Nestled in the heart of Metro Vancouver, Burnaby is one of British Columbia’s most vibrant and diverse cities. With a population of over 249,000, it’s the third-largest city in the province, offering a perfect blend of urban energy, natural beauty, and cultural depth.
Burnaby sits on the Burrard Peninsula, bordered by Vancouver to the west, the North Shore Mountains to the north, and the Fraser River to the south. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Greater Vancouver and the surrounding region.
Officially incorporated in 1892 and gaining city status in 1992, Burnaby has evolved from farmland into a major economic and educational hub. Today, it’s home to some of Canada’s top institutions, including Simon Fraser University (SFU) and the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT).
Burnaby is also a leader in green space planning. Nearly one-quarter of the city’s land is preserved as parks, forests, and open areas—one of the highest ratios in North America. Whether you’re hiking Burnaby Mountain, cycling through Central Park, or relaxing at Deer Lake, nature is always close by.
For tech lovers and professionals, Burnaby is a key player in British Columbia’s innovation sector. Major companies like Ballard Power, EA Vancouver, D-Wave, and General Fusion have offices here. The city is also a powerhouse in film and television production, housing Canada’s largest studio space and the majority of B.C.’s sound stages—an essential part of “Hollywood North.”
Shoppers will feel right at home in Metropolis at Metrotown, the largest mall in British Columbia and one of the busiest in the country. With hundreds of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, it’s a top destination for visitors and locals alike.
Getting around Burnaby is easy thanks to the SkyTrain network. Both the Expo and Millennium Lines run through the city, connecting residents and visitors to downtown Vancouver, Surrey, and other nearby cities. Metrotown Station is one of the busiest in the entire regional transit system.
Burnaby’s story is one of transformation. From agricultural roots, it became a vital link between Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. The arrival of the SkyTrain in the 1980s spurred new development and helped shape Burnaby into the urban centre it is today.
With a strong focus on sustainability, education, and innovation, Burnaby continues to grow as a forward-thinking, welcoming city that offers something for everyone.
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