivating stories and dynamic industry events.

• Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival (June – September, 2025)
   A summer tradition with Shakespeare's plays reimagined in a stunning beachside setting. Expect unexpected twists, like bikes on stage!

• Vancouver International Jazz Festival (June 20 – 29, 2025)
   A 10-day celebration of jazz featuring free performances across the city, from swing to hip-hop jazz.

• Vancouver Folk Music Festival (July 18 – 20, 2025)
   For fans of folk and roots music, this festival at Jericho Beach Park features live performances, an artisan market, and local food trucks.

• Hopscotch Festival of Whiskey, Beer & Spirits (November 2025)
   A paradise for whiskey and beer enthusiasts, featuring master classes, tastings, and live music, culminating in a lively Grand Tasting Room event.

Soak up the Sunshine! As much as we love our armadillos and prickly pear cacti, the chance to see whales, bears, and sea lions alongside a spectrum of colorful flowers in Vancouver's diverse climate is a no-brainer! Be sure to soak up some vitamin D and experience at least one of these adventures:

• Vancouver Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure 
   Hop aboard a luxurious catamaran for a half-day whale-watching tour from downtown Vancouver. Enjoy the chance to spot whales and other marine life with minimal hassle and free photos to capture the experience.

• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip
   Explore British Columbia’s coastline with a scenic ferry ride through the Gulf Islands, ending with a visit to the charming city of Victoria and the beautiful Butchart Gardens.

• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Ticket
   Just moments from downtown Vancouver, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers a stunning outdoor experience, where you can walk through lush temperate rainforests and take in the breathtaking views.

Embrace the Tourist Title– Go on Tour! And of course, did you really experience a destination without going on a tour? With so many options available, it’s hard to choose just one. So, in case you need some validation, yes, you can—and should—do them all.

• The Grand Tour by Cycle City Tours
   This popular five-hour bike tour takes you through Vancouver’s cycling lanes, with plenty of stops to learn about the city’s history and culture along the way.

• Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour
   Prepare to fill your camera roll with stunning views on this full-day coach tour from Vancouver to Whistler, including the breathtaking Sea-to-Sky highway and the Sea-to-Sky gondola ride.

• Granville Island Market VIP Food Tour by Vancouver Foodie Tours
   Explore the vibrant Granville Island Market on a VIP food tour, where you’ll taste local delicacies and enjoy insider knowledge from a seasoned guide.

• A Wok Around Chinatown: Culinary and Cultural Walking Tour Led by a Chef
   Rated as one of the top 25 food experiences in the world, this walking tour combines the rich culinary history of Vancouver’s Chinatown with hands-on cooking tips from an expert chef.

After reading all about the amazing adventures awaiting you, I’m sure you’re ready to book a nonstop flight to Vancouver. Conveniently, AUS offers not one, but two fantastic airlines flying nonstop to YVR! Book your flight with Air Canada at www.aircanada.com or WestJet at www.westjet.com, then start packing your bag for your next great adventure!

Air Canada: Currently offers nonstop service to Vancouver 4 times a week, with service ramping up to 5 times a week starting June 2025.

WestJet: Kicking off new nonstop flights to Vancouver 3 times a week, starting May 11, 2025.

More flights, more adventure! For more nonstops our of AUS, visit: www.austintexas.gov/department/nonstop-flights-out-aus.