Man-made Trout Lake and the surrounding John Hendry Park are like a little oasis in East Vancouver. Despite its proximity to the bustling Commercial Dr shopping district and a busy truck route, the park retains a sort of peaceful tranquility - perfect for a short walk and a little fresh air.
The lake is in the center and has two beaches. The north beach belongs to the dogs - they run off-leash, jumping in and out of the water. Whereas the south beach is more relaxed; in the summer you can swim here, and there's a concession stand and a lifeguard. The rest is surrounded by vegetation and swampy areas, but you can walk around along trails and a wooden boardwalk.
There are sports fields and a bbq/picnic area on the east side of the park. There's even a large covered section with tables, making it a good spot to enjoy outdoor eating, even when the weather doesn't agree with you.
The newly renovated Trout Lake Community Center has an ice skating rink, fitness center, and pottery room. There are bathrooms inside and another small concession.
On Saturdays in the summer, you can visit one of the largest farmers markets. It's set up in the parking lot on the north side, close to the dog beach. Throughout the year the park hosts several events and activities, such as the Lantern Festival - when the entire park is filled with pretty, glowing lights accompanied by music and performances.
Find your way with 192 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Mr. Red Cafe" is the 'quintessence of Vietnamese cuisine'. This restaurant is just simply delicious. Let me tell you, it's not typical Vietnamese fare...
By
Benches to sit on and watered plants show that Fun Alley was designed as a place for people to hang out, not just a place to glance at and keep going.
By
Magnificent Seven — seven soup dumplings with different colours and flavours and their giant soup dumplings, which are served with a straw for easy slurping.
By
La Grotta del Formaggio, a Vancouver classic, offers hefty custom sandwiches, unique pastas, and diverse cheeses in Little Italy since the 1970s. Enjoy!
By
While they are a cafe selling coffee and various baked goods, the main reason people come through the doors is to get one of their delicious cinnamon buns.
By
They have a dedicated affogato bar that lets you customize your affogato with whichever ice cream you want and you can even add a shot of liqueur.
By
The "Fraser River Trail" in Vancouver is a super relaxing walk with a view of boats in the distance and some planes flying in and out of YVR Airport.
By
"Vancouver Story Slam" runs the second-longest-running story slam in the world! It's very unexpected and underrated treat. Grab a drink, sit back & enjoy!
By
A popular but out of the way park, Rocky Point Park and its surroundings are a gathering place for families, friends, and couples alike.
By
Depicting a woman rising with newfound strength, this wall honours women living in or fleeing domestic violence.
By
"Granville Island Public Market" in Vancouver is very close to where I love, so I come here mostly to get veggies, some good meat and sweet treats!
By
"CRAFT Beer Market" in Vancouver is my favourite place to sip a beer, relax and hang out with friends with one of the 140 beers on tap and some Maui ribs.
By
192 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 192 Insider Tips