tourist places 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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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.

Jahnavi Bhatt

Olivia Morelli

Kelsey Glennon

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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Vancouver, Canada   Travel Guide

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20 Best Things to Do in Vancouver, Canada

Enveloped by snow-dusted peaks and home to sandy beaches and an abundance of forested trails, Vancouver is meant to be experienced outdoors. Explore the nearly 1,000-acre Stanley Park and stroll along its seawall for picture-perfect views of the

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Stanley Park Stanley Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're walking along the north side of the Stanley Park Seawall, keep your eyes peeled for the Girl in a Wetsuit sculpture that sits on a rock in the water. It's a Vancouver landmark. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

This nearly 1,000-acre park on the tip of Vancouver's "thumb" (just north of the West End) is home to some of the city's favorite, most-visited attractions. In fact, you could easily spend more than a day here and still not see everything this urban oasis has to offer. If you want to experience the park the way the locals do, walk, cycle or jog around the nearly 20-mile seawall that hugs Vancouver's waterfront. The path starts at the Vancouver Convention Centre and ends at Spanish Banks Beach Park . If you're not up for the walk, you'll find several bike rental companies near the park. With your bike, you'll be able to explore the more than 17 miles of forest trails that are much less crowded than the rest of the park. Travelers recommend biking the South Creek Trail, which leads to the lily pad-covered Beaver Lake. If you're not up for all that exercise, you can ride in a horse-drawn carriage or hop on the train for a 15-minute ride through the forest. Recent visitors said the park offers a great escape from the city and has one of the prettiest seawall walks around.

Granville Island Granville Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The food market is the main draw here, but you'll also want to peruse the unique shops in the Net Loft building. – Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

This former industrial site is now one of Vancouver's most beloved neighborhoods. Practically its own mini-city, Granville Island's former factories now house trendy restaurants, galleries and theaters. But the main draw here is the Granville Island Public Market, often described as one of the best markets in North America. Among the seemingly endless aisles of fresh produce and local crafts, you'll find a variety of food stalls selling everything from baked goods to authentic Mexican cuisine. If the weather is nice, try and grab a seat outside by the water. You can watch ferry boats putter back and forth in English Bay while enjoying the performances of the buskers who regularly play for market crowds. After filling up on market eats, head to the perpetually busy Kids Market. This playtopia sells toys and crafts and features an indoor play area. If you don't have kids in tow, visit Canada's first microbrewery –  Granville Island Brewing . You can enjoy a selection of ales and India pale ales.

Queen Elizabeth Park Queen Elizabeth Park free

Queen Elizabeth Park is one of Vancouver's most popular outdoor spaces (second only to  Stanley Park ). Spread out across nearly 130 acres, the park features a rose garden, a meticulously manicured quarry garden, and an arboretum with about 1,500 native and exotic trees. When you're not admiring the park's flora, head inside the Bloedel Conservatory to visit the fauna. The conservatory features more than 100 free-flying exotic birds, not to mention 500 tropical plants and three different climate zones. Step outside the conservatory and you'll spot the Dancing Waters fountain display, along with several sculptures scattered throughout the plaza. Since the park sits at the highest point in Vancouver, it offers spectacular views of the city skyline, mountains and shoreline from the fountain plaza.

If you don't have time to devote an entire day to touring Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, located about 2 miles due south of downtown Vancouver, is a great alternative. Many visitors say it has the best views of the city you can find and the grounds are well maintained.

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Museum of Anthropology at UBC Museum of Anthropology at UBC

The MOA is currently closed for seismic upgrades until June 2024. You can learn more about this closure as well as upcoming events on the museum's website .

While the city itself hasn't celebrated a large amount of birthdays, the area on which Vancouver was founded possesses a rich, cultural past. The Museum of Anthropology (part of the University of British Columbia) houses one of the world's most impressive collections of art and artifacts from the Northwest Coast First Nations. In the Great Hall alone, you'll spot ornately decorated canoes, ritual masks, totem poles and other Native American relics. Other areas of the museum display 15th-century European pottery, priceless jewelry and local art. You can embark on your own self-guided walk-through of the museum, but recent travelers highly suggest following one of the docents. Tours are offered an average of three times per day; consult the MOA website for exact times.

Mount Pleasant Mount Pleasant free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Join in-the-know locals for an intimate night out inside a dimly lit speakeasy. Find classic and elevated cocktails at Key Party , hidden behind an old-school accountant's office on Main Street. – Vivian Chung

Bordered to the north by False Creek, the south by East 16th, the west by Cambie and the east by Clark Drive, Mount Pleasant is a hipster enclave found in East Vancouver. Though a largely residential area boasting modern apartment towers and heritage homes that are more than a hundred years old, the neighborhood's main thoroughfare of Main Street is jampacked with local roasters, vintage boutiques and a bevy of Michelin-starred and Michelin-recommended restaurants that range from SUYO 's modern Peruvian to Anh and Chi 's authentic Vietnamese fare. Plus, the area hosts a collection of well-loved craft breweries and leafy neighborhood parks hidden between the side streets.

Kitsilano Beach Kitsilano Beach free

When the weather's nice, follow Vancouverites down to the shores of English Bay to Kitsilano "Kits" Beach. Often compared to L.A. 's  Venice Beach , this shoreline along the northern edge of Kitsilano is the city's most popular swim spot, especially for the city's 20-something crowd. Kits is an accessible beach with a beach mat on-site and free water wheelchairs are available to borrow (on a first-come, first-served basis and you must make reservations in advance). When you're not relaxing on the sand or admiring the skyline views, you'll find areas for in-line skating and volleyball, along with tennis courts and a playground. Visitors do warn that the beach can get quite busy in summer, but it is clean and always has "good vibes." If you're in the mood for swim but the bay water is just a little too chilly for your liking, try the area's heated, saltwater Kitsilano Pool (open May to mid-September). Fido will be happy here, too, as there's dog parks and off-leash areas. You can also visit the nearby Vancouver Maritime Museum, which offers an educational respite from the summer sun. When you need to grab a refreshment, you'll find several concession stands as well as a more formal dining room at The Boathouse Restaurant.

