If you’re planning a shopping day (or weekend) in Burnaby, you’re in for a treat. This vibrant city just east of Vancouver is packed with everything from massive malls to cozy boutiques, cool local finds, and plenty of good food along the way. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your own backyard or a visitor wanting to explore Burnaby’s shopping scene, one thing’s for sure—it’s way easier (and a lot more fun) with your own wheels.

Let’s talk about how a car rental in Burnaby can totally change the way you shop—and where you should go first.

Metropolis at Metrotown: Big Mall Energy

Let’s start with the obvious one: Metrotown. It’s the largest shopping mall in British Columbia and one of the biggest in Canada. With over 400 stores, including big names like Uniqlo, Hudson’s Bay, Apple, and Zara, this place is basically the Disneyland of shopping for adults.

Metrotown is easy to reach with a car, and parking is pretty straightforward (lots of it and free!). You can load your trunk with all the bags you want—no more juggling armfuls of stuff on public transit or trying to Uber with shopping bags sliding all over the backseat.

Seriously, if you’re planning a major shopping day, Metrotown’s a no-brainer.

Brentwood Town Centre: Fresh, New, and Stylish

Next up: Brentwood. This mall has had a major glow-up in recent years. It’s now a sleek, modern destination with not just shops, but cafés, restaurants, and a laid-back urban vibe that makes it a great place to hang out, not just shop.

The best part? It’s super accessible by car. With a car rental in Burnaby, you can drop by for brunch, shop for a while, and then head off to your next stop—no waiting on bus schedules. Want to chill out and people-watch with a coffee after? You’ve got time. You’re on your own schedule.

Learn more about the new Brentwood here.

The Heights: Local Gems and Vintage Vibes

If you’re more into local finds and independent stores, Burnaby Heights is where it’s at. This neighborhood has a small-town charm with its cute storefronts, old-school bakeries, vintage clothing spots, and cozy cafés.

It’s not a mega mall, but that’s what makes it special. You can pick up a handmade gift, try on something unique, and chat with the shop owners. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to take your time in—and having a rental car makes it easy to explore without worrying about which bus will take you home.

Burnaby Village Museum: History and Handmade Goods

Okay, this one’s a little different—but hear us out. Burnaby Village Museum isn’t your usual shopping destination, but during the warmer months, they host craft markets that are full of unique, locally made goods. Plus, walking around the vintage buildings and riding the carousel feels like a mini time-travel experience.

It’s a little out of the way, so it’s perfect for a quick stop if you’ve got a car. Drive over, stroll through the museum, grab a few handmade souvenirs, and snap some cute photos while you’re there.

Here’s their official page if you want to see upcoming events or market dates.

Highland Park: Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasures

Not many people talk about Highland Park, but that’s part of its charm. This lesser-known pocket in Burnaby has a few local stores, food spots, and independent businesses that are worth checking out—especially if you want something different from the mall scene.

These are the places you often stumble across while driving, which makes having a car kind of essential. It’s a low-key gem that’s better explored at your own pace.

Why Renting a Car Makes Shopping So Much Better

Let’s be honest: shopping is fun, but carrying bags across town is not. A car rental in Burnaby gives you freedom—plain and simple.

• You’re in control. Want to spend the whole afternoon in Brentwood and then hop over to The Heights for dinner? Go for it.
• Room for all your finds. No more lugging bags onto the SkyTrain. Just toss them in the trunk and keep shopping.
• Perfect for group trips. Shopping with friends? Split the rental and ride together. It’s way more fun (and you can hype each other up over outfits).

And if you’re flying in, no worries—Mr. Rent a Car has a 24/7 location at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Even if your flight lands at midnight, you can still grab your car thanks to our self-serve pickup system. Just book in advance, and we’ll have everything ready for you.

Book with Mr. Rent a Car here.

Final Thoughts

Burnaby isn’t just a suburb—it’s a shopping destination with something for every style, taste, and budget. From the mega malls to the cozy boutiques, there’s a lot to explore—and the best way to get around is on your own terms.

So, whether you’re planning a power-shopping weekend or just looking to casually browse and grab lunch, do yourself a favor: get a car rental in Burnaby and shop stress-free. You’ll see more, do more, and definitely carry more.

Ready to hit the shops? Your Burnaby adventure starts with a set of keys.