for our anniv, we are thinking of going to vancouver during the 8-13th of march.
how would the weather be ? we would like to spend time outdoors, doing some activity or just window-shopping or roaming the downtown.. and we arent' really snow/cold-weather people , meaning won't be fun for us if we have to be decked in layers and would be shivering.
any info as to weather/temp during those times would be great !

Weatherwise...no you would most likely not encounter any snowy/cold weather in March as the city is nearing spring weather. At worst, you'll probably still encounter some rain which Vancouver is notoriously known for anyways. So no you won't need to be decked in layers. A sweater and a jacket/rain coat would do fine.

For shopping you can always walk around Robson Street (Downtown West End), head over to Kitsilano or visit one of the public markets such as Lonsdale Quay (North Vancouver), Granville Island (South of Downtown), or the New Westminster Quay (New Westminster).

As for activities what is your preference on this rather broad topic? You're not a cold weather person as you stated earlier so I would imagine that skiing would not be in your interest. Hiking, rollerblading & mountain biking would still be too early in the season, so I guess you can do sightseeings such as visiting Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension Bridge, or maybe take a one day excursion to Victoria & Vancouver Island via the BC ferry.

hey rejunivated
thanks for the reply..
actitvity wise, we were thinking of basically, general sight-seeing,
chillng out and basically do some active stuff.
it's not that we don't like snow.. just that lsat 2-3 vacations, we were
shivering through our bones, so this time, would prefer a little less of the cold stuff. but not totally against it. had planned on spending a day or two in victoria, and maybe drive around vancouver and see what all's there.
thanks for all the info though.

The temperature in early March is really hit and miss. We've been in a somewhat dry spell recently but don't be surprised by some rain. It's also been a bit chilly recently at night where you'd need to wear a warm jacket. However, during the days it's been very nice. It's probably warm enough that I'm sure you'll see many people in shorts and a wind breaker or fleece but pants and a long sleaved sweater is more realistic.

Presently the forecast for Portland is highs in the 70s during your visit time. That said, Vancouver is generally 4-5 degrees cooler. But don't count on the above because the jet stream has been doing all sorts of strange things this year. I suspect that your trip will be pleasant.

thanks opushomes and jay71 ^
we kinda delayed our plans and will go now in april 1st week or so., but seems like would be a nice time to visit (and hopefully would avoid the main tourist season).
thanks again for your inputs.

Hi!
Check out the weather network channel to see weather patterns in conjunction with your trip.
http://www.theweathernetwork.com/

Saw the same Alaska Airlines fare sale that I've been eying, did you?

We are also Bay Area residents and have been to Vancouver in April 3 times in the last 7 years. We've seen a little rain, some clouds and some sun. Hasn't ever been too cold, and we found plenty to do indoors when the rain started - museums, Granville Island, and really great used bookstore where Mr. SptCA claims I spend both too much time and too much money.

Buchardt Gradens should be lovely about then if you're out on the Island.

Here's a one day car route that I do all the time.

Start at the Uni of BC, check out the Japanese gardens and the Museum of Anthropology (the best & prob the only museum worth seeing in Vcr).

Drive into Kitsilano down 4th avenue stopping at the boutique shops if you like.

Turn down to Cornwall and drive along the beach. A great spot to eat lunch.

Drive across the Burrard Bridge into downtown swing down Robson Street and through Gastown. Stop at the steam clock and also in Chinatown.

Continue to Stanley Park. Here you can see the aquarium and walk the boardwalk.

If you have time / or late at night drive to Grouse Mountain. Best place to dine Stanley Park or on the mtn to see the views, if it's not raining.

Enjoy!