You don't have to pay to access the beach, but you will have to pay for parking. Parking from April 1 to Sept. 30 will cost you CA$4 (about $3) hourly and CA$17 (about $13) daily. From Oct. 1 to March 31 hourly parking rates decrease to CA$3 (about $2.25); daily rates decrease to CA$9 (about $7). If you're traveling via public transportation, the No. 2 bus offers service between downtown and Kits Beach. Entrance to the pool will also cost you. Single-day admission for adults costs about CA$7 (about $5.25); youths ages 13 to 18 years old get in for around CA$5 (about $3.75) and children ages 5 to 12 enter for about CA$3 (about $2.25). Check out the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation  website  for more information on Kits Beach.

Gastown Gastown free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Book a stay at the Skwachàys Lodge on West Pender, Canada's first Indigenous arts hotel. Aside from its 18 guestrooms and art gallery, the hotel also provides on-site housing and studio space for a vibrant community of 24 Indigenous artists. – Vivian Chung

Paved with cobblestone and studded with antique lampposts, the streets of Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood and original downtown core oozes historic charm. A humble tavern founded by English riverboat captain and saloon keeper John "Gassy Jack" Deighton in 1867 laid the foundation for Gastown, from which the community expanded. Now boasting a thriving fashion scene and trendy wine bars alongside kitschy souvenir shops, Gastown is an eclectic neighbourhood to explore on foot. Stroll along Water Street to the part steam-powered and part electric motor-powered steam clock, which whistles every 15 minutes and its five whistles chime in unison every hour. Along the way, pass by well-preserved Victorian-era buildings and peruse galleries dedicated to Indigenous art.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip: Around the corner from the garden in the historic Wing Sang building on East Pender Street is the Chinese Canadian Museum . Complete your afternoon in Chinatown by learning about the efforts of the Chinese-Canadian community that shaped this Vancouver neighborhood. – Vivian Chung

A tranquil oasis nestled at the edge of Chinatown, the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden is the first Ming Dynasty-style garden built outside of China. Guided by the Taoist principles of yin and yang and feng shui, the garden was brought to life over the course of 13 months by 53 master craftsmen from Suzhou, including architects, masons, tilers and painters. Plus, the materials, including stone pebbles, hand-made tiles, Ginkgo wood and limestone rocks, were also sourced from China. A guided tour of the garden reveals not only the legacy of the Chinese philosopher and politician, Dr. Sun Yat Sen, to whom this garden pays homage, but also the fascinating symbolism woven into the design of the garden. The zigzag pattern of the walkways, the deliberate placement of rocks and flora and the green waters of the pond all beckon visitors to dive into Chinese culture and philosophy.

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VanDusen Botanical Garden VanDusen Botanical Garden

Often described by travelers as a hidden gem, the VanDusen Botanical Garden is spread across 55 acres in the center of Vancouver. Recent visitors called the garden very peaceful. The garden features several sections, including a stone garden and a hedge maze – a favorite among past visitors. One popular feature is the Laburnum Walk. The path is made memorable by the yellow, chain-like blooms that hang from the Laburnum branches. Peak bloom for these plants occurs in mid-May, but if you're not in Vancouver during their prime blooming period, check out what will be in season during your visit with this bloom calendar  here .

You can explore all of the garden's meandering paths with a self-guided tour – themed tours are developed by volunteers and can be accessed online . Docent-led tours are subject to volunteer availability from April through early October. Contact the garden ahead of your visit to see if a tour will be available. If all that walking makes you hungry, refuel at the two eateries located on-site, the Shaughnessy Restaurant and the Truffles Cafe.

Yaletown Yaletown free

Vancouver's definitive late night hot spot, Yaletown has steadily increased in popularity since it transformed from a warehouse district to the trendy area it is today. Often compared to  New York City 's SoHo neighborhood, Yaletown features chic boutiques, restaurants and hotels (including one of the city's top properties , OPUS Vancouver). Even if you don't plan to hang your hat at OPUS, you should still plan to check out the hotel's cocktail lounge, The Spritz. Other top nightlife spots include  Yaletown Brewing Co. , Pierre's Lounge and  Bar None .

Recent visitors said there is something for everyone in Yaletown, with a wide range of dining and drinking options in a variety of prices. For a little help navigating the neighborhood, consider signing up for one of the best Vancouver tours .

English Bay English Bay free

Also known as First Beach, English Bay Beach draws visitors and locals alike in droves. It's an accessible beach thanks to Mobi-Mat paths and water wheelchairs (available from May through September). Water fun includes kayaking and slides, while land-based activities include volleyball courts and walking, biking or jogging along the Stanley Park Seawall, which runs alongside the sands. You'll also find the A-maze-ing Laughter sculpture on the beach's northeast side. And when hunger strikes, the Cactus Club Cafe dishes out a variety of meals like poke bowls, sandwiches and burgers with a heaping side of ocean views.

If the beach itself doesn't draw you, perhaps its events will. Vancouver's annual Polar Bear Swim takes place on English Bay each New Year's Day. The event features music and food trucks, as well as the star event: a plunge into the chilly waters of English Bay. If that's too cold, stop by in late July for the Honda Celebration of Light, an annual fireworks festival.

