best areas to visit in vancouver

22 Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Vancouver, BC

Written by Chloë Ernst and Michael Law Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Michael Law has lived in Vancouver and returns frequently, usually adding on some time to ski at Whistler.

With its mountain backdrop and urban beaches, Vancouver has the rightly earned reputation of being one of the most beautiful cities in the world .

Downtown Vancouver is picturesquely situated on a peninsula in the Strait of Georgia, with the often snow-covered ranges of the Coast Mountains rising in behind. The setting is one of the city's main attractions.

With its extensive parks and agreeable climate keeping temperatures mild throughout the year, outdoor activities are high on the list of things to do in Vancouver. But it also boasts a busy cultural life, fantastic shopping, and incredible dining. This scenic city was showcased to the world when it hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics, in conjunction with nearby Whistler .

Find your way around the city with our list of attractions and things to do in Vancouver.

1. Go for a Walk in Stanley Park

2. do some shopping on granville island, 3. see the brockton point totem poles, 4. ski grouse mountain, 5. visit the vancouver aquarium, 6. visit the museum of anthropology, 7. relax on kitsilano beach, 8. explore gastown, 9. tour canada place, 10. soak up some culture in chinatown, 11. go for a stroll in english bay, 12. walk across the capilano suspension bridge, 13. take a ride on the aquabus, 14. shop robson street, 15. learn about history at the museum of vancouver, 16. queen elizabeth park, 17. take the kids to science world, 18. enjoy the sights of richmond, 19. go whale watching, 20. vandusen botanical garden, 21. vancouver art gallery, 22. day trip to whistler or the gulf islands, where to stay in vancouver for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to vancouver, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit vancouver.

Stanley Park is a lush peninsula of huge trees adjacent to Downtown Vancouver. If you are looking to get outside and enjoy some nature, this is the best place to visit in Vancouver. A paved seawall path encircles the green space and is a wonderful place to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Inland, the park offers many things to do, and you can spend a full day exploring attractions like the totem poles at Brockton Point or the Vancouver Aquarium . Spectacular views are a standard throughout the park either back towards the city or out to the ocean.

Come spring, the park's gardens and shrubs burst into a rainbow of beautiful colors, led by the cherry trees and closely followed by the rhododendrons.

In the summer, an outdoor pool operates right at the edge of the ocean. This 80-meter pool is heated and is a popular spot for families because of its gently sloped entry.

Once mainly industrial, Granville Island is now a thriving center of activity with a relaxed and distinctive atmosphere. Artists and retailers have moved into converted warehouses alongside houseboats, theaters, galleries, and restaurants.

The Granville Island Public Market is one of the most popular attractions selling fruit and vegetables, seafood, and a great variety of other specialties as well as ready-to-eat items. Not truly an island, the arts hub is linked to residential areas by one road and footbridges to the south, and to the Downtown peninsula (across False Creek) by ferry.

Location: South of and underneath the Granville Street Bridge

The Brockton Point Totem Poles are a must-see when visiting Stanley Park. These intricately carved poles are one of the top attractions in British Columbia . The totem poles were first placed in the park at a different location in the 1920s, and over the years, the collection grew and was eventually moved to Brockton Point.

Today you'll find nine totem poles carved from red cedar in addition to three gateway portals. The colorful totem poles line a wide walkway and are set back against tall evergreen trees. Nearby is a visitor center that provides additional insight into First Nations history and the totem poles themselves.

In both winter and summer, Grouse Mountain offers an unmatched panorama in clear weather. That's especially so in the evenings when the city lights are on.

A gondola operates daily running from street level to the summit, where dining, activities, and wildlife await mountaintop explorers year-round.

Skiing: When the snow flies, Grouse Mountain is a winter wonderland offering outdoor skating, snowshoeing, and some of the best skiing and snowboarding near Vancouver . The ski runs are not particularly difficult, and Grouse Mountain is a fun family outing. It's also a great place to learn how to ski.

Hiking: Come summer, Grouse Mountain is a hiker's paradise with trails, including the famed Grouse Grind - affectionately called Mother Nature's StairMaster.

Day Trip Tour: If you are staying downtown, consider this tour: North Shore Day Trip from Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain . On this 6.5-hour tour, you'll hit two of the major attractions on the North Shore.

Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, British Columbia

A trip with the family to Stanley Park for most folks would be incomplete without visiting the Vancouver Aquarium . This wonderful facility teaches young and old about the wonders of the ocean and how we can protect it.

Experiences: Fun and entertaining experiences include a cold-water touch tank; a wildlife rescue area complete with a Burmese tortoise; Penguin Cove, full of cute creatures; and the non-stop action of the sea otters in their habitat. One thing not to miss is the 4D Theatre Experience with special seats, effects, and a large screen that make you feel you are part of what you are seeing.

Exhibits in the aquarium educate visitors on the unique habitats of the Amazon, the tropics, and BC's Wild Coast.

In the past, the aquarium used to have whale performances and belugas; however, the animals have since died and have not been replaced, or they have been relocated.

Address: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, British Columbia

Part of the University of British Columbia, the Museum of Anthropology deals with cultures from around the world, but places particular emphasis on British Columbia First Nations.

Exhibits display native art, including large totem poles in the Great Hall. Other presentations explore ethnographic and archaeological objects representing Asia, the South Pacific, the Americas, Africa, and Europe.

The interesting building was originally part of a WWII-era fort, and local architect Arthur Erickson transformed the spaces into this world-class museum.

Other attractions on the university campus include the clothing-optional shoreline of Wreck Beach, the natural-history-focused Beaty Biodiversity Museum, and the rambling UBC Botanical Garden with its many interesting plantings and delicate Nitobe Japanese Garden.

Address: 6393 NW Marine Drive, Vancouver, British Columbia

The sandy shoreline of Kitsilano Beach defines the laid-back, fun-loving Vancouver lifestyle. It's a place locals hang out with friends or take a dip in the outdoor heated seawater swimming pool . The wide beach here is popular with sun bathers in the summer.

Views from Kitsilano over the city center are wonderful. In addition to the beach and oceanfront, the area has a number of cafés and walking trails, and a vibrant shopping strip lies a few blocks south on West Fourth Avenue .

A short stroll to the east of Kitsilano is Vanier Park, where you'll find wide-open spaces and the Vancouver Maritime Museum . Catch a small Aquabus to downtown Vancouver or Granville Island from the docks located here.

Address: 2305 Cornwall Ave, Vancouver, British Columbia

• Read More: Best Beaches in Vancouver, BC

The oldest part of the city , Gastown is an area of restaurants, galleries, and shops set in carefully restored Victorian buildings. Heritage structures, cobblestone streets, and iron lampposts give the district its distinctive atmosphere. Gastown is a short walk from Canada Place.

Gastown came into existence in 1867 when a man called John Deighton arrived on the scene. Deighton had a habit of launching into lengthy stories and soon acquired the nickname "Gassy Jack." As a result, the vicinity became known as "Gassy's Town" or "Gastown."

A statue of the proprietor now watches over the neighborhood in Maple Tree Square. Tourists stop for photos with Gassy Jack, and also love to visit the nearby Steam Clock, which puffs steam-powered chimes every 15 minutes.

If you arrive in Vancouver on a cruise ship, Canada Place is where your trip begins. The unusual roof design creates the impression of a huge sailing vessel. The architecturally remarkable structure is part cruise ship terminal, part convention center and hotel, and part hub for sightseeing bus tours.

At the end of the pier are panoramic views and the Flyover Canada attraction - a flight simulator that assaults all your senses while giving you a Canadian geography lesson. Also nearby, Waterfront Station is a major transit hub with ferries departing for the public market at Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver .

If you exit the building and turn right, a scenic waterfront walk towards Stanley Park begins. Along the way, you'll see the seaplanes take off and land, and massive seagoing container ships heading out to sea.

Address: 999 Canada Place, Vancouver

Beyond the ornate Millennium Gate marking its entrance, Vancouver's exotic and interesting Chinatown features modern buildings amid many older ones dating from Victorian times.

Signs at shops and restaurants are often written in Chinese characters, particularly along East Pender, Keefer, and Main streets – the main shopping areas. Local attractions include the pretty walled Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden , modeled after a traditional garden from the Ming Dynasty.

Also worth seeing is the Sam Kee Building , which at barely two meters wide, claims to be the narrowest office building in the world. Every year, Chinese New Year is celebrated with an exuberant parade.

Oceanfront English Bay centers on one of the city's loveliest and busiest beaches . Part of the West End neighborhood, English Bay offers shopping and high-end restaurants, but is also a popular outdoor area where people come to walk, bike, rollerblade, or hang out with the public art installations.

English Bay is not far from Stanley Park , and a waterfront trail joins the two. The beach is strewn with large tree trunks, which make a perfect back rest for sunbathers.

One of the biggest events of the summer is Celebration of Light. Generally occurring around the last week of July, spectacular fireworks are set to music. Another popular event is the New Year's Day Polar Bear Swim, when hardy swimmers take a dip in the chilly Pacific waters.

Vancouver's first tourist attraction, the Capilano Suspension Bridge opened in 1889 and has been thrilling visitors with its swaying bridge over a plummeting canyon ever since. The footbridge spans a 70-meter deep river canyon leading to an activity park filled with forest trails and a treetop walk through old-growth giants. There's also a collection of totem poles and a transparent suspended platform known as the Cliffwalk.

If you are staying in Vancouver and looking for an easy way to visit the bridge and see some city highlights, the Vancouver City Tour including Capilano Suspension Bridge is a convenient option. This trip includes a half-day tour of Vancouver, a visit to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and a cliff walk adventure.

Also along Capilano Road, Capilano Salmon Hatchery is worth a visit (in fall especially) to spot flashing salmon as they try to swim upstream. The fish ladder - a series of staggered pools - allows fish to bypass Cleveland Dam. Check out the underwater windows for a first-hand look at their efforts.

Address: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver, British Columbia

One of the best views of Vancouver is fortunately one of the cheapest. Jump on the small Aquabus and bob your way across and around False Creek while soaking up the incredible views. It's easy to get on board – eight pickup points are strategically placed around the downtown waterfront.

You'll never have to wait long, one of the colorfully painted 13 Aquabuses will be by to pick you up every 15 minutes. The boats are pet friendly, bike friendly, and can accommodate wheelchairs. The Aquabus is particularly handy if you are walking around downtown and would like to grab lunch or do a bit of shopping at Granville Island.

Robson Street is best known for shopping. But international brand names aside, it's also the setting for many inventive Vancouver happenings.

The main hub of activity on Robson Street is centered between Burrard and Jarvis Streets . Over these three blocks, you'll find over 150 stores and restaurants. Take a stroll up and down the street, and see if you can snag a patio seat to engage in some serious people watching.

Robson Street is central to many of the city's top attractions, so a visit here is easily combined with a stop at the Vancouver Art Gallery or nearby Robson Square.

Location: Robson Street at Hornby Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

In Vanier Park near Burrard Bridge, the Museum of Vancouver is a large institution devoted to all things Vancouver. It covers the city history from the first Coast Salish communities to Japantown, Kitsilano hippie days, and urban development.

In the same building is the HR MacMillan Space Centre with its planetarium, an observatory, and the waterfront Maritime Museum , where splendid views capture English Bay with the North Shore mountains beyond.

If you are staying downtown, catch the Aquabus across False Creek to Vanier Park and get off at the Maritime Museum Ferry dock.

Address: 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

The center of Queen Elizabeth Park, Little Mountain, marks the highest point in Vancouver, and its elevated position affords excellent views of the city center and the mountains to the north.

Things to do in the park include pitch-and-putt golf, tennis, disc golf, and visiting the extensive outdoor arboretum. If the day is grey and cool, escape to the tropical environment of the Bloedel Conservatory .

Queen Elizabeth Park has an excellent restaurant called Seasons in the Park. Walk the park in the mid-morning, then stop in for lunch while you soak up the amazing views of downtown Vancouver.

The sunken Quarry Garden makes a lovely spot to stroll on a warm summer day. For more horticultural explorations, head a couple of blocks west to VanDusen Botanical Garden, where there is always something in bloom amid beds representing various regions and species.

Location: Cambie Street and West 33rd Ave, Vancouver, British Columbia

The futuristic sphere-like building of Science World is home to a child-friendly exploration center that explains phenomena through 12 hands-on exhibits and demonstrations. Themes include water, air, motion, and invention.

Visiting exhibits are often impressive and part of world tours. The building, which is an unmistakable waterfront landmark in Vancouver, was originally built for Expo 86, a World's Fair.

Address: 1455 Quebec Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

South of Vancouver, Richmond is Vancouver's second Chinatown, hence you'll see many shops with Chinese characters on their signs. If you crave authentic Chinese food, you are in the right spot. Hundreds of restaurants line the streets, serving delicious food.

Richmond is also packed with sightseeing attractions, from a renowned Buddhist temple to the picturesque former fishing village of Steveston where you'll find waterfront restaurants and shops in restored old boatsheds. Located in the latter, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site is one of the most historic settings in Richmond, and it relays the history of the West Coast fishing industry.

Once you've had your fill of tourist attractions, head to the malls to find imported Asian goods and much more. In the warmer weather, come down at night, when vibrant night markets take place and are similar in nature to ones you'd find in Hong Kong.

The waters off Vancouver's coastline, known as the Salish Sea, are an excellent place to see whales. Humpback and gray whales, along with smaller minke and orcas swim in these waters.

The main whale watching season runs from March through October. Options for seeing the whales range from aerial viewing from a float plane to Zodiac boats, or for those looking for a more stable platform, larger tour boats. If you are lucky, you might even spot a few whales from the BC ferries that transit between Vancouver and Victoria .

Strict regulations are in place that limit how close the boats can get to the whales. A popular option leaves from in front of the Westin Hotel in downtown Vancouver. The Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver takes you out on the Salish Sea Dream, an 80-foot double decker catamaran. Along the way, interesting commentary is provided. You'll have a good chance of sighting a whale from one of the multiple viewing decks.

The British Columbia climate is ideal for producing spectacular displays of flowers, and there's no better place to see them in their full glory than the VanDusen Botanical Garden . The garden is handily located a short distance from downtown on Oak Street near the aforementioned Queen Elizabeth Park.

The garden is a pleasant place to wander, and something is always in bloom no matter when you visit. To maximize your enjoyment, be sure to check out the bloom guide that the gardens put out on their website prior to each season.

Highlights of any visit include the cherry trees bursting into color in the spring followed by the rhododendrons and laburnums, then the roses and hydrangeas putting on their show in the summer. Come fall, the Japanese maples, ginkgo trees, and rudbeckia step up and do their part in impressing guests.

The Vancouver Art Gallery is the city's premier arts institution, located in Downtown Vancouver. The gallery presents innovative, world-class exhibitions year-round featuring the works of local and international artists on a rotating basis. The gallery's collection includes paintings by renowned BC artist Emily Carr (1871-1945), as well as contemporary works by Asia-Pacific and First Nations artists.

The façade of the building faces Robson Square , an interesting public space designed by Arthur Erickson, which includes a winter ice-skating rink and law courts.

The steps with their carved lions out front of the gallery are a popular meeting spot and demonstration site for whatever causes are in the news. The Vancouver Art Gallery is located on Hornby Street, not far from Robson Street, and a visit to both is easily accomplished.

One of the most popular day trips is a drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler . If you want to do some sightseeing along the way, stop in at Squamish and Shannon Falls. Then, spend the afternoon wandering around Whistler Village, where you'll find shops, restaurants, and beautiful scenery around every corner. If you are a skier and you're visiting in winter, plan on a day of skiing here.

Other popular day trips from Vancouver include visiting some of the Gulf Islands, like Salt Spring Island , or taking a ferry all the way to Victoria on Vancouver Island. Ferries run regularly and the trip to Victoria is only about 1.5 hours.

Read More: From Vancouver to Victoria: Best Ways to Get There

To experience the best of Vancouver, it's a good idea to stay right downtown. Vancouver has a vibrant and active city center, where people live, work, and play. Many of the top attractions, including Stanley Park, English Bay, Robson Street, Gastown, and Granville Island, are located in the city center, along with great shopping and dining. Below are some highly-rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• With a superb location, looking out over Vancouver Harbour, Stanley Park, and the North Shore Mountains, the Fairmont Pacific Rim is one of the city's finest hotels.
• Just off Robson Street near the famous Vancouver Public Library, the boutique L'Hermitage Hotel is a great luxury option for families or groups, with regular rooms and multi-room suites with kitchens.
• Near Robson Square, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia , first opened in 1927, is one of Vancouver's classic luxury hotels in the heart of downtown.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• True mid-range hotels are in scarce supply in the city center. At the top-end of mid-range, the centrally located Executive Hotel Le Soleil is a lovely boutique hotel with elegant suites.
• Near False Creek and Granville Island, the Residence Inn by Marriott Vancouver Downtown is an extended-stay hotel with studios, as well as suites with full kitchens.
• At the east end of downtown, close to Roger's Center, Science World, and Gastown, is the well-appointed Georgian Court Hotel, BW Premier Collection.

Budget Hotels :

• Located near Roger's Center, the non-profit YWCA Hotel Vancouver welcomes all travelers to their clean, modern, and comfortable rooms. All room revenue, less operating expenses, is put back towards social programs for women, children, and families.
• Near Gastown, is the Victorian Hotel , in a late 1800s Victorian-style building, with comfortable rooms and modern décor.
• In a very central location and within walking distance to the Vancouver Convention Center and the Olympic Cauldron is the basic but comfortable Days Inn by Wyndam Vancouver Downtown .
• Sightseeing : Vancouver is a big city, and it can be somewhat confusing with the water and bridges. A great way to see the attractions and get acquainted with the layout of the city is on a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour . The bus tour stops at 24 locations. Tickets are valid for either one or two days.
• Day Trips : Vancouver Island is one of Canada's most beautiful destinations, and it's less than two hours away by ferry from Vancouver. One of the easiest ways to see a bit of the island, including the beautiful provincial capital of Victoria, is on a Vancouver to Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour . This tour takes you by bus and scenic ferry ride through the Gulf Islands to Victoria, where you'll have time to explore the city and see the famous Butchart Gardens, located just outside the city. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip ferry, bus, and admission to the gardens.

Tourists tend to flock to Vancouver in the summer when the days are long and the sun is shining. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are less busy, but the weather is a little less predictable. Even the winter — known for being dark and damp — has something to offer.

Spring: Vancouver experiences spring much earlier than the rest of Canada, and it is arguably when the city is at its most beautiful . It doesn't take long for the daffodils to poke out of the earth and for the infamous cherry blossoms to make an appearance, covering the city in delicate pink petals.

Of course, it takes rain to make flowers grow — and early spring can be a rainy time in Vancouver. Luckily, the temperatures this time of year are relatively warm, meaning it is still very pleasant to take in the sights of the city — though you may prefer to do so from under an umbrella.

In late spring, the rainy days become fewer, and the days get longer, but the crowds tend to stay away until the end of June. The late May to mid-June period offers the optimal conditions for a perfect Vancouver visit: great weather, but not too busy.

Summer: If you'd rather skip out on experiencing the notorious rain, then the summer months are your best bet for a visit to Vancouver. While there are no guarantees, the odds are good that you'll be treated to plenty of clear, sunny days in July and August , which are traditionally the warmest and driest months in Vancouver.

In the summer, the entire city tends to head outdoors. Whether exploring Stanley Park by bike, hiking the surrounding mountains, or just lounging at one of Vancouver's many beaches , there's simply no better way to experience summer in Vancouver than by being outside.

The fact that summer in Vancouver is spectacular is, unfortunately, not a very well-kept secret. Expect to pay a premium to enjoy summer in Vancouver, and always aim to show up early if you want to beat the crowds.

Fall: Fall in Vancouver can be somewhat hit or miss. If you happen to catch it on a "hit" day, then you're in for a real treat: crisp air, leaves changing colors, and clear views of the North Shore mountains as they get their first dusting of snow up top.

Hiking this time of year can be phenomenal. The bugs are a non-issue, the weather stays comfortable throughout the entire day, and the crowds of summer are long gone. Be mindful of hiking at elevation, as trails on the mountains can get covered in snow in the fall months. Always keep your eye on the time: as the daylight hours shrink, you are left with less time for those longer hikes.

Winter: While winter in the rest of Canada conjures up images of ice, snow, and bitter cold, that couldn't be further from winter in Vancouver. You'll want to dress properly if you visit Vancouver in the winter, but you're more likely to need to protect yourself from the rain than from the cold. The average temperature in Vancouver in January is 7 degrees Celsius (about 45 degrees Fahrenheit) — but the average rainfall for the month is about 140 millimeters (5.5 inches)!

While the rest of Canada is hibernating from the cold, people in Vancouver are able to get out and about thanks to its mild winters . The holiday season in Vancouver is, in a word, magical , with the Festival of Lights in VanDusen Gardens, the German-inspired Vancouver Christmas Market, and the spectacular Bright Nights at Vancouver's famous Stanley Park.

Though you're likely to experience at least some rain in the winter months, you also might get lucky with a few bluebird days. It isn't unusual to see people out on the golf course, even in the middle of winter!

If you're caught in a rainy spell, simply hop on a shuttle and head up to Whistler . Just two hours north of Vancouver, this world-renowned ski resort is best enjoyed in the winter months. If it's raining in Vancouver, chances are good that Whistler is getting covered in snow.

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Home » North America » Canada » Vancouver

26 BEST Places to Visit in Vancouver (2024)

If you love everything in nature, from the coast to the mountains, then there’s no better place to go than Vancouver. This city has everything, from the best seafood you’ve ever tasted to stunning natural vistas. When you add this city to your travels, you’ll be shocked and awed by the many amazing places to visit in Vancouver. And to make these attractions even better, you’ll be able to see them while surrounded by some of the friendliest, politest people on the planet.

The only real problem you’ll while visiting Vancouver is working out what to see. This city has everything, and you don’t want to waste your time trying to find the best places to suit your tastes and preferences. Which is why we’ve created this ultimate list to the best attractions in Vancouver no matter what you enjoy doing.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Vancouver:

These are the best places to visit in vancouver, faq on the best places to visit in vancouver, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in vancouver.

Gastown is one of the oldest and most charming neighbourhoods in Vancouver. Located at the northeast end of Downtown Vancouver, this area is made up of cobblestone streets and stunning heritage architecture.

• Visit the Steam Clock and stand at the spot where the city began.
• Good drinks and a great atmosphere await you at the Lamplighter Public House, a classic and modern pub at the heart of the city.
• Visit the Alibi Room for a great lineup of cocktails, beer, drinks and food.

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to what to see AND excellent accommodation in this splendid city. Check out where to stay in Vancouver before you dive in on the rest of the fun below.

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#1 – Stanley Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Vancouver

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• A stunning green space next to Downtown Vancouver.
• This part contains a number of attractions from an aquarium to the best views in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Vancouver has amazing natural scenery and this park allows you to enjoy that right in the middle of the city. It contains huge trees with a paved seawall path around the space and you can wander on foot or hire bicycles to get around more quickly. Stanley Park takes pride of place amongst the various things to do in Vancouver.

What to do there: There are lots of things to do in this park, which is why it’s one of the most popular hotspots in Vancouver for tourists and locals. There are numerous points in the park where you’ll enjoy amazing views and make sure you check out the totem poles at Brockton Point as well.

#2 – The Museum of Anthropology – A fascinating educational place to visit in Vancouver

• This museum is part of the University of British Columbia and there are lots of interesting attractions on the campus.
• The focus is on British Columbia First Nations, but there are displays from cultures all over the world.

Why it’s so awesome: The Museum of Anthropology explores cultures from all over the world with a particular focus on British Columbia First Nations. This means that you can explore native art, archaeological objects from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the South Pacific, all in one place.

What to do there: You can’t travel to Vancouver without checking out examples of native art, so make sure you learn more about totem poles in the Great Hall before you move on to other histories. And once you’re done with the museum, head down to the UBC Botanical Garden for some nature and a famous Nitobe Japanese Garden.

#3 – Granville Island – A very cool place in Vancouver to go for a day

• A thriving creative area with lots of things to do and places to eat.
• Make sure you check out the Granville Island Public Market for amazing seafood.

Why it’s so awesome: Although this is called an island, it’s actually linked to the residential areas of Vancouver by a road and footbridges as well as a ferry from the Downtown Peninsula. It’s a thriving center of activity, where artists, theaters, restaurants, galleries, and cafes have been set up in converted warehouses.

What to do there: If you’re looking for a great day out, then this is area should be on your Vancouver itinerary . It has a lovely relaxed atmosphere, which will encourage you to wander, explore the shops and markets, and stop in at restaurants and cafes for something delicious.

#4 – Grouse Mountain

• The best place to visit in Vancouver for the most amazing views you can imagine.
• There’s something to do on this mountain in every season, from skiing in winter to wildlife in summer.
• A gondola runs from street level to the summit, so you don’t have to be incredibly fit to enjoy this Vancouver must see.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want incredible views of the city, then Grouse Mountain is second to none. The views are especially good in the evening at sunset, when the sky is changing color and the city lights are coming on. When you travel to Vancouver, you need to visit this mountain no matter what time of year it is, because it’s the center of seasonal activities. If you are visiting Vancouver for the weekend the mountain may be a bit busy.

What to do there: In summer, take advantage of the weather to go hiking over the mountains many trails including the famous and very difficult Grouse Grind. And if you love winter sports, then Grouse Mountain offers snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor skating in one convenient location. It’s also considered one of the 100 best ski runs in the world!

#5 – Kitsilano Beach

• A laidback beach where locals and tourists go to enjoy the outdoors, heated pool and amazing views.
• One of the best places to visit in Vancouver if you’re looking to relax, eat and drink great coffee or tea.

Why it’s so awesome: Vancouver is a famously laidback city and this beach personifies that attitude. Locals and tourists alike visit to spend time with friends, swim in the heated pool, and explore the cafes, all with the majestic mountains as a backdrop. The views are simply spectacular in this area and there’s a great shopping strip a few blocks away if you get tired of nature and want to spend some money.

What to do there: If you like to swim, then you absolutely must go for a dip with the mountains as a backdrop. The pool is heated, so your swim should be comfortable unless it’s the dead of winter. Afterwards, explore the shops and cafes, spend time on the beach watching the ocean, and just soak up the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

#6 – Chinatown

• The best place to visit in Vancouver if you want to enjoy modern and Victorian architecture.
• There are some amazing shops and restaurants in this area.
• If you’re visiting Vancouver in the Chinese New Year, make sure that you experience the parade in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: Chinatown in Vancouver is an exotic break from the Victorian feel of the rest of the city. It’s filled with modern and Victorian buildings with signs written in Chinese and some of the best shopping and eating in the city. The famous Dr. Sun Yat-Sun Chinese Garden is in this area too, so make sure you see it.

What to do there: Enter another world and grab some souvenirs or check out one of the many restaurants. People also come to this area to enjoy the atmosphere of Chinatown, which is particularly good on Keefer, East Pender and Main streets, which are also the best shopping areas. The Sam Kee Building is another of the most popular points of interest in Vancouver because it claims to be the narrowest building in the world.

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#7 – English Bay – Cool place to see in Vancouver with friends!

• One of the loveliest and most interesting areas in the city.
• If you like beaches, great restaurants, shopping, and outdoor areas, then this is the place for you.

Why it’s so awesome: English Bay is part of the West End neighborhood, so you’ll find a variety of high-end restaurants and shops in the area. But it’s also a popular outdoor space and creative space that’s home to outdoor art installations, festivals, and events.

What to do there: Check what’s on while you’re in the city, because you definitely don’t want to miss the public art installations or the summer events when thousands of people crowd the streets to watch the evening fireworks. Over the new year they also hold the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Swim in English Bay, so you can watch the shivering swimmers braving the icy water.

#8 – Gastown – A great place to see in Vancouver if you love architecture

• This is the oldest part of the city.
• Restored Victorian buildings are home to a variety of galleries, shops, and restaurants in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: This is the oldest part of the city, but it’s been carefully renovated so that it can be enjoyed by locals and tourists well into the future. The carefully restored Victorian buildings in this part of the city are fascinating and make the restaurants and shops they hold feel even more interesting.

What to do there: This is one of the best attractions in Vancouver for shopping, eating, and getting a bit of culture. So, put aside half a day, or a whole one, and just explore. Make sure you take a picture with Gassy Jack, a statue of the man who founded this part of the town and visit the Steam Clock, which chimes every fifteen minutes. Other than that, just enjoy the atmosphere that the cobblestone streets and iron lampposts give to the area. There are some great hostels in Gastown if you’d like to stay here and soak up the atmosphere.

#9 – VanDusen Garden’s Elizabethan Hedge Maze

• One of only six Elizabethan hedge mazes in North America.
• The maze consists of 3,000 cedar trees planted in 1981.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s something about a maze that excites the imagination and has done so for hundreds of years. Mazes have been used throughout history in story and in reality, to confuse people and to symbolize the often confusing paths of life. That’s why exploring them can be so engrossing for children and adults alike. You can indulge in this pleasure right in the middle of Vancouver, at the carefully maintained maze that today is run by the Vancouver Park Board and volunteers.

What to do there: This maze is open to the public every day except Christmas so you can pick your way through it or watch others do so from an observation terrace. Once you’ve had enough of the maze, make sure you spend some time in the surrounding 53 acres of gardens, which contain plants from all over the world.

#10 – Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

• A traditional 15th-century garden, incongruously located in the middle of Vancouver.
• This garden was constructed by 52 craftsmen from Suzhou and is based on garden homes of Ming dynasty scholars.
• This is the first garden of this type to be created outside of China.

Why it’s so awesome: This garden was a joint effort between Canada and the Republic of China and is a stunning example of what collaborations between two cultures can create. It was funded by both countries and some of the most skilled craftsmen from both countries were part of the project. And when you spend time in the garden, you’ll understand just how skilled they really were. Like most Chinese gardens, this is a mosaic of color, winding paths, moongates, and surprises. And it was deliberately designed so that every view of the garden is different and to ensure that you can’t see the entire thing all at once.

What to do there: You’ll have to find this garden first because it’s hidden behind a low white building in the middle of Chinatown. Once you’re there, make sure you enjoy the unique history and structure of this garden, which is the first example of this garden type created outside of China. You’ll need to take some time to really appreciate the mix of Feng Shui and Taoism that went into this garden as well as its near perfect balance of yin and yang.

#11 – Science World – Awesome place to visit in Vancouver with kids!

• If you’re looking for a fun day out for the kids, this exploration center will have something on that will keep them occupied for hours.
• The exhibits are hands-on and there’s a theater on site too.

Why it’s so awesome: Located in a lovely building on the waterfront, Science World is dedicated to making science interesting to every member of the family. It explores the natural and man-made world through interactive exhibits and demonstrations that will interest both children and anyone who wants to learn about the world around them.

