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Home » Recent posts » Thrills and Chills: Playland Amusement Park in Vancouver

Thrills and Chills: Playland Amusement Park in Vancouver

Ultimate Guide to Playland Amusement Park in Vancouver
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Hey, fun fact – Playland Amusement Park is actually the oldest theme park in Canada! It’s been up and running on the east side of downtown Vancouver since way back in 1910.

Buckle up for our guide to the iconic Playland Amusement Park. Ready to turn your day into a carnival adventure? Join us and explore Playland like a local. Let the good times roll—read on for the full scoop!

Time Zone

Pacific Standard Time (PST) (UTC-8)

Best Time to Go

The best time to go to Playland Amusement Park is on weekdays, preferably right when the park opens at 10 a.m. During the weekdays, the park tends to be less crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy shorter lines and more attractions. 

Additionally, arriving early in the morning ensures that you have ample time to explore all the thrilling rides and exciting shows without feeling rushed. 

Things to Know

Currency: Canadian Dollar

Language: English

Calling Code: +1  

Is Playland in Vancouver or Burnaby?

Is Playland in Vancouver or Burnaby

Playland Amusement Park is a beloved entertainment destination featuring thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions. Its importance lies in providing joy and excitement for both locals and tourists. 

As a cherished part of Vancouver’s cultural fabric, Playland fosters a sense of community and offers memorable experiences for visitors seeking amusement and fun.

Playland Amusement Park is located in Vancouver, and is part of the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) fairgrounds on East Hastings Street, only 10 minutes from downtown Vancouver.

What months is Playland open?

What months is Playland open

Playland opens seasonally, from May to September each year. The park also reopens in October for the spooky “Fright Nights,” where Halloween takes center stage with thrilling themed events.

Do you need a ticket to get into Playland?

Do you need a ticket to get into Playland

Yes, you will need to purchase your tickets in advance online at TicketLeader.ca. And don’t forget, you’ll need those wristbands to hop on the rides. 

Playland staff will hook you up with the bands, and remember, everyone in your group has to be present for that wristband action.

How to Get to Playland Amusement Park in Vancouver

By public transit: All these buses can take you to Playland:

  • 14 Hastings / UBC
  • 16 29th Avenue Station / Arbutus
  • R5 Hastings St RapidBus
  • 130 Metrotown Station / Phibbs Exchange/Kootenay Loop
  • 222 Metrotown Station / Phibbs Exchange

By car: 

From Vancouver: drive to W Georgia Street and take a left on the Georgia viaduct. Then, keep driving to Prior Street and turn left on Campbell Avenue. From there, take a right on E Hastings Street and Playland will be on your left.

From North Vancouver: head to the Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 E from 13th St E and Grand Blvd E. Continue driving and take exit 25 from Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 E. Stay on the middle lane and follow signs for Hastings Street. Lastly, drive to E Hastings Street and take a right.

From YVR: head to Grant McConachie Wy E and SW Marine Dr to Knight St N. Then, take the exit toward Knight St North from SW Marine Dr. From there, keep driving on Knight St N. Drive to E Hastings St. Finally, make a right onto  E Hastings St.

Where to Stay near Playland Amusement Park

Hotel At The Waldorf

Media credit: hotelatthewaldorf

Address: 1489 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5L 1S4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-7141

Pricing: $

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This artsy hotel in the heart of East Vancouver is where contemporary art, music, food and culture are under one roof. Inside Hotel At The Waldorf, you’ll find vibrant rooms and a hip, island-inspired cafe.

They’re not all for the aesthetic either. The hotel’s location, basically minutes away from downtown and Playland, is unbeatable!

Accent Inns

Media credit: accentinns

Address: 3777 Henning Dr, Burnaby, BC V5C 6N5, Canada

Phone: +1 604-473-5000

Pricing: $

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A 5-minute drive from Playland, Accent Inns is your best bet for staying near Playland and downtown, minus the hefty city hotel prices. Sure, there’s not a lot of amenities to work with, but you get what you pay for.

The rooms here come with all the basics—TV, mini fridge, coffee maker, and if you chip in a few more bucks you can snag rooms with sofa beds and/or kitchenettes.

Executive Suites Hotel

Media credit: executivehotels

Address: 4201 Lougheed Hwy., Burnaby, BC V5C 3Y6, Canada

Phone: +1 604-298-2010

Pricing: $

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Executive Suites Hotel is an all-suite hotel, with traditionally-furnished furnishings and decor to make you feel right at home. Most rooms here even feature whirlpool tubs, which is not bad for the price.

You’ve got options – there’s a sports bar, restaurant dishing out West Coast fusion delights, a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a gym.

Coast Metro Vancouver Hotel

Media credit: coasthotels

Address: 2950 Boundary Rd, Burnaby, BC V5M 3Z9, Canada

Phone: +1 604-438-3451

Pricing: $

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With a scenic view of the North Shore mountains and downtown Vancouver, the Coast Metro Vancouver Hotel is a stylish property accentuated by a classy wooden exterior.

The rooms are pretty roomy, and each comes with its own balcony – a nice touch. You’ll enjoy perks like free onsite parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, and air-conditioned guest rooms for a comfortable stay.