Grouse Mountain Grouse Mountain

Towering over North Vancouver, Grouse Mountain has been a popular outdoor getaway for years, especially since the views from the summit span the entire city on a clear day. Originally used only for skiing, Grouse now offers year-round activities, including the Grouse Grind, a nearly 2-mile trail often referred to by residents as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster" (there are a total of 2,830 stairs along the trail).

During a winter visit to the mountain – a favorite time for locals – you'll have a bevy of activities to occupy your time. Grouse Mountain's slopes boast 33 ski and snowboard runs, four chairlifts and six terrain parks, not to mention four snowshoeing trails. There's also a zip line, a skating pond, sledding, a high-definition cinema, a wildlife refuge and several eateries, including a Starbucks and Fondue Experience at The Observatory, a formal dining room with 360-degree mountaintop views. Many past visitors raved about the excellent (albeit pricey) food at the top.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Capilano Suspension Bridge

U.S. News Insider Tip: Set aside at least two to three hours to experience all of the park's attractions. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

Overcome your vertigo and experience Vancouver the way the birds do. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is the oldest tourist attraction in the city (it dates back to 1889), and the 450-foot-long, 230-foot-high bridge offers spectacular views of the Capilano River below. Visitors call it thrilling, exciting and an overall great experience. The fun doesn't end once you reach the other side of the canyon; more suspension bridges and daredevil activities await at the Treetops Adventure. With this canopy walk – set among the park's 250-year-old Douglas fir trees – you'll have the chance to walk 110 feet above the forest floor, from viewing platform to viewing platform. Continue to tempt fate along the Cliffwalk, a set of cantilevered and suspended walkways that meander along the canyon's edge.

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Spanish Banks Beach Spanish Banks Beach free

Spanish Banks boasts a few features that set it apart from the city's other beloved shorelines. Thanks to its location about 5 miles southwest of downtown Vancouver, Spanish Banks is the least crowded and most quiet. It's also the best place to try your hand at skimboarding – a cross between surfing and skateboarding – due to the low tidal conditions (at low tide the water is more than half a mile off shore). If the ocean water is too chilly, there are plenty of volleyball courts available for pick-up games.

Recent visitors called the beach beautiful and say exploring at low tide can be lots of fun, especially for kids.

Museum of Vancouver Museum of Vancouver

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Museum of Vancouver (MOV) shares the same entrance as the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, making it easy to check off two popular Vancouver attractions in one visit. – Vivian Chung

As Vancouver's oldest museum and Canada's largest civic museum, there's no better place to dive into the history of the city than at the Museum of Vancouver. Founded in 1894, the institution's more than 70,000 black and white photographs, interactive and audiovisual displays and historic fashion and household items document Vancouver's transformation from a relatively small city into a multicultural and dynamic metropolis with modern infrastructure. The stories and objects of the History Galleries also highlight the population growth, economic transformation and cultural and social changes in Vancouver between 1900 and 1970. Recount the economic hardship faced by Vancouverites during the Great Depression in the 1930s and immerse yourself in the iconic hippie movement of the 1960s, where Kitsilano stood as the epicenter of Canada's flower-power revolution. 

Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art

Bill Reid was a Haida artist who blended modern aesthetics with Indigenous arts through goldsmithing, jewelry making, writing and more. Throughout his career, he researched Indigenous art (especially Haida art) and it became a large influence in his work. Following Reid's death in 1998, the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art opened in 2008 to honor Reid and the incomparable art created by Northwest Coast peoples.

Today, museumgoers can tour several galleries and a series of rotating exhibits. Themes have included song, beadwork, Indigenous queer identity, watercolor painting and more. Additionally, there are a variety of events, such as artist talks and art workshops, throughout the year.

Steveston Village Steveston Village

U.S. News Insider Tip: Its location at the mouth of the Fraser River makes Steveston the ideal jumping-off point for an up-close look at the region's marine life. Join Vancouver Whale Watch on a tour for the opportunity to spot orcas, humpback whales, dolphins and seals. – Vivian Chung

Seen in popular TV shows like "Supernatural" and "Once Upon a Time" as the fictional town of Storybrooke, Steveston Village in Richmond is a historic neighborhood with a rich fishing heritage. Join the locals at 75-acre waterfront Garry Point Park and soak up uninterrupted views of the South Arm of the Fraser River and the Gulf Islands, stroll along the wooden boardwalks while gorging on frozen yogurt and dive into the area's maritime past with a visit to the more than 4,000-square-foot restored Gulf of Georgia Cannery, which was BC's largest until 1902. As an active fishing port, visitors can shop freshly caught seafood at Fisherman's Wharf, depending on the season, or savor fresh catches at local restaurants, where they're skillfully featured across a range of dishes, like sushi, pizza, pasta and more.

Lynn Canyon Park Lynn Canyon Park free

Sitting less than 10 miles northeast of downtown Vancouver, Lynn Canyon Park offers all the benefits of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , but without the hordes of tourists, according to recent visitors. The park spans nearly 620 acres and is full of winding trails, a swimming hole, waterfalls and its own suspension bridge.

The suspension bridge, which the park calls its main attraction, sits 164 feet in the air and spans Lynn Canyon. Views from the bridge are breathtaking, but walking the bridge isn't for the faint of heart: it sways as you move and is narrow, which makes it tricky for two-way foot traffic. Afterward, take a hike to Twin Falls or trek the Baden Powell Trail, which challenges hikers of all abilities. Also on-site is the 30-Foot Pool. Weather permitting, you can take a dip to cool off during your time outdoors. But be warned: the water is cold at all times of year. Before your adventure, stop by the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre to view its nature museum and get information about Lynn Canyon Park. (Suggested donation to visit the center is CA$2 per person, or about $1.50).