What to do there: Take the time to explore all of the exhibits, which are dedicated to the themes of water, air, invention, and motion. Also, check out what’s on in the theater and what special exhibitions are on while you’re in the city. Science World is home to amazing regular exhibits, but they also host world-class visiting exhibits too.

#12 – Capilano Suspension Bridge

• One of the first and most popular tourist attractions in Vancouver.
• Definitely not for anyone who’s afraid of heights!

Why it’s so awesome: This suspension bridge sways its way 137 meters (450 feet) across a canyon with the Capilano River below. The bridge is 70 meters (230 feet) above the river and is surrounded by lush forests and a series of suspension bridges as part of the Treetops Adventure.

What to do there: If you don’t mind high places, even when they’re swaying in the wind, head over the bridge and take in the amazing view. The bridge leads to an activity park filled with forest trails and a treetop walk for you to explore. So, if you love nature, then head out to this bridge to see it up close and swaying back and forth.

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#13 – Queen Elizabeth Park – A perfect place to visit in Vancouver if you are on a budget!

• One of the most popular outdoor spaces in Vancouver.
• This park has displays that include both flora and fauna, so if you find the plants a little boring then check out the exotic birds or different climate zones.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the city’s most popular parks and for good reason. It’s 130 acres that include a rose garden, arboretum with 1,500 native and exotic trees, conservatory filled with exotic birds and tropical plants, and amazing fountains. This makes it the perfect place for a cheap afternoon outing that will allow you to get up close and personal with the best parts of nature.

What to do there: However long you have to spend at this Vancouver must see, you will be able to find something that relaxes you and stuns your eyes. Check out the Dancing Waters fountain display just outside the conservatory as well as the sculptures throughout the plaza. The park sits at a high point in Vancouver, which is why you should also take the time to enjoy the amazing views over the city skyline, mountains, and ocean.

#14 – Spanish Banks Beach – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Vancouver

• A quiet beach away from the tourist crowds.
• This beach is known for skimboarding, which is a cross between skateboarding and surfing, so give it a try if you enjoy water sports.
• This beach has a low tidal condition, which means the water is more than half a mile off shore at low tide, so it’s the perfect place for kids to explore.

Why it’s so awesome: If you like the beach but hate the crowds, then this beach is the answer as it’s not on every Backpackers’ Canada travel guide . It’s about 5 miles out of downtown Vancouver and is the least crowded beach in the city. This is where the locals come to enjoy the weather or play sports on the beach. It’s also great to explore at low tide when the water goes out and leaves rockpools to investigate.

What to do there: If you like water sports, then try skimboarding, a favorite at this beach because of the low tidal conditions. You can swim in the water if you’re brave and don’t mind the cold, but if you’d prefer to stay warm then there are volleyball courts on the beach that you can use. Exploring the beach at low tide is also a favorite activity and you never know what kind of strange sea creature you might find stranded until the tide comes back in!

#15 – Yaletown – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Vancouver

• Checking out the boutiques, restaurants and bars in this area is definitely one of Vancouver’s must-do activities.
• If you’re looking for the best nightlife in the city, chances are that you will find it in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: Yaletown is often compared to New York’s SoHo neighborhood. It’s a recently renovated warehouse district that has become the trendiest area in town. It contains countless fashionable restaurants, cafes, boutiques and cocktail lounges for you to explore and is the place to see and be seen!

What to do there: Grab your friends and head to Yaletown for a fun night out. Some of the more popular hangout options include Yaletown Brewing Co, Bar None, and Pierre’s Lounge. But no matter what your taste or your budget, you’ll be able to find a variety of dining and drinking establishments that will suit your needs.

#16 – Vancouver Lookout

• This should be the first stop on your sightseeing tour so you can take in the whole city before you visit specific places.
• The observation deck offers 360 views of the city as well as the shore.

Why it’s so awesome: Located on the 55th floor of the Harbor Center building in downtown Vancouver, this lookout can be reached in 40 seconds via a glass elevator. Once at the top, you’ll be 550 feet above the ground and be treated to a 360 view of the city including the North Shore, Stanley Park, and the Olympic Peninsula Mountains.

What to do there: If you don’t mind heights, then you need to visit the lookout and take lots of photos. Try to make sure you choose a clear day, because if there’s cloud cover then the view won’t be as amazing.

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#17 – Canada Place

• One of the city’s most recognizable locations.
• This ferry terminal does more than welcome boats, it’s also the center of activity in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This building, which looks like a boat in its own right, has become one of Vancouver’s busiest and most recognizable landmarks. A variety of events are held in this location and it’s designed to give you a happy and slightly kitschy overview of Canadian culture and everything that it entails.

What to do there: Check out what’s on I the city and make sure you don’t miss any events at this venue, as they’re bound to be amazing. You can also take a really interesting guided walking trail to learn about the different areas of Canada represented. Also, try to be there one evening during the trip as the Sails of Light show is held every night and is a spectacle worth seeing.

#18 – Vancouver Art Gallery

• This world-class art gallery surrounded by some of the most stunning natural scenes in Canada.
• There are more than 10,000 art pieces in this gallery ranging from photography by Ansel Adams to Canadian pictures.

Why it’s so awesome: This art gallery is home to a world-class collection of British and Canadian paintings as well as photography by some of the most well-known names in the business. This includes Emily Carr, Jeff Wall, Marc Chagall, and Harry Callahan. This gallery also plays host to some amazing international exhibitions as well as a regular schedule of public programs and lectures.

What to do there: Before you head to the gallery, check out what’s on and make sure you attend any special events they have on while you’re visiting Vancouver . Afterwards, make sure that you explore the gift shop and library, and have a coffee and snack at the attached café as well.

#19 – Museum of Vancouver

• The best way to learn a little about the history of the city.
• One of the best places in Vancouver if you’re interested in going deeper when you travel.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum explores the past, present and future of the city through fascinating displays. It starts in ancient times, with exhibits on the Musqueam people who originally lived in the area and moves forward to the present-day city and how that long distant past influenced its development.

What to do there: The museum is located in Vanier Park, which means that it’s easily accessible from the downtown. So, you should take the time to explore the history of the city in the museum and then spend some time relaxing in scenic Vanier Park to soak up all things nature.

#20 – The Marine Building

• You may recognize this building but not know from where because it’s been used in comic books for years.
• One of the world’s most amazing art deco buildings.

Why it’s so awesome: The Marine building opened in 1930 and was once the tallest building in the British Empire. It was designed to look like a crag rising from the sea, tinted with color, and it certainly meets that goal. The level of detail all over this building is amazing. The exterior is covered with reliefs of different forms of transport from the 1920s. The brass doors are carved with images of the ocean and the creatures that live within it. And the lobby is defined by ensconces of ships riding the waves.

What to do there: This is a building that will strike you with its beauty. Though it’s now dwarfed by the skyscrapers around it, that beauty hasn’t dimmed. In fact, it’s so amazing that the building has been used in movies, TV shows, and even in superhero comics. It was actually Clark Kent’s workplace in Smallville and the Baxter Building in the Fantastic Four films.

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#21 – The Seawall

• A 5.5-mile pathway that’s a Vancouver must do.
• There are amazing views all along this pathway, which is popular with tourists and locals alike.

Why it’s so awesome: This long pathway starts in downtown Vancouver, travels around Stanley Park and then circles past Kitsilano beach and English Bay. It’s an incredibly popular path amongst locals, who cycle, jog, or walk the path, and amongst tourists for the amazing views.

What to do there: It feels good to move and stretch, even when you’re on holiday, and this path will give you the chance to do that in stunning surroundings. Take your camera with you when you walk this path. Do the whole thing or just part of it, and make sure that you walk on your designated side of the pathway at all times or you might get run down by cyclists.

#22 – Richmond Night Market – A must-see for foodies!

• A taste of Asia and the largest night market in North America.
• This is one of the best places to eat in Vancouver.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re visiting Vancouver from May to October, then you absolutely must check out this market. It’s the largest market in North America and feels a lot like some of the night markets in Asia. The stalls also sell some of the best and most varied food you’ll eat during your trip!

What to do there: if you’re in Vancouver at the right time of year, then plan a night at this market. Eat grill squid, roti mac and cheese, nitrogen ice cream, or pho fries at one of the 100 food stalls. There are also more than 200 retails stalls at the market so you can pick up a souvenir of your trip and they also have live music for you to listen to.

#23 – Vancouver Police Museum

• A slightly twisted look at a darker side of Vancouver.
• Make sure you take the walking tour if you want to learn more about the historic and atmospheric neighborhood of Gastown.

Why it’s so awesome: If your tastes run a little towards the macabre, then you can indulge them at this museum. It’s the oldest on the continent and contains more than 20,000 crime related artifacts where you can learn about crime in the city’s early years.

What to do there: You can take a tour through the museum that also includes a special walking tour around key parts of Vancouver’s Gastown. It will give you a deeper understanding of the history of this amazing part of town and of the sometimes macabre and sometimes strange crimes that were committed there.

#24 – Cypress Mountain Ski Area – One of the most amazing places in Vancouver!

• This is one of the most popular places to visit in Vancouver if you want to go skiing!
• The ski area is only 30 minutes from the center of the city, which makes it perfect for a quick side trip.

Why it’s so awesome: Vancouver is an incredibly popular skiing destination and the Cypress Mountain Ski Area is probably why. It’s spread across 593 acres and located within a short drive of the center of the city. There are around 53 alpine ski runs as well as 19 kilometers of cross-country ski trails for you to try.

What to do there: If you love winter sports, then this area is for you. So, put on your cold weather clothes and head out to enjoy nature covered in snow. You can go skiing, do some cross-country skiing, or just sit indoors and enjoy the snowy landscape with a hot drink, it’s entirely up to you!

#25 – Lighthouse Park – A must visit place to visit in Vancouver on the weekend!

• If you enjoy hiking, then this is one of the best places in Vancouver to do it.
• The natural scenery in this area is simply stunning.
• The lighthouse in this park is a national historic park and quite popular with tourists.

Why it’s so awesome: The park around this lighthouse includes rugged terrain, a variety of hiking trails, amazing trees, and ocean views. It’s the perfect place to visit if you want to enjoy the great outdoors and get some exercise at the same time. If you prefer a more active holiday, then this is where you’ll find it.

What to do there: If you have a reasonable level of physical fitness then you’ll enjoy exploring this area. There are a variety of hiking trails available from more rugged trails to beginner level hiking trails and all of them have amazing views. So, choose the hike that suits your fitness and energy levels, grab your camera, and get moving!

#26 – BC Place Stadium

• The best place in Vancouver to see your favorite sports teams!

Why it’s so awesome: If you enjoy your sports then you’ll be in good company while you’re in Vancouver. The BC Place Stadium is the home of football, soccer, and rugby in Vancouver and also served as the main stadium for the 2010 Winter Olympics and the 2010 Paralympics.

What to do there: If you’re a fan of sports in all forms, then find out what’s on in the city and show up for a game. Sharing in the triumphs of a sporting team when you’re traveling is one of the best ways to go deeper into the culture and understand the people more. And you might even gain a new interest while you’re doing it!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Vancouver

What are the best places to visit in Vancouver during winter?

Vancouver can get freezing cold during winter but visiting these places are the ideal way to spend the day: – Grouse Mountain – Science World – Museum of Vancouver

Are there any good places to visit in Vancouver at night?

The same already says it – Richmond Night Market is one of the best places to visit in Vancouver once the sun goes down. If you prefer to spend some time in pubs, head to Yaletown and explore the vibrant nightlife scene.

What are the best places to visit in Vancouver over the weekend?

These places in Vancouver are ideal if you’re just visiting over the weekend: – English Bay – Museum of Vancouver – Lighthouse Park

What should I not miss in Vancouver?

Our favorite place to visit in Vancouver is Stanley Park. It’s literally like having untouched nature right in the middle of the city. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Vancouver is an amazing city to live in and to visit and when you decide to explore it during your holiday your days will be filled with amazing food, friendly people, and beautiful nature scenes. However, this is your trip, which means that you need to work out which Vancouver must-see places need to be on your list. This guide to the best sites and places to visit in Vancouver could help, and you can use it to create the trip of your dreams no matter how long you have in this amazing city.

Sheridan Cahoon

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I’m excited to check out as many of the 26 places you posted. Can you recommend a mode of transportation for a dozen tourists? Are you a tourist guide?

Hi Maria, We are not tour guides, just a resource for solo travellers. With that many people you need to be ultra organised, Id perhaps consider a mini van, maxi taxis or a very well planned public transport route with day passes for everyone. Have a great time in Vancouver!

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Vancouver Public Transportation

The Best Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Where to Ski Near Vancouver

The Best Vancouver Beaches

Hiking Near Vancouver

Vancouver's Best Parks

Vancouver's Best Museums

Shopping in Vancouver

Itinerary: Three Days in Vancouver

Day Trips From Vancouver

Best Tours in Vancouver

The Best Food to Try in Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver's Top Restaurants

Nightlife in Vancouver

Breweries in Vancouver

The Best Time to Visit Vancouver

Weather & Climate

Vancouver International Airport

Neighborhoods to Know

The Top 10 Neighborhoods to Visit in Vancouver

Beautiful British Columbia's most well-known city, Vancouver , maybe best-loved for its mountains, forests, and beaches but Vancouver comprises several great neighborhoods. This guide will give you the insider information you need to familiarize yourself with Vancouver's neighborhoods and decide which one (or multiple) is right for your visit. From beachside hippie hangouts to upmarket shopping areas, each neighborhood has its own personality. Here are 10 of the main places you might want to explore on a visit. 

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Yaletown is Vancouver's 'yuppie' neighborhood. Located on the Canada Line Skytrain, and close to downtown, Yaletown  covers a couple of blocks of converted warehouses. Here you'll find chi-chi boutiques selling fashionable threads for your furry friend and fancy beauty establishments from blow-dry bars to brow places. It's also home to upmarket fitness studios such as Soul Cycle where you can burn off some calories after indulging in incredible seafood at local restaurants such as Minami or Blue Water Cafe. 

Yaletown may not be the new kid on the block anymore but it's still a safe and solid choice for excellent eating options , all within a two block radius of the Canada Line's Yaletown-Roundhouse SkyTrain station. 

The West End (or the Best End as residents call it) is a popular neighborhood for tourists as it is home to attractions such as English Bay and Stanley Park. It's also home to the gay village on Davie Street (look out for the pink trash cans and rainbow crosswalks) and is the central hub for the annual Pride celebrations , which are held every August long weekend. 

Summertime sees hundreds of thousands of people flock to English Bay to watch the Celebration of Light, a free international fireworks competition that lights up the neighborhood every year. Head here early if you want to bag a spot on the beach as it gets pretty crowded as the day goes on. 

Coal Harbour

George Rose/Getty Images 

Vancouver is known as the City of Glass, and the glinting condos of Coal Harbour are a prime example of why and how it earned this moniker. Close to the attractions of Canada Place and the nature of Stanley Park , Coal Harbour is starting to attract foodies to the neighborhood with clusters of new restaurants, such as Chef Hawksworth's Nightingale . Head to Harbour Green Park for some nature alongside the seawall, or take a boat tour out to Burrard Inlet and beyond to spot wildlife or see the sights from the water. 

Historic Gastown is on most visitors' lists as its cobbled streets are home to attractions such as the steam clock (which is actually from the 1970s and not as historic as it looks), and there are plenty of trendy boutiques and restaurants to enjoy an afternoon or evening here.

Nearby is Chinatown and the Dr Sun-Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden, another popular place for people to visit. Take the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing trolley rather than walking through the connecting neighborhoods, as they include the Downtown Eastside, which can be a little intimidating to visitors. 

Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant (aka Main Street) is one of the more hipster-oriented neighborhoods in the city. Located just a short transit ride or walk from downtown, Main Street stretches through Mount Pleasant, and visitors come here for cheap eats, vintage shops, and craft beer. Main Street marks the boundary between Vancouver and 'East Vancouver,' which is made up of several neighborhoods and is considered to be the cooler side of the city. 

Chris Cheadle / Getty Images

Kitsilano 's golden beach is a summertime hotspot for volleyball players, swimmers, kayakers, and sun worshippers. Dog walkers bring their canine friends to the nearby pooch-friendly beach, which is close to Vanier Park (home to the Museum of Vancouver, H.R. Macmillan Space Centre, the Maritime Museum) and Granville Island. Kits itself is mainly clustered around the beach and the shops on West 4th or Broadway. Home to yoga brands such as lululemon, Kits started as a hippy hangout in the 1960s and is now frequented by the yummy mummy crowd. 

Commercial Drive

Commercial Drive (aka The Drive ) is a five- to 10-minute SkyTrain ride from downtown. Sometimes referred to as Little Italy, the Drive still has a strong Italian presence, as well as eclectic restaurants from around the world. Visit here to get an international flavor of the city and check out the consignment shops, poetry cafes, and live music venues along The Drive. 

Olympic Village

Getty Images/Kevin van der Leek Photography

Starting life as the home to the athletes that took part in the 2010 Winter Olympics, Olympic Village is now sometimes overlooked as a tourist attraction even though it's got some of the city's best patios for sunny drinks and the seawall stretches to Granville Island and beyond. Family-friendly attractions such as Science World and False Creek Ferries also make this newer neighborhood well worth a visit. 

Sometimes called South Granville or False Creek, Fairview is the name for the neighborhood that covers Granville Island and the southern stretch of Granville (close to Granville Bridge). Home to the popular public market, this area is also the street to visit for cultural events such as movies or the theatre, as well as a plethora of art galleries and antique shops in the area. 

Downtown Vancouver

 Getty Images/ David Nunuk

Last but not least, Downtown Vancouver is not exactly a neighborhood of its own, but the city center should be on any sightseeing list as it's home to the Vancouver Art Gallery and other attractions such as Robson Square, which hosts free dance events in the summer and ice skating in the winter months. 

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The 21 best things to do in Vancouver

The best things to do in Vancouver combine magical nature with history and culture. The results are magnificent.

Vancouver is one of the most liveable cities in the world, and it also happens to be a darling when it comes to tourism. Canada’s western metropolis ticks all the boxes, from inspiring nature to fascinating history, with a conveyor belt of bars, restaurants, spas, beaches and more. Long story short? Vancouver is brilliant. The best things to do in Vancouver cover all this and more, with a collection of attractions that are informed by its history as much as its future. There are whales too—from April through October you're practically guaranteed a sighting. Follow our guide to the best things to do in Vancouver and see why this Canadian city truly lives up to the hype and then some.

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🍔  The best restaurants in Vancouver 🎡 The best attractions in Vancouver 🏨 The best hotels in Vancouver

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Fun things to do in Vancouver

1.  Stanley Park

This must-see park is a whopping 1,000 acres and contains beaches, an aquarium, playgrounds, a pool and splash park, botanical gardens, a golf course, 17 tennis courts, and much more. With all the park offers, you could easily spend a day within its perimeter. Try biking the exterior Seawall or venture inside to get lost amongst ferns and centuries-old cedars on 40 miles of trails. Keep an eye out for beavers, raccoons, great blue herons, bald eagles, coyotes, and sometimes even whales. In the fall, ride the Ghost Train for a spooky Halloween experience.

2.  Grouse Mountain

Known as the Peak of Vancouver, locals and tourists flock to Grouse Mountain for outdoor activities, whatever the season. From hiking and ziplining in the summer to ice skating and snowshoeing in the winter—plus lumberjack shows and grizzly bear visits in between—Grouse Mountain is a year-round destination. Up for a challenge? Try the Grouse Grind, a 1.8-mile trail featuring 2,830 stairs that takes you 2,800 feet up the mountain. Or just take the gondola up for amazing views of the city and the ocean.

3.  Vancouver Whale Watch

British Columbia has a wealth of marine life, including orcas, humpbacks, seals, dolphins, and more. A conservation-minded whale watch tour like Vancouver Whale Watch offers an up-close look at the stunning creatures and an educational experience. Learn about whale biology and migration, marine conservation, and more as you witness the beauty of Vancouver’s waters.

4.  VanDusen Botanical Garden

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Packed with towering trees, these botanical gardens are a great spot to unwind or take a few nature selfies. VanDusen Botanical Garden is 55 acres of green and splashes of color, with 7,500 plant species from all over the world. There is a picturesque lake and a hedge maze made from 3,000 cedars.

5.  Sea to Sky Gondola

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Open throughout the year, this ten-minute gondola ride takes you up almost 2,800 feet past Shannon Falls. Drive the stunning Sea to Sky Highway to Squamish and gaze out the gondola window for even more spectacular views of Howe Sound and the mountains surrounding Vancouver. Hike the trails, try the Via Ferrata, cross the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, dine at the Summit Lodge and, during the winter, ski the backcountry.

6.  Granville Island

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Overhauled in the 70s, Granville Island is a former waterfront industrial site (technically a peninsula rather than an island) home to a public market, food shops, restaurants, artist studios and galleries, shopping and inviting green space. Take a cute little Aquabus to spend an afternoon on the island. The vast public market features everything from confections to cheeses to bread to meats. Pick up a few items and picnic next to False Creek, or indulge in the market’s food court, filled with delicious local eats and treats.

7.  Rogers Arena

Home of the Vancouver Canucks hockey team (that Stanley Cup has to come eventually, surely), Rogers Arena hosts major concerts and events throughout the year. During hockey season, checking out a Canucks game is a must. Canadians love hockey, and Vancouver adores their Canucks, no matter how wonderful or frustrating they may be. Catch the spirit from October to April, May or June, depending on how the team’s doing.

8.  Richmond Night Market

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Open weekends and holiday evenings from May to October, this is the largest night market in North America. The Richmond Night Market will give you a taste of Asia’s famed night markets. Sample foods like grilled squid, pho fries, gyozas, roti mac and cheese and nitrogen ice cream at the food stalls, then shop for gifts and accessories at the retail stalls. There are games, live music and entertainment, and always great people-watching.

9.  Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden

This tranquil garden at the edge of Chinatown is the first Chinese garden or “scholars garden” built outside of China. Designed and built by specialists from Suzhou (where the Ming Dynasty-era scholar’s gardens that inspired this one are located) using rare trees, prized rocks, and the principles of balance and harmony, the Chinese Garden is an oasis of tranquillity. Stroll the free park, then enter the gardens by paid admission. Learn the symbolism behind the placement of each plant, structure, and path, or just enjoy peace, quiet, and beauty.

10.  Pacific Arts Market

This nearly 2,500-square-foot gallery space features art, jewelry, and other handmade crafts from more than 40 artists from Vancouver and around British Columbia. Browse talented local artists and bring home a unique souvenir. You’ll find paintings, ceramics, jewelry, woodcarving, fiber arts, and products like handmade candles and teas. The colorful space is packed with art for every taste and budget. Artists change regularly, so it’s worth visiting again and again.

11.  The Seawall

The 17.5-mile paved pathway starts at the Vancouver Convention Centre and then winds around Stanley Park to English Bay, False Creek, Olympic Village, Granville Island, Kitsilano Beach, and the beaches of Spanish Banks. The 5.5-mile section in Stanley Park is the most popular, but tackling the whole seawall will give you an excellent (and active) tour of Vancouver. It’s the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path, and you’ll see mountains, sculptures, the skyline, and beaches.

12.  Gastown

The original downtown core of Vancouver, Gastown is now a vibrant, trendy neighborhood with unique shopping, dining, art galleries, and more. Densely packed but stylish, it is all cobblestone streets and beautifully refurbished buildings. After browsing the boutiques and galleries, grab a cocktail or dinner and make it a night out. This is also where you'll find the famous Gastown Steam Clock, one of only a few working steam clocks in the world. Every quarter-hour, the clock shoots steam from its five whistles, and on the hour, it gives off a toot from each whistle.

13.  Capilano Suspension Bridge

Capilano Suspension Bridge is 230 feet high and 450 feet across the Capilano River through the temperate rainforest on Vancouver’s North Shore. Test your mettle as you walk the bridge, and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular rainforest views. The park also features a cliff walk, nature tours, a treetop adventure, and a Living Forest exhibit.

14.  Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia

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Located on the traditional territory of the Musqueam people, the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) features art from indigenous peoples from Canada and around the world. One of Canada’s largest teaching museums, MOA is home to hundreds of thousands of ethnographic objects, artifacts and works of art, including textiles, ceramics, massive totem poles, masks, and more. The iconic building was designed by renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson.

15.  Mr. Bannock

This popular food truck serves indigenous cuisine using fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods like smoking and stone baking. British Columbia’s First Nations people know all about the richness and nutrition of the land and sea and how to harvest products sustainably. Mr. Bannock is named after the traditional unleavened bread, served alongside salmon, wild meats, juniper berries and local mushrooms.

16.  Wreck Beach

Stretching along for 4.8 miles, Wreck Beach is impressive in size and beauty. It’s also North America’s largest naturist (i.e. clothing optional) beach. One of Vancouver’s best beaches, the views here are spectacular. There’s also a real sense of community, as represented by the active Wreck Beach Preservation Society. Keep an eye out for events like Skinny Dip Day, Bare Buns Run, and spa/pool nights.

17.  Vancouver Aquarium

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A Stanley Park highlight, Vancouver Aquarium focuses on sustainability and conservation. The staff rescues marine animals and aims to educate the public in everything they do. The Vancouver Aquarium originated the Ocean Wise sustainable seafood and ocean protection initiative. Giggle at the antics of the otters and penguins, zen out watching the jellyfish and gain a greater appreciation of the importance of protecting the world’s oceans.

18.  English Bay Beach

Located in the West End, English Bay is a bustling neighborhood of beaches, shopping, and dining and hosts annual events like the Celebration of Light fireworks competition and the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim. In the summer, English Bay Beach draws throngs for sunbathing and swimming. But the whole neighborhood is a top destination year-round for shopping, dining, waterfront strolling, beautiful scenery, and art (don’t miss the Laughing Man statues or the Inukshuk monument). Head to Sunset Beach for, you guessed it, beautiful sunset views.

19.  Jericho Beach

If you’d rather not hit the beach in your birthday suit, Jericho Beach offers a more typical waterside experience. With its calm surf, Jericho is a top spot for watersports like kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing, and sailing. Equipment is available for rent, and lessons and tours are offered for a good bit of the year.

20.  False Creek

This short inlet cuts through the heart of Vancouver, separating Downtown from the rest of the city. It is popular for walking and boating activities. There are three waterfront walks along False Creek—North, South, and Olympic Village. Walkthrough reinvigorated industrial areas and the neighbourhood revitalized by the 2010 Olympics. For watersports lovers, False Creek is a prime spot to rent a kayak to paddle past the likes of Yaletown and Granville Island, stopping for a drink or a bite along the way.

21.  Pam Rocks

The curious seals in the colony at Pam Rocks in Howe Sound often interrupt their sunny snoozes to dive in and swim over to see what the kayakers and snorkelers are doing. Enjoy a day on the water, learn about protecting Vancouver’s marine environment, see the seals and maybe catch a glimpse of some bald eagles and other wildlife.

More great things to do in Vancouver

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

38 of the Best Things to Do in Vancouver

May 23, 2022 By Matthew G. Bailey 20 Comments

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Things to Do in Vancouver Last updated: April 18th, 2023

When people ask us what we think is the most beautiful city in Canada, Vancouver is our answer. Although it’s one of the most densely populated cities in North America, it’s also surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including lush rainforest, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. It’s because of its setting that we often rank Vancouver, British Columbia as one of the prettiest cities on Earth.

Vancouver is also vastly urban, with hundreds of skyscrapers dotting the landscape. You can easily be surrounded by a concrete jungle in the morning and out in the forest in the afternoon. This is what makes it such a great place to visit. However, it’s also one of the most expensive cities in Canada, especially when it comes to real estate and accommodation.

If you’re looking for a vibrant art scene, loads of delicious restaurants, historic districts, thriving markets, incredible urban parks, and beautiful vistas, Vancouver should be on your bucket list. In this Vancouver Travel Guide, we’ll share with you some of the best things to do in Vancouver while also sharing some tips on saving money, how to get around, where to stay, and more.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Vancouver

Vancouver is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, which creates loads of attractions, activities, and other things to do. Below is a list of some of the best things to do when visiting Vancouver.

Stanley Park

Whenever we go to Vancouver, we always make sure we take time to ride a bike or go for a walk around Stanley Park . It’s Vancouver’s first urban park and remains the largest with over 400 hectares of natural West Coast rainforest. It’s filled with beautiful beaches, local wildlife, and historical landmarks. It’s also home to the incredible aquarium. Whether you walk within Stanley Park while marvelling at magnificent trees, or take the seawall for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Stanley Park is a great place to go to be immersed in nature while inside the city. The park is open from 6 am until 10 pm unless otherwise posted.

Vancouver Aquarium

While visiting Stanley Park, you may want to pay a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium as well. This is Canada’s largest aquarium with more than 70,000 beautiful creatures, such as dolphins, anacondas, sea otters, sloths, and more. The Vancouver Aquarium is also well respected for its research and marine stewardship and is a great place to learn about the region’s marine life.

Granville Island

Located right in the middle of the city is a little peninsula that’s become a popular hub for food and drink. Granville Island has a wonderful food market, a famous brewery, and a variety of cool shops. In the summer, it’s also alive with boat taxis, paddle-boarders, and kayakers.

Ride a Ferry

Speaking of Granville Island, one of the best ways to get there is by ferry! When walking around the waterfront, you’ll notice all sorts of little ferries travelling between places such as Kitsilano Beach, Granville Island, and Science World. It’s fairly cheap and is a fun way to just travel around and see Vancouver from the water. Consider buying a day pass and just enjoying it throughout the day.

Vancouver Maritime Museum

Speaking of riding a ferry, one of the dock locations is near the Vancouver Maritime Museum , a hidden gem in Kitsilano that shares stories about the Pacific Northwest and the Arctic while creating experiences that build bridges between the past and future. From their unique waterfront location,  visitors can explore  exhibitions and take part in programs about life on and around the Pacific Northwest and Arctic oceans. Their most popular exhibition is the RCMP Vessel St. Roch, a National Historic Site housed in an iconic mid-century modern A-frame shelter. 

Take a Boat Tour

Soak in the unparalleled views of Vancouver’s breathtaking coastline aboard one of Sea Vancouver’s zodiac-style vessels, which is the fastest and most exciting way to see Vancouver from the sea!

Your trip starts with a relaxing cruise along Vancouver’s Inner Harbour before soaring up to 55 km/h as you cross through the Burrard Inlet. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the sights of Vancouver’s Coal Harbour, the North Shore, English Bay, False Creek and Stanley Park. Tours are 90 mins in length and depart hourly from Granville Island.