Delta Hotels by Marriott

Media credit: deltahotels_burnaby

Address: 4331 Dominion St, Burnaby, BC V5G 1C7, Canada

Phone: +1 604-453-0750

Pricing: $$

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Nestled by the Grand Villa Casino, this classy conference hotel is just a quick 5-minute jaunt from Playland. With its stunning design, the hotel boasts panoramic water views.

You’ll find a steakhouse, a French breakfast bistro, and even a Starbucks right on-site, along with a fitness center, a hot tub, and a sauna. No worries about parking – it’s available, and they’ve got you covered for meeting and event space too.

Where to Eat in Playland Amusement Park

Coaster Dogs

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Pricing: $

Website

Coaster Dogs, a true original at Playland, is the go-to spot for some delicious bites. They serve fresh hand-dipped corn dogs and loaded hot dogs paired with sides like mac and cheese or our famous fried potato swirls.

Their menu is a delight with options like the Beast Bite Mac & Cheese Dog, the Southern Comfort Dog, Canadian Pizza Dog, and the Hawaiian Dog – all promising a taste adventure!

Triple O’s Restaurant

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Pricing: $$

Website

Right by the main gate of Playland, you’ve got the legendary flavor of a White Spot burger at Triple O’s. The burgers here are mouth-watering, and it’s a must-try for those looking to refill their tummies after a long day in the park.

Get the Triple O’s Legendary Burger with its juicy patty, melted cheese, and signature Triple O sauce that adds the perfect tangy kick. Oh, and don’t forget to pair it with their crispy golden fries!

Fundunkers Donut Shop

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Pricing: $

Website

Just at the South end of the Games line and just North of Hells Gate, Fundunkers is where you can score the infamous mini donuts here at Playland.

Try the mini donuts coated in cinnamon and sugar, or go for the new iced mini donuts with a unique specialty flavor changing each week.

What the Fudge

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Pricing: $

Website

South of the Hell’s Gate ride, you can’t miss What the Fudge as it’s right in the heart of Playland. There are over a dozen different flavors of homemade fudge you can put on your apple, and it’s just really awesome.

What to Do in Playland Amusement Park

Ride the Sea to Sky Swinger

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

The Sea to Sky Swinger whisks you up high and speedy for a pretty cool (and heart-racing) look at Vancouver’s scenery. They brought it all the way from Italy, and it fits 64 folks at once. 

But beware, it may look all chill with its sandy vibe and colorful swings, but trust us, it packs a real punch!

Drive and Bump at Rock-N-Cars

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

There’s nothing like a good ‘ol bumper car arena with blaring music to get your adrenaline rush started. The Rock-N-Cars is a new attraction where all ages can join in and enjoy the thrill of bumping into each other while grooving to their favorite tunes.

Experience the Merry-Go-Round

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

The Merry-Go-Round at Playland Amusement Park has beautifully decorated horses that gently move up and down while the carousel music plays softly in the background. 

It’s the perfect ride for the little ones, and of course, adults are welcome to join in on the fun as well. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the carousel horses create a whimsical atmosphere that captivates riders of all ages.

Experience the Thrill of the Wooden Roller Coaster

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

Zooming at speeds reaching 45 mph, the Wooden Roller Coaster is a wild ride with lots of twists, turns, and camel hops along its 2,840 feet of track that’ll keep you on the edge.

Recently ranked as the 7th top wooden coaster in Canada, let us tell you, it’s a hair-raising, heart-pounding experience that’s totally worth it!

Scream and Shout at the Beast

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

This one’s not for the faint of heart. True to its name, the Beast will have you screaming at the top of your lungs.

This ride swings you 120° in either direction, soaring over 125 feet high, all while spinning you at a whopping 90 km/hr in a seat that does a full 360° rotation. Yeah, it’s seriously hair-raising!

Hold on to your hat at the Dizzy Drop

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

At the Dizzy Drop, you buckle up in a circle, rocket up to the sky, take a wild plunge, shoot up again, and finish with another thrilling drop for a roller coaster experience that’s one of a kind.

Quick heads up – leave your stuff like phones or loose items behind. They might just take their own wild ride and go flying during the thrill!

Face Your Fears at Atmosfear

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

One of the park’s intense rides, Atmosfear shoots you 218ft up into the sky, spinning a full 360° at 70 km/hr. From that height, you’re treated to an unmatched panoramic view of the entire city!

Take off at the Enterprise

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

The Enterprise is like a spin on the classic Ferris wheel – it tilts a bit, and you’re in this car connected to a big wheel. As it makes a full rotation, you feel like you’re about to take off, and before you know it, you’re completely upside down.

Rise High at the Balloon Explorers

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

Balloon Explorers is a laid-back ride in the park, perfect for taking your little ones on a gentle hot air balloon journey. The attraction rotates slowly, giving you a 360° view to appreciate the park scenery.

Take a Spin at the Teacups

Media credit: pne_playland

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

Website

The Teacups is the perfect ride to relive your childhood memories.The whole family can join into one teacup and enjoy a spin together on this timeless amusement park ride.

Maps.me: offline maps with turn-by-turn navigation are available for free.

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Vancouver Transit Live: provides real-time bus schedules as well as live updates on buses approaching stops near you. 

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Uber: arrange a ride anywhere in Vancouver. Allows you to track the driver’s whereabouts in real time on the app and provide an anticipated arrival time.

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Paybyphone: Pay for meter parking with the touch of a button, set text reminders, and have your receipts emailed to you.

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