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Robson Street Robson Street free

Since the 1940s, Robson Street has been a hub for shops and markets. Though you may not find the classic markets and quintessential candy stores of the mid-20th century, Robson Street is the place to be for shopaholics. Stores range from well-known brands like Steve Madden and Nike to shops selling everything from high-end beauty products to eyewear to fine jewelry. You'll also find the street lined with eateries. Casual bakeries sit next to Korean restaurants. Japanese restaurants are next door to health food establishments, while a few doors down sits a gelato parlor. Needless to say, there's a wide variety to fit all tastes on Robson Street.

Travelers generally enjoy a stroll down the thoroughfare, encouraging others to save time for a meal at one of the restaurants lining the street. Some suggest that if shopping and dining aren't for you, then you may want to skip this street.

Vancouver Aquarium Vancouver Aquarium

Those in the know say the Vancouver Aquarium is definitely worth exploring, whether you're traveling with kids or just looking for a little extra marine knowledge. As the home of more than 50,000 different animals across more than 30 exhibits, this is a great place to become acquainted with local animals as well as exotic creatures. But don't come here expecting SeaWorld: Past visitors say the aquarium's focus is more on interactive exhibits and education and less on choreographed animal performances. Different exhibits mimic various habitats, from the icy tanks of the Canada's Arctic exhibit to the colorful clownfish and intimidating black-tip reef sharks sheltered in the Tropics. Don't miss the Graham Amazon Gallery, a giant atrium where three-toed sloths and caimans take shelter from the hourly simulated rainstorms.

While some recent visitors comment on the steep cost of admission, they also say that if you schedule enough time, it's worth the price. 

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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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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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by VanDusen Botanical Garden (@vandusengarden)

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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8 essential Vancouver experiences to add to your itinerary

Feb 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Vancouver has a mild climate year-round, so you can enjoy four full seasons of outdoor adventures © Getty Images

Visit  Vancouver for the natural beauty, stay for the urban sights. It's not known as one of the most livable cities in the world for nothing.

British Columbia's biggest metropolis sits on the water, surrounded by trees and framed by mountains, so you can swim, cycle and ski all in one day if you choose. And with a mild climate year-round, you can enjoy four full seasons of outdoor adventures.

But you don’t have to love the outdoors to experience the best the city has to offer. You can take in a spirited spectator sport, dine on delectable dim sum, connect with Indigenous culture and stroll the spectacular shopping districts too. In Vancouver, there’s an activity for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in town.

1. Learn about Vancouver's Indigenous roots and contemporary culture

There’s no better way to connect with the city than to listen to stories and experiences shared by the people who first called the land home.

Vancouver sits on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, and an abundance of experiences found throughout the city offer engaging and educational ways to connect with the people and places that shaped what we now know as Vancouver.

Take a walking “Talking Trees” tour through Stanley Park with Talaysay Tours  and learn about the local plants that were harvested by the Coast Salish people, while hearing stories about the rich cultural history from a First Nations guide.

Explore the Bill Reid Gallery – Canada's only public gallery dedicated to contemporary Indigenous art of the Northwest Coast – and spot original fine art pieces by Bill Reid, a world-famous Haida artist.

For Indigenous cuisine, dine at Salmon n' Bannock – the only Indigenous-owned and operated restaurant in Vancouver, serving up modern cuisine made with traditional Indigenous ingredients.

Consider an overnight stay at Skwachàys Lodge , Canada’s first Indigenous Arts Hotel. Located right in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the Lodge offers unique experiences such as sweat lodge ceremonies, traditional smudge ceremonies and in-studio visits with artists-in-residence. Using a social-enterprise model, the Lodge funds supportive housing.

2. Take to the water by beach, boat or board

Soak up the city’s sparkling seascape from the surface. Vancouver offers ample aquatic adventures, with premium paddling, ocean swimming and mini-ferry rides, all easily accessible directly from downtown.

For kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, you can choose your own adventure right in the city, with water access and rentals available in Granville Island, Jericho Beach , False Creek, Yaletown or Stanley Park, or venture further afield to Deep Cove, located on Vancouver’s North Shore . 

If you’d prefer a power boat, you can rent those too! Granville Island Boat Rentals is a popular choice for renting a private speed boat. For something a little more unique, enjoy a BBQ on the water while you take in the sights. Rather have someone else take the wheel? The rainbow-colored Aquabus mini pedestrian ferries will take you for a tour or transport you between Granville Island and some of the city’s best waterfront spots.

For ocean swimming, head to one of Vancouver’s best beaches , such as Kits Beach or Second Beach , where you can soak up the atmosphere, sizzle in the sun, and then cool off with a salty dip in the Pacific Ocean.

3. Find fine art, family fun and fresh food on Granville Island

Industrial wasteland turned cultural wonderland, Granville Island – one of Vancouver’s best neighborhoods – is as alluring for its fine art as it is for its culinary prowess.

Art lovers are lured by the creative scene here, with hidden studios and hands-on workshops found around every corner. Foodies flock to Granville Island too, with a melange of mom-and-pop shops like Lee’s Donuts (a celebrity favorite), fine dining spots like the Sandbar  and the Granville Island Public Market , an indoor food market where the city’s best chefs like to shop. 

Kids Market – a three-story, kid-centric shopping and activity center on Granville Island – is the biggest draw for families. And only steps away, the largest free outdoor water park in North America provides the perfect place to cool off and play on warm summer days.

Local tip: Grab some grub from Granville Island Public Market and stroll along the wooden boardwalk, from the southeast corner of Granville Island to Ron Basford Park, for a quiet picnic with water views.