Rent a Seadoo, Kayak, or Paddleboard

Surrounded by water, Vancouver is an excellent city to go kayaking, paddle boarding , or jet skiing . Whether you’re looking to go solo or join a guided tour, Vancouver Water Adventures has something for everyone. Their fleet includes 35 jet skis, 80 paddleboards, 60 kayaks and two beautiful tour boats. They’re located at Granville Island and at a kiosk on Kitsilano Beach. Whether you are experienced or inexperienced, a local or a visitor looking for a local experience, they will help you find the best activity for your trip.

Grouse Mountain

Quite possibly Vancouver’s top outdoor attraction, Grouse Mountain is a great place to go for gruelling mountain hikes or even an easy gondola ride to get jaw-dropping views of the city and the surrounding mountains. You can also see wildlife like bears and owls, enjoy outdoor shows like the Lumberjack show and Birds in Motion. In the winter, enjoy adventures including the stunning Light Walk, Sliding Zone, outdoor skating pond, or give snowshoeing a try on an array of trails. You can also rent skates, sleds and snowshoes.

The Gondola costs approximately $80 for a return-trip. Get your tickets here!

Rent a Bike

Vancouver is one of the best cities in Canada for biking. Whether you’re looking to share the urban streets with cars while cycling next to skyscrapers or heading off for an adventure in Stanley Park to cycle along the seawall, there’s no shortage of options for peddling a bike. In fact, due to its immense popularity, there’s a plethora of places to rent a bike from as well. Some options include English Bay Bike Rentals, Cycle City Tours, Spokes Bicycle Rentals, and Freedom Bike Rentals.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Another popular attraction is the 450-foot-long Capilano suspension bridge, which hangs over the Capilano River in North Vancouver. For those afraid of heights, it’s quite the thrill. Soar over the Capilano River as you cross the suspension bridge, climb through old-growth fir trees on the Treetops Adventure, and rise high above the canyon along a towering wall of granite on the new Cliffwalk.

Buy Your Capilano Suspension Bridge tickets here.

Lynn Canyon Park Suspension Bridge

If you’d like to live like a local and go for a hike in a beautiful area complete with another suspension bridge, Lynn Canyon Park is a great option. For one, the suspension bridge here is free and it’s still 150 feet high! There are also short scenic hikes, swimming holes, and waterfalls. It’s a great place to spend a good half day.

The Polygon Gallery

The Polygon is a vibrant art institution that inspires and provokes cultural insight through adventurous programming. The Gallery is committed to championing artists and cultivating engaged audiences. Its lens of inquiry creatively responds to shifting perceptions of the world, through the histories and evolving technologies of photography and related media.

• Vancouver Whale Watching

If you really want to see something magical while visiting Vancouver, consider a Vancouver whale watching tour. Vancouver and Vancouver Island are famous for Orca whales, including resident orca whales and transient orca whales. We’ve had spectacular whale-watching experiences around Vancouver and also out in Port Renfrew on Vancouver Island. While nature can be unpredictable, your chances of seeing them are very high. Tours cost approximately $145 CAD. The only company we’ve gone with is Seabreeze Adventures, which is located in Steveston. During our tour with them, we saw a pod of resident killer whales and a pod of transient killer whales. Pretty amazing, especially when you consider it’s only 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver!

Gastown and the Steam Clock

No visit to Vancouver would be complete without visiting Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood. Once home to a single tavern back in 1867, it’s now a very trendy part of the city with a plethora of restaurants, cafes, vars, and shops. It’s also home to beautiful historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and the famous Steam Clock, which goes off every hour.

Beaty Biodiversity Museum

Located on Vancouver Campus, the Beaty Biodiversity Museum gives you the chance to fall in love with the diversity of life through more than 500 exhibits, more than 2 million specimens, and Canada’s largest blue whale skeleton. Enjoy more than 20,000 square feet of exhibits, including dinosaur trackways from BC’s early Cretaceous period, and myriad fossils, mammals, reptiles, and plants from around the region and across the planet.

Take a Historic Walking Tour

If you really want to learn about Vancouver’s history while taking in the shabby East Village and Gastown districts, consider taking a Forbidden Vancouver walking tour . You’ll learn all about Vancouver’s dark history, including bootlegging, opium dens, corruption, and riots.

Go on a Date

As you can imagine, Canada’s most beautiful city has no shortage of options when it comes to romantic date ideas in Vancouver . Whether you’re looking for something in nature, such as a hike in Lynn Canyon, or something in the city, such as visiting one of the many museums, there are many options to choose from.

Vancouver Mysteries

If you love solving clues and are looking for an outdoor activity in downtown Vancouver, Vancouver Mysteries offers four outdoor games to uniquely explore the city. Choose the game, date and time and then watch for an email with digital waivers to sign, further instructions and the secret start location where you meet a Game Operator in character as a detective, spy or Agent X. They start your story and provide you with everything you need to solve your mystery, including a map, clues, artifacts and tools. This is real-life (no apps to download), self-guided, and only available in Vancouver.

Robson Street

If you’re visiting Vancouver, you probably want to spend some time in the city itself and one of the best streets to walk around is Robson Street. It’s full of delicious international restaurants, hipster cafes, and shops. It’s a great place for people-watching and feeling the soul of Vancouver. For lovers of Japanese food, there’s no shortage of it in Vancouver and you’ll find plenty of sushi bars, ramen shops, and Japanese bars to enjoy here.

This recently-converted industrial neighbourhood is now home to some of the city’s most popular pubs and eateries. It’s one of those places where you can eat lunch on a patio, go for a walk along the neighbouring Seawall, admire the street art, or just hang out in one of the nearby parks, such as David Lam Park or George Wainborn Park.

Watch a Sporting Event

If you’re into professional sports, Vancouver’s a great place to be. Vancouver is home to both a Canadian Football Team – the BC Lions – as well as a National Hockey League team – The Vancouver Canucks. If you’re visiting in the summer, football is on the agenda, whereas in the winter, it’s all about the Canucks. Vancouver is also home to the White Caps soccer team.

Find Filming Locations of Your Favourite Movies

Did you know that Vancouver is known as the Hollywood North? In fact, many Hollywood productions are filmed in Vancouver and you can join Fans of Vancouver on one of their filming location tours, seasonal walking tours, or urban adventures around Vancouver. Vancouver has productions filming all over the city on a regular basis and they will give you the best “movie tour” possible.

Go Nude at Wreck Beach

If you’re looking for a nude beach, this is the only one in the city. Here you’ll find naked folks just “hanging” out, sunbathing, swimming, and listening to music. It’s places like this that made Vancouver famous back in the ’70s. It’s located in Pacific Spirit Regional Park.

Vancouver Art Gallery

If art is your thing, you won’t want to miss the collection of national and international artwork at the Vancouver Art Gallery. It’s home to more than 9,000 works of art, a whole exhibit devoted to Emily Carr (BC’s favourite historical artist) and late-night parties with live music. Admission is $24 CAD approx but is pay-what-you-want on Tuesdays.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Did you know? This was the first authentic Chinese garden built outside of China. It’s also been named the top city garden in the world by National Geographic and is located right in the heart of the city. Admire the ponds filled with koi fish, the 150-year-old miniature trees, and the various covered walkways as you walk around the tranquil Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. It’s made even more special considering it was made using 14th-century methods, which means no glue, power tools, or screws! Admission is just $14 CAD (approx).

VanDusen Botanical Garden

VanDusen Botanical Garden is a beautiful botanical garden situated in Vancouver’s Shaughnessy neighbourhood. The Garden covers 22 hectares (55 acres) and displays plants from all over the world, including an extensive collection of native British Columbia (Northwest Coast) plants.

In addition to water features throughout the rolling landscape, special features in the garden include carved totem poles, a small Japanese garden and large stone sculptures. There’s also a beautiful maze adjacent to VanDusen’s heirloom vegetable garden.

Nitobe Memorial Garden

Located at the University of British Columbia, Nitobe Memorial Garden is a traditional Japanese stroll garden with an authentic tea house and is considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan.

The garden is beautiful in all weather and highlights the passing of the seasons such as cherry blossoms in spring, blooming irises in summer, maple leaves glowing red and yellow in the fall, and both native and Japanese trees pruned in winter. No matter what time of year, carpets of moss, bridges that span a koi pond and iris bed, and stone paths that cross waterfalls, create a peaceful atmosphere that invites the visitor to reflect on both the beauty of nature and its place in their lives.

Greenheart TreeWalk

Also located at the University of British Columbia, the Greenheart TreeWalk will spark your adventurous spirit as you navigate suspended walkways and tree platforms high above the forest floor. Located in the heart of UBC Botanical Garden, the 310 metre-long treetop canopy walkway hangs from huge Douglas firs, cedars and grand firs, many of which are over 100 years old. Reaching a height of nearly 20 metres above the forest floor, the walkway will give you a bird’s eye view of Vancouver’s magnificent coastal temperate rainforest.

Get a View from Harbour Centre Observation Deck

If you’re looking for a view of the city, head on over to the downtown Harbour Centre’s observation deck for panoramic views over the city, mountains, and ocean. Admission is $18 CAD (approx).

Museum of Anthropology at UBC

If you’re looking for one of the world’s finest displays of Northwest Coast First Nations arts, this is the place to go! Located at the University of British Columbia just 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver, you’ll find spectacular carvings, weavings and contemporary artworks inside a gorgeous building overlooking the mountains and sea. You’ll also find the world’s largest collection of works by acclaimed Haida artist Bill Reid, 9,000 objects from around the world, a collection of European ceramic unique to North America, and monumental Haida houses and totem poles on the museum grounds. Admission is $18 CAD (approx).

Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art

This Gallery is the only public Gallery in Canada dedicated to contemporary Indigenous Northwest Coast Art , making it a spectacular place to witness art from the region. Inside you’ll find the Bill Reid SFU Art Collection, as well as special exhibitions and programs that build bridges between all peoples. It’s located in downtown Vancouver, within walking distance of the Pacific Centre. Admission is $13 CAD.

Richmond Night Market

For all the foodies out there, one of the coolest – and tastiest – spots you can visit in the city is the Richmond Night Market. Open between May and September, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped foot into Asia, enjoying a wide range of Asian food, culture, and shopping. Snacks start at $2 CAD.

Go on a Food Tour

Vancouver is a great place for food lovers and Vancouver Foodie Tours is one of the most popular food tours in the city. They’ll take you to as many as eight different spots around Gastown and Granville Island, making sure your tastebuds are satisfied. Tickets start at $95 CAD.

Experience Canada with FlyOver Canada

Want to get a taste of the second-largest country on Earth in just 8 minutes? Located at Canada Place on Vancouver’s waterfront, FlyOver Canada utilizes state-of-the-art technology to give you the feeling of flight. You will hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while the film whisks you away on an exhilarating 8-minute journey across Canada , from east to west. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unforgettable experience. This motion ride is extremely popular and some people even told us that it made them cry from seeing all the beauty of Canada.

Vancouver Police Museum

The Vancouver Police Museum and Archives are dedicated to preserving the history and memory of British Columbia’s largest independent municipal agency, the historic City Coroner’s Services and the City Analyst’s Laboratory, serving as an educational institution, living memorial, cultural anchor, and bridge between Vancouver citizens, visitors and local law enforcement.

The museum is located on the top floor of the city-owned Coroner’s Court building and permanent exhibits include the original morgue and autopsy suite. The museum maintains a collection of more than 30,000 objects, including archival documents, photographs, publications, confiscated firearms and other weapons, counterfeit currency, and various other artifacts and memorabilia, of which an estimated 40% is on display.

Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site

If you’re into history, this could be a great thing to add to your Vancouver bucket list. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery Society honours the importance of Canada’s West Coast fishing history by sharing stories of the fishing industry and fishing communities through exhibitions, collections, programs, and events.

Explore the Sea from Sewell’s Marina

Whether you’re looking to rent your own speed boat, go fishing, or join a sea safari, Sewell’s Marina has you covered. Located in Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver, Sewell’s Marina has been introducing visitors to Vancouver’s ocean playground since 1931. This includes Fishing Derbies, Sea Safari Eco Tours, Company Scavenger Hunts and their famous self-drive boat rental fleet. You can also enjoy lovely ocean and mountain views from their “deck of the bay”, even if you’re not up for an ocean adventure. Howe Sound offers over 300 sq. miles of sheltered islands and bays to explore and the Sunshine Coast and Gulf Islands are within easy sailing distance of Horseshoe Bay.

Take a Day Trip to Whistler

If you want to explore Whistler Village and marvel at the beautiful waterfalls in the famous Sea to Sky region, you might want to opt for a day tour from Vancouver to Whistler with BeWild Adventures . They also offer a number of guided hikes as well.

Taste Craft Beer at the Many Vancouver Breweries

Trying to decide on the best breweries in Vancouver is like trying to decide on the best pizza joint in Italy. There are so many breweries in Vancouver and all of them are good. You can’t go wrong. However, we reached out to a local and asked them to name five. Here they are:

Brassneck Brewery: According to many locals, Brassneck Brewery makes the best beer in the city. Whether you order your favourite pint or a flight of four, the prices are very reasonable and they have a great location on Main Street.

Stanley Park Brewing: Located right inside Stanley Park, not far from Second Beach, Stanley Park Brewing is an excellent place to sample some craft beer and munch down on some delicious food. They also have an awesome patio and are surrounded by tennis courts and nature.

33 Acres Brewing Company: If you’re looking for coffee and beer, this is the place to go.  It’s now become so popular, that they’ve had to expand…but not too much.

Callister Brewing Company: Located within walking distance of must-see Gastown, this cool little brewery creates tiny, collaborative brews. People love it not only for their great beer but because 4 microbreweries share the same space, giving you lots of options. We’ve also heard great things about the bacon cheese board.

Powell Brewery: If you love Tiny and Old Skool, this is the place to go. This husband-and-wife-team-owned nano-brewery won “Beer of the Year” from the Canadian Brewing Awards for their Old Jalopy Pale Ale. Suddenly, they weren’t so small, as more people requested their all-natural, hand-crafted beers.

If that’s not enough for you, consider a day trip out to Port Moody or North Vancouver for their walkable brewery districts. Both are accessible by transit. Cheers!

Where to Eat in Vancouver

Vancouver has so many dining establishments that an entire website could be dedicated just to that. However, if you just want some quick recommendations based on places we’ve been, here are a few that stand out.

Water St. Café : Located in the popular neighbourhood of Gastown and literally across the street from the world-famous Steam Clock, Water St. Café is a great place to go for some Italian-influenced fine dining. It has a fancy look on the inside, making it great for a date as well, in addition to a lovely patio and an upstairs dining area that is known for its nightly live music. They also have a very good happy hour menu if you’re looking to sip back on a cocktail while enjoying the variety of people across the street admiring the Steam Clock. We visited during the month of May when they were hosting their annual Crab Fest, allowing us to indulge in many crab-inspired dishes. We really loved their Crab Panzanella, which featured BC Dungeness crab served on a giant garlic crouton. Yum!

Honey Salt : Another beautiful restaurant that’s located right inside BC Place is Honey Salt . This neighbourhood restaurant combines classic comfort with a relaxed sophistication, serving chef-driven, farm-to-table cuisine with an emphasis on locally and regionally sourced ingredients that highlight the bounty of British Columbia in an approachable and comfortable setting. We were able to try a variety of dishes during our visit, such as their Pan Roasted Halibut, Delmonico Ribeye, and their delicious Crispy Brussels Sprouts, which come with lemon, Parmigiano Reggiano, and crushed chili flakes. They also serve breakfast, lunch, and dessert. We recommend trying their Society Chocolate & Banana Cake.

Stanley Park Brewing Restaurant & Brewpub : Also recommended for anyone looking for craft beer, Stanley Park Brewpub is a great place to eat as well. Located inside Stanley Park, this brewpub serves up brunch, lunch and dinner, including some really delicious bowls. We had both their Schezuan rice bowl with chicken, crispy noodles, and kimchi, as well as the Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl, which features soy-marinated tuna, crab, edamame, tempura puffs, and more. Both were delicious but made even better when washing it down with a pint of craft beer . They also feature a variety of appetizers, pizzas, burgers, and snacks.

Tips for Saving Money in Vancouver

When it comes to costs, Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in Canada, especially when it comes to real estate. However, there are still some ways you save some money.

Free parks and gardens: There are loads of free parks and gardens to enjoy around the city, such as the world-famous Stanley Park. Spend some time outside, enjoy the fresh air, and don’t spend a dime.

Free Walking Tours: Every time we take a “free” walking tour somewhere in the world, we’re impressed. It’s just a great way to learn some key facts and stories before enjoying the city at your own pace. You should definitely be prepared to tip but still, it’s a cheap way to enjoy a new city.

Discounted Entertainment: If you want to experience the entertainment side of Vancouver, check out ticketstonight.ca to look for half-priced entertainment tickets.

Enjoy Happy Hour: Eating and drinking during happy hour is a great way to save money and most bars and restaurants have discounts at certain times. Search for the Ultimate Happy Hours website for updated info across the city.

Same-Day Sports Tickets: If you want to watch a sports game and save money at the same time, the Tourism Vancouver Visitors’ Centre actually offers “Tickets Tonight”, which is half-priced tickets for events that haven’t sold out.

Spend Tuesday evening at the Vancouver Art Gallery on a Tuesday: Want to check out some incredible art for cheap? After 5 pm on Tuesday nights, the Vancouver Art Gallery is by donation only.

Coupon Sites: Like most cities, Vancouver has lots of deals on sites like Groupon and Living Social.

Purchase Tickets Online: Vancouverattractions.com lets you purchase tickets in advance, saving you up to 30%!

Where to Stay in Vancouver

Vancouver is home to a plethora of accommodation , ranging from budget hostels to super high-end hotels and everything in-between. For those on an extreme budget, you might want to try Couchsurfing, which can be great to meet like-minded people as well. Other recommendations include:

Samesun Hostel: For those on a budget, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better hostel than Samesun Vancouver. It’s centrally located, near the Skytrain, and is within walking distance from Granville Island and Gastown. It’s one of the most popular hostels in Vancouver and for good reason.

Best Western Premier Chateau Granville Hotel & Suites : Located right in the heart of Vancouver, within walking distance to almost everything, this Best Western Premier is a great option for those looking for a mid-range hotel with all the amenities you need. Many of the rooms have balconies as well, allowing you to get some fresh air while admiring some very beautiful views of the city.

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre: Way back in 2010, we scored this beautiful hotel on Priceline for a 50% discount. While I’m not sure you’d find a deal like that anymore, all I can say is that the views from our balcony on the 27th floor were hard to beat. Like any Sheraton hotel, it’s beautiful inside and out.

Getting to Vancouver

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Vancouver, here’s some practical advice on how to get here.

Getting to Vancouver by Plane

If you’re flying into Vancouver, you’ll most likely be flying into Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Although there are other smaller airports around, this is the one that gets used by most visitors. It’s located just 25 minutes from downtown, is rated as one of the best airports in North America, and offers easy access to downtown Vancouver, including the Skytrain.

From the airport to downtown, take the Canada Line for just $13 CAD (approx).

Getting to Vancouver by Car

Vancouver is also a great place to visit by car. Most people would be either driving west from interior BC or the mountains or driving up from the USA. Vancouver shares one of the busiest border crossings in the country and lots of people traverse the border for work. The drive between Seattle and Vancouver is less than three hours. If you’re on a Canada Road Trip , the drive from Calgary to Vancouver is one of the most scenic drives in the country, passing through numerous national parks and jaw-dropping scenery.

Getting to Vancouver by Bus

Although western Canada lost the service of Greyhound, there are still a few options for getting to Vancouver by bus. From Calgary, there’s the Rider Express, which takes just over 13 hours. From Seattle, the bus takes around 4 hours and is served by Greyhound, Bolt Bus, and Quick Shuttle. The easiest way to check options is by using Busbud.com.

How to Get Around Vancouver

Vancouver is probably one of the best cities in Canada for public transportation. This is due to the fact that the city is so densely populated, similar to places like New York. Because of this, tourists will find it quite easy to use the train, buses, or other modes of transportation.

Train: Both the SkyTrain Rapid Transit system and the Canada Line are common ways of traversing the city of Vancouver. You can get almost anywhere with one-way tickets ranging from $3 to $5.75 CAD. You can also buy a day pass for $10.50 CAD or a Compass Card for loading money onto. For schedules and more, visit Translink.ca.

Bus: Vancouver’s bus system also works well but only operates on one-zone fares, which can be annoying at times. Tickets between the trains and the buses are non-transferable either unless you use the Compass Card. However, if you’re travelling around at night, the buses run later than the trains, so they might be your best choice.

SeaBus: If you’re travelling by water, such as from Downtown Vancouver to the North Shore, you can jump on the SeaBus, which is also run by Translink.ca.

Taxi: Like most of Canada, taxis are not cheap but they can be convenient. Prices start at $3.50 CAD and it’s $1.89 CAD per kilometre after. As of January 2020, Uber and Lyft are also possible in downtown Vancouver.

Bicycle: Vancouver is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country and there are many places to rent them. We definitely recommend renting one to bike around Stanley Park, but traversing the city can be a good option as well. The public bike rental system is called Mobi, which costs $12 CAD per day for unlimited 30-minute rides.

Weather in Vancouver (Best Time to Visit)

Vancouver is one of the mildest cities in Canada, receiving very little snowfall and rarely dipping below 0°C. It does, however, get a lot of rain, especially in the winter months.

The busiest time to visit Vancouver is just like all cities in Canada – the summer! It gets quite hot and sunny during the summer months, averaging around 25°C. Like all Canadian cities, this is when the city truly comes to life. However, prices are also the highest at this time.

As mentioned, the winters in Vancouver are milder than almost anywhere else in Canada, with temperatures averaging just 6°C. However, you can still enjoy a “classic winter” by hitting the slopes of the world-famous Whistler Mountain Resort or Grouse Mountain.

Other times to visit would be the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. These can be rainy times to visit but are generally warm in temperature. Not hot. However, prices are less, crowds are fewer, and certain activities are in their prime, such as whale watching , which is best between April and May.

Fun Things to Do Beyond Vancouver

Another great part about Vancouver is that there are so many things to do outside of the city as well. From taking the ferry over to magical Vancouver Island, road tripping up to Whistler, driving to wine country around Kelowna, or going all the way past the Canadian Rockies to Calgary, Alberta, there are so many things to do for all types of travellers.

For more on what to do outside of Vancouver, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in British Columbia
• Things to Do in Whistler in Winter
• Things to Do in Victoria, BC 
• Things to Do in Kelowna
• Things to Do in Nanaimo

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

April 21, 2020 at 6:15 pm

This is a very high-quality report! I would like to share it with my classmates at The University of Calgary! This travel information would be helpful for those of us who will be studying at The University of British Columbia soon! And The Saver Card would be a great resource for Students also! Especially the International Students!

April 21, 2020 at 11:22 pm

Thanks, Chris. I’ll have to reach out to the universities and see what they think!

May 10, 2021 at 10:13 am

Vancouver is an awesome city. Been there many times. Can’t wait to go back for another visit.

May 12, 2021 at 12:38 pm

Love visiting Vancouver. Two of my favorites are Fly Over Canada & Stanley Park.

May 15, 2021 at 12:45 pm

Great ideas!

May 18, 2021 at 11:31 pm

Really neat reading about one’s own city…nicely done!

May 24, 2021 at 2:13 pm

We have a trip planned for the fall and are so looking forward to taking advantage of some of these great Vancouver sites!

May 26, 2021 at 12:07 am

This is a great article! Born and raised in the Fraser Valley and we are always checking out new trails or parks in all the neighbouring cities.

May 26, 2021 at 7:20 am

Thank you sharing the list of things to do in Vancouver. This will be very useful for them who are new in this city.

May 26, 2021 at 7:22 am

Thank you sharing the list of things to do in Vancouver. This city is best to explore.

May 26, 2021 at 7:43 am

I’m moving to Vancouver in the fall and absolutely can’t wait to try some of this stuff out, thanks so much for all the tips!

May 27, 2021 at 7:40 am

Hit up Wreck Beach last Friday, absolutely loved it!

February 6, 2022 at 10:16 pm

I recently started watching your videos and must have watched atleast 20 of them over the past weekend. They ave given me amazing travel goals. I came to your website from your youtube channel and while reading this article I could hear both of your voices dictating this article 😀 Thank you for your great informational videos!

February 8, 2022 at 4:47 pm

haha that’s awesome! Thanks so much, Isha!

April 5, 2022 at 11:35 pm

Thank you for sharing this informative blog. This must be very helpful for those who are new to the city.

May 25, 2022 at 9:22 pm

Looks like an amazing place. Really hoping yo visit sometime soon.

May 26, 2022 at 2:50 pm

Bang on! Been many times!

June 1, 2022 at 10:54 am

These all sound awesome!

June 7, 2022 at 6:39 am

Hope to go one day!

August 29, 2022 at 8:18 am

We plan on going west and this guide will certainly help guide us. Saved on my favorites.

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Vancouver

By Jennifer Van Evra

There are a few refrains Vancouverites always hear from travelers: “It’s so beautiful,” “Everybody's so nice here” and “There’s so much to do.” And they’re right on all three counts: surrounded by mountains to one side and the ocean to the other, the stunning city is a paradise for people who love the outdoors. You can ride out to see a pod of killer whales, hike over a jaw-dropping suspension bridge, take a kayak tour, climb a mountain—all 2,830 steps—or simply stroll the seawall in an urban park that’s ranked among the best in the world. But it’s not all about the elements: Vancouver has culture too, and boasts stellar museums, a public market that makes foodie hearts sing, and one of the most acoustically perfect concert halls in North America.

Read our complete Vancouver travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Capilano Suspension Bridge & Park Arrow

For people whose knees shake at the mere thought of walking a wooden suspension bridge 230 feet above terra firma, this is definitely not a top spot, but travelers who love the thrill of heights and gorgeous rainforest views are handsomely rewarded at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. First built as a tourist attraction in 1889, the North Vancouver park continues to draw droves of visitors who stroll the bridge and other high-level offerings.

Prince of Whales Whale Watching Arrow

The Prince of Whales tour is a sure-fire way to get an up-close look at some of British Columbia’s incredible marine life—orca whales, humpbacks, Pacific white-sided dolphins, elephant seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and more. The tours are conservation-focused—no cetacean-chasing cowboys here—and along the way, travelers also pick up fascinating facts about whale biology and behavior, marine conservation, and Vancouver’s history as a port city. Options include three- to five-hour tours from Vancouver or Victoria on a luxury catamaran, or if you’re departing from Victoria or Telegraph Cove, you can get down to water level on a Zodiac tour.

Snowshoe Tour on Cypress Mountain Arrow

If you’re not a downhill diehard or a Nordic racer but still want to find some "Frozen"-level winter magic, the snowshoe tours at Cypress Mountain are well worth the trek from downtown. After a fresh snowfall, there's nothing like walking through a forest of cedars and firs laden with snow, the ground sparkling all around, especially when you have certified guides leading the pack. The tours, which are currently on pause due to the pandemic , typically run daytime and evening, and range from a kid-friendly Hollyburn Meadows tour to the magical evening cheese and chocolate fondue tours. 

Stanley Park Arrow

Regularly heralded as one of the best parks in the world, Vancouver’s 988-acre Stanley Park is larger than the city’s entire downtown core, and is best known for its ocean and mountain views, its beaches and seaside swimming pool, its playgrounds and miniature train, and its walking trails through soaring fir and cedar forests. But it's especially beloved for its six-mile seawall, which draws millions of walkers, joggers, and cyclists every year.

Chan Centre for the Performing Arts Arrow

When visionary Canadian architect Bing Thom designed this University of British Columbia landmark, he hired some of the world’s finest acousticians to create an optimal-sounding space. So it’s no wonder “The Chan,” this performing-arts venue is known, is famous for its impeccable acoustics, which draw top international musicians, many who typically play far larger venues. With curved maple walls, the distinctly modern concert hall is shaped like the inside of a cello, and features a striking 25-ton acoustic canopy over the stage. The lobby is equally breathtaking: floor-to-ceiling glass walls tilt at a perfect angle.

Granville Island Arrow

In the 1970s, a polluted waterfront industrial site got a massive makeover and became one of Vancouver’s most beloved attractions: a tiny island packed with everything from a huge indoor public market and cozy artisan studios, to sunny cafes and a two-level kids’ market that makes little eyes go wide. With butchers, bakers, cheesemongers, florists, tea companies, fishmongers, craftspeople, confectioners, and produce vendors—not to mention a food court filled with delectable local eats—the bustling public market alone can keep your senses rapt for half a day.

Vancouver Aquarium Arrow

Vancouver is surrounded by water, but the best way to get an up-close look at the area’s marine life—as well as aquatic animals from around the globe—is at the Vancouver Aquarium, located in picturesque Stanley Park. For more than 60 years, locals and visitors have flocked to the seaside facility, which houses more than 65,000 animals—sea otters, penguins, sea lions, fish, jellyfish, eels, sea turtles, birds and reptiles—among them Joey the sea otter, Señor Cinco the penguin, and the recently rescued Donnelly the harbor seal. But don’t expect Marineland-style dolphin shows; the Vancouver Aquarium is more focused on education, research, and conservation.

Grouse Mountain Arrow

Towering high behind downtown Vancouver’s gleaming towers, Grouse Mountain—known as “the Peak of Vancouver”—has been a top destination for locals and tourists for more than a century. What you do there depends on the season: in summer you can hike, mountain bike, zipline over the treetops, catch an uber-Canadian lumberjack show, tour a high-tech wind turbine, and meet giant orphaned grizzly bears. In winter it’s skiing, snowshoeing, sliding, ice skating, and other sports that lure snow lovers. And whether summer or winter, the Skyride gondola offers jaw-dropping views of the city, the ocean, the Gulf Islands, and beyond.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden Arrow

Step out of the downtown fray and into Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and it feels like you’ve entered an island of calm. Perched at the edge of Chinatown, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen is modeled after the Ming Dynasty–era scholar’s gardens in Suzhou, China. It’s also regularly named among the best city gardens on the planet. The serene spot is far from a touristy knockoff, too. A collaboration between governments in Canada and China, the garden and structures were designed and built by 53 Suzhou specialists using rare trees and prized rocks shipped in from Asia.

Museum of Anthropology at UBC Arrow

With its soaring totem poles, cedar canoes, bentwood boxes, Indigenous masks, sculptures, ceramics, weavings, and more, Vancouver’s Museum of Anthropology, or MOA, is the city’s most beloved museum, making it a must-see for visitors and locals alike. Designed by renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson, the iconic 1976 building is considered a modernist masterpiece, and regularly draws architecture buffs. Located on the University of British Columbia campus, MOA is also an academic institution that houses close to 50,000 ethnographic objects, as well as 535,000 archaeological objects in its building alone.

