Introduction
Peace, quiet and beauty in Burnaby. This nook of the city includes a gorgeous park and carries the air of refinement; it’s also a quick walk away from the shopping hub of the city. The area is bordered by Deer Lake Park to the north and east, Oakland Street to the south and Royal Oak Avenue to the west.
Lifestyle
Gorgeous houses, hidden away from the traffic in tree-lined cul-de-sacs. Perambulations in one of BC’s best parks. Strolls along the lake, a carousel for kids, and a hop, skip and a jump away from every last one of your shopping needs. What more could you ask for? If you can think of something, chances are this neighbourhood has it as well.
Dollars & Sense
Rents are pretty reasonable by Lower Mainland’s steep standards. As for recreation, you’ve got an embarrassment of riches at no cost whatsoever with Deer Lake Park, although if you want to, you can shell out reasonable amounts for amusement and recreation there. Nearby Metrotown offers a wide range of goods and services at reasonable prices.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
There’s not much to dislike about this place: it’s friendly, relatively affordable, beautiful, and home to at least one great park. As far as culture goes, this is as good as suburbia gets, with numerous arts and historical resources. Oakalla has a bit of a secluded feel, despite its proximity to a heavy commercial area; some of the houses seem almost hidden away down cul-de-sacs and behind landscaping.
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Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Oakalla is very accessible, and it's three for three on your common transport modes: Oakland St. features a wide bike lane; the neighbourhood is small enough to accommodate walking; and, while buses in the immediate area are infrequent, if punctual, nearby Metrotown hosts a Skytrain station and numerous bus lines. The choice is yours.
In the Area
Marlborough Elementary School is a distinguished French immersion institution, located at the bottom of the neighbourhood. The main attraction is Deer Lake Park, a true haven for Burnaby residents; within the aegis of the park there are numerous civic institutions, but don’t look elsewhere for many others. A notable spot in the area is Royal Oakland Park.
Meet the Neighbours
From low-rise apartments to modest but beautiful houses, this is an inclusive area, and very multicultural as well. Immigrants make up a majority of the neighbourhood, and the age range skews to the middle, with many families. The most popular country of origin for the area is China, according to burnaby.ca.
The Vibe
From Canada geese by the lakeside to downtime in a lawn chair, this is a place where summer brings out the best of modern living. Year round, though, it’s a conveniently located, well-tended, exceedingly pleasant place to live. There are some wonderful views, the side streets are quiet and there are some nice nooks and crannies in the residential streets.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Burnaby Village Museum
Great for locals and tourists alike. The motto is 'Where History Comes to Life', and the concept is a Burnaby village of yore, with a tram, blacksmith and more. A taste of old times.
more infoShadbolt Centre for the Arts
Live performances; courses in art, dance and music; and much, much more are on offer at this cultural redoubt, named for famed Canadian painter Jack Shadbolt and his wife, curator Doris.
more infoDeer Lake Gallery
Another of the park’s treasures, bringing culture to the ‘burbs with a cozy, intimate gallery. It displays the best of local art, and is a popular stop around the circuit of the area. Highly recommended.
more infoDeer Lake Boat Rentals
You’ve gotta do it. Take a canoe or a kayak for a workout and some breathtaking scenery, or rent a pedal boat for a more casual trip around the lake.
more infoDeer Lake Park
The crown jewel of the area. Forest, trails, a beautiful lake and more; in good weather it’s almost like a paradise. Come on your own or with friends; you’ll have a great time either way.
more info