4. Cycle around the Stanley Park seawall

Topping the list of Vancouver’s best parks , Stanley Park shines as the crown jewel of the city. The park is often referred to as the Central Park of Vancouver, only it’s much larger, spanning 400 hectares (988 acres) in size.

Home to an outdoor public pool, plenty of playgrounds, sandy beaches, winding trails through dense woodland, tourist attractions and top-notch dining spots, the park certainly has something for everyone – but it’s the 8.8km (5.5-mile) paved seawall that draws the biggest crowd. Rent a bike from downtown and an entire day can be spent cycling through the park, exploring all of its best assets.

Detour: Veer off the seawall into the park and visit the Vancouver Aquarium . Canada’s first and largest aquarium, it's home to thousands of aquatic species, and you can get up close with everything from jellyfish to sea otters.

5. Take a trek through the treetops

Vancouver is packed with tree-lined hiking trails, but for a more unique experience – and a sky-high adventure – take an above-ground trek through the trees.

On Vancouver’s North Shore, the  Capilano Suspension Bridge  is the most popular choice, enjoyed by visitors since it was first built in 1883. As the world’s longest and highest suspension bridge, dangling 230ft high above the Capilano River and stretching 450ft long, it’s certainly a must-visit site. It's especially breathtaking from November to January, when it’s fully illuminated with more than 50,000 lights for the annual Canyon Lights event. 

For a free version with smaller crowds, consider a visit to the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge , which hangs 160ft above the canyon and connects to a series of hiking trails. It is also home to the  Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre and a quaint cafe where you can grab a coffee and a treat once you’ve completed your trek.

6. Hit the local ski slopes

Vancouver may have mild temperatures year-round, resulting in many winters without snow, but the city’s three local mountains have no shortage of the white stuff. From early December to mid-March, skiers and snowboarders ascend the mountains in droves for slopeside adventures, accessed in 30 minutes (or less) from downtown.

Known as the “Peak of Vancouver,”  Grouse Mountain  is the most popular local ski hill, accessed by a gondola and offering all-season attractions. Cypress Mountain Resort is the largest of the three, and when the snow melts, visitors can take an exhilarating ride down the Eagle Coaster, Canada’s longest mountain roller coaster. Mt Seymour Resort is smaller, more laid-back and family-owned, and is known for its fresh powder and scenic snowshoeing trails. 

7. Do dim sum on the Dumpling Trail

Deep-fried dumplings, pork-stuffed pouches and steaming hot wontons are just some of the tasty treats you’ll discover on a self-guided tasting tour along the Dumpling Trail .

Just 9.5 miles south of downtown Vancouver, Richmond is home to the largest Chinese population in the world beyond Asia, and as a result, the city is stocked with hundreds of great traditional dim-sum restaurants, street-food shacks and hidden mom-and-pop shops serving up the best dumpling dishes found this side of the Pacific. 

Planning tip: Stretch out your stay and spend a night at Versante Hotel , Richmond’s only luxury boutique hotel, with chic designs that celebrate Asian and Western influences. There you’ll find Bruno , an upscale restaurant that serves up global fare sourced from local farms, like the truffle-lavender duck dish, a fan favorite.

8. Take in a spectator sport

Vancouverites love their sports and welcome visitors to join them as they cheer on their favorite teams. For hockey fans, a Vancouver Canucks game is the hottest place to be (if you’re lucky enough to snag a ticket). The city is also home to the Vancouver Giants, a junior ice hockey team that plays in the Western Hockey League.

The BC Lions are Vancouver’s CFL team, with a big following of football fans easily spotted as they shower the city in a sea of orange on game days. A Vancouver Whitecaps soccer match is sure to be high energy, and for an afternoon of baseball, catch a Vancouver Canadians game. Interested in checking out Canada’s other national sport? Head to a Vancouver Warriors lacrosse game and cheer on the city's newest professional sports team.

This article was first published Dec 15, 2022 and updated Feb 2, 2024.

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May 7, 2024 • 8 min read

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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.

Alex_533/Getty Images

“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.

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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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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 25 Best Things to Do in Vancouver (BC, Canada)

25 Best Things to Do in Vancouver (BC, Canada)

There are few places on Earth where you can ski, surf, be transported back in time over 5,000 years, watch a pod of Orcas frolic in the midst, or take a stroll through the world’s best urban park, all in one day; Vancouver is that place. Nestled between vast valleys, lush temperate rain forest, and an unforgiving mountain range, Vancouver, British Columbia is unmistakably West Coast. While Vancouver is one of Canada’s newer cities , it holds the title as the most ethnically diverse and the most dense, with more than half a million people crammed into its modest downtown core. And though it may sound crowded, after hosting a very successful 2010 Winter Olympics, Vancouver is consistently voted one of the most livable cities in the world.

Vancouver is an outdoor enthusiasts playground, with three world class mountains all within a 15 minute drive from downtown, hundreds of parks and campsites, thousands of hiking trails, one of the worlds longest seawalls and countless rivers and lakes to explore. There is an endless list of things to do in Vancouver, with an activity for every age group and suiting all interests, but there are only so many hours in a day, so here is a great list to get you started.

1. Visit the Museum of Anthropology

It’s easy to be dazzled by Vancouver’s geographical splendor, but to properly get acquainted with this city, you have to start at the beginning, the very beginning. Vancouver and what is known as the Lower Mainland was peopled some 10,000 years ago. Overlooking the Burrard Inlet, on campus at the University of British Columbia, the Museum of Anthropology offers up a mosaic of Aboriginal works, both ancient and contemporary, all weaving together a story that is rarely told to visitors of this great city. If you really want to learn about the city’s roots, and its relationship with the global community, this is one of the most important things to do in Vancouver.