VanDusen Botanical Garden Arrow

An Elizabethan hedge maze made of 3,000 pyramidal cedars, an Instagram-ready walkway under glowing yellow laburnum blooms, more than 7,500 plant species from every continent, and a picturesque lake are just a few of the features that have kept travelers and nature-loving locals flocking to the 55-acre VanDusen Botanical Garden for more than half a century. Just don’t expect highly arranged and coiffed gardens of annuals; this place is purely perennials, and although they are beautifully arranged, they still have a wild side.

Pacific Spirit Regional Park Arrow

Pacific Spirit Regional Park is the real deal: more than 2,000 acres of wild, Douglas fir–forested lands vivisected by almost 50 miles of trails (including 22 miles suitable for bikes and horses), much of it set along the waters of the Georgia Straight. It’s a bit out of the way—the University of British Columbia is at Vancouver’s westernmost reaches—but it’s one of the city’s best gems. Don't miss Wreck Beach, Vancouver’s legendary clothing-optional beach.

The Commodore Ballroom Arrow

First, you don’t just walk in off the street and have a pint at The Commodore—it’s a performance venue, so you’ll have to buy a ticket to gain entry. A true piece of local history, the downtown Granville Street club dates back to the 1920s, although the 1,000-seat bar really came of age in the 1970s, when visiting bands ranging from the Police and The Ramones to KISS, David Bowie, and Tina Turner played here. Vancouver’s answer to the Sunset Strip’s Whiskey-a-Go-Go is truly one of the finest live venues in North America.

Queen Elizabeth Park Arrow

Built in on a former quarry 500 feet above sea level, the 130-acre Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest vantage point in Vancouver, with extraordinary views that extend to the North Shore Mountains and beyond. But there’s more to Queen E, as locals call it, than just the vistas. With manicured lawns and impeccably groomed flowering plant beds, the gardens are the main draw. There's also the Bloedel Conservatory, an exotic plant and bird arboretum contained within a geodesic dome, and Seasons in the Park Restaurant, a destination dining spot.

Chinatown Arrow

The neighborhood draws every type, from locals who have been shopping there for generations to upscale foodies checking out the latest culinary hotspots, and from history buffs to authentic culture seekers. It absolutely lives up to the hype, and makes you want to learn more—especially if you soak in the serenity of the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, discover the neighborhood’s history at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre, check out thought-provoking art at the Rennie Museum, and treat yourself to a world of food and drink. If you’re ever in town during Chinese New Year, it’s also well worth catching the parade.

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A Local’s Guide to 43 Wonderful Things to Do in Vancouver, BC

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

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Wondering what to do in Vancouver?

I have to admit something – I am a very annoying person when it comes to talking about my hometown.

The reason is simple: I love Vancouver a scary amount, and if you ask me about it, I will literally frantically shout suggestions at you for as long as you’ll let me.

As such, I resisted ever publishing anything concrete about it – a very counterintuitive coping mechanism for my overwhelm.

There are so many great things to do in Vancouver, it’s impossible to narrow the list down to something short and sweet.

So I stopped trying. This list is the opposite of short and sweet – it is in fact, rather long and painful… and likely to make you go “yikes” while virtually backing away slowly. 

BUT, if you’re looking for a comprehensive list of things to see and do in Vancouver, Canada, this might be the exact lengthy bucket list you’re looking for, written with love by an overzealous local who is intense about you having a good time.

So… ENJOY IT. Every second! I’ll be eagerly watching your enjoyment from the shadows over there.

NOTE: This list includes suggestions for not just things to do in Vancouver, but also things to do in ‘the Greater Vancouver Area’, including cities like Burnaby and Richmond . These are all within 20 minutes of Vancouver proper though, and are well worth the trek!

Save this list of Things to Do in Vancouver for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

The Top 7 Touristy Things to do in Vancouver (That Are Worth it!)

Okay – let’s start with THE best things to do in Vancouver as recommended by every guidebook and website.

I’m a big fan of going off the beaten path, but the touristy things here are touristy for a reason, so be sure to check them off your list.

Not all attractions in Vancouver are made equal though, so here are the select few that have my personal seal of approval.

1. Ooh and ahh along the Stanley Park Seawall

If there’s one thing I demand every visitor do in Vancouver, it’s a jaunt along the Stanley Park seawall.

Seriously, this activity is peak Vancouver, and lovely even on a treacherous stormy day (as my boyfriend learned, when he visited for the first time and I wouldn’t take “no babe, there’s literal thunder striking down trees” for an answer).

Granted, exploring the famous Stanley Park seawall is best enjoyed on a beautiful day, but trust me when I say it has more than earned its stripes as one of the top things to do in Vancouver (as recommended in every single guidebook).

Stanley Park is an iconic slice of town located right in downtown Vancouver, featuring prominent attractions such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the city’s famous totem poles, idyllic Prospect Point, and the towering Lionsgate Bridge.

Its famous seawall hugs the water and leads you all the way to English Bay, one of the city’s best beaches, providing endless views of Vancouver’s glorious mix of mountains, sea and lush, lush greenery.

Renting bicycles to traverse the Seawall is a popular activity (you can book a tour like this one if you’re not feeling confident), but exploring it by foot is just as fun… and less hazardous if you’re a clumsy cyclist like me.

NOTE: For a darker twist on the usual Stanley Park sightseeing route, you can book this spooky tour.

2. Stop by Jack Poole Plaza and Canada Place

If I ever feel like I need to fall in love with Vancouver (trust me, for some reason I get this urge often), I head straight to Jacke Poole Plaza and Canada Place.

This is where you can find stunning views of the mountains and water, plus plenty of Vancouver’s most iconic public art pieces, including the pixellated whale, giant teardrop, and of course, the Olympic Cauldron which is a legacy from when Vancouver hosted the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.

For a unique perspective, look for a set of stairs to the left of Cactus Club, where you can climb up and look over Jack Poole Plaza and the glassy buildings of Coal Harbour … one of my favourite views in the city!

From Jack Poole Plaza, you can easily walk to Canada Place, one of the most iconic symbols of Vancouver with its five flag facade, which lights up with different colours at night.

Along here, you’ll find the “The Canadian Trail”, a fun little walk dotted with plaques sharing facts aboot Canada and various pieces of our history.

SIDE TIP: One of the best (lesser known) views of Canada Place is in Granville Plaza, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic too as there’s loads of seats and benches. On a weekday though, you can expect to share this space with plenty of hungry office workers.

3. Hop on an Aquabus and explore Granville Island

Aquabus, you say?

Yes, what a fun, whimsical name… and I’m happy to confirm that the actual experience is just as delightful as its branding.

Yup – the Aquabus is a little rainbow boat that shuttles people all around False Creek… and it’s awesome.

Sure, it’s pricier than taking the bus, but riding it is a fun experience and I highly recommend trying it out for unique perspectives of Vancouver from the water.

While the Aquabus offers various routes, I recommend you take it to Granville Island , which is home to a famous food market, many food stalls/restaurants, a brewery and my personal favourite: Vancouver Theatresports, the best improv you’ll ever watch.

4. Meander around Gastown

As the oldest neighbourhood in Vancouver, Gastown is a romantic little slice of the city where you’ll find pretty cobblestoned streets lined with a throng of independent shops, boutiques and restaurants for days.

While I admit, this has become one of the more touristy areas in Vancouver (you’ll have no trouble finding MMM, Miscellaneous Moose Merch here), it is still a worthwhile place to visit… especially given its central location in the downtown core.

Sure, most visitors come here to drool puddles over the famous Gastown Steam Clock and the statue of Gastown founder, Gassy Jack, but there’s much more to do here, including munching away at some of the city’s best eateries (a food tour like this one might be a good idea if you’re short on time!) and shopping at unique local boutiques.

For a more macabre take on Gastown sights, you can also book this Lost Souls of Gastown tour.

5. Enjoy the serenity at Queen Elizabeth Park

For some of the best views in Vancouver and a gorgeous park to boot, head over to Queen Elizabeth Park.

This is one of my favourite parks in Vancouver, mostly because every inch of it is gorgeous…. and best of all, it’s free!

For context, this is where ALL the Vancouver youths go to take their prom pictures, so you can bet that it’s scenic and picture-perfect.

The park’s quarry gardens are a special highlight, with lush flora wrapped around pretty pathways, little bridges and even mini-waterfalls.

You’ll also find a Pitch & Putt here, along with free tennis courts, picnic areas, dancing fountains and the Bloedel Floral Conservatory.

6. Swap continents for a few hours at Doctor Sun Yat Sen’s Chinese Garden

While I don’t think that Vancouver’s Chinatown is an amazing experience for tourists (it’s sadly one of the roughest parts of town), the one exception for me is Doctor Sun Yat Sen’s Chinese Garden, particularly if you want to feel like you’ve been warped over to Asia.

This garden (which is next to an equally pretty free area, known as the Sun Yat-Sen Park) is the first Chinese garden of its kind of be built outside of China, with some gorgeous rock/water features, a lily pond, and covered walkways that hearken back to the Ming Dynasty.

You can grab tickets for this gorgeous oasis here.

7. Get THE best Vancouver views ever on a seaplane tour

While I admit, a bougie seaplane tour definitely isn’t the cheapest Vancouver activity, soaring above the city in style is still to date one of my favourite memories of Vancouver.

Really, getting to appreciate Vancouver during a scenic flight is a perspective like no other, and I highly recommend trying it out if you’re looking to do something special while you’re in town.

I booked a downtown panorama tour with Harbour Air and loved it. Their planes depart right at Coal Harbour, which makes access from downtown Vancouver a breeze.

Click here to check reviews and availability.

BONUS VANCOUVER MUST-DO: WHALE WATCHING! A lot of visitors come to BC for whale watching, and while I’ve heard it’s very much a hit and miss activity (incredible if you see whales, very underwhelming when you don’t) I figured I would put it on your radar. I can’t personally vouch for a company myself as I’ve never done it, but here is one with consistent five star reviews.

Alternatives to Overpriced/Overrated Vancouver Things to Do

Alright, with the touristy musts out of the way, I now want to share some of my personal favourite things to do in Vancouver with you. Consider this your list of local Vancouver secrets.

Truthfully, there are a lot of “tourist must-dos” in Vancouver that I think are overrated or overpriced. Here are my alternative recommendations for these popular sights:

8. Enjoy the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge (instead of Capilano Suspension Bridge)

One of the coolest things about Vancouver is how you can find a rainforest 20 minutes away from the downtown core, and usually visitors will go to the Capilano Suspension Bridge to experience it.

I do think the Capilano Suspension Bridge is gorgeous BUT only worth it when it’s not busy. Otherwise, the hordes of crowds make it pretty unbearable, and especially considering the hefty price tag, not really all that worth it.

Instead, there’s another suspension bridge in North Vancouver called the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. Not only is it free, many of the trails around the bridge are really fun and there’s plenty of hiking to do in the area.

I won’t lie, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is MUCH better than the one in Lynn Canyon (it’s just way longer and more majestic) but Lynn Canyon is much less crowded with tourists and offers some great hiking opportunities for free.

If your main goal is to see the bridge, head to Capilano (and get tickets in advance here to make it more painless), but if you simply want to enjoy the best of North Vancouver’s nature, then Lynn Canyon is a much better value.

9. Do a Gastown food tour (instead of just staring at the Gastown Steam Clock)

Gastown is one of the loveliest (and most well-known) parts of Vancouver, but its main draw for a lot of tourists is the Gastown Steam Clock, which I’ve always found a bit baffling.

It’s a pretty clock, but that’s sort of it, and if seeing this clock is all you do in Gastown , you’re definitely not getting the most of your visit.

Instead of coming to gawk at a clock then running away, I’d recommend grabbing some food/drinks to properly soak in the Gastown atmosphere.

A great way to do this would be through a Gastown food tour, which brings you to a lot of the area’s best spots.

This Gastown food tour instance has rave reviews and hits up many of the most popular spots to eat in the area. Click here to check reviews and availability.

If you’d like to add some booze to your tour, there’s also this food, craft beer, and wine tour of Gastown that includes a variety of courses and drinks at different spots around Gastown.

10. Take a boat tour to see Vancouver (instead of Fly Over Canada)

I’ve done Fly Over Canada several times thanks to hook-ups from friends of mine, and while it’s pretty fun for a quick thing to do in Downtown Vancouver, I find it very overpriced ($30 per adult!!) for a short 12 minute attraction.

If you have ever done the Soaring over the World (formerly Soaring over California) rides at the Disney parks, this is exactly like that except with Canadian landscapes.

Overall, it’s fun and might be one of the more exciting things to do in Vancouver with kids, but I do find it’s very overpriced for a mild thrill ride.

INSTEAD, I would take that money and opt for seeing the real deal: take a boat tour and experience the gorgeousness of Vancouver from the water!

You can find quite a few ( like this one ) for less than $50 per person, so for only 20 additional bucks, you get an hour long boat ride instead of a 12 minute ride that goes by in the blink of an eye.

11. Visit Deep Cove and hike Quarry Rock (instead of doing the Grouse Grind)

A lot of people (Vancouverites included) are obsessed with the Grouse Grind.

It’s a steep set of stairs that brings you all the way up Grouse Mountain, and is like the ultimate flex when it comes to Vancouver hikes.

Doing ‘the Grind’ is a rite of passage for many, and doing it regularly is the mark of an athletic AF person with loads of discipline.

BUT, I don’t think the Grouse Grind is that fun for tourists.

For one – it is genuinely very difficult and unless you’re in good shape, it’s a bit torturey. Second, and most importantly, even when you hike up, you still need to take the gondola down and PAY FOR THAT PRIVILEGE.

Yes, your reward for a torturous climb is the privilege of paying $15 to ride back down without crying.

Granted, on top of Grouse Mountain there are some very Canadian experiences to enjoy for free, like the Grizzly Habitat and Lumberjack shows, plus other things like ziplines at additional cost, BUT I do still think this isn’t one of the best things to do in Vancouver.

Insteaaaaad, I recommend heading to Deep Cove, an adorable little town in North Vancouver .

This picture-perfect spot has lots of cute boutiques and places to eat, scenic harbour views, PLUS what I consider to be the best “value” hike in the Greater Vancouver Area: Quarry Rock.

This short hike will take you no more than 2 hours roundtrip, and offers up stunning PNW views. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy up top and soak in the views alongside alllll the locals, who can’t resist the view themselves.

This is a much nicer experience overall than the Grind, and you might even catch me up there sometime 😉

12. Enjoy the views from Cypress Mountain (instead of Grouse Mountain)

So while we’re talking about Grouse, I have an alternative to the mountain that is both free and in my opinion, better.

As I mentioned, most visitors will head to Grouse when they visit North Vancouver , but the gondola ride up is 60 bucks roundtrip, which is a lot considering many of the most exciting things to do come at additional cost.

There are some activities included of course like the Lumberjack shows, Grizzly habitat and bird demos, but overall, I find the ticket overpriced for what you get.

Instead, if it’s an incredible view you’re after, the one from the Cypress Mountain Highview Lookout (in neighbouring West Vancouver ) is my favourite in the city.

While it’s only accessible by car, the sweeping views over the city center, from Lions Gate Bridge to Stanley Park, is honestly breathtaking and especially magical at night – way better than the one at Grouse!

13. Head to Richmond (instead of hanging out in Vancouver’s Chinatown)

One of the highlights of visiting Vancouver is experiencing just how global a city it is, with plenty of incredible restaurants and shops representing cultures from around the world.

Vancouver’s Chinese community is particularly huge (hi!!) which means you’ll find some of the best Chinese food in the world right here.

But lots of tourist guides recommend you visit Chinatown for that purpose, which I don’t think is the best suggestion.

As I mentioned before, apart from the Doctor Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden, there’s not a lot to enjoy for tourists in Vancouver’s Chinatown, which is unfortunately very interlinked with the roughest part of Vancouver, the Downtown East Side.

Instead, if you want to experience Asian culture, I suggest you head to the city of Richmond (accessible from downtown Vancouver by only 20 minutes on Skytrain).

This place is straight-up teleportation to Asia itself, with an endless parade of Asian restaurants (everything from traditional HK diners to Korean BBQ!) and shops too.

Feeling overwhelmed? One great place to start is the Aberdeen Centre food court on the top floor. Trust me.

NOTE: Richmond can be overwhelming to navigate for newbies because many authentic places don’t cater to English speakers. A nice alternative if you’re going for ease is booking a Richmond food tour like this one where a guide can help you through it!

14. Enjoy the local craft beer scene (instead of partying on the Granville Strip)

As a Vancouverite, my memories of the infamous Granville Strip mostly involve 19-year old me stumbling down the puke-stained pavement, waiting too long in line, paying too much cover to get in, only to end up with sticky shoes and a shamey McDonalds coma.

I don’t love the nightlife scene in Vancouver to be honest, and overall I find the Granville Strip to be rather gross, but if you’re looking for clubs, this is known as the “it” place to party and often recommended by guides as the best place for a night out.

If clubbing is your thing, then suuuure I guess you get to experience the same sorta expensive, clubbing-induced misery as elsewhere in the world, but for an experience that’s much more ‘Vancouver’, I recommend sampling your way around the wonders of Vancouver’s craft beer scene, which has been hoppin’ (heh) for the past few years.

Mount Pleasant is one of the best neighbourhoods for brewery hopping, so be sure to check out this list of their top breweries to get started!

15. Go shopping in Kerrisdale (instead of Robson Street)

Kerrisdale is a super adorable neighbourhood filled with fun boutiques and places to eat, only a 20 minute commute from downtown Vancouver.

If you want a unique shopping experience, this would be much better than the (relatively dull) Robson Street in downtown Vancouver, which is filled with a mix of chain shops you can find pretty much anywhere (e.g. Zara), along with tacky gift shops.

Everrrrybody and their mom seems to recommend Robson as THE shopping destination in Vancouver, but if you want something that’s more unique and special, then head elsewhere, like Kerrisdale. They also do some cool candelight concerts at Kerrisdale Presbyterian sometimes ( like this Taylor Swift one I went to ), so you can make a whole day’s outing of it.

If Kerrisdale doesn’t sound like your jam, I also love West 4th, Main Street and Gastown for more independent/local shopping.

16. Take the seabus to North Vancouver (instead of paying for the Vancouver Lookout)

The Vancouver Lookout is an attraction in downtown Vancouver that offers beautiful 360 degree views of the city.

I do actually enjoy the view from here a lot, but you just take an elevator up and stare at the city from behind glass windows, which to me isn’t the most exciting experience if you only have a bit of time in Vancouver.

Instead, a 2 minute walk from the Vancouver Lookout, you’ll find the Seabus terminal. I’d recommend coming here and hopping on the seabus to North Vancouver .

While the Seabus is simply an extension of Vancouver’s public transportation system, this 15 minute ride across the water from downtown to Lonsdale Quay is one of my favourite things to do in Vancouver when I have visitors.

Not only do you get a sublime view of Vancouver’s glassy skyline, it’s the same price as a regular bus ticket (except cooler, because you’re on a boat).

The view of downtown Vancouver from Lonsdale Quay is stunning as well, and there’s plenty of good food to enjoy on the other side.

17. Watch sunset at Sunset Beach (instead of at English Bay)

English Bay is the most popular beach in Vancouver because of its location – it’s easily accessible by public transportation and smack dab in the downtown core.

It’s a nice enough beach, but it gets very crowded in the summer (especially with rowdy teenagers out of school!) * murmurs Get Off My Lawn *

So if you’re a grumpy granny in disguise like me, instead of hanging out at English Bay, I would recommend waltzing over to Sunset Beach, which is a short distance away, and one of the most breathtaking places in Vancouver to watch sunset.

The beach here is just as nice as English Bay, but there’s a few interesting public art sculptures like two giant engagement rings and a giant Inukshuk.

It’s also usually less crowded and as hinted in the name, phenomenally beautiful at sunset.

18. Take a stroll along the False Creek seawall (instead of just walking around the Stanley Park seawall)

While I love Stanley Park (it was, after all, #1 on this list!), another personal favourite seawall walk of mine is False Creek, by Science World.

Whether you do the route from Science World to Granville Island or the route from Science World over to Yaletown, the people watching is great, and you can spend your day ogling fluffy doggos while taking in unbeatable views of the City of Glass.

NOTE: I must stress though that the Stanley Park seawall walk is amazing and you should still check it out. I’m just letting you know there’s a second lesser known seawall walk that is amazing. Both are amazing. Vancouver is amazing. YOU’RE amazing. Okay? We good? Now, moving on…

19. Spend some time in Mount Pleasant (instead of just staying downtown)

One of my favourite summertime things to do in Vancouver is hanging out in the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, filled to the brim with cool shops, street art, cafes and more.

This up and coming (or I guess it has been coming for a while? Sorry if that sounded dirty) is a neighbourhood just outside of the downtown core, making it quickly accessible by foot or by public transportation.

You won’t find a ton of guides recommending it to tourists, but Mount Pleasant is an unmistakably hip part of town swimming in food and shopping options and I honestly feel MUCH cooler every time I hang out there… and if it can revitalize an uncool pyjama-living grandma like me, imagine what it can do for you!

20. Do a bike tour (instead of a Hop on Hop off bus)

While I have the cycling abilities of a demented horse, I still have to admit that biking is one of the best ways to enjoy Vancouver (when you can do it without crying).

This is why I’d highly recommend doing a bike tour/bike rental instead of those Hop on Hop Off buses.

That’s because I feel like some of the nicest parts of the city (namely the seawall paths) are missed by these buses, so it’d be a huge wasted opportunity to miss them.

There are several bike tour options in Vancouver, but here’s one with consistent five star reviews. Click here to check reviews and prices.

Foodie Things to do in Vancouver

I’m gonna let you in on a local secret right now… every Vancouverite is straight-up obsessed with food.

Like, honestly, we eat as often as we breathe.

So, without hesitation, I can say that one of the BEST things to do in Vancouver is eat. I’d recommend clearing your schedule for some of the following quintessentially Vancouver food activities… 

21. Sob while eating a Japadog

Listen, I’m not crazy… I know it sounds weird: a Japanese-inspired hot dog, but trust me when I say that this Vancouver classic street food is like tasting dreams come true. In less hyperbolic terms, it’s delicious. So delicious.

I always bring visitors here and ye old Japadawgz are a hit every time. What started off as a lone street cart in 2005 is now one of Vancouver’s most beloved chains.

You can’t go wrong with their signature dog: the Terimayo, a classic sausage smothered in teriyaki sauce, Japanese mayo and topped with seaweed. I’m drooling over my keyboard just thinking about it.

22. Feast on sushi

It’s a commonly known fact among foodies that Vancouver has some of the best sushi in the world outside of Japan.

Our abundance of fresh seafood has given us the hookups, what can I say? There’s pretty much a sushi place on every block, so you’re spoiled for choice, but here are some of my favourites:

Miku: If you have a higher budget and want to truly indulge in some bougie sushi, Miku’s aburi sushi is what you need in your life. It melts in your mouth. Nothing compares. It’s SO good, but a little pricey compared to other options in Vancouver.

Sushi Garden: This is a no frills kind of place, but the sushi is awesome and the prices are SUPER low. It’s a local favourite in Burnaby , so expect long lineups and highly mediocre service (they can get away with it!)

23. Try Canada’s favourite drunk food: poutine

Poutine is Canadian comfort food on steroids. Imagine crunchy french fries soaked in gravy and topped with squeaky cheese curds. Super healthy . I have two places in the city I usually hit up for poutine:

La Belle Patate: My favourite spot for poutine in Vancouver. It’s a little bit of a trek from the very downtown core but it’s worth it. Loads of different toppings to choose from and I’ve heard they import their cheese curds from Quebec. If you’re up for it, they even have a terrifying All You Can Eat option.

Smoke’s Poutinerie: More of a fast food type poutine, but still good. They’re conveniently located on the Granville Strip, close to all the clubs so it’s pretty packed with drunkies in the late hours of the night, but I’ve had it sober before and it’s still good! In particular, the pierogi poutine is lifechanging.

You canNOT visit Vancouver (or Canada period) without eating poutine until you want to throw up. You just can’t.

24. Have the best Asian food ever

If you like Asian food, Vancouver will be like a crazy food utopia for you. What’s your poison? Love Chinese food? Well take your pick from Shanghai, Szechuan, HK diner, Cantonese, and Hunan…

Want to slurp up umami-explosive ramen? We have a million ramen houses.

Prefer pho? WE HAVE 24/7 PHO. That’s not even a joke.

You can also eat your face off at Korean BBQ, Korean Fried Chicken, a myriad of bubble tea houses, straight-outta-Asia style food courts, and gosh… just really anything you can imagine.

Vancouver is to Asian food like Ryan Gosling is to abs. Take advantage of this delightful fact. Don’t worry – a food guide is coming soon!

25. Booze up at happy hour

Okay, so you want to enjoy Vancouver like a local? Well… Vancouverites LIVE for Happy Hour. We really do…

Why? Well, alcohol isn’t the cheapest here, so when we get a chance to booze up for cheap, we take it.

So, if you find yourself in need of a sightseeing break around 4-7pm, be sure to duck into a place for a happy hour special.

The ones at West Coast chains like Earl’s and Cactus Club are especially popular… but here are some of the best happy hours in Downtown Vancouver to get you started.

26. Go dodo for donuts

Vancouver, like any major city, goes through weird little waves of “popular” desserts…

I remember froyo being huge in my high school days, followed by cupcakes having their 15 seconds.

WELL, a few years ago, donuts were the it thing and a variety of amazing donut places popped up around the city.

Luckily, they’re here to stay, and Vancouver is now a bit of a donut lover’s paradise. Here are some places to check out:

Honey’s: This gem in North Vancouver’s Deep Cove serves up my favourite donut in the history of the universe. It’s a bit out of the way from the downtown core, but served hot and fresh, these bad boys are the epitome of deliciousness, so much that celebrities like Kate Winslet have praised their virtue.

Lucky’s: For big fat doughy donuts, Lucky’s is your place. They have a few branches including one in downtown Vancouver. Paired with 49th Parallel coffee, you have THE perfect treat. They have lots of different ones but the sourdough original is still my favourite.

PS: While not directly downtown, the 49th Parallel on Main St is one of my favourite places to hang out and have a coffee. Their cold brew will change you.

27. Have AMAZING ice cream

Sure Vancouver is notorious for its gloomy weather, but that doesn’t stop us from having some seriously delicious ice cream options.

There are some places in particular that are super famous… here are some recommendations for you:

La Casa Gelato is a Vancouver institution. It’s a bit hidden away in the (mostly residential/industrial neighbourhood of Strathcona ) but you’ll quickly find it once you look thanks to its bright pink facade. Inside lurks 200+ different flavours of ice cream, ranging from the terrifying like Viagra to the delicious, like Passionfruit Mango Sorbetto. Without a doubt, you are sure to find something you like here.

Earnest Ice Cream is a city-wide favourite (and my personal fave)  that has the cutest minimalist branding and the most delicious ice cream – perfectly rich and flavourful with simple classics done incredibly like salted caramel and earl grey. Be sure to treat yourself to a few giant scoops or you’ll be hauling out fifty pints (in adorable mason jars) for later.

Bella Gelateria is a hugely popular gelato place downtown that always has a line up down the block during summer months. I mean, they did win Best Gelato at this fancy Gelato festival in Florence a few years ago, so you can expect  q u a l i t y ! Not to be ~ that person ~ but this is the closest to authentic Italian gelato I’ve found in Vancouver, with that amazing whipped texture you won’t usually find in regular ice cream.

28. Try an outrageously garnished caesar

Okay – cultural lesson time! The caesar is Canada’s most beloved cocktail. It is also one that both shocks and horrifies international visitors.

Its ingredients? Delicious “Clamato” (i.e. clam/tomato) juice, vodka, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce and plenty of celery salt along the rim of your glass. Imagine a bloody mary with clam juice – that’s basically what it is…

Most horrifying is perhaps the garnishes that come with it – sometimes a humble celery stalk, sometimes a stick of pepperoni or bacon, and other times, like they do at my favourite spot The Score, the caesar comes topped with a full roast chicken, BBQ pork sliders, a mac and cheese hot dog, onion rings and a brownie. No, I’m not joking. Yes, this IS real.

… Don’t worry though: they have some more modestly garnished caesars on the menu too. It’s a cool West End bar with a great vibe, so my top recommendation for trying a caesar!

29. Indulge your inner coffee snob

Vancouver has been hit hard by the third wave coffee craze, which means there’s an abundance of hipster coffee joints, especially downtown.

If you’re a coffee fan, make sure to caffeinate like crazy and enjoy this beloved part of our city’s food and drink culture. I’ll admit, while coffee is as much part of my lifestyle as sleeping or breathing, I’m not much of a discerning coffee drinker – I’ll drink anything, but I am especially partial to Parallel 49.

This article sums up a lot of the city’s most beloved coffee spots.

30. Grab lunch at a food truck

Growing up in Vancouver, I always thought that food trucks were the most normal thing….. that is, until I moved to Munich where there were none at all to be found.

I soon began to miss them and their quick but delicious bites, and now see them as a quintessential part of downtown Vancouver’s bustling charm.

SO, if you are entranced by the ~ exotic ? ~ appeal of food trucks, then be sure to add lunch at one to your Vancouver itinerary!

After all, if you find yourself in the downtown core on a weekday, odds are good that you’ll encounter countless food truck anyways, eager to feed and please the thousands of people who work in/around the financial district.

There are too many unique and delicious food trucks for me to name, so I would recommend following your nose (and following the line-ups!). My personal favourite is Eat Chicken Wraps though – their wraps are unreal.

The locals know what they like. Usually, you’ll find a ton of food trucks around the Art Gallery area. Click here for an app that shows you which ones are open!

Quirky and Fun Things to do in Vancouver

Alriiiiight now time to get weird. Okay, not too weird, but if you’re looking for something a bit out of the ordinary to do in Vancouver, here are some fun activities that are perfect.

31. Go mural hunting in Mount Pleasant

I’ve already gushed about the wonders of ultra-hip Mount Pleasant , but it’s worth mentioning again because of their fun, colourful murals. 

This little neighbourhood has giant murals plastered all over its various restaurants, shops, and office buildings, mainly thanks to the fact that it hosts the Vancouver Mural Festival every year.

The murals change often so be sure to use this official map here to keep tabs on where to go!

32. Check out a pink alleyway

Vancouver’s pink alleyway (AKA Alley-Oop) was quite literally made for Instagram, and while it’s nothing more than just an alleyway painted in bright pink and yellow, it’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

You can find it on West Hastings between Seymour and Granville, although don’t expect much more than just a regular alley that’s a bit cuter….. and filled with people from all walks of life snapping photos and videos (true story, apparently a K-Pop group even filmed a music video here?)

PRO TIP: If you love snarkily people watching as much as I do, make sure you duck into Tree’s Organic [Granville St location], which is home to some of the city’s best cheesecake and grab a window seat overlooking this alley entrance. It’s really fun to eat cheesecake and watch all the people come do their photoshoots and all the people who walk past it and instantly light up.

33. Lose yourself in Asian culture at Aberdeen Center

It feels so weird to be recommending this place since I spent SO many weekends of my childhood here, but if you’d like a quick jaunt over to Asia, hop on the Skytrain and get yourself to Aberdeen Center in Richmond .

Not only do they have the BEST food court ever, touting everything from curry fishballs and bubble tea to soft serve crepe cones and crispy chicken wings, they also have lots of adorable shops and Asian arcades where you can get Japanese sticker pics (a great souvenir).

PS: Don’t forget to stop by Daiso, a Japanese (2) dollar store on steroids, which has a surprising range of goods available for only a toonie each. This is a really fun place to spend an afternoon (and eat your face off of course).

34. Chase famous filming locations

If you didn’t know already, Vancouver is a HUGE player in the film industry and is often called Hollywood North for the countless productions that have shot/continue to shoot here.

You might have never realized it before, but our versatile little chameleon of a city has been transformed into New York, Seattle, and countless fictional cities over the past few decades.

So, odds are very good that you’ll know a movie or two that filmed here, so consider doing a bit of research to see if any of your favourites have filmed here, and track down some iconic locations!

Off the top of my head, big TV shows that have filmed here include Once Upon a Time, Riverdale, any CW Superhero shows (e.g. Flash, Arrow, Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow), Deadpool, and way more. Here is a good place to start your research!

SIDE NOTE: There is a very high chance that there will be some productions filming during your visit too! If you’re a major film geek and are curious about who/what might be in town at the same time as your trip, this site is a great place to start.

35. Cheer on the Vancouver Canucks at a hockey game

If there’s one Canadian stereotype that is 1000% true (besides the fact that we are constantly saying sorry), it’s that people really love their hockey around here.

If you’ve never experienced a live hockey game, I’d recommend giving it a try in Vancouver – the energy is a lot of fun!

Tickets can be quite pricey but sometimes you’ll be able to find a deal here on GetYourGuide. Otherwise, the main place to get tickets is through the official website via Ticketmaster.

NOTE: There are also Season Ticket groups like this one where season ticket holders sell tickets they’re not using, often for a better deal than on Ticketmaster, as well as the GameTime app which sometimes has last minute deals.

36. Bounce around at a trampoline park

Trust me, you don’t know joy until you’ve trampolined into a pit of foam blocks.

It’s like faceplanting into a cloud, getting a group hug from mashmallows, etc. Sure, this isn’t a uniquely Vancouver activity, but if you’re from a place that doesn’t have a trampoline park of its own, this is a REALLY fun activity that you should try out.

My favourite go-to for all this jumping around this is Extreme Air Park, where there are not only trampolines all over, but trampoline dodgeball too, some blacklight time, and more.

Plus, their Richmond location is actually the largest indoor trampoline park in the country. Click here to learn more.

NOTE: Be sure to wear athletic gear though – you’d be surprised at how quickly you can work up a sweat. 

37. Try out an escape room

I don’t know when “getting locked in a room” became such a popular Vancouver past time, but it is.

Escape Games are now all over the city, and having done a few myself, I can confirm they’re a lot of fun. This would be a great rainy day or family activity.

Again, not exactly the most Vancouvery thing to do, but a fun activity if you’ve gotten tired of conventional sightseeing. 

38. Chill like a dude at Dude Chilling Park

I honestly feel like half the joy that this place sparks is just from the knowledge that it exists.

Yes guys, Dude Chilling Park is a REAL place in Vancouver that you can visit!

Okay – truth be told, it’s a rather average and mediocre park, but that sign though? Gold.

A side trip to Dude Chilling Park makes most sense if you’re exploring Mount Pleasant . Otherwise, don’t go out of your way to see it. Trust me – it’s a very lackluster park….

That sign though!

Cultural Things to do in Vancouver

Looking for more cultural activities to try in Vancouver? Here are some spots I like to go when I’m feeling particularly cultured. *twirls moustache*

39. Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery

Wonderfully acronymed as the VAG (heh), this art gallery can be found in the very heart of Vancouver’s downtown core and is a bit hit or miss depending on the exhibitions that they have on.

I caught an exhibition of fashion powerhouse Guo Pei here a few years back and it was awesome, but (honestly) I don’t think that the permanent collection here is necessarily worth going out of your way to see.

That said, if you find yourself looking for a fun rainy day activity, this is definitely one to consider. Note that Tuesday evenings, admission is by donation, so if you don’t hate crowds, you can save some money by going then.  Click here to learn more on the official website.

40. Head to the Museum of Anthropology

UBC’s Museum of Anthropology is definitely one of the city’s best hidden gems, located about 20 minutes away from downtown Vancouver.

If you want to see some of the best examples of First Nations art in the city, this gorgeous museum (with sea and mountain views no less) is a great place to go.

From cedar wood carvings and special Indigenous weavings to an award-winning ceramics gallery, this is a huge museum that deserves a visit if you have the time. Click here to learn more.

Plus, I hate saying this since I went to their rival university, but the UBC Campus is trulyyyyyy gorgeous.

41. Check out all the public art pieces

Whether you consider yourself into art or not, Vancouver is a  really fun place to go hunting for public art. Mainly because it’s all SUPER weird.

From a massive pixellated whale and a stack of vintage cars to weird giant laughing men, you’ll find all sorts of oddities scattered around downtown Vancouver.

Once upon a time, there were even giant jellybeans! JELLYBEANS, I SAY! Sadly, those giant fun beanz are gone now, but you can find a detailed guide to different public art pieces in the city here.

42. Watch improv on Granville Island

Improv at Granville Island is hands down one of my favourite things to do in Vancouver, and my boyfriend loves it so much, he requests we go multiple times when he visits. If you’re looking for a laugh, Vancouver Theatresports never disappoints.

Their themed shows are my favourite, and they change them every few months.

Once they had a Game of Thrones theme improv that was so hilarious, I still sometimes quote it. I know, I’m lame.

43. Go to a beautiful candlelight concert

If you’re looking for something ultra romantic to do in Vancouver, I can definitely recommend going to a candlelight concert. They host many of these throughout the year with really great themes, from contemporary hits like A Tribute to Taylor Swift, to more classical options like Vivaldi .

Long story short: for these concerts, they deck out pretty venues like churches with a bunch of LED candles and have musicians play a gorgeous set list based on the evening’s theme. The organizers kindly invited me to the Taylor Swift one recently and I was pretty much on the verge of tears the whole time – Bridgerton vibes to the max! Just be sure to get tickets in Zone A for the best possible experience, and arrive early as seating is first come, first serve within zones.

Check out upcoming concerts here.

NOTE: In Vancouver, the two main venues for this are Christ Church Cathedral and Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church – I would definitely recommend picking a concert at Christ Church if you can because it’s much easier to reach by public transport (right across from Burrard Station). The venue is also a lot more ornate than the one in Kerrisdale, but at the end of the day, it’s the music that matters most, so be sure to pick a theme that you’re obsessed with.

Seasonal Things to do in Vancouver

Lastly, I want to run through some of the special highlights according to season! Everything listed above can be done year-round, but there are some quintessentially Vancouver experiences that you shouldn’t miss out on depending on the time of year you visit:

Vancouver Winter Highlights

Skiing, snowboarding, hot chocolate festivals, food festivals, Vancouver Christmas market and more. Winter-time, despite the chilly weather, is a truly glorious time to be in the city.

Click here for a long list of Vancouver winter activities to take advantage of.

Vancouver Spring Highlights

If you happen to be in Vancouver in late March or early April, you might just spot some of the city’s world-famous cherry blossoms!

Vancouver’s incredible cherry blossoms are one of the city’s best kept secrets.

Outside of Japan, I truly believe this is one of the best places in the world to frolic under bright pink blossoms that paint the streets of Vancouver pink every Spring. Click here for a full guide on where to find the best cherry blossoms in Vancouver.

Vancouver Summer Highlights

For obvious reasons, I think summer is the perfect time to visit Vancouver.

There’s the beaches, the street festivals, the music festivals, food truck festivals, and SO much more… name a random niche and we probably have a festival for it.

Plus, the great outdoors are part of the reason that Vancouver is such a wonderful place to visit so be sure to take advantage of this by going on a hike, enjoying a beach day, enjoying Pride, listening to jazz during the Vancouver jazz festival and just enjoying the sweet west coast lifestyle by bumming around on a patio. 

Click here for a great summary of summer activities in Vancouver

Vancouver Autumn Highlights

Autumn is a stunning time to visit Vancouver thanks to its abundance of wonderful, colourful foliage!

I love Fall in Vancouver (when weather cooperates) because you get beautiful weather, mild temperatures and wonderful ahh-worthy photo opps around every corner. Definitely an underrated time to visit!

You can click here for some Fall ideas on things to do in Vancouver.

What to do in Vancouver Today and This Weekend

Besides the evergreen activities listed above that are mostly available year round, one of the great things about being in Vancouver is that there’s loads of interesting events at your finger tips!

If you’re looking for special events happening today/this weekend in Vancouver, click here for a city events calendar and be sure to check out the most popular local sources for things to do include Daily Hive and Narcity .

A Map of All These Vancouver Things to Do

Did i miss any of your favourite things to do in vancouver.

I hope you enjoyed that thorough guide on what to do in beautiful Vancouver, BC. Did I miss any of your favourite activities? Let me know in the comments!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

3 thoughts on “A Local’s Guide to 43 Wonderful Things to Do in Vancouver, BC”

I’m originally from Vancouver too, but haven’t lived there since 2013. This this gave me a lovely nostalgic thrill… and made me want to start looking for travel deals to get there from Zürich!

Agreed that going to see a Canucks game is super fun—and I’d suggest the Vancouver Giants (the local WHL minor league team) for more budget-friendly fun: https://vancouvergiants.com/ The level of play is still pretty high and the tickets are less expensive.

Going a little further into Richmond, Steveston is a cute, former fishing village with a lovely waterfront, a great beachside park (Garry Point), and delicious fish and chips (Pajo’s https://www.pajos.com/locations/pajos-on-the-wharf-steveston/ and Dave’s https://www.davesfishandchips.com/ ). Steveston was originally settled by Japanese fishermen and used to have a major fish canning plant. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery historical site explores the area’s origins in depth (and has a nice gift shop) and the Steveston Museum is in an adorable historical house and includes a post office for sending off super-cute postcards. Steveston was one of the main filming locations for Once Upon a Time and there are still some remnants of the TV show.

And, for people visiting the Vancouver area with kids, there’s an amazing adventure playground kinda close to the airport: https://www.richmond.ca/parks/parks/about/amenities/park.aspx?ID=116 Terra Nova Adventure Play Environment (a pretentious name for a very down-to-earth park) isn’t really accessible by transit, but if you’ve got a car and some rambunctious kidlets, it’s totally worth the trip.

Wow, great post. Thanks for sharing

Such detail , bravo ! I would like to visit Vancouver some day , you have given me so many options,

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20 Best Things to Do in Vancouver — From Stunning Hikes to Incredible Cultural Experiences

Here are 20 of the top things to do in Vancouver.

Naimul Alam/Travel + Leisure

Vancouver’s beauty is notable, with its majestic mountains, stunning skyline, and sparkling sea luring visitors from around the world. But the city is more than just good looks — it has personality too. Culture and cuisine shine here, the people are friendly, and it’s a safe and welcoming city. Whether you take a trek through the trees, meander through the metropolitan streets, cycle the seawall, or stroll through the shops, one thing’s for certain: you’re sure to get in your steps in this city. With the help of Candace Campo (ancestral name Xets’emits’a, Shíshálh Nation), artist and owner/operator of Talaysay Tours ; Rodolfo Parra, chief concierge of JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and the Douglas Autograph Collection Hotel ; and Alex Chen, executive chef, Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar , we’re sharing the best things to do in Vancouver.

Related: T+L’s Guide to Vancouver

Take an Indigenous-led Talking Totems tour.

Courtesy of Talaysay Tours

The best way to start a visit to Vancouver is to learn about the area’s beginnings. Located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, the city that is now known as Vancouver has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Towering totem poles have stood erect in Stanley Park since 1920, and the Talking Totems tour offered by Talaysay Tours provides an eye-opening journey from past to present through the stories shared by an engaging Indigenous guide.

Grab goodies at the Granville Island Public Market.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Vancouver’s most celebrated chefs shop at the Granville Island Public Market , like Chef Chen, who picks up fresh sausages from Oyama Sausage Co and warm loaves of bread from Terra Breads when he wants to make a standout charcuterie on his days off. Campo loves it here too, sharing, “My dad and I ate everything here, from Chinese and Greek to Ukrainian and West Coast seafood. Then we’d explore the art studios, walk the boardwalk, and listen to live music.”

Take a tranquil stroll through the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

vkyryl/Getty Images

The first Chinese “scholar’s garden” to be built outside of Asia, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is one of the city’s most ornamental green spaces — and it’s right in the heart of clamorous Chinatown. A mirror-calm pond houses colorful carp, and twisted trees and quiet covered walkways provide a tranquil space to stroll. Make time for a free guided tour, and be sure to conclude your visit with a complimentary cup of traditional Chinese tea.

Shop the Lonsdale Quay.

Leopoldine Bauer/Travel + Leisure

“The Seabus ferry ride to the Lonsdale Quay from downtown Vancouver is a fun must-do experience on its own,” shares Parra. “Once you’re there, walk through the local artisan shops, explore the pier that overlooks a picturesque view of the Vancouver skyline, and then grab a table at Tap & Barrel Shipyards and enjoy the views.”

Admire art at the Vancouver Art Gallery.

As Western Canada’s largest public art museum, the Vancouver Art Gallery is a top attraction for art enthusiasts. Browse the works of Emily Carr, British Columbia’s beloved painter, and explore the blockbuster international shows and contemporary collections found throughout the three-story historic space. 

Related: The Best Times to Visit Vancouver for Lower Prices, Beautiful Weather, and Outdoor Adventures

Take a day trip to Bowen Island.

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“I highly recommend taking a day trip to Bowen Island , located in the middle of Howe Sound, just a short flight or ferry ride away. While there, experience the purest form of the West Coast. Explore the local farmers market, hike up to Dorman Point Lookout, or kayak along the shoreline and experience the stunning beauty BC has to offer,” shares Parra of his top-recommended day trip from the city.

See sea creatures at the Vancouver Aquarium.

Set in Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium is Canada’s largest. Get up-close (and in some cases, hands-on) with the over 65,000 aquatic animals that are housed here, including charming sea otters and swimming sea lions (one weighing in at nearly 1,900 pounds). Not only is this a top tourist spot, but the site is also a center for marine research, ocean literacy, and climate activism.

Walk around the Capilano River Hatchery.

L. Toshio Kishiyama/Getty Images

Built to save the declining salmon stocks in the area, the Capilano River Hatchery is a popular place for a hike. “We like to take our dogs for a walk around the hatchery,” shares Chen. “We hike around the canyon and see schools of salmon spawning there, then have a late picnic lunch by the water, with treats from nearby Thomas Haas .”

Meander through the Vancouver Mural Festival.

A self-guided walking tour of the Vancouver Mural Festival (Aug. 4-13 this year) will give you a great perspective of the city through an artistic lens. Over 300 murals and public art displays can be spotted in neighborhoods throughout Vancouver, featuring the works of both local and international artists.

Visit Olympic Village by boat.

Naimul Alam/Travel + Leisure

First created as a housing hub for athletes during the 2010 Winter Olympics, Olympic Village has now become a popular spot for pub hops and patio dining. “Take the Aquabus — just steps from the Douglas — to Olympic Village where you can explore the local microbreweries such as 33 Acres Brewing and enjoy a day of brewery hopping, a big part of Vancouver culture. While you’re there, enjoy a bite to eat at Argo Café , a hidden gem located in Olympic Village,” shares Parra on how to enjoy the experience.

Browse the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art.

Located up the street from the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art honors hailed Haida artist Bill Reid, who was known for building bridges between Indigenous and settler people through his work as an artist, broadcaster, and community activist. The space showcases some of his artwork, as well as works of art by contemporary Indigenous artists.

Entertain the family at Science World.

Vancouver’s oceanfront orb is a sight to see, but inside the geodesic dome is a multi-level space for science exploration that the kids (and parents!) are sure to enjoy. At Science World , you can get hands-on with learning galleries, watch engaging science showcases, and catch a show on the largest domed screen on the planet, the Omnimax Theatre, which puts you in the center of the action.

Eat seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf in Steveston.

pilesasmiles/Getty Images

Chef Chen lives in Steveston — a 30-minute drive from Vancouver — and enjoys riding his bike around the dyke towards Gary Point Park with his family. “I would ride down to the dock to check out the catch of the day. I love the side stripe prawns, and will often pick up a fresh Dungeness crab for dinner,” he shares of the city’s seafood capital. Don’t feel like cooking it yourself? The area is full of seaside seafood spots serving everything from casual fish and chips to upscale fine dining.

Dine around the world at the Richmond Night Market.

Andrew Chin/Getty Images

During the summer months, a visit to Richmond Night Market — the largest outdoor market of its kind in North America — is a must for foodies. There are over 110 food stalls here, serving 600+ dishes and drinks from all around the world. You’ll find Pan-Asian snacks, along with food offerings from Indonesia, Turkey, Mexico, and other parts of the world. Live entertainment and endless snacking make for a fun-filled evening here.

Snowshoe the Howe Sound Crest Trail.

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Found 30 minutes by car from Vancouver, the Howe Sound Crest Trail in West Vancouver is a quiet alternative to the more popular local mountains, and it’s a preferred spot by Campo for winter snowshoeing. “While snowshoeing is something I often do for winter work, I love when I can bring friends and family on an adventure to check out the Howe Sound Crest Trail, overlooking Átl'ka7tsem (Howe Sound). Our peoples have traveled these mountains for generations and I like to think I am a part of this legacy and tradition,” shares Campo of her personal connection to the experience.

Find alpine adventures on Grouse Mountain.

See Howe Sound from a bird’s-eye view with a ride in an enclosed gondola up to the peak of Grouse Mountain . At the top, hike around weaving trails, and meet Coola and Grinder, a pair of orphaned grizzly bears who call the mountaintop habitat home. Kids can climb their way through the Kids Tree Canopy Adventure, and thrill-seekers can try the zipline.

Visit the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.

Vancouver has a rich Chinese-Canadian history, with one of the oldest Chinatowns in the country. The Chinatown Storytelling Centre is a new addition to the area and the first exhibit of its kind in Canada. Inside, you’ll find a showcase of the stories and people who have shaped the city’s past, present, and future through interactive exhibits.

SUP the Salish Sea.

edb3_16/Getty Images

Campo loves stand-up paddleboarding on the water, especially on Vancouver’s North Shore in the early hours of the morning. “I have on many occasions sat in my car and waited for daylight to launch my paddleboard and paddle from Ch’tl’am (Ambleside) to Dundarave,” she shares. Once she’s far from shore, Campo sings traditional Salish songs and watches as cormorants, loons, harbor seals, and even salmon swim past her board. “They don't see you as a threat and on occasion will swim right up to you,” she explains of one of her favorite pastimes.

Teeter across the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Since 1883, the Capilano Suspension Bridge has been a top tourist spot. Visit to teeter across the bridge that hangs 230 feet above the forest floor and reaches a distance of 450 feet long. While you’re there, creep along the Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway that dangles over the canyon, and take a trek through Treetop Adventures, a series of seven smaller suspension bridges connected to treehouses and towering viewing platforms.

Play at Creekside Park.

Adjacent to Science World, Creekside Park is home to Vancouver’s largest playground (which cost nearly $1 million to build), featuring nature-inspired climbing structures, a massive tube slide, and a zippy zipline. Water and sand play areas keep little ones busy, and a rubberized surface makes the playground more accessible for people with mobility challenges. Water views of False Creek and tree-shaded sitting areas make for the perfect picnic spot.

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Attractions

Vancouver highlights: 14 best places to visit in vancouver bc.

The beautiful, oceanside city of Vancouver British Columbia , Canada, has been named the World’s Most Liveable City many times over in the past decade, and there are innumerable reasons why that title is spot on.

Not only is the city quite cosmopolitan – with fantastic restaurants, arts, and entertainment – but it’s one of the most beautiful seaside cities you’ll find, with lots of fresh air, maritime activities, open spaces to roam, and views for miles.

If you haven’t been to Vancouver before, you should definitely start planning a trip. As you’ll quickly find that a lot of the best things to do in Vancouver can be found in or near the downtown area, along with a lot of great food options . These are our favorite places to visit in Vancouver Canada so feel free to pick and choose the activities that appeal to you the most! Enjoy your time exploring

» Interested in other parts of Canada? Read our full Canada travel guide for inspiration and additional tips. Also see our road trip guide . We also have info on Montreal and Toronto .

Table of Contents

What Makes Vancouver, British Columbia So Great?

• There are dozens of brilliant outdoor adventures to be had, from hiking and climbing, skiing (let’s not forget that Whistler , the premier Northwest ski area, is only a couple hours away), and every type of water sport imaginable.
• The city is relatively small by big city standards — only around 650,000 residents — but it has world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.
• It’s oceanside location is an ideal setting for fully enjoying the beautiful Northwest summer, complete with pretty darn good weather.  Summers bring long, gorgeous days of near-perfect weather, making it easier to withstand the rainy season from October to March. The average daily temperature is about 52 degrees, with four distinct seasons.
• With so many fun things to do during the day, world-class BC wine to savor, lots of great locally grown foods and  cuisine to indulge in , you’ll never run out of reasons to love Vancouver.

If you’ve got kids along, check out this post for dozens of fun things to do with kids in Vancouver.

Top Vancouver Highlights

1. granville island.

Formerly an industrial area across the water from the city, Granville Island has been reborn as a mecca for local produce and products and is our top choice place to go in Vancouver. The old factories have been turned into a public market where you can find pretty much any product or food item your heart fancies.

Within easy walking distance of the market are dozens of waterfront cafes, restaurants, pubs, galleries — you name it. Take the quick five-minute water taxi from any of a handful of stops on the city side (get a deal if you buy a round-trip ticket in advance).

My advice is to go there when you’re hungry because there are so many mouth-watering options for lunch or snacking as you go. On our last trip, we bought local artisan maple syrup, delicious cured meats, fresh pasta, and bread.

If I’d had room for more, I would have definitely indulged in a savory clam chowder pot pie from A La Mode. After seeing the market, don’t forget to walk around the backstreets and stop at Granville Island Brewery for a taster of their popular beers.

>> Book this Food Walking Tour of Granville Island Public Market here.

2. Granville Street

Located right in the middle of downtown Vancouver , Granville Street is a neighborhood teeming with life. If you’re staying downtown, you’ll likely be spending at least a little of your time on Granville Street.

The main section runs from the waterfront down to Robson Street. You’ll find hundreds of high-end stores and restaurants, nightclubs, bars, and businesses, as well as crowds of all ages. This is where people go to be seen in Vancouver.

At night — and sometimes all weekend in the summer — a large stretch of the street is shut off to vehicular traffic and the younger set takes to the bars and clubs for a crazy night out. It’s a good place to go out for dinner, see a show, grab a drink at an outdoor cafe or bar, and do some shopping.

The Skytrain has a stop at Granville Street, so it’s easy to get there via public transportation, which is a much better idea than driving. If you’re staying in a downtown hotel, park your car with the valet and don’t bother with it until you leave. You can walk everywhere downtown.

3. Commercial Drive

Commercial Drive runs through the neighborhood of Grandview/Woodland, and it is made up of so many diverse restaurants and shops – a true international district — that it’s known affectionately as “The Drive” to insiders and locals.

I want to call it Little Italy , because of all the Italian shops and eateries, but that wouldn’t be doing justice to the dozens of other ethnicities that are represented here.

The Drive is located on the east side of the city and can be reached easily by driving (parking may be difficult), or by Skytrain. Get off at the Commercial/Broadway stop and walk north. Along the way, you’ll find a plethora of places to eat, sit down for a drink, enjoy the people-watching, or buy fruits and veggies. It’s got a whole lot of character.

4. Stanley Park

Every big city has it’s signature park. In Vancouver, it’s Stanley Park . Located on a peninsula in the northwest corner of downtown, the 1,000-acre park is one of the top tourist destinations in the city.

There are miles of walking and biking trails, numerous gorgeous beaches to relax on, Canada ‘s largest aquarium, plus a pool, a waterpark, a miniature railroad, not to mention all of that incredible greenspace in which to frolic on a summer afternoon. If that’s not enough, there are also four restaurants to choose from in the park.

You could easily spend an entire day (or more) in Stanley Park and not run out of things to do. It’s a bit of a hike from downtown if you’re planning to walk, or take a quick taxi ride. There are parking spaces, so driving is also an option.

>> Book this Stanley Park Bike Tour or Vancouver Secrets of Stanley Park Walking Tour here.

5. Grouse Mountain

Located only 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is just one big playground. The Super Skyride gondola whisks you up the mountain where you’ll can participate in dozens of winter activities (skiing, sleigh rides, snowshoeing and ice skating), go hiking, ziplining, visit the animals in the wildlife refuge (read: bears!), or soak up the amazing view at one of the top-notch restaurants.

Grouse mountain can be enjoyed year-round, not just in the winter. Tickets range from $42 to $56, depending on which option you choose. The Alpine Experience ticket ($42) gets you a round-trip ride on the skyride and access to some activities up top, like visits to the resident grizzly bear!

It’s quick and easy to drive to Grouse Mountain (there’s good signage along the way), but beware that during busy times when the parking lots get full fast, you may have to park far away and walk up to the entrance.

>> Book this Small Group Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain from Vancouver here.

The city’s oldest neighborhood is Gastown, named for “Gassy” Jack Deighton, who opened the first saloon in the area. It’s very picturesque, with its centuries-old Victorian architecture and proximity to the waterfront. It feels as though you’ve stepped into a part of history, miles away from the new, modern parts of town.

There are tons of souvenir shops, bars, cafes, restaurants, and fashion and interior design stores to check out along the 10 or so blocks. And of course, you don’t want to miss the Gastown Steam Clock at the corner of Cambie and Water streets which was built as a way to harness the steam from the city’s steam heating system.

Just keep in mind that Gastown is slightly gritty, with a good number of homeless people, and set your expectations properly. It’s got a very unique and artsy feel to it.

>> Book this Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour or Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour here.

7. Richmond Night Market

I’m calling it the Richmond Night Market because I can’t take it seriously when I call it by its real name, Magical Candyland. Yes, I’m serious. But Magical Candyland does start to feel more appropriate after I’ve stuffed my face with dozens of Asian specialties like grilled squid, hand-pulled noodles, pizza-flavored Rotato, Chow Mein and Dim Sum.

The night market is open from mid-May to mid-October. The hours are Friday and Saturday from 7pm to midnight and Sundays from 7pm to 11pm. The market features dozens of vendors selling everything from cell phone accessories to cheap jewelry and every Asian food specialty you can think of.

You’ll want to take the skytrain to get there because it gets crowded and parking gets tight. Get off at the Bridgeport stop and walk across the street from the bus area, through the fence and along the railroad tracks. You’ll see the market sprawled in front of you.

Food ranges anywhere from a couple of bucks to $15 or so for a full plate of food. If you’re really into this type of market, there’s another one called the International Summer Market that’s very similar but in a slightly different location.

It runs every weekend and holidays from May to September. You can reach the market via public transportation on bus 430 from Metrotown or 407 from No.2 Road. The current location is a 10-acre site located at 12631 Vulcan Way (behind Home Depot on Sweden Way).

8. Local Craft Breweries

Microbreweries are located all over the city, so it’s high time you get out there and experience the best breweries in Vancouver. Many Vancouver breweries feature up to a dozen or more unique brews, and most of them have tasting rooms where visitors can stop in for a taster tray, a pint, or a pitcher, and even a bite to eat.

Our guide encompasses four of the top brewery clusters around the city along with details for the top breweries to visit in each location.

Read all about the best craft breweries to visit , along with a walking guide.

>> Book this Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour here.

9. Capilano Suspension Bridge

When visiting the city, you might not even know about the Capilano Suspension Bridge unless you do research in advance. You can thank us later for turning you on to it. The bridge is located about a 15-minute drive from downtown and is a huge trip highlight.

What makes it so unique is how long it is. The swaying footbridge hangs 230 feet above the Capilano River and spans 450 feet. You can walk over the bridge and admire the views – or just hang on tight, because it’s a bit scary. Might not be your favorite place if you’re afraid of heights.

There is also a colorful Totem park, trails through the West Coast rainforest, and much more.  One of the best ways to go to the bridge is on a city tour that includes it as a stop. That way you can see a lot more along with the bridge.

>> Book this Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Ticket here.

10. Canada Place

The first stop for anyone coming to Vancouver should be to walk along the spectacular promenade of Canada Place at Waterfront Station. It was constructed as the Canadian pavilion for the World Expo 1986 and now houses the city’s Convention Center.

A stroll around Canada Place allows the visitor to take in the beautiful harbor of Burrard Inlet, with its vista of snow-capped mountains, Stanley Park, and the modern glass towers of Coal Harbour nearby.

Canada Place also showcases the dynamism of Vancouver’s economic might and place in the global market. The inlet seethes with container ships bound outward to China and parts beyond. In the summertime cruise ships from the world’s major lines dock along the pier en route to Alaska.

Floatplanes taking off for the wild natural coves of the Inside Passage and helicopters departing for Vancouver Island augment the energetic scene.

11. Robson Square

Situated in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Robson Square is more than just a public plaza—it’s the city’s pulsing social hub. Imagine a space where urban life and natural beauty converge, complemented by a fusion of art installations, impromptu performances, and public events.

The square is flanked by the Vancouver Art Gallery on one side and the Provincial Law Courts on the other, but the real essence of Robson Square lies in its ability to go with the flow of life around it.

In winter, the lower level transforms into a free public ice rink, drawing crowds eager to trade their walking shoes for skates.

Between the cascading water features and the hidden corners perfect for a quiet lunch, you’ll find it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon here. And if you’re into photography, the architectural designs by Arthur Erickson offer a dynamic playground for your lens. In short, Robson Square embodies the eclectic and harmonious spirit of Vancouver, serving as a microcosm of the city’s diverse offerings.

12. Sunset Harbor Dinner Cruise

A Sunset Boat Cruise in Vancouver offers a great way to see the serene and picturesque backdrop of the harbor at sunset. As the boat navigates through the city’s harbor, you’re treated to panoramic views of landmarks like Stanley Park and the Lions Gate Bridge, beautifully framed by the setting sun. The water reflects the city lights, adding a magical touch to an already extraordinary setting. It’s an experience that you’ll never forget.