2. Take a Drive up the Sea-to-Sky Highway

Rated as one of the most the beautiful drives in the world, the Sea-to-Sky corridor takes visitors on a 1.5 hour long journey, from the heart of downtown Vancouver to the world class ski town of Whistler. With waterfalls, jaw-dropping vistas, a stunning cultural center and a suspension bridge along the way, you’ll want to pack a lunch, your camera and gas up the rental car, because this journey is one you won’t want to miss.

Available tour : Vancouver: 7-Hour Sea to Sky Tour

3. Hike the Grouse Grind

There is no better way to become an honorary Vancouverite (yep, that’s what they’re called), than to earn your stripes on the Grouse Grind. Nicknamed “Mother Nature’s Staircase”, this is no Sunday stroll. Located on Vancouver’s North Shore, at the foot of its namesake (Grouse Mountain), the Grind as it’s affectionately known, takes hikers some 850m up through the alpine. Once you reach the top, a panoramic chalet awaits with ice cold drinks and sweeping views of the city. And once you’ve recovered, save those wobbly legs from further torture and enjoy a scenic ride down the mountain on the Grouse Gondola.

Suggested tour : Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge

4. Cycle Around Stanley Park

The votes are in and the crowd has spoken; Vancouver’s Stanley Park managed to elbow out the likes of New York’s Central Park, the Luxeumbourg Gardens in Paris and Chicago’s Millennium Park to be named the World’s Best Park by Trip Advisor. So why is it so great? Where else in the world can you cycle all the way around an old growth forest, visit ancient Aboriginal village sites, steal a tan at the beach, lounge around a rose garden or get up and close with sea lions and Pacific dolphins. There are a handful of bicycle rental spots at the base of Denman Street, and its the best way to get around the park.

5. Windowshop in Gastown

Vancouver proper began in the heart of what is now a trendy neighborhood called Gastown, named after a historical figure known as “Gassy Jack”. Once Canada’s third largest city, “Gastown” in 1867, was the site of various lumber mills, Gastown is now home to chic loft apartments, European eateries, cocktail lounges and flashy boutiques. There are a few galleries of note along Water Street, and plenty of places to buy Canadiana.

6. Dim Sum in China Town

The great thing about sightseeing in Vancouver is it’s easy to knock off multiple things in one visit to any of its unique neighborhoods. Vancouver’s Chinatown is one of the oldest in Canada and the largest. Perched on the edge of the Downtown Financial District and Gastown, Chinatown offers up an array of funky shops, inexpensive markets, and of course, the best Dim Sum restaurants in town. Sunday is the busiest day for Dim Sum, but also the best with multi-generational families sitting down and chatting about the week’s events.

7. Find Your Zen

While you’re in the neighborhood, Chinatown is home to one of Canada’s most impressive Chinese gardens, Dr. Sun Yat Sen. What makes it so exquisite is its unique construction. Constructed with wholly traditional methods (by hand), the site mimics complex gardens found on the Mainland with courtyards, meandering brooks, impeccably sculpted vegetation, all in keeping with the Confucian and Buddhist tradition.

Available tour : 4 Hours Private Tour of Vancouver’s Gardens

8. Kayaking in Deep Cove

If getting up close and personal with mother nature is your idea of the perfect day out, ocean kayaking is one of the most popular things to do in Vancouver, and Deep Cove is one of the best and safest places to do it in Canada. A tranquil paddle up Indian Arm, a picturesque fjord where the forests creatures come down to the water’s edge to greet you with curiosity.

9. Take an Aquabus to Granville Island

No visit to Vancouver is complete without a visit to the artsy Granville Island. Interestingly, it’s more a little peninsula than an island. What was once an industrial manufacturing hub, is now the meeting place for well-to-do Vancouverites and tourists to shop for the organic produce, sip on premium teas, sample fine chocolates, listen to buskers, and watch sleek yachts sidle on up to the dock.

Included in : Vancouver Delights: 7 Hour City Tour

10. Visit the Richmond Night Market

If you’re here during the summer months, which is best time to visit, the Richmond Market is one of the most interesting markets to wander through. Home to Vancouver’s largest Chinese community, Richmond puts on quite the show, with endless stalls of trinkets, and interesting foods, and art demonstrations.

11. Take a Foodie Tour

Vancouver is the most ethnically diverse city in the world, which means, if you can dream up a style cuisine, it’s probably here. Its culinary influences are infinite, from the freshest sushi, to the most rustic farm-to-table, you could easily take a tour around the globe eating here, so why not let someone do that for you and hop on a foodie tour. Pair the complex food scene with an exploding craft beer and wine industry and you have yourself the makings of a perfectly delicious day!

12. Hike in Lynn Canyon

Vancouver has two suspension bridges, both equally spectacular, but one is always crowded with tourists and costly, and the other is frequented more by locals and free! Located in the heart of Lynn Valley, Lynn Canyon Park has been delighting hiking enthusiasts for over 100 years! Complete with trails, popular swimming holes, breathtaking waterfalls of course, a hair-raising suspension bridge, 50 meters up in the canopy makes this a must do, no matter how short your visit.

13. Wander Van Dusen Botanical Gardens

Garden enthusiasts from around the world love wandering the tranquil 22 acres of Vancouver’s Van Dusen Botanical Gardens. The great thing about this paradise in the city is you can visit it all year round. In the warmer months, pack a picnic, take a stroll down Laburnum Walk, and find a find a shady spot to enjoy the fragrant garden. The garden takes you on a tour of the world’s eco system, all in one place.