» Book your tour here .

13. Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium offers a captivating and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Nestled in the picturesque Stanley Park, this world-class marine science center allows you to explore the wonders of the ocean through engaging exhibits and interactive displays. From awe-inspiring marine life, including playful dolphins and majestic sea otters, to insightful conservation initiatives, the aquarium provides a unique opportunity to connect with the beauty and importance of our oceans.

14. Taking a Vancouver Walking Tour

Going on a Vancouver walking tour is the ideal way to intimately connect with the city’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history.

Usually, it kicks off in vibrant neighborhoods like Gastown, where you soak up the historic vibes, check out the famous Gastown Steam Clock, and meander through cobblestone streets. The guides often throw in interesting anecdotes and historical tidbits that bring the city to life.

These tours often wind through iconic spots like Stanley Park, where you get up close and personal with nature and maybe catch sight of the totem poles or take a stroll along the scenic seawall. It’s not just about the landmarks; the guides dish out local tips, share stories, and might even point you to some off-the-beaten-path gems.

Where to Stay in Vancouver

We always choose to stay somewhere in downtown Vancouver, because of the easy walking proximity to just about everything. You can park your car and use your legs instead. Popular areas include Gastown, Yaletown and Downtown.

No matter which area you choose, you’ll find some really great restaurants and bars within a block or two that exemplify the neighborhood.

Here are our recommended hotels:

Sutton Place Hotel

4.5-star hotel in downtown Vancouver (West End), stellar location, great restaurant.

Read Reviews | Book a Stay

Listel Hotel

Comfortable 4-star hotel with a spa, restaurant, and free wifi in downtown.

Shangri-La Hotel

5-star luxury hotel with beautiful, well-appointed rooms and an outdoor pool.

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Frequently asked questions on vancouver city highlights, what’s special about vancouver’s art scene.

Vancouver’s art scene is thriving, with the Vancouver Art Gallery being a focal point. It houses an impressive collection of indigenous and contemporary art, providing a comprehensive overview of the region’s artistic heritage.

Are there family-friendly attractions in Vancouver?

Absolutely! The Vancouver Aquarium, Science World, and the Vancouver Maritime Museum are fantastic options for families. These attractions offer interactive exhibits and activities suitable for all ages.

Is there parking available at these attractions?

Most attractions provide parking facilities, but it’s advisable to check each attraction’s website for specific information. Additionally, public transportation is a convenient option for visiting Vancouver’s highlights without worrying about parking, there are great transport options from the airport also.

What’s the benefit of taking a guided walking tour?

Guided walking tours provide an intimate and immersive experience. You’ll have the chance to interact with a local tour guide who can share hidden gems, answer questions, and offer a deeper understanding of the city’s culture. It’s a leisurely way to explore neighborhoods like Gastown, Yaletown, and Chinatown while soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the city’s highlights. Vancouver also offers day tours that are helpful if you are unsure of what attractions you would like to visit.

See what I mean? So many reasons to love Vancouver British Columbia. And these 9 of our favorite places to visit in Vancouver are just the beginning. If you’re looking for a really great city to explore, with the beauty of the sea and the mountains surrounding you, and plenty of great food and outdoor activities, you can’t go wrong with Vancouver.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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• Travel Resources

25 Epic Things to Do in Vancouver (Perfect First Time Visit)

Things to do in vancouver: the 25 best places to visit (all highlights).

You want to visit Vancouver during your next trip?

Great idea!

Nestled between ocean and mountains , this western Canadian city boasts an exceptional location . It offers a bounty of varied natural landscapes and a wealth of activities to dive into.

Whether you’re there in winter, summer, autumn or spring , you’ll always find something to do in Vancouver!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 25 best things to do in Vancouver , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to my list of things to do and activities, I will also give you optimized itineraries to visit Vancouver in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Vancouver? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Downtown Vancouver

2. the vancouver lookout, 3. whale and orca watching, 4. stanley park, 5. vancouver aquarium, 6. canada place, 7. the flyover canada, 8. granville island, 9. the museum of anthropology in vancouver, 10. flying over vancouver in a seaplane, 11. chinatown and dr. sun yat-sen’s chinese garden, 12. the vandusen botanical garden, 13. shopping in vancouver, 14. vancouver’s beaches, 15. the seawall, 16. more activity and visit ideas in vancouver, 17.  what to do in vancouver with the family, 18. watch a hockey game in vancouver, 19. capilano suspension bridge, 20. lynn canyon park, 21. grouse mountain, 22. victoria, 23. deep cove, 24. burnaby, 25. whistler, how long should you visit vancouver for, one day in vancouver, 2 days in vancouver, 3 days in vancouver, where to stay in vancouver, where to eat in vancouver, how to get to vancouver, vancouver tourist map, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you.

Visiting Vancouver and its surrounding area is about uncovering a city consistently listed amongst the world’s best places to live .

Nestled between ocean and mountains , this western Canadian city boasts an exceptional location . It offers a bounty of varied natural landscapes and a wealth of activities to dive into. Whether you’re there in winter, summer, or spring, you’ll always find something to do in Vancouver!

To help you organize your trip to Canada , I’ve prepared a comprehensive guide of all the must-see spots in Vancouver .

And to make the most of your visits, you’ll find our itinerary advice for exploring Vancouver and its environs over 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days plus my pick of the best accommodations .

So, what are the best things to do and see in Vancouver? Where to stay

Visit Vancouver: All must-see attractions

To kick off your Vancouver exploration and soak up the local atmosphere, nothing beats a little jaunt downtown . That’s where you can admire the skyscrapers and find yourself in the heart of the city’s bustle .

I particularly recommend these 2 neighborhoods :

1) Gastown, Vancouver’s historic district , to see some of the city’s most beautiful Victorian buildings . You can take a photo in front of the “Steam Clock” , a steam-operated clock that whistles every 15 minutes. The neighborhood is super cool with lots of open-air cafes and restaurants, perfect if you’re peckish.

2) Yaletown, the trendy and chill neighborhood.

Formerly a warehouse district, they’ve been renovated to house loads of little shops and many of Vancouver’s top restaurants .

The nightlife there is buzzing, the ideal place to go in Vancouver to party .

To miss nothing of Vancouver and benefit from a guide’s insights, you should go for a guided tour .

You’ll not only visit Gastown , but also Chinatown, Granville Island, Stanley Park, Canada Place, the Vancouver Lookout, and Robson Street (all Vancouver essentials!).

This is the best guided tour to discover Vancouver.

You can book it by clicking on the button below:

Every big city must have its observation tower and Vancouver is no exception.

Toronto has the CN Tower, Vancouver has the Vancouver Lookout ! The building is located near Gastown’s Steam Clock and just 5 minutes from the Waterfront.

In just 40 seconds with a glass elevator, you’ll ascend to 170 meters to view the city . An unbeatable 360° panorama awaits you.

Plus, there’s a revolving restaurant at the top of the tower , where you can munch your way around the city in just one hour without leaving your seat. It’s pretty cool!

Your ticket to the tower is valid for the entire day, so you can pop in and out – maybe once in the morning and then again at sunset . What a delightful idea!

If you’re keen on experiencing Vancouver’s premier tourist spot, I strongly advise grabbing your skip-the-line ticket in advance to avoid the pesky queues. Just hit that green button below:

Vancouver is brimming with companies offering whale and orca watching tours.

I especially recommend this half-day boat trip provided by GetYourGuide and operated by a local tour company . The departure point is right in the heart of downtown Vancouver.

You’ll embark on a 4-hour covered boat cruise on a quest to spot orcas and whales!

From start to finish, you’re taken care of – your only worry is snapping the perfect shot of these impressive sea mammals. It’ll be an unforgettable part of your Vancouver adventure, and only for €143 per person !

Advanced booking is required – just click the button below:

In major Anglo-Saxon cities, it’s a common sight to find a “ green lung ” where nature thrives amidst the urban landscape: Montreal boasts Mount-Royal Park, while New York has its iconic Central Park.

In Vancouver, it’s Stanley Park where you can enjoy a stroll and take in some nature. This enormous 400-hectare park is an absolute must-visit for a gorgeous waterfront walk. It offers stunning panoramas of the city and coast.

The place is also popular with joggers and cyclists . I recommend renting a bike if you want to see all the park has to offer – it’s definitely the best way to explore!

You’ll simply follow the 9km Seawall promenade that circles the park .

During your park tour, I suggest making a few pit stops :

• At Brockton Point to see the Native American totems (a standalone tourist site in Vancouver)
• At Siwash Rock
• To see the “Girl In Wetsuit” sculpture
• The Viewpoint, to admire Lions Gate Bridge.

And if you want to make sure you don’t miss a thing, there are guided bike tours of Stanley Park available. Find all the details by clicking the button below :

If you rent a bike, make sure to follow the park’s traffic flow – only counter-clockwise circulation is allowed!

Located within Stanley Park, you’ll find the Vancouver Aquarium. This is a perfect spot to visit in Vancouver with kids !

Canada’s largest aquarium , it is home to over 65,000 animals including dolphins, otters, and penguins. Here, you can discover the unique wildlife of the West Coast and Pacific Ocean .

As the aquarium is a much-loved Vancouver attraction , so you’d better purchase your skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid queues. Your ticket even gives you access to the 4D theatre , where you can catch a short and immersive film.

Book your tickets for the Vancouver Aquarium by clicking on the button below:

Canada Place is a truly cool Vancouver spot for a walk along the Waterfront. This national monument boasts a unique architectural design with its five white sails evoking a ship.

It’s as if you’re wandering around a ship’s deck. The Canadian Trail is divided into sections representing the provinces and territories of Canada.

You’ll also get to enjoy views of Stanley Park and the mountains .

Continuing your stroll along the Waterfront, don’t forget to snap a photo of the gigantic Olympic Cauldron created for the 2010 Olympic Games, and the Digital Orca , a giant pixel art orca. Something you won’t see anywhere else on your Canadian journey !

Nested within Canada Place, there’s a must-do attraction on your Vancouver tour: the FlyOver Canada .

This ride offers you the chance to soar over Canadian landscapes and cities in just 8 minutes! Don’t sweat it, you’ll be comfy in your seat while you live out this 4D experience .

Thanks to a massive screen, dynamic seats, and wind effects, you’ll feel like you’re touring Canada by plane . It’s super well-done, and the sensory experience is truly immersive!

To ensure your spot, it’s essential to book your session for FlyOver Canada in advance . Don’t wait, secure your experience by clicking the green button below:

Next on our Vancouver journey is Granville Island .

The main highlight of Granville is its massive covered market . You can find loads of fresh products (fruits, veggies, cheeses) and local goods at affordable prices.

I recommend going there for lunch as there’s also a large food court offering dishes from cuisines around the world. Indian, Mexican, American, Chinese, there’s something for everyone.

You can then enjoy your meal outside, by the water . Don’t forget to pair your meal with a good beer, as there are plenty of microbreweries in Granville .

If you prefer, you can also opt for a 2-hour guided tour of the market including tastings. Info and reservations right here !

Granville is also the perfect place to hunt in vintage shops and look for original and unique creations made by local artisans.

To get to the island, you can take the Aquabus which will get you from Hornby Street to the shores of Granville.

If you’re a museum lover, I suggest you visit the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver (MOA). You’ll find it on the University of Vancouver campus.

The museum traces the history of the “First Nations” , the indigenous peoples of British Columbia and Canada.

Vancouver attaches particular importance to this and as you stroll around the surrounding cities, you’ll see that the town names are also indicated in First Nations’ languages.

This is a truly interesting museum to see in Vancouver that presents more than 16,000 objects related to the first peoples and other cultures around the world, especially from China and Africa.

You’ll see an impressive collection of totems , similar to those in the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa .

Info for your visit is on the official website .

For a unique activity in Vancouver, I recommend a city tour by seaplane .

It’s the perfect way to discover the city from a unique angle , original and unprecedented.

You should book your excursion right away with GetYourGuide.

This 20-minute flight will take you over the whole city, parks, and beaches of Vancouver . You’ll fly with Harbour Air, the local company with the largest seaplane fleet. Safety standards are top-notch.

For a little over €100 per person, you can have a unique experience during your Canadian escape . As always, just click on the button to book this great Vancouver activity:

You’re going to Vancouver?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Vancouver 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Vancouver on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Vancouver.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Seville, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Vancouver!

Another commonality shared with cities like New York and Montreal, among the main attractions in Vancouver, is Chinatown .

Like in all Chinatowns around the world, you’ll find good, affordable Chinese restaurants and can buy your souvenirs at the most reasonable prices in town.

In Chinatown, I especially recommend visiting Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Chinese Garden or Classical Chinese Garden . Fun fact: it’s the first Chinese garden to be built outside China.

The garden is absolutely beautiful and hosts several events according to the season, including Chinese New Year celebrations. It offers a lovely display of flora as well as Chinese architecture . It’s really a nice place for a walk.

Tickets for the Chinese Garden are on sale here!

Another must-see garden in Vancouver: the VanDusen Botanical Garden . It’s located south of the city , a bit away from the center.

This 55-hectare garden is enormous and considered one of the most beautiful gardens in North America .

You can stroll amongst 7,500 varieties of plants and trees from around the world. The garden is artistically designed with waterfalls, fountains, wooden bridges, several ponds, and even a maze . Amazing!

If you want to visit the botanical garden during your Vancouver holiday , you should buy your ticket in advance here !

During your trip to Vancouver, you’ll probably want to do some shopping .

You’ll find your bliss along Robson Street, the commercial artery of downtown Vancouver. All major brands are represented, but there are also cool and original small shops and souvenir stores. You’ll be spoilt for choice.

Further from downtown, you can also visit Metrotown, the 3rd largest shopping center in Canada or the Park Royal Shopping Centre located in a pleasant setting by the ocean.

Vancouver has many beaches for a relaxing afternoon of swimming, reading by the water, or playing beach volleyball.

Here’s a quick tour of where to go in Vancouver:

• Sunset beach – true to its name for enjoying the sunset.
• Second beach – featuring a long outdoor heated pool.
• Third beach (okay, they didn’t strain themselves for the name 😋 ).
• English Bay Beach – also known for its sunset and the 14 funny statues you’ll find there.
• Kistilano beach
• Wreck Beach, a “clothing optional beach,” meaning you can swim either in a swimsuit or naked! It has a peace-and-love vibe.
• Ambleside Beach and its view of the Lions Gate Bridge.
• Jericho Beach
• Spanisk Banks beach.

Let’s keep this Vancouver travel guide rolling with the Seawall, a lengthy promenade that hugs the ocean’s edge for nearly 22 kilometers .

You can either walk it or bike it .

Indeed, the Seawall is split into 2 zones throughout : one for pedestrians and one for cyclists. The whole path is one-way and should only be taken counter-clockwise.

The walk kicks off from Canada Place , passes through Stanley Park for 9 km (which I mentioned earlier), False Creek, Science World, Granville , and ends up at Kitsilano Beach .

Let’s beef up this list of things to do in Vancouver with a few more visit suggestions . Just click the orange links to book:

• Vancouver hop-on hop-off bus tour . 24h or 48h pass with included English audio guide.
• Commentated one-hour cruise in Vancouver’s harbor
• Sunset cruise in Vancouver with included buffet dinner. Duration: 2h30
• Gastown foodie tour + Food and drink tastings. Duration: 2h30
• Guided walking tour themed around the city’s dark history with a professional actor.
• Vancouver Art Gallery admission ticket.
• Vancouver Museum ticket exploring civic history.
• Ticket for Vancouver Maritime Museum.

Aside from the aquarium and FlyOver Canada, I suggest you visit Science World, the science museum.

It hosts various permanent interactive exhibits and fun activities where kids can learn more about fundamental physics concepts like light or sound. And for dinosaur enthusiasts, there are even awesome reconstructions !

Book your ticket for Science World right here:

Another fun idea for a family outing in Vancouver is Playland .

Playland is Canada’s oldest amusement park. Don’t worry, though, all the rides are modern and regularly updated!

It’s located in Hastings Park . There, you’ll find traditional roller coasters and other thrill rides . There are also rides for younger kids.

A great way to have a delightful time with your family during your Canadian holiday.

Still wondering what to do in Vancouver?

During your road trip in Canada , I highly recommend attending a hockey match at least once.

You’ll see that Canadians take their national sport seriously — the atmosphere during the matches is incredible.

In Vancouver, you should root for the Canucks, the local team . While shopping, don’t forget to grab a team jersey. It’ll make a great souvenir later!

Best things to do around Vancouver

If you’re planning to stay in Vancouver for several days , I recommend taking the opportunity to explore the surrounding area.

Here are my picks for the most beautiful places to see around Vancouver .

One of the most popular attractions near Vancouver is the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

It’s about 15 minutes from downtown .

At the park, you can trot across the iconic suspension bridge that hangs over the canyon , all 137 meters of it, and perched 70 meters up high ! Just a heads up, the more folks on it, the more it swings, so if you’re prone to vertigo, you’ve been warned!

You can also stroll along the trails, embark on a treetop adventure, and walk on the cliffwalk, a wooden platform hanging out in the void.

Don’t wait any longer! Book your Capilano Park entrance ticket now by clicking the green button below:

To get to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, hop on the free shuttle departing from Canada Place .

The Lynn Canyon Park is a bit like the Capilano Suspension Bridge but in the free version . It’s a fantastic alternative for sightseeing.

The Lynn Canyon Park is about twenty kilometers from downtown and you can easily get there by public transportation , which is super convenient.

You can also cross a suspension bridge – sure, it’s smaller and not as high as its big brother, but it’s still pretty cool.

You can also go hiking on one of the many trails set in the midst of the forest and enjoy a picnic in a tranquil and nature-filled spot.

Access information is right here .

If you’ve decided to visit Vancouver over the weekend , you could head to Lynn Canyon Park on an organized excursion . A bus will pick you up directly from your downtown hotel, and then you’ll get a guided tour in the park .

The detailed information about this excursion around Vancouver is available by clicking here !

Another iconic point of interest to visit near Vancouver is Grouse Mountain .

Located 20 minutes from Vancouver , Grouse Mountain offers a ton of activities:

• If you’re wondering what to do in Vancouver in winter, it’s a ski resort with some slopes offering a breathtaking view of the city .
• And in summer, you can hike, zip-line, paraglide, and even watch a lumberjack show where they chop logs faster than their shadows (promise, it’s not a joke!).

To get there, take the free shuttle from Canada Place , which will take you to the base of the cable car , at the bottom of Grouse Mountain.

Once you arrive and to avoid queuing , it’s better to have booked your cable car ticket in advance . You can do it right now by clicking on this button:

If you don’t have a car, it’s possible to visit Grouse Mountain and Capilano Bridge in the same day , thanks to an organized excursion and round-trip transport from Vancouver. It’s really very practical to see a maximum of things in one day.

Here is the link with the information:

If you’ve had your fill of Vancouver, I’ll invite you to take a trip over to Victoria, the capital of British Columbia . This place is a must-visit when you’re on a tour of western Canada.

You’ll find it at the southern end of Vancouver Island . To get there you have several options:

• By ferry from Vancouver (departing from Tsawwassen).

And hey, make sure to book your crossing in advance (this also includes a bus transfer from the city centre to the ferry terminal):

• Or for the thrill-seekers, how about getting there by seaplane ? Way faster than the ferry and the perfect way to soak up the landscape! Book here !

Victoria exudes a distinctively English charm , think Victorian houses with blooming gardens and grand old buildings.

In Victoria, here’s what I recommend you check out:

• The stunning Empress Hotel
• The Parliament
• The Royal BC museum
• Fisherman’s Wharf, a floating village of colourful houses
• Beacon Hill Park

You can also take day tours from Vancouver to visit Victoria . They include a visit to the beautiful Butchart Gardens and a journey through the historic centre of Victoria .

Just hit the button below to book:

Located about 15km north of Vancouver is the quaint seaside village of Deep Cove .

A popular vacation spot for Vancouverites. The village is delightfully charming with its waterside homes.

You can indulge in various water sports, with kayaking being a firm favourite. And why not take a scenic walk on the hiking trails, especially the one that leads to Quarry Rock for a breathtaking view over Deep Cove .

In the vicinity of Vancouver, Burnaby is another lovely place to check out.

Here, a typical 1920s village has been recreated, complete with all its shops : bakery, post office, church, school, and even a blacksmith and a printing press…

You’ll be greeted by villagers in period costumes . And you can also peek inside the heritage houses, old buildings listed as city heritage.

Though the village has a retro vibe , it’s this charm that makes it truly special.

Whistler is a renowned ski resort located about 2 hours drive from Vancouver.

It’s one of the largest ski resorts in North America , famous for hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Apart from skiing, there’s a whole range of activities such as hiking trails, spas, golf courses , and plenty of shops, along with bars and restaurants .

In winter, you can also try your hand at snowmobiling, dog sledding, and snowshoeing .

You can find all the necessary information on the resort’s website .

From Vancouver, organized tours are available to visit Whistler as well as the Shannon Falls provincial park (including a ride on the famous Sea to Sky Gondola). Click here for more details !

I’d say, you should set aside at least 3 days to explore Vancouver , particularly if you’re keen to venture beyond city boundaries to spots like Capilano Bridge or Grouse Mountain.

And if you really want to soak up the city and its surrounding areas, 5 days won’t be excessive.

Now, I’m excited to present my suggested itineraries for exploring Vancouver in 1, 2, or 3 days !

If you’ve got just one day to tour Vancouver , here’s my suggested itinerary :

• Kick-off in Vancouver’s historic neighborhood, Gastown
• Check out Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden and seize the opportunity to wander around Chinatown
• Stroll over to Canada Place and try out FlyOver Canada
• Lunch break
• Spend the afternoon exploring Stanley Park (by foot or on a bike)
• Head up to Vancouver Lookout at the end of the day to catch the sunset
• Dine and enjoy the evening in the Yaletown neighborhood , home to some of Vancouver’s best eateries

To explore Vancouver in 2 days , just pick up where day 1 left off and add:

• A city flyover via seaplane for a unique Canadian experience
• Head to Granville Island to stock up on local products
• Lunch break: either a picnic option with the goodies you’ve bought from the market, or a “world cuisine” option by grabbing a dish from the massive market’s food court
• Visit the Museum of Anthropology to learn about the history of the First Nations
• Stop by Wreck Beach (right next to the museum)
• Walk through VanDusen Botanical Garden
• Wrap up the day with some shopping on Robson Street

To see Vancouver in 3 days, simply follow the itineraries from the previous 2 days. Then, I’d suggest a few options depending on your interests and budget .

• Spend half the day whale watching
• An afternoon at the Capilano Suspension Bridge or the Lynn Canyon Park for a budget-friendly alternative
• Spend the morning at Capilano or Lynn Canyon
• Afternoon at Grouse Mountain or Deep Cove (closer to Lynn Canyon)
• Spend the day in Victoria , reachable by ferry from Vancouver . Considering the round-trip will take about 4 hours, you might choose to spend a night in Victoria and head back to Vancouver the next morning.
• If you’re in Vancouver during the winter and you’re a fan of skiing, you could go skiing in Whistler or even try snowmobiling .

Of course, if you’re spending more than 3 days in Vancouver, you could dedicate a day to each of these 4 options . There’s so much to do, you could easily spend 4-5 days, even a week, in and around Vancouver . That way, you won’t have to pick and choose – you can see it all!

• Samesun Vancouver : This funky youth hostel is right in the middle of the city, a stone’s throw away from Yaletown district. Bunk in a dorm from €40, breakfast included. Strong points: location in the city centre, the vibrant atmosphere, comfy beds, and a cracking breakfast with muffins and bagels. A top-notch pick for budget-friendly accommodations in Vancouver !
• The Sylvia Hotel : Located just a two-minute stroll from Stanley Park and a minute from the beach. Spacious and bright double rooms starting at €120 per night. Strong points: prime location, friendly staff, and the authentic charm of the place.
• Blue Horizon Hotel : This gem is on Robson Street, the main shopping artery of Vancouver. Super spacious, comfy double room with a killer view from €170. Strong points: fantastic location to explore Vancouver by foot, the view, plenty of shops and restaurants close by, room comfort. My favorite for its value for money In my opinion, the best hotel in Vancouver.
• The St Regis Hotel : Nestled right in downtown, a hop, skip, and a jump away from Vancouver Lookout. Spacious and cozy double rooms from €240 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: optimal location, helpful and warm staff, room comfort, and a scrumptious and plentiful breakfast.
• Rosewood Hotel Georgia : A splendid 5-star hotel in downtown Vancouver offering beautifully decorated rooms from €350 per night. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, spa, and top-notch services. The best hotel in Vancouver for a luxury stay !

• Salmon n’Bannock Bistro : Located on West Broadway Street. The restaurant serves authentic Indigenous cuisine. The dishes are creative, generous, and beautifully presented. Bison burgers, elk, wild salmon with maple syrup – it’s all mouth-wateringly good.
• Gotham Steakhouse & Cocktail : Situated on Seymour Street. As the name suggests, the restaurant dishes up meaty mains. The meat is superb, tasty, well-seasoned, and cooked to perfection. A tad pricey, but hey, you get what you pay for.
• Ramen Danbo : Located on Robson Street. The restaurant specializes in Ramen. The cool thing is that you get to choose your soup base, noodle thickness, seasoning, and the amount of meat in your soup! The dishes are delicious, hearty, and offer excellent value for money. It’s the perfect quick lunch before getting back to sightseeing.

And don’t forget to check out the tasty restaurants in the Chinatown district, the food court of Granville Island and the famous Japadog from the food trucks (a Japanese-inspired hot dog!).

From France, numerous airlines offer flights to Vancouver. Only flights departing from Paris are direct. If you’re leaving from another French city, like Nice for example, there will be a layover.

 As flight prices for Vancouver can vary dramatically, it’s a good idea to compare them as early as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . It’s the guarantee of getting the best price .

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve created a tourist map of Vancouver, with all the best things to do and must-see attractions.

You can display the map’s legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located in the top left corner.

And you? What would you like to visit in Vancouver?

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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27 Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver: What to Do DT

If you’re looking for the best things to do in downtown Vancouver, I’ve got the mother lode.

These downtown Vancouver attractions run the gauntlet from a chill urban oasis to epic food and drink to full-on nights out.

Let’s figure out what to do in downtown Vancouver!

Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver

Check out stanley park.

Stanley Park is a 405-hectare (1,001 acres) public park situated alongside the Westernmost border of Downtown Vancouver.

This is one of the best things to do in Vancouver , downtown or not. And trust me, it’s not just any park. In fact, Trip Advisor has recently christened it “The Best Park in the World.”

Stanley Park is a uniquely natural evolution of the pre-existing coastal rainforest that has been adapted to its surrounding urban environment.

Here you can bike along the park’s world-renowned Seawall, marvel at the exotic Coast Salish  totem poles , or explore the wonders of the Vancouver Aquarium .

I also suggest taking Stanley Park tours to get the full experience.

Related : Best Hotels Near Stanley Park

Take a Tour of Downtown Vancouver

You can check off all the places to visit in downtown Vancouver by taking one of Vancouver’s top sightseeing tours .

I find this the best way to take in the sights, learn about the city, and even get in some exercise.

Some of the top tours include:

• Lost Souls of Gastown : Live the Great Vancouver Fire, smallpox outbreaks, and  tales of revenge   and redemption in this delightfully  macabre Vancouver walking tour .
• Stanley Park Bike Tour : Take a guided bike tour of Vancouver and weave through  old-growth forest trails , learn about local flora and fauna, and live  Coastal First Nations history .
• Vancouver City Highlights Tour : Check out the Vancouver Lookout and Capilano Suspension Bridge and get a Vancouver downtown city highlights guided tour all at once.

Walk Through Gastown

When people ask me what to do in downtown Vancouver my gut reaction is to direct them to Gastown.

Vancouver’s most historic district is famous for its cobblestone streets and bars, and the best things to do in Gastown include:

• Epic souvenir shopping at places like the Coastal Peoples Gallery
• Happy hour craft beer and cocktails at places like Clough Club
• Some of the city’s best restaurants, like St. Lawrence
• The Gastown Steamclock : Vancouver’s most photographable object
• The Vancouver Police Museum : maybe the most macabre museum in Canada

Looking for more places to eat? Check out my post on the best restaurants in Gastown .

Related : Best Gastown Hotels

View Local Indigenous Art at the Bill Reid Gallery

A Vancouver itinerary cannot be considered complete without exploring the history and culture of the indigenous people who’ve called the area home for time immemorial. 

Nestled in the heart of downtown, this small gallery is the only facility dedicated entirely to contemporary Northwest Coast Indigenous Art .

It is named after the acclaimed Haida artist, carver and goldsmith Bill Reid who did more to popularize the style than any other.

The Bill Reid Gallery contains an extensive collection of his works and those of his contemporaries. If you can’t make it out to UBC’s Museum of Anthropology , then a trip is highly recommended.

Eat at Some of Vancouver’s Best Restaurants

Booking a table at one of Vancouver’s best downtown restaurants should be an automatic for anybody, visitor or local.

Here are a few amazing options:

• Blue Water Cafe : Fresh , high-quality , sustainable seafood. An extensive raw bar features premium cuts of sushi and sashimi and an extensive selection of local and imported oysters  and caviar .
• Cioppino’s : Award-winning chef and owner Pino Posterano masterfully combines the rustic simplicity of his Calabrian roots with elevated Italian culinary techniques and fresh West-coast ingredients.
• Marutama : Ramen spot that was initially founded in Japan, famous for its creamy chicken broth and house-made noodles . Also a great gyoza spot and one of the best value places downtown.

Take a Downtown Vancouver Food Tour

Eating must eat Vancouver food doesn’t have to mean booking a table at Vancouver’s best restaurants .

One of the best ways to get a guided tour of downtown Vancouver is to see the city while scheduling stops at some amazing Vancouver treat spots.

Two of my favourite Vancouver food tours that include Vancouver downtown activities include:

• Gastown Historic Food Walking Tour : A walk through Gastown’s classic cobblestone streets with an improv comic as a guide and stops for seven food tastings and three alcoholic beverages . Expect poutine, dumplings, cheesecake, and more.
• Wok Aroun d Chinatown : Prowl for goodies at traditional medicine shops, cookware stores, and a Chinese bakery – all led and narrated by a neighbourhood chef. You’ll learn the streets and crispy BBQ duck.

Walk Through Chinatown

Chinatown Vancouver is the second largest in North America, and it’s a great way to experience a bit of Chinese culture in the city.

It’s conveniently located right on the outskirts of downtown. Some of the best things to do here include:

• Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classical Garden : The first Chinese “Scholars” garden built outside of China remains the largest outside of Asia and is an amazing urban escape right in the chaos of downtown Vancouver.
• The Chinese Cultural Centre Museum : The first Chinese Canadian culture museum. Here you can experience the Chinese Canadian immigrant experience in the 19th and early 20th centuries. 
• Chinatown Millennium Gate : These terracotta tiled arches create one of the most emblematic spots in downtown Vancouver and make an awesome photo spot.
• Chinatown BBQ : The best BBQ chicken, pork, or duck you’ll ever get – done in the traditional Hong Kong style, this is one of the best value meals in the entire city.

Take a 4D Flight Across Canada

Right at Canada Place , next to the  Vancouver Cruise Terminal , you can strap in and prepare yourself for an amazing flying experience.

The Flyover Canada  ride uses state-of-the-art  4D video technology  to create a flight simulator for the ages. This contraption takes you on an eight-minute ride through Canada’s best natural and urban landscapes

You’ll get special effects, such as wind, mist, and scents and a thrilling, realistic flight experience. Who needs to buy a flight across Canada when it’s right here?

Shop up a Storm on Robson Street

Some of Vancouver’s best shopping is along Robson Street , right in the heart of downtown.

The fun begins on Granville Street , where you can find the Pacific Centre Mall . This spot is home to popular department stores, the Hudson Bay Co. and Holt Renfrew .

At Robson Square , you’ll find a multitude of shops and boutiques, including favourites like Roots , Lululemon , Nike , Muji and Aritzia

Head a block North to the “ Luxury Zone, ” which can be found on Alberni and West Georgia Streets. This area is perfect if you’re looking for something more opulent.

Experience Vancouver Nightlife

Fun things to do in downtown Vancouver usually stop (and end) at Vancouver’s best bars .

Downtown Vancouver also has a handful of nightlife districts bound to make you turn it into a crawl. Here are a few areas you’ll want to check out:

• The Granville Strip : Vancouver’s closest answer to the Vegas Strip, the Granville Entertainment District, is six blocks of bars, mostly frequented by young people, backpackers, and clubbers.
• Yaletown : A plethora of bars, restaurants and lounges catering to yuppies, celebrities, foodies, and anybody else cool. It’s Vancouver’s most stylish nightlife area.
• Gastown : World-class cocktail bars and cheap and cheerful dive bars serving up the best Vancouver craft beers are the names of the game here. If you’re a drinker through and through, this is it.

Take in the Views at Vancouver Lookout

Located a stone’s throw away from Waterfront Station , the Vancouver Lookout is a 553-foot (168 metres) tall  observation deck . It provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the Vancouver skyline, the North Shore Mountains and Burrard Inlet.

Take advantage of the interactive displays or a multi-lingual tour from a knowledgeable local guide. That way, you can learn more about the city’s past, present and future.

The best part is that admission is valid all day! So you can head up in the morning and return at dusk for sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. This is one of the best things to do in Vancouver when the sun is going down.

Catch a Canucks Game

Hockey is so deeply intertwined with Canada’s cultural identity that it’s arguably as much of a  national religion as a national pastime .

Playing out of downtown’s Rogers Arena , the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks  have just celebrated their 50th anniversary. While their play has resulted in more broken hearts and hockey riots than championships, Vancouverites still can’t get enough.

If you’re in town between October and April (or June if we make the playoffs!), read up on your hockey slang and grab some Canucks tickets .

Maybe this year is the year! (editor’s 2023 note: no, it isn’t )

Hit up the Art Gallery

Housed in a stunning 165,000-foot neo-classical building in the heart of Downtown Vancouver. The Vancouver Art Gallery is guaranteed to add a little culture to your visit.

You’ll find it adjacent to Robson Square, which frequently hosts political rallies and cultural festivals. The VAG (I swear I didn’t make it up!) is the city’s informal cultural heart.

You can head inside and marvel at any of the 11,000 pieces . These include  Coastal Indigenous works, famous local artists such as Emily Carr and a significant European Classical collection.

Things to Do Downtown Vancouver Map

Whether you’re up for cool things to do in downtown Vancouver or something a little more laid back, downtown contains many of the top areas to stay in Vancouver .

Let’s take a closer look at the area’s geography to clear up the confusion.

The Downtown Core

The central portion of downtown contains the Financial District , the Granville Strip entertainment district and Robson Street – arguably Vancouver’s best shopping district.

This is where you’ll find most of the best hotels in Vancouver , and some of the best cheap hotels in Vancouver .

A former warehouse district transformed into one of the city’s hippest neighbourhoods .

The area is home to sidewalk cafés, chic restaurants, trendy bars and various beautiful parks along its stunning stretch of the Vancouver Seawall .

The Stadium District

The location of Rogers Arena and BC Place, the home to the city’s perennially suffering professional sports franchises; the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks , the MLS’s Vancouver Whitecaps and the CFL’s BC Lions .

The area also contains a variety of hotels, bars and restaurants catering to sports fans and concertgoers.

It’s even home to Parq: our number-one choice on our list of the best Vancouver casinos .

The West End

This largely residential neighbourhood is most widely known as the gateway to Stanley Park.

However, the West End also contains Davie Village, the home to much of the city’s LGTBQ community .

The area also houses numerous bars and restaurants, a collection of parks and some of Vancouver’s best beaches nestled along the shores of False Creek.

Coal Harbour

Stretching between Canada Place and Stanley Park, Coal Harbour is a peaceful waterfront area contains a mix of residential and commercial buildings.

The area is most known for the striking juxtaposition between its large glass condominium towers and the peaceful tranquillity of Burrard Inlet.

Gastown and Chinatown

Technically downtown includes the neighbourhoods of  Chinatown and Gastown .

However, due to the abundance of attractions in these historic neighbourhoods, we’ve elected to grant them the special attention they deserve.

You can get free visitor tips, things to do, food, and nightlife options by clicking the links below:

Looking for Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver?

Still looking to fill out your downtown Vancouver things to the itinerary?

I invite you to write me in the comments below with what you want. That way, I can give you custom advice for your travels.

Whichever of my top things to do in downtown Vancouver you choose, I wish you the best of luck!

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15 Things To Do in Vancouver, Canada

Check out what you can make out of a trip to once Canada's biggest, most beautiful cities with these things to do in Vancouver, Canada.

Leah Jones • Jun 12, 2024

Canada is the next door neighbor to the United States and a great country to travel to. It is known for small stereotypes like consistent cold weather, characteristically friendly people and a lot of maple syrup. But to no surprise, there is a lot more to the country to experience and enjoy. One of the must-visit cities in Canada is Vancouver in the province of British Columbia.

Vancouver is one of Canada’s biggest cities, as well as one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse cities in Canada. The city is also visually stunning with its surrounding landscapes and very livable with a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, education, infrastructure, relatively low crime rate and more. With all that said, here are 15 things to do in Vancouver, Canada. 

Outdoor Activities

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is one of the most popular destinations in Vancouver and tops many lists of things to do in Vancouver Canada. It’s a 1,000-acre park featuring a seawall, beaches, trails and more. The park’s beautiful beaches include Second Beach and Third Beach, where you can relax, swim or enjoy a picnic. Lovers of nature can enjoy wandering through the lush forests on the park’s numerous trails to check out all the beautiful wildlife. The Vancouver Aquarium, located within the park, is home to a wide range of marine life and educational exhibits. For a touch of history and culture, visit the totem poles at Brockton Point or the rose gardens. Additionally, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride to learn more about the park’s history, enjoy a game of tennis or golf, or dine at one of the park’s charming restaurants. 

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain is known as the Peak of Vancouver and offers a wide range of activities year-round that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. In the winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice skating. Take a ride on the Skyride, a scenic aerial tramway, year-round for a spectacular 1,100-meter ascent to the mountaintop. In the summer, visitors can tackle the famous Grouse Grind, a challenging hiking trail known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” or explore other hiking and nature trails. The mountain also features the Wildlife Refuge, home to orphaned grizzly bears and other wildlife, and hosts lumberjack shows and bird demonstrations. For thrill-seekers, the mountain offers ziplines as well as the Eye of the Wind, a turbine with an observation deck that provides great views. Dining options at the peak range from casual eateries to fine dining. You could basically spend your whole day here.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions and also often tops the list of best things to do in Vancouver Canada. Spanning 137 meters (450 feet) across and 70 meters (230 feet) above the Capilano River, the bridge provides views of the lush temperate rainforest of British Columbia and a sense of adventure. Beyond the main bridge at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, visitors can explore a series of seven suspension bridges attached to ancient Douglas fir trees at Treetops Adventure. The Cliff Walk is another exhilarating attraction, featuring narrow suspended walkways jutting out from the granite cliff face and sections of glass floor for daring visitors. The park also hosts informative exhibits on the area’s ecology and the history of the First Nations people, whose totem poles are prominently displayed throughout the site. During the winter holiday season, the park transforms with the Canyon Lights display that illuminates the bridges and forest with thousands of sparkling lights. Get everything from beauty, culture and thrills at the must-visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in Vancouver.

Vancouver Seawall

Traveling along the Vancouver Seawall aka the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path is a spectacular way to explore the city’s coastline. Stretching 28 kilometers (17 miles), it begins at Coal Harbour and winds around Stanley Park, through downtown Vancouver, past English Bay, and continues to Kitsilano Beach and beyond to the University of British Columbia. The Seawall is perfect for walking, jogging, cycling and rollerblading, with separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists to ensure safety. Along the route, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains and city skyline, as well as access numerous beaches, parks and attractions. Highlights include Stanley Park’s scenic paths, Granville Island’s lively atmosphere and the beauty of False Creek. The Seawall is dotted with cafes, restaurants and picnic spots, making it an ideal place to relax and take some time to enjoy your surroundings. Head to the Vancouver Seawall for a leisurely stroll, a vigorous workout or simply a beautiful place to unwind.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Queen Elizabeth Park, perched on Little Mountain in Vancouver, is renowned for its meticulously maintained gardens. This includes the Quarry Garden, which features a stunning array of seasonal flowers, exotic plants and beautifully landscaped greenery. The Bloedel Conservatory, an indoor tropical garden and aviary, houses over 100 free-flying exotic birds and a diverse collection of tropical and subtropical plants. The park also has tennis courts, lawn bowling and pitch-and-putt golf for recreational activities. Art enthusiasts can explore outdoor sculptures and public art installations scattered throughout the park. This park is the highest point in Vancouver, so don’t forget a camera for pictures of the city, the North Shore Mountains and beyond.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Museum of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the study and display of world cultures, with a special emphasis on the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. The museum was designed by famed architect Arthur Erickson, and it showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, including totem poles, carvings, pottery, textiles and more. The MOA’s Great Hall features large-scale Indigenous art and monumental sculptures. The museum also emphasizes contemporary Indigenous art and issues to give visitors a deeper understanding of First Nations cultures and their ongoing contributions to society. 

Vancouver Art Gallery

The gallery is housed in a historic courthouse building and features an impressive collection of over 12,000 artworks. The works include significant pieces by Canadian and Indigenous artists, as well as international works. In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery hosts rotating exhibitions, public programs, and educational workshops, making it a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of the city.

Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood known for its historic charm and lively atmosphere. The town combines the old and the new with cobblestone streets, vintage street lamps and beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. It’s home to an eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, trendy restaurants and bars. One of its most famous landmarks is the Gastown Steam Clock with its steam-powered chimes. 

Explore one of North America’s largest Chinatowns, visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, and enjoy authentic cuisine. Vancouver’s Chinatown is one of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in North America. There are plenty of things to do in Vancouver, Canada when you visit Chinatown with its lively streets, colorful markets and historic buildings. Check out the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, a serene and authentic representation of a Ming Dynasty garden. The neighborhood is also famed for its diverse array of Asian restaurants, herbal medicine shops and specialty stores.

Unique Experiences

Granville Island

Granville Island in Vancouver is a hub of culture, food and art. At its heart is the Granville Island Public Market, where you can browse a diverse selection of fresh produce, artisanal foods and handmade crafts. The island is also home to art galleries, studios and theaters, including the renowned Arts Club Theatre and Granville Island Stage, that you can visit for performances and exhibitions. Restaurants at Granville Island range from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants that often feature locally sourced ingredients. Granville Island Brewery offers craft beer tastings and tours, while the island’s waterfront location provides opportunities for kayaking, boating and strolls along the docks.

Science World

Science World in Vancouver is a science museum located in the iconic geodesic dome at the end of False Creek. Find a range of interactive science and technology exhibits and hands-on activities designed for visitors of all ages. The museum features permanent galleries on topics such as physics, biology and sustainability, as well as rotating temporary exhibitions on various scientific themes. One of its highlights is the OMNIMAX Theatre, which screens educational films on a massive dome screen for an immersive viewing experience. Science World has the best things to do in Vancouver, Canada for fellow nerds. 

FlyOver Canada

Experience a virtual flight ride that takes you across Canada’s stunning landscapes with FlyOver Canada located at Canada Place. The attraction uses state-of-the-art technology to create the sensation of flying over some of the country’s most stunning and iconic scenery. Guests are seated in a suspended chair with their feet dangling, while the spherical screen wraps around them, providing a 360-degree view. The ride features special effects such as wind, mist and scents to make it feel as though you are actually soaring over mountains, forests, prairies and urban landscapes. The pre-show area gives a good introduction to Canada’s culture and geography. 

Beaches and Waterfronts

English Bay Beach

English Bay Beach, located in downtown Vancouver along the city’s West End, is one of Vancouver’s most popular urban beaches. It’s home to a wide, sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing, swimming and beach volleyball. The beach features convenient amenities such as washrooms, concessions and kayak rentals. Next to the beach is the English Bay area, with a variety of restaurants, cafes and shops. English Bay Beach is also the focal point of major events to look out for, such as the annual Celebration of Light fireworks competition.

Kitsilano Beach

Kitsilano Beach, aka “Kits Beach,” is one of Vancouver’s most beloved urban beaches, located in the Kitsilano neighborhood. It’s another great beach with a wide shoreline ideal for sunbathing, swimming and volleyball, plus its excellent views of the city skyline and North Shore Mountains. It is also home to the Kitsilano Pool, Canada’s longest outdoor saltwater pool. The surrounding park has grassy areas for picnics, tennis courts and a playground. Nearby, you can also find a variety of cafes, restaurants and shops along West 4th Avenue and Yew Street.

Jericho Beach

Find things to do in Vancouver, Canada that allow you to escape the city at Jericho Beach, situated in the West Point Grey neighborhood along the city’s waterfront. Enjoy all the beach activities here and take in the views of the North Shore Mountains and English Bay. This beach is also popular for water sports such as windsurfing, sailing and kayaking, with rental facilities available nearby. Jericho Beach Park has grassy areas, picnic tables and barbecue pits that make a great spot for family outings and gatherings. The beach is also adjacent to the Jericho Sailing Centre, and features walking and cycling paths along the waterfront.

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Where to Stay in Vancouver, B.C.: Guide for First Timers

Wondering where to stay in Vancouver, B.C.? You’re in the right place! We live in Portland, and have been to Vancouver multiple times in the past year. We’re here to use our own experiences exploring the city to help you plan an amazing trip, starting with finding the best place to stay for your particular travel style and budget.

We love Vancouver for a lot of the same reasons we love other cities in the Pacific Northwest like Seattle (where Matt grew up and spent the first part of his adult life) and Portland (where we live now).

In fact, to us, Vancouver feels like a mashup of those two cities. It has the location on the water with mountains backing the skyline that Seattle is known for, and it has the thriving food and drink scene and compactness that we think makes Portland special. 

Before we settled down in Portland in 2022, we had been to Vancouver for a few different 2-3 day trips (all in the winter, oddly). Since moving to Portland, we’ve already been up to Vancouver multiple times in the first year, with plans for more. 

Over those trips, we’ve gained a deeper perspective on the city and what makes it special – especially the parts of the city outside of Vancouver’s Downtown core. 

In this guide, we’re going to go through our perspective on the best places to stay in Vancouver, British Columbia. 

We’ll focus on six great neighborhoods that we think would make an excellent home base for exploring the city based on our fairly regular trips up the west coast to Vancouver over the past few years. 

For each neighborhood, we’ll give you an overview of the place, our view on the pros and cons of staying there, a few highlights that we enjoyed and think you shouldn’t miss, and some places to stay that stand out to us for one reason or another. 

By the end of this guide, our goal is to arm you with the information you need to choose the right place for you given your particular style, budget, and what you’re looking for out of a trip to Vancouver. 

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it.  

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay in Vancouver, B.C.: The 6 Best Places to Stay for First Timers

Our philosophy when it comes to deciding on a place to stay is to first choose the neighborhood , then move on to finding a great hotel, hostel, or apartment in that area. 

Vancouver is a relatively compact city, at least when we’re talking about the neighborhoods where it makes sense for tourists to stay, though which area you choose still matters because each has a distinct vibe. 

For example, If you like a concrete jungle with people in suits hustling and bustling, stay Downtown. If you prefer a more laid back, residential vibe, stay in Kitsilano.

Where you stay is going to have a pretty big impact on how your trip feels. 

We put together this guide to give you the information you need – based on our own experiences exploring Vancouver – to figure out the best area for your particular style and budget. 

And, because it’s Vancouver, it’s worth taking a second to chat about budget for a second. 

There’s no getting around it – Vancouver is an EXPENSIVE city for both living and visiting . Not quite San Francisco expensive, more along the lines of Seattle or San Diego. 

And that is doubly true in the summertime, when you’ll find prices climbing thanks to the incredible long, warm days of summer. 

You might be tempted to cut costs by staying relatively far out and, essentially, commuting in.

We understand the impulse, but we would strongly encourage you to consider spending the extra money to stay closer to Downtown ESPECIALLY if you have limited time (2-3 days, for example). 

Now, we’re well aware that a few of you are currently ready to throw your left shoe at the screen, saying “I don’t have time to read all of that, JUST TELL ME THE BEST PLACE TO STAY!” 

Well, here’s a quick summary of this guide if you’re short on time (though we’d recommend reading the section of the place you end up staying for tips and places to add to your list!). 

• If it’s your first time in Vancouver and you only have a couple of days, stay in Downtown Vancouver . Between the unbeatable transit connections (including to the airport) and walkability to Gastown, Yaletown, and the West End, it’s hard to argue against Downtown as the most convenient place to stay in Vancouver. However, the thing to know is that to see, eat, and drink the best that Vancouver has to offer, you’re going to have to leave Downtown. It’s full of businesspeople and tall office buildings, and the businesses here cater to that crowd and are largely chains. It does, however, have BY FAR the best selection of hotels in Vancouver, including nearly every global hotel brand you could possibly want. We like the northern end of the neighborhood, and we’d look at one of the hotels up towards Vancouver Harbour like the Metropolitan Hotel or the Auberge Vancouver . 
• If you want to be in a hip neighborhood in the middle of all of Vancouver’s best food and drinks, stay in Gastown . Gastown is all cobblestone streets and old brick warehouses that have been transformed into industrial-chic loft apartments over the past decade or two. It also happens to be a great place to eat, drink, and shop, with most of our favorite coffee shops in Vancouver, a few of our favorite restaurants ( Ask for Luigi and Nuba !), and some good places to shop. There aren’t too many places to stay here, but we’d go with either the Skwachàys Lodge , a cool midrange hotel with decor inspired by the Indigenous people that call this area home, the Delta by Marriott for a more modern upscale vibe, or the Victorian Hotel if you’re looking for a more affordable option.  
• If you want to be between Vancouver’s best green space – Stanley Park – and Downtown, stay in the West End . The West End is both the most low key and residential AND most affordable part of Vancouver’s Downtown core. It’s also right on the border of Stanley Park, giving you easy access to the best green space in the city. If we were you, we’d stay at either the Times Square Suites (for the location right on the edge of the park and the apartments with more space) or the Carmana Suites (for the modern amenities and spacious apartments). 

Here’s a map to help you visualize what we’re talking about, with the neighborhoods we’re going to talk about in this guide along with some key landmarks (the yellow stars) to help you understand the geography of the city. 

Downtown Vancouver: The Best Area to Stay for First Timers in Vancouver (+ Short Trips)

Having grown up in Seattle, I (Matt) have spent a bit more time in Vancouver than Alysha.

And every single time I had been to Vancouver before our last three trips together, I had stayed Downtown. Right smack dab in the middle of all the action. 

There are certainly pros and cons to that approach. It’s right in the middle of everything, so you’ll be able to either walk or take a bus/the SkyTrain to just about everything (including the airport).

But that central location means you’ll be sharing sidewalks with business people in suits and the occasional tourists, because nobody who lives in Vancouver really lives Downtown. 

However, its central location and the fact that it is effectively also the city’s Financial District (or Central Business District, take your pick) means that it does have the best selection of hotels in the city. 

Like we said, pros and cons. 

It makes the most sense for your first trip AND a short trip (24-48 hours or so) . In that scenario, you’re going to want to be as central as possible to maximize your time, and you don’t really have time to do much exploring outside of the Downtown area (including Stanley Park and Gastown) anyway. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Downtown Vancouver

Here are the pros and cons of staying in Downtown Vancouver as we see them.

Pros of Staying in Downtown Vancouver 

• There are a ton of places to stay. This is the highest concentration of places to stay, with hundreds of hotels within the relatively small Downtown corridor. Plus, there are options for a range of budgets – it’s not all fancy, high end hotels. 
• It’s as central as it gets. It shouldn’t be much of a surprise that Downtown Vancouver is central. You’ll be able to walk to Gastown, Yaletown, West End, and even Granville Island.  
• There are great transit connections. Between the SkyTrain and stops for just about every bus route in Vancouver, you’re really well connected to the rest of the city if you choose Downtown as your home base. It’s easy to get around town, and to get to and from the airport. 

Cons of Staying in Downtown Vancouver 

• It’s not charming. This is a concrete jungle, and while there are a couple of green spaces (we really like Robson Square), it feels very urban.
• Our favorite places to eat and drink are elsewhere. The bars and restaurants here cater to businesspeople, which means they’re not going to be as diverse and interesting as some of the places on Main / Cambie or in Kitsilano. Plan on eating and drinking elsewhere if you stay here. 

The Best Places to Stay in Downtown Vancouver

Like we mentioned a couple of times, there are a nearly unlimited number of places to stay in Downtown Vancouver across a range of different budgets. 

Here are a few that stand out to us, though you could also go with the hotel chain you’re most familiar with – they likely have a location here. 

The Burrard: A Hip, Affordable Option

Housed in a former motor inn, this hip hotel on the southwest corner of the Downtown area is a great option if you’re looking for a central option that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. 

It’s two blocks away from Robson Square, and a short walk out to Sunset Beach and the start of Stanley Park. 

When you see the layout of the hotel, you’ll immediately understand what we mean when we say it’s a former motor inn. The rooms are situated around the outside perimeter of a leafy courtyard, which has spaces to hang out – perfect for summer in Vancouver. 

Rooms are compact, but have Nespresso machines and modern decor. Choose from a king, queen, or two queen beds. Some rooms face the interior garden, some face the exterior street (the first is going to be quieter, we think). 

They have pet-friendly rooms if you’re traveling to Vancouver with a furry friend, and they have secure onsite parking (for an extra fee, of course). 

The Loden: A Stylish Boutique Hotel in a Good Location

The Loden Hotel is on the border between three different areas – West End, Coal Harbor, and Downtown. It’s definitely a little more upscale than the Burrard, but the comfort, style, and amenities (a nice gym, free three-hour bike rentals, etc) are also a step above. 

They have a couple of different room layouts and tiers to choose from. 

In terms of layouts, it’s essentially just one king bed or two double beds. 

By tiers, we mean rooms that have views of Stanley Park and the water, corner rooms, and rooms that don’t have much of a view. Basically, you’ll pay a little more for the view. They also have rooms on the second floor with a garden terrace, which we think is a nice touch (especially in the summer). 

It’s also pet-friendly, with no limit on size/weight. There is a $50 pet fee per pet, per stay, with a maximum of two pets per room (and no leaving them in the room unattended, which is standard for bringing pets with you to hotels). 

Gastown: A Hip, Charming Area with Great Food and Drinks

After a few stints staying Downtown, we eventually moved on to staying in Gastown, which is just east of the Downtown core up along the waterfront.

With its cobblestone streets and more industrial feeling (especially as you head east towards railtown), it’s definitely a different vibe from the concrete jungle that is Downtown Vancouver. 

However, similar to Downtown, staying in Gastown definitely has its pros and cons and probably isn’t for everyone (particularly, we’d say, families with kids). 

On the plus side, it’s very charming and has some great places to eat and drink (including at least three of our favorite coffee shops in Vancouver within two blocks).

It’s also walkable to Downtown, Yaletown, and the waterfront (including the water taxi up to North Vancouver). 

On the other hand, there are some things about Gastown – namely the visible homeless population – that might make visitors who aren’t used to seeing it uncomfortable. 

We have lived in Seattle, San Francisco, and Portland, so we are very familiar with the convergent housing / mental health crises affecting most of the big cities on the west coast, and Vancouver isn’t much different in that regard (even though it’s a different country). 

There is a visible homeless population in this part of town, and you’ll occasionally see open air drug use. 

However, if you head east of Carrall Street, the situation gets a lot more intense FAST. We know because we walked straight through it from Chinatown to Railtown on the way to lunch one day, crossing E Hastings St at Main St. 

Whether you stay here or not, we’d strongly recommend avoiding going east of Carrall Street on E. Hastings if you can avoid it. Once you get a block or two north or south of E Hastings, it gets a little better. 

For example, we walked from Ask for Luigi through Gastown up on Alexander St (~3 blocks north of E Hastings) and it was totally fine. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Gastown

Here are the pros and cons of staying in Gaston as we see them.

Pros of Staying in Gastown 

• Good food and drinks, both alcohol and coffee. Between the three coffee shops we loved (more on them in the next section), two of our absolute favorite restaurants in Vancouver (also more on them in a second), and the best beer / cider bar in the city, Gastown has a lot going for it in terms of food and drinks. 
• Central and walkable. Staying here means you’ll be able to walk to most places. For everything else, there’s a bus!
• Easy airport connection. The Canada Line runs from Waterfront Station (which is on the western border of Gastown) straight to the airport, so you don’t have to deal with traffic or connections. It’s easy!

Cons of Staying in Gastown

• Proximity to the Downtown Eastside. Look, we’re usually the ones downplaying the “cities are dying” narrative that people (specifically who don’t actually live in the city) are always throwing out there. And, usually, it’s not that bad. However, the stretch of E Hastings St east of Carrall was unsettling, even for us. We’d avoid walking east from Gastown, especially at night, and would also advise families with children to consider staying in a different area. 

The Best Places to Stay in Gastown

Unlike Downtown, there aren’t that many places to stay in Gastown. Here are the three main options. 

Delta Hotel by Marriott: A Solid Option on the Border of the Neighborhood

We’re cheating just a little bit by including this luxury hotel in the Gastown section because it’s on the border of Downtown and Gastown. However, it’s two blocks away from the Steam Clock, so we’re including it here!

This is a suite hotel, and it skews to the luxury end of the spectrum. “Suite” just means that the rooms here have a bedroom and a sitting area. Bedrooms come in a couple of configurations – one queen, one king, and two queens. If you care about having a view from your room, some rooms on high floors that face north have views of the water, while most other rooms have city views. 

Some of their suites come with what they’re calling an urban kitchen, which means a microwave and mini fridge. There’s also a small fitness center at the hotel. 

The hotel is pet-friendly, with two pets per room up to 50lbs (23kg) and a pet fee of $55 CAD per pet, per stay. They also have parking onsite for $43 CAD per day.

Honestly, if you have a car, we probably wouldn’t recommend staying Downtown.  

Skwachàys Lodge: A Cool Boutique Hotel Featuring Indigenous Art

This cool hotel in the heart of Gastown is one of the most unique places to stay in Vancouver.

It’s part boutique hotel, part social enterprise that is supporting local Indigenous communities by giving them a platform to share and sell their art and, arguably more importantly, a place to live while they make their art. There’s an onsite art gallery where you can find their work. 

Each of the 18 rooms here are unique, and they feature work from Indigenous artists around a theme. Since they’re all unique, the layouts are slightly different, but you’ll choose between a king bed, a queen bed, or two double beds. 

They also have two “suite” rooms that have more space, a mini fridge, and a microwave. 

The lodge has limited onsite parking, available on a first-come, first-served basis for $30 CAD a night, but we’d say that you probably shouldn’t stay in this area with a car. If you do have a car, take EVERYTHING out of it when you leave. 

No pets allowed here!

Victorian Hotel: An Affordable Option in Central Vancouver

The Victorian Hotel is a boutique hotel on the border between Gastown and Downtown, within a few blocks of both our favorite spots in Gastown (like Nemesis Coffee and Revolver Coffee), and also places like the Vancouver Art Gallery, which is five to six blocks away. 

Rooms here are an eclectic mashup between the old skeleton of the historic building it’s in and the updated modern decor of a boutique hotel. The result is exposed brick walls, and bright white walls and sheets.

One of the things we like about this particular hotel is that, despite skewing towards the “boutique” end of the spectrum, they have “Euro-style” rooms with shared, single occupancy bathrooms that are probably the best value in Vancouver. 

Fear not – they have eight of these rooms on each floor, and three bathrooms shared between the rooms on each floor, so you shouldn’t have to wait to use them. And, again, they’re single-occupancy and lockable, so it’s not like it’s a bunch of stalls in one bathroom you’re sharing. 

Then, they also have normal hotel-style rooms with ensuite bathrooms if you have the budget. 

No pets allowed here, and they have limited onsite secure parking. Parking is not reservable, and it costs $20 CAD a night. 

Note : They do NOT have an elevator, so if you or someone you’re traveling with have mobility issues, this might not be the best place to stay.  

The West End: Low Key, More Affordable, and Right on Stanley Park

Vancouver’s West End spans the entire western part of the Peninsula from Burrard out to the park, with its crown jewel – Stanley Park – jutting out into the water. 

It’s very much a part of the Downtown core, and staying here is going to put you within a hop, skip, and a jump (or short bus ride) of just about everything you’re going to want to see on your Vancouver itinerary . 

Of the Downtown-ish neighborhoods, the West End is the least concrete-jungly (for lack of a better word). It’s quieter, more residential, and, perhaps most importantly, more affordable (on average) than Downtown, Gastown, and Yaletown. 

You’re trading hip industrial-chic lofts and brick buildings (Gastown), high rise luxury apartments with yoga studios on the ground floor (Yaletown), and business people in their best dress strolling about (Downtown) for slightly out-of-date apartment buildings, low key restaurants and bars, and great views of the water. 