14. Watch a Concert at the Commodore

Vancouver offers up a plethora of live music venues, and there’s always someone famous in town, dazzling the crowds. One of the oldest and most beloved venues is the Commodore Ballroom. Originating in the 1920’s during the vibrant Art Deco era, the Commodore has hosted the likes of Sammy Davis Jr., U2, Tina Turner and Lady Gaga. Unlike the larger venues in town, admission prices are reasonable and the atmosphere casual.

15. Catch a Canucks Game

Canada is hockey country, there is no question. Hockey is to Canada what football (soccer) is to Europe, and if you happen to be in Vancouver between October and April, seeing the Vancouver Canucks go head-to-head with any number of NHL teams is one of the most exciting things to do in Vancouver.

16. Go for a Run in Pacific Spirit Park

You’ll soon learn that Vancouverites love to spend all of their extra time in the outdoors, and one place they love to do that is in beautiful Pacific Spirit Regional Park. This park is complete With 874 hectares of pristine forest and plenty of manicured trails to run on. Visitors can enjoy a nice long 10km hike around the perimeter, or meander through it. And if you have the pooch along, this park is not only dog-friendly, but in many parts, off-leash friendly.

17. Sea-to-Sky Gondola

We’ve already suggested you head up the sea-to-sky corridor, what we haven’t delved into are all the amazing things you’ll find along the way like the Sea-to-Sky Gondola, one of Vancouver’s newest and most exciting attractions. Vancouver is all about spectacular views, and the 100 meter long Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge provides 360 degree views of all the Squamish region has to offer. From rugged mountains above to the vibrant turquoise fjord below, you may not want to come down.

18. Catch a Sunset in English Bay

Vancouver’s West End neighborhood is one of the most unique in Canada. It’s the most densely populated urban neighborhood in the country, and because of its adjacent location to Stanley Park and with the popularity of the seawall, it’s a highly transitional neighborhood. In the summer, it’s hard to know where the tourists end and the locals begin! When dinner time hits, wander down Denman Street and find a spot for good eats and cocktails. Then head on down to English Bay, find a bench, and watch as mother nature puts on her finest show in the sky above.

19. Visit Christ Church Cathedral

Vancouver has many churches, but few as beautiful as the Christ Church Cathedral. You don’t have to be religious to admire this Gothic Revival structure built with West Coast Douglas fir beams. From its exquisite stained glass windows, to stunning archways, this is a great place to find some peace and quiet.

20. Get Folksy on the Sunshine Coast

Vancouver is amazing, but if you are lucky enough to have some extra time on your hands, there is a plethora of day trips that are bucketlist worthy. A forty-minute ferry ride will take you to the Sunshine Coast, Canada’s best kept secret, and one that we’re telling you so you can experience a coastal oasis. The roads are as lackadaisical as the wonderfully quirky people who live in this coastal community. Visitors can base themselves in Sechelt, Roberts Creek or Gibsons, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, rent a cabin up the coast and spend your days shopping at authentic farmer’s markets, laze around peaceful lakes, and or grab a book and head down to the beach for some you time.

21. The PNE

Every summer, the Pacific National Exhibition returns to the city for a 17 day stint on its very own designated fair grounds. The century old tradition is local favorite and brings along with it an array of rides, farm animal auctions, a popular concert series, beer gardens, food vendors and all the makings of an exciting city-meets-urban fair.

22. Find a Local Event in the Georgia Strait

If a Vancouverite wants to know “what’s on” in the city, they flip through the pages of the Georgia Strait. From hyper local community center talent shows, to blockbuster movies, ballets and headlining super-bands, any event at any time will be listed in here. Check out some jazz at a local club, check out a comedy show on Granville Island, or get dolled up for a charity event at the Vancouver Convention Center, whatever your flavour, you’ll find it listed in this free publication.

23. The Vancouver Aquarium

If you’ve ever wanted to get up close and personal with what lies beneath the frigid waters of the Pacific Ocean, or what’s living above in canopies of the Brazilian Amazon, the Vancouver Aquarium gives you that opportunity. One of North Americas largest aquariums, and conveniently located in the heart of Stanley Park, this attraction is one of the most popular things to do in Vancouver. There is lot’s to see, and as the Aquarium sees a regular rotation of unique exhibits, you may want to give yourself at least a day to come nose-to-nose with Belugas and learn about how essential the salmon is here in the Coastal ecosystem.

24. Lunch on the Drive

Like any neighborhood around the world, Vancouver’s urban spaces tell a story. Commercial Drive is one of Vancouver’s oldest and most ethnically eclectic streets, and one that you definitely need to visit. This century old street, now affectionately termed “The Drive” is home to a mix of contemporary and Edwardian houses, Portguese bakeries, Brazilian coffee houses, Italian pasta places and any number of hippy-chic boutiques. In the spring and summer months, the Drive is a hive of activity, and a meeting place for those looking for good eats and great conversation.