There are two main streets running from Downtown out to the park (which, for the directionally challenged like myself, runs NW to SE); Davie and Robson. That’s where you’ll find the vast majority of both hotels and places to eat and drink. 

Our favorite part is the access to Stanley Park. The best way to explore the park, we think, is riding a bike (or walking) the entire perimeter of the seawall. 

Mobi – Vancouver’s bike share program – is a good way to do it, and there are stations throughout both the park and the West End. If you’d rather rent a bike from a shop, there are a handful of bike shops at the northern corner of the West End ( here on Google Maps).

Pros and Cons of Staying in the West End

Here are the pros and cons of staying in Vancouver’s West End as we see them.

Pros of Staying in the West End 

• It’s more affordable. The hotel options here, on average, are going to be a little more affordable than similar properties in Downtown and Yaletown. Obviously, the types of hotels in each place influence the price (and the mix of budget and luxury varies greatly between those three neighborhoods), but we think the West End offers the best value of any of the areas in the Downtown core. 
• It’s right on Stanley Park. We like the West End for the same reasons that we like staying (and living) in neighborhoods close to a city’s main park. Matt lived on the edge of Golden Gate Park and Green Lake when he lived in San Francisco and Seattle, and there’s something special about an early morning or late afternoon walk in the park to touch some grass after a hectic day. The West End puts you in the best position to do that out of any area in Vancouver. 

Cons of Staying in the West End 

• It’s harder to get to from the airport than other Downtown neighborhoods. There’s no SkyTrain stop, which means at least one transfer (or an expensive ride) between landing and your hotel. Which doesn’t matter as much if you’re driving or taking the train, obviously, but is worth considering if you’re flying to Vancouver. 
• It’s kind of boring from a food and drink perspective. Now, we don’t mean to say that there aren’t any good places to eat or drink here, because there certainly are. However, what we will say is that it doesn’t crack our top three neighborhoods in terms of food, drinks, and shopping. The food and drink scene mirrors the housing situation, which feels a little outdated and relatively undeveloped compared to, say, Yaletown. More homey, less luxury. Which is exactly how we feel about food and drinks here. More neighborhood coffee shops, less of the best cocktail or wine bars in the city. Though, it should be noted that there is some really good Asian food, especially near the park. 

The Best Places to Stay in Vancouver’s West End

Here are a few places to stay in Vancouver’s West End that we think are worth a look. 

Sonder at Revival: Modern Apartments Two Blocks from Stanley Park 

We’ve stayed at Sonder properties before, and I (Matt) actually had a stay booked at this particular property on our last trip that I had to cancel because our travel plans changed. 

If you aren’t familiar with Sonder, we think of them as a cross between hotels and Airbnb.

It’s like an Airbnb in that you get your own space (usually apartments, though they’ve started offering hotel-style rooms at some properties), but it’s like a hotel in that Sonder actually owns the property (versus a random person). 

As you might imagine, there are pros and cons here too. 

The biggest thing to know is that at many of their locations, there are very limited staff onsite – everything is managed virtually (check-in codes, room cleaning requests, etc). 

This has a few implications, namely that if something comes up, you can’t just walk down to the front desk. And you can’t ask the people at the front desk for recommendations on nearby bars, how to take the bus to Kitsilano, or whatever other practical questions you have. 

However, if you’re looking for a nice place to stay that has modern amenities and comfortable rooms that, crucially, has a kitchen, this place would be a great home base in Vancouver. 

West End Guest House: A Charming Guesthouse in a Historic Victorian

If you’re looking for a guesthouse that has taken a historic Victorian and turned it into one of the top rated bed & breakfasts in Vancouver, this is the place! 

The West End Guesthouse is housed in a historic Victorian that was built in 1906, just after the gold rush turned Vancouver (and Seattle) on the path to becoming a real city. 

It’s in a quieter area in the West End, roughly equidistant to both Downtown and the edge of the park (12-15 minutes away, on foot). 

The first thing to know is that this place is “adult-oriented” so it’s not a good spot for families with kids. It’s very much oriented to couples and solo travelers – all rooms feature a single bed, king or queen depending on the room. 

The second thing to know is that it’s a bed and breakfast in the truest sense of the name – a full, hot breakfast is included every day. They also have complimentary refreshments and treats in the evening, if you’re around. Even the off-street parking is included in the room rate!

In terms of rooms, no two are exactly the same (as you might imagine would be the case in a building that’s 100+ years old). You get either a king or queen bed, and the rooms aren’t huge – though you can lounge in the guesthouse’s common areas if you need more space. 

No pets allowed, and parking is included in the price of the room. 

Carmana Hotel & Suites: Modern Suites Near Downtown Vancouver

This mid-range aparthotel – which is just a hotel where the rooms are apartments (they call them suites here) – is on the border of Downtown Vancouver and the West End, which is a location that has pros and cons. 

On the pro side, it’s close to Downtown, Gastown, and by extension, the rest of the city. It’s also close to the SkyTrain stop (10 minute walk to the Vancouver City Centre stop), which makes it easy to get to from the airport. 

The flip side is that it’s much more urban, concrete jungle than the part of the West End that’s closer to the park. While it’s technically in the West End, it’s very much a more downtown feeling. 

In terms of aesthetics, this place also feels closer to Downtown or Yaletown than the West End, with a metallic high rise exterior and more modern furniture and art inside (though the touches of West End come through in the outdated stove). 

The suites come in one bedroom and two bedroom varieties, and they all come with a full kitchen. They have an onsite fitness center with a couple of peloton bikes and some other equipment along with onsite laundry (though it’s not free). 

One thing we do love is the big floor-to-ceiling windows in each unit with nice views. 

No pets allowed here. 

They do have onsite parking, BUT the height limit is 6’, which means anything other than a sedan is probably too tall. It costs $38 a day, including taxes. 

Times Square Suites Hotel: The Best Place to Stay near Stanley Park

If your reason for staying here is to be close to Stanley Park, this low-key suite hotel is probably your best bet. 

It’s roughly two blocks away from the park, and a block from the aforementioned bike rental shops. Plus, it’s on Denman Street, which is one of the more exciting stretches in the neighborhood. 

Now, the tradeoff here is that it’s not the most modern or swanky outfit. In fact, it reminds us a little of places we’ve stayed in towns like Banff or Jasper, where it’s constantly at capacity and probably needs to take a few months off for a renovation. 

That being said, it’s very homey and comfortable AND has full kitchens in every unit, something we always look for when we travel because Matt has Celiac Disease and often needs to be able to cook for himself. 

It would also be a nice place to stay for a longer term stay because of that extra space. We often find ourselves working while we travel, and it’s hard to do in a tiny hotel room (frankly, living in a tiny hotel room gets tiring after a couple of days). 

The suites range in size and configuration from studios up to two bedroom suites, and they’re all unique in layout.

They do have pet-friendly suites, BUT ONLY DURING LOW SEASON FROM OCTOBER TO APRIL . That means it’s a no-go for summer trips with a furry friend. There is a $45 pet fee per pet, per stay. 

Parking is available (their garage has a 6’4” height limit) and costs $25 a day. 

Yaletown: An Upscale and Modern Neighborhood on False Creek 

Yaletown is where you’ll find the highest concentration of workout class providers (there’s even a Barry’s Bootcamp, so you know it’s bougie) and high rise apartment buildings that all kind of look the same (though we love the density).

Yaletown is the neighborhood occupying the southeastern corner of the Downtown core, right along False Creek (that’s the little inlet that Granville Island is on). 

The cornerstone of the area is B.C. Place, which is home to both the local soccer team (the Vancouver Whitecaps, who play in the MLS) and the biggest names in music that come to Vancouver (Taylor Swift is playing there). 

When we say concrete jungle, Yaletown is probably the best example. It’s DENSE.

However, we also think they’ve done a pretty good job at building shared green spaces into the neighborhood, particularly along the water where there’s a lovely walking path that skirts the southern edge of the neighborhood. 

In terms of staying here, we actually really like the location because you’ll have easy access to Downtown, Gastown, and the Main/Cambie corridor (it’s a short walk across the Cambie Street Bridge). 

Plus, the water taxi service gives you access to other parts of the city and is our favorite way to get around Vancouver. False Creek Ferries is your best bet because it includes a stop at both Granville Island and Kitsilano.

The biggest downside is that it’s going to be expensive, and you’re not going to get as much for your money as you might in, say, the West End, because the hotels here skew towards the luxury end of the spectrum. If you’re on a budget, stay elsewhere. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Yaletown

Here are the pros and cons of staying in Yaletown as we see them.

Pros of Staying in Yaletown 

• It’s walkable. Staying in Yaletown means you’ll be able to walk to Gastown, Downtown, and Granville Island.  
• It has good food and drink options. The streets – particularly on the southeastern end of the neighborhood towards B.C. Place – are lined with great places to eat and drink. 
• It’s easy to get around. Yaletown is walkable to the SkyTrain, and has nice bus connections. It also has the ferry system, which will take you to Granville Island, Kitsilano, and Stanley Park. It’s easy to get to the airport, it’s easy to get to places like Mount Pleasant and Kitsilano, and it’s a good hub for exploring Vancouver for that reason. 

Cons of Staying in Yaletown

• It lacks charm. While Yaletown is nicer and more charming than Downtown, which is full of businesspeople in suits with a smattering of tourists, it lacks the charm that you get from people going about their daily lives like you get in Kitsilano or the West End. It’s all tall glass buildings, which makes for a nice skyline, but not such a nice place to live. 
• It’s expensive. As a general rule that applies internationally, if there’s a Barry’s Bootcamp in the neighborhood, you can be sure that it’s going to be pricey. Yaletown is no different. The hotels here skew to the expensive end of the spectrum. 

The Best Places to Stay in Yaletown

Here are a few places to stay in Yaletown that caught our eye. 

Hotel BLU: A Solid Mid-Range Hotel Right on Robson

This mid-range hotel is right on Robson Street, one of the main connectors from Yaletown to Downtown and beyond. It’s about a block and a half away from B.C. Place, a concert and soccer venue on the water. 

To be completely honest, we don’t have a ton to say about the hotel itself. The thing that stands out to us more than any piece of style or unique offering is the value for the great location. 

Rooms are pretty run-of-the-mill hotel rooms, coming in configurations with either one king or two queens. Some rooms have balconies, and they also have suites (some of which are split level) which have a larger seating area (but no kitchen amenities outside microwaves and mini fridges, sadly). 

The coolest amenity is the full size indoor pool (plus jacuzzi), and there’s also a small fitness center. 

The hotel is pet-friendly, but you need to book a room with a balcony and pay $30 a day in extra fees (a cleaning fee, they call it). Probably not the best option if you’re traveling with your dog. 

Onsite parking is available, and costs $30 a day. 

Georgian Court Hotel: A Good Value Near B.C. Place

The Georgian Court Hotel is located in the complex of hotels right across the street from B.C. Place, which is both the home of the Vancouver Whitecaps (Vancouver’s MLS team) and the premier concert venue in the city (it’s where Taylor Swift performs when she comes to town). 

They market themselves as a luxury hotel, but I think it’s in that weird gray area between mid-range and luxury where you’re getting a few luxury amenities – like, say, a hot tub and infrared sauna – at a more reasonable price than true luxury hotels like the Four Seasons. 

Which, when you consider that their slogan is “luxury within reach,” sort of makes sense. 

Rooms here are pretty large as far as hotel rooms go, and they come in a wide variety of different configurations. The most common room configurations are one king and two queens, with a few other layouts available (e.g. penthouse and suites). 

The hotel is also pet-friendly, with a pet fee of $20 a day (maxing out at $100 per week). 

Parking is also available onsite for $30 a day. 

Kitsilano: Our Personal Favorite Place to Stay in Vancouver

There are two things we want to say about Kitsilano, and they’re at least a little bit conflicting. 

First, it’s our favorite part of the city, with its cross between a smaller beach community and a suburb that is more residential than the Downtown area. 

Second, it might not make the most sense to stay here because there are no hotels here and strict Airbnb regulations mean that your options are severely limited. 

Still, we’ve found ourselves drawn to this part of the city on our past few visits after spending most of our previous trips in the Downtown core.

Some of our favorite bars and restaurants (and the best tea shop we’ve EVER been to) are here, especially along the stretch of West 4th Ave between Burrard and Steven (ish). 

We also had no idea until our last few trips that there is a string of beaches from Kits beach out to the west, most of which have great views of the city’s skyline and surrounding (dramatic) landscapes. Staying here gives you easy access to spending a sunset at one of those beaches. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Kitsilano

Here are the pros and cons of staying in Kitsilano as we see them after two straight trips staying here.

Pros of Staying in Kitsilano 

• Charming. Lots of trees, a mix of locals and tourists out and about, and, of course, the beach and skyline views make this one of our favorite places to stay in Vancouver. Even in the winter months. 
• Great strips of shopping/eating/drinking. The strips along W 4th Avenue and W Broadway are two of our favorite strips in the entire city, and rival Cambie and Main in Mount Pleasant for their selection of places to eat and drink (which you’ll find in the highlights section below). 
• Quieter and more residential. Compared to the businesslike hustle and bustle of Downtown Vancouver, Kitsilano is significantly more laid back. Rather than people in suits running to get coffee between meetings, it’s people on a leisurely stroll with their dog in between meetings. There are no huge skyscrapers in Kitsilano, it’s mostly single family homes and smaller apartment buildings. 
• Close to the beaches . Who knew Vancouver was a beach town? Not us before visiting a couple of times! Most people stay within the Downtown core over the course of their trip, but there is a lovely string of beaches from Kitsilano out to the west towards UBC. 

Cons of Staying in Kitsilano

• No hotels to speak of. Unfortunately, there are no hotels here. None. That means Airbnb is your best bet. Try to stay in a place where the owner lives onsite – that’s going to be the best way to use Airbnb, at least in our experience. 
• Not as easy to get Downtown . If you have a short trip, then this might not be the best option for you. There are buses (most of them run along W 4th) that will take you Downtown in 15-20 minutes, and a water taxi that will take you across the water to Sunset Beach and Stanley Park. No SkyTrain, though. 

The Best Places to Stay in Kitsilano

Unfortunately, there are exactly zero hotels in Kitsilano, which is a major disadvantage.

Especially when you consider that, technically speaking, any Airbnb that is not the owner’s principal residence is illegal. Which REALLY limits your options here. 

Your best bet is to find a vacation rental in the eastern end , close to the beach, which will make it easier to get to and from the rest of the city. 

Mount Pleasant: A Close Runner Up for Our Favorite Area

As you might have already gathered if you’ve read the section above on Kitsilano, while we’re city people, our favorite neighborhood in any given city is likely not the downtown area or financial district. 

Instead, it’s usually a more residential area with strips of commerce like Capitol Hill (Seattle), the Mission or Richmond (San Francisco), and Trastevere (Rome). 

Vancouver is no different – while we like Gastown and West End, what we’re really into is the outer ring of neighborhoods south of the city center. They’re more low key, quieter, and residential, which means you get to experience more of what living in Vancouver is actually like. 

In Mount Pleasant, which is south of Yaletown across False Creek, you’ll transition from an industrial area filled with breweries to single family homes and great strips of bars, restaurants, and shopping along Main and Cambie respectively. 

We really like this area – many of our favorite restaurants in Vancouver happen to be somewhere around here – but it has a similar problem that Kitsilano faces: there just aren’t very many places to stay. 

However, if you’re up for staying at one of the guesthouses here, we think it’d be a good home base for exploring the city. You’ll have access to the Downtown core either by walking or by taking a bus or the SkyTrain, and you’ll also be walkable to both Main and Cambie, two of our favorite strips in the city. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Mount Pleasant

Here are the pros and cons of staying in charming and residential Mount Pleasant as we see them.

Pros of Staying in Mount Pleasant 

• Charm charm charm. Tree-lined streets lined with historic homes – this is the part of the city we would probably most like to live in ourselves (though we would likely never be able to afford it). 
• Main and Cambie. Two parallel streets running north/south through Mount Pleasant, these are two of our favorite stretches in the entire city. Great food, some good places to drink (beer, coffee, or tea – take your pick!), and fun shops to poke your head into and grab a souvenir or two. 

Cons of Staying in Mount Pleasant 

• Limited places to stay. Similar to Kitsilano, there just aren’t very many places to stay in Mount Pleasant. There are a few guesthouses and a handful of Airbnb listings, but that’s about it. 

The Best Places to Stay in Mount Pleasant

Like we’ve mentioned already (multiple times, really), the big knock on Mount Pleasant is that there’s basically nowhere to stay. 

Which, in some ways, is a good thing, because the housing here should probably be allocated to permanent residents of Vancouver. But on the other hand, it’s a bummer for tourists who want something other than a concrete jungle. 

The few places to stay here that aren’t on Airbnb are actually operated by the same group. They’re charming little guesthouses in historic homes (read: Victorians and Four Squares) where you’ll have a comfortable room, breakfast included in the rate, and parking. 

They are: 

• Windsor Guest House : Located a block off of Cambie (and roughly five blocks away from Main), the rooms here range from doubles to a two bedroom suite (perfect for families). 
• Cambie Lodge : This one is also just a block off Cambie, but a little bit further south than the Windsor. They have double rooms and a two bedroom suite on the lower floor, if you’re traveling with family. 
• Douglas Guest House : Also a block off Cambie, this location has a broader range of rooms (doubles, with or without a private bathroom, penthouse suite, and family suite). 

Where NOT to Stay in Vancouver

There are a couple of places we wanted to call out here as places NOT to stay in Vancouver. 

Chinatown / East of Gastown

We already kind of covered this above, but the Downtown Eastside – specifically the stretch of E Hastings St east of Carrall – was not good. And this is coming from two city lovers who live in Portland, Oregon. 

We walked from Chinatown heading north and walked right through it, and it was not pleasant. Don’t stay here (not that there are really any options). 

It is, however, worth visiting Chinatown. Though there’s really nowhere to stay, so it doesn’t make a great home base. 

North Vancouver

North Vancouver is another area that’s super fun to explore, with its waterfront area, hiking trails, and growing selection of breweries sprouting up in the formerly industrial area. 

But it would be a bad place to stay, especially for a short trip, because you’re a long bus or ferry ride (or both) away from just about everything in Vancouver’s Downtown area, Granville Island, and Kitsilano. 

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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12 Best Places To See In Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver was the first place I ever visited in Canada and one spot I quickly fell in love with. That’s not saying the rest of Canada isn’t great; in fact, there’s a heap of incredible places in Canada to explore but, Vancouver is definitely near the top of that list. This is exactly why I wanted to share some of the best places to see in Vancouver when you visit; so you can love it, too! 

Of course, you’ve got incredible cities like; Toronto (in Ontario ), St John’s on the Atlantic Coast and Quebec City , too. 

Honestly, Canada has a heap of gorgeous and totally exciting cities; but Vancouver is really special!

My favourite part of Vancouver, of course, is how immersed in nature it is, too. It’s almost hugged by the most epic landscapes you can imagine.

You really don’t have to walk too far before you find some amazing parks, mountain ranges and stunning coastal routes, too. 

Okay, enough rambling, take a little look at some of the best places to see in Vancouver. Have the best time.

1.) Stanley Park

Vancouver’s first official green space, Stanley Park, is a massive and stunning spot just north of the downtown area.

Almost entirely surrounded by the sea, it’s one of the best places to see in Vancouver if you fancy a more relaxing time exploring the city. The whole coastal route around the park and the inner trails are totally stunning.

Plus, there are some epic cycling routes and you can head on a Cycle City Tour , as we did. It’s so much fun.

Read more: Best things to do in Vancouver

2.) Granville Island

Situated just south of the downtown peninsula, beneath the Granville Bridge, is easily one of the best places to see in Vancouver; Granville Island .

Not on that, it’s a great place to gorge, too.

Now, Granville Island, which was once home to many of the city’s factories and sawmills. Nowadays, they house a Public Market, as well as intimate theatres, indie craft studios, and workshops spaces that are so epic to explore.

The market is the perfect place for finding tasty treats, while the rest of the area is great for finding unique trinkets and speciality foods.

Oh, and the best way of getting to the island is by taking the mini-tugboat ferry that crosses at False Creek.

Read more: How to visit Granville Island

3.) Chinese Garden

If you want to explore some of the best places to see in Vancouver, then make sure to visit Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

This beautiful and almost otherworldly garden is the first of its kind outside of China, allowing the people of Vancouver a chance to more fully explore Chinese culture.

Built between 1985-1986, the Chinese Garden takes its inspiration from scholars’ gardens of the Ming Dynasty, with both Chinese and Canadian workers helping to create the space. It really is pretty special.

Guided tours are included with the price of admission, and there are always different exhibits available for viewing.

At the end of your visit, enjoy a cup of tea before perusing the wonders of the Eight Treasures shop (Lloyd is a sucker for gift shops).

Read more: 1-week itinerary to explore Vancouver

4.) Capilano Suspension Bridge

Located just north of Stanley Park is the Capilano Suspension Bridge . Being around 20-minutes from the very centre of the city, it’s easily one of the best places to see in Vancouver when you’re heading to North Vancouver. 

Trust me, this sight from up on the bridge is rather impressive and even if you’re slightly wary of heights, it’s still worth giving this a try. The bridge is 460 feet (140 m) long and sits at a height of 230 feet (70 m) above the river.

Once you’re done crossing the suspension bridge a few times you should definitely pop into the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park to further immerse yourself in that stunning natural Canadian beauty.

Read more: Exploring the Capilano Suspension Bridge

5.) English Bay Beach

Just on the edge of downtown, English Bay Beach, also known as First Beach.

Now, whilst beaches might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Vancouver, don’t let that stop you from checking it out.

With the Stanley Park Seawall running along its east side, and the beautiful English Bay to the west, the beach is bound to please anyone looking hoping to sunbathe, play volleyball, or even spot whales (albeit perhaps much more so in summer). Just make sure to keep your eyes peeled. 

There’s also a heap of little cafes, coffee spots and kayak rentals.

Oh yeah, and if you visit in the winter, try to make it for the Polar Bear Swim that occurs on New Year’s Day.

Read more: Best Bakeries in Vancouver

6.) Museum of Anthropology

Located at the University of British Columbia, the Museum of Anthropology is world-renowned for its displays of arts and culture, particularly those of the First People of Canada.

In the Multiversity Galleries, over 16,000 objects are on display for visitors to enjoy, and the works of Haida artist Bill Reid are also found at the museum.

The focus here is really on the cultures of the Natives of the Pacific Northwest, as visitors can come face-to-face with traditional Haida houses and Musqueam house posts around the museum grounds.

7.) Science World

Anyone with even the slightest interest in science is going to have a blast at Vancouver’s Science World.

The institution has both permanent science displays as well as some pretty epic exhibits that are great for a family visit.

Many of the displays are interactive, and an OMNIMAX Theatre is also on site. Located to the east of downtown and one of the best places to see in Vancouver when travelling with kids. 

8.) Vancouver Art Gallery

Just because Vancouver is surrounded by some of the world’s most stunning natural beauty doesn’t mean you should come to expect nothing beautiful indoors too.

The city’s Art Gallery, located in downtown Vancouver, is home to over 10,000 art pieces, ranging from Canadian and British paintings to the photographic works of artists like Ansel Adams and Henri Cartier-Bresson.

Guided tours are always available, but for something both interactive and slightly different, try to make it for a FUSE event, where DJ’s and artists perform throughout the galleries from 8 pm to 1 am.

9.) Museum of Vancouver

For all things truly Vancouver; including the past, present, and future, head over to the Museum of Vancouver.

Here, you can learn all there is to know about the city, starting from the ancient times and lifestyles of the Musqueam people up to present-day city life in Vancouver.

Located in the scenic area of Vanier Park, the museum is easily accessible from downtown and one of the best places to see in Vancouver on a rainy day.

That being said, if you’re not a fan of museums, then give it a miss! 

10.) Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain , the closest mountain to Vancouver is only a 30-minutes drive away!

I remember the first time I saw it from the city and after several days of wondering how to get there! Finally, after grabbing a cab, we headed to the cable car to get to the top.

This is how amazing Canada is, while back in town it was t-shirt weather; upon Grouse Mountain , people were skiing and it was actually properly snowing.

Best of both worlds, right? 

Grouse Mountain also has North America’s largest aerial tramway, the Skyride, which is the easiest way to get up. The Skyride takes you a whopping 3,700 feet (1,128 m) to the Alpine Station, where you can head of skiing, snowmobiling, or head on the trails, too.

Whether you’re a beginner, pro, or perhaps you just want an incredible view, Grouse Mountain is one of the best places to see in Vancouver. 

Read more: Exploring Grouse Mountain from Vancouver

11.) Gastown

Despite the slightly odd-sounding name, Gastown is the oldest and one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Vancouver.

Old Victorian houses are the setting for trendy fashion shops, gorgeous boutiques and some of the best food in the city. The neighbourhood can be found on the north side of downtown, between Richards Street, Main Street and Hastings Street.

The cobblestone streets, old buildings, vintage lamp posts and the Steam Clock are all best explored on foot.

Also, whilst you’re here, make sure to check out some of the tastiest restaurants , too. You’ll be spoilt for choice when exploring one of the best places to see in Vancouver… Oh, and stuffed! 

Read more: Best restaurants in Vancouver

12.) Whale Watching

The coast of Vancouver is the perfect place to go whale watching.

There are plenty of options to do so here too! Every year between March and October, whales migrate through the waters near Vancouver, meaning there is a good chancing of spotting one on your trip.

Don’t forget about the other creatures of the ocean! Other than whales, expect to see dolphins, sea lions, sea otters and various birds on your excursion. Honestly, it’s one of the best areas to go whale-watching .

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7 Underrated travel destinations in BC, from charming small towns to hidden waterfalls

Explore without the crowds this summer!

Person walking in a field. Right: Person at a beach with a waterfall in the backround.

B.C. draws in visitors from all around Canada and the world, and those tourists often flock to the postcard views of Vancouver's Stanley Park, the snowy peaks of Whistler, or the white sand beaches of Tofino . These iconic travel destinations in B.C. are popular for good reason, but there are equally breathtaking spots tucked away all around the province that don't get quite as much attention.

With a little more breathing room and usually less costly accommodations, these underrated travel spots and hidden gems in B.C. are worth exploring on your next trip.

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Tofino gets all the praise, for its kilometres of sandy shoreline alongside its thick rainforest teeming with life – it's a magical place that people have come to know and love. What comes with that popularity though is hefty pricetags on accommodation.

Just 30 minutes down the road is this small town, Ucluelet, which has just as much gorgeous scenery but is a bit more lowkey. Its rocky shores are dramatically beautiful, and the town center has its own charming shops and cute cafes. There are camping sites here where you can stay and really immerse yourself in nature, and a ton of hiking trails around so you can explore the unique landscape of the area.

You're also close enough to Tofino that you can go and explore the famous town and its attractions.

Manning Park

This park is just over 2 hours from Vancouver and is the perfect escape from the city. While there are a lot of stunning parks around the province, and some others also close to the city, this one is fairly underrated and home to so many breathtaking trails that you won't know where to explore first.

There are a few different camping areas in the park if you want to stay overnight, and Lightning Lake offers a sparkling view with mountains enclosing it. You can sleep beneath the stars here and wake up to the calm lake, going for a dip to start out your day.

Three Falls Trail in this park will lead you past unbelievable waterfalls cascading down cliffs into the lush forest, ending with one that you can walk right up to.

There are also fields of wildflowers, towering mountains, lush greenery, and blooming strawberry plants within this park. If you want a summer adventure, this is the spot to have it.

Mystic Beach

This whole area on Vancouver Island is a worthy travel destination, but Mystic Beach is a must-stop while there.

It's a pretty easy hike that will take you through a beautiful rainforest, ending at this magical beach. The sandy shoreline has sea caves off to one side, and then a unique cascade of water coming down from a cliff – which the beach is known for.

The beach is located along the Juan de Fuca Trail, which is a trademark of the island and is full of hidden beauty. Stay a while and explore all of the nooks and crannies of the area, or just opt for this 40-minute trail, and you won't be disappointed.

Whistler gets much of the hype when it comes to small towns near Vancouver, but a 30-minute drive past the popular ski village is this tiny community, which looks like it's been plucked from a fairytale.

Mountains surround the town, and rushing creeks with bright emerald-coloured water wind their way through it. Full of hiking and mountain biking trails, this place is ripe for adventure.

The small town center is just as charming as its surroundings, and it's worth driving out to North Arm Farm here for some fresh produce and an amazing view of the towering Mount Currie.

This spot is also close to the well-known Joffre Lakes hike — making it the perfect spot to stay for anyone wanting to explore.

Salt Spring Island

This is one of the Gulf Islands , which are all popular summer destinations. Usually though the sandstone bluffs of Gabriola Island or the crystal clear waters of Hornby get the attention of tourists, but Salt Spring Island is decently easy to get to and overflowing with beauty and things to do.

A 30-minute BC Ferries ride from Vancouver Island, this spot is the perfect place to spend a summer's day. Drive along the winding roads with the ocean peaking out on one side and massive trees breaking into rolling farms on the other. There are idyllic wineries, cute boutiques, and even lavender farms here to stop in at. Along the road you'll also spot charming farmstands, where you get your fill of local goodies and be trusted to leave behind your payment.

Paired with the oceanscapes and bustling local community, this island will hold a special place in your heart by the end of your trip.

Squamish is a place that people often just drive through, usually on their way to Whistler. It's super close to Vancouver though (about an hour's drive away) and a destination in its own right.

Driving up to the small town you'll be greeted by a view of the Stawamus Chief, which towers above the area. You can brave a hike up for an unreal view, or go for the Sea to Sky Gondola for a less heart-pumping one. Shannon Falls is also here, and the easy-to-access cascade proves how incredible natural wonders are weaved into this town.

The downtown area is full of shops and restaurants, as well as Airbnbs that make it easy to take a vacation here.

While it's easy for people living in Vancouver to explore the Lower Mainland, there's a lot to explore all around the province. Panorama is close to the Alberta border, and a trip there offers the scenes people dream of when they think of Western Canada. Panorama is a ski destination that will make you feel like you're in a different world, but it's also close to some other beautiful small towns. The nearby village of Radium Hot Springs is another idyllic mountain town where you can explore the outdoors, and soak in the hot springs.

It's worth taking your time and exploring the Kootenay region if you're up for it. The Kootenay Rockies website has a list of road trip routes which can take you to hot springs, vineyards, mountains, and ranches.

This list features some places in B.C. that deserve more shine, but it's impossible to list off of the beautiful hidden gems the province is home to. There's countless other incredible communities, spectacular natural wonders, and underrated corners of B.C.

• 9 Places That Totally Wowed Me When I Lived In BC That Aren't The Obvious Spots ›
• I Took BC Ferries To Go Camping On Vancouver Island & Woke Up To The Sound Of Waves ›

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