25. Ski, Snowboard or Play in the Snow

Vancouver may be a temperate climate, but in the winter months, the North Shore mountains transform into a snow-capped wonderland. With three excellent mountains all within a 15 minutes drive from the downtown core, and a free shuttle to one of them, Vancouver is your perfect place for a winter holiday. Seymour and Grouse Mountain in North Vancouver offer up challenging runs and family fun, and Cypress in West Vancouver has the city’s best tubing park! And for the world class skiier, hob aboard a shuttle and head to Whistler/Blackcomb for one of the best alpine experiences in the world. It’s no wonder Vancouver played host to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

25 Best Things to Do in Vancouver (BC, Canada):

• Visit the Museum of Anthropology
• Take a Drive up the Sea-to-Sky Highway
• Hike the Grouse Grind
• Cycle Around Stanley Park
• Windowshop in Gastown
• Dim Sum in China Town
• Find Your Zen
• Kayaking in Deep Cove
• Take an Aquabus to Granville Island
• Visit the Richmond Night Market
• Take a Foodie Tour
• Hike in Lynn Canyon
• Wander Van Dusen Botanical Gardens
• Watch a Concert at the Commodore
• Catch a Canucks Game
• Go for a Run in Pacific Spirit Park
• Sea-to-Sky Gondola
• Catch a Sunset in English Bay
• Visit Christ Church Cathedral
• Get Folksy on the Sunshine Coast
• Find a Local Event in the Georgia Strait
• The Vancouver Aquarium
• Lunch on the Drive
• Ski, Snowboard or Play in the Snow

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Vancouver

By Carl Austin · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Widely considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Vancouver is set in a stunning spot with scenic shores and soaring mountains lying all around it. The second most popular place to visit in Canada after Toronto, there are fine dining and fantastic shopping options, outdoor activities and enticing tourist attractions in Vancouver.

Cultured and cosmopolitan, Vancouver has many different neighborhoods to explore with pretty parks and gardens. Aside from visiting its multitude of museums and galleries, you can also head to nearby beaches or go hiking and skiing up in the mountains. With so many things to see and do in both the city and its surroundings, Vancouver is definitely well worth checking out if you have the chance.

17. Science World

A fascinating place to visit, Science World is home to all kinds of interesting exhibitions that shine a light on everything from art and the body to water, air, and animals. Set at the end of False Creek, it occupies a state-of-the-art center that is instantly recognizable due to its distinctive geodesic dome.

Since opening in 1989, the museum has been a firm favorite with locals and tourists alike. Its interactive displays encourage you to explore the fields of science and technology. Besides trying out fun hands-on activities and experiments, you can also watch live demonstrations or educational films in its gigantic Omnimax Theatre.

16. Bloedel Conservatory

Perched atop the city’s highest point are the lovely lush gardens and aviary of the Bloedel Conservatory. Located within Queen Elizabeth Park, its huge historic dome is a treat to explore with beautiful exotic plants, trees, and birds.

Looking out over the city and its surroundings, the colossal conservatory was founded in 1969 and now contains three separate climatic zones and habitats. While wandering about its humid tropical rainforest and dry desert areas, you can spy more than five hundred species of flowers, plants and trees. Countless colorful birds flit about freely overhead.

15. Vancouver Lookout

If you’re after city panorama, then you can’t beat a trip to the top of the lofty Vancouver Lookout. Towering 550 feet above street level, its futuristic viewing deck offers unrivaled 360-degree vistas of the city, surrounding mountains and the sea.

Located atop the soaring Harbour Centre skyscraper, the lookout lies in the centre of Downtown Vancouver, just a stone’s throw from the waterfront. Guests can also learn about the attractions and historic sites down below or stop off for a delicious meal at its revolving restaurant.

14. Spanish Banks Beach

Set just fifteen minutes’ drive to the west of town are the scenic and serene sands of Spanish Banks Beach. Lying alongside the shores of English Bay, it has an outstanding array of outdoor activities, as well as epic views over both the nearby coastline and Vancouver in the distance.

Aside from lounging on the beach and swimming in the sea, visitors can play volleyball or soccer, and there are cycle paths, picnic areas and park benches dotted about. In addition, the beautiful beach has some great kitesurfing and skimboarding with lifeguards posted during the summer months.

13. VanDusen Botanical Garden

The vast and verdant VanDusen Botanical Garden is just ten minutes’ drive to the south of the center. It has lots of pretty paths and ponds and stunning scenery wherever you look.

First opened to the public in 1975, the gorgeous garden now has countless different sections, including a maze, meditation garden, Rhododendron Walk, Korean Pavilion and sino-Himalayan area. A particularly magical time to visit is around Christmas when thousands of twinkling fairy lights coat its plants, trees and shrubs.

12. Queen Elizabeth Park

Right next to the garden you can find the enormous Queen Elizabeth Park which attracts both locals and tourists alike. Centered around Little Mountain, the highest point in the city, it boasts breathtaking views over Vancouver and has loads of lovely green spaces and fun outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

Besides walking, jogging, and cycling around its scenic confines, you can play pitch-and-putt golf or tennis, with countless playing fields and sports facilities. In addition, it contains a number of idyllic gardens, as well as Bloedel Conservatory and Nat Bailey Stadium, which is where the Vancouver Canadians play their baseball games.

11. Vancouver Aquarium

One of the city’s main tourist attractions, Vancouver Aquarium is home to an array of aquatic animals, exhibits, and ecosystems. Located within the sprawling confines of Stanley Park, the marvelous marine center is a delight to explore due to all its incredible sea creatures both large and small.

First opened in 1956, the aquarium now impressively houses over 70,000 animals with seals, sea otters, and penguins on show alongside vast shoals of shimmering fish. While it mainly focuses on animals and ecosystems from Canada, and its surrounding cold waters, some sections delve into the tropics or Amazon rainforest, with snakes, sloths and caimans also on display.

10. Kitsilano Beach

Although it lies just ten minutes’ drive to the west of the center, Kitsilano Beach feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Vancouver. Facing out onto English Bay, it boasts stunning sands and scenery, as well as the city’s only saltwater swimming pool.

Particularly popular during the summer months, the beach has playgrounds, picnic areas, and volleyball courts, with basketball and tennis also on offer. Aside from all its outdoor activities, Kitsilano Beach is also known for its awe-inspiring views over the bay, city and mountains in the distance.

9. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden

Vancouver’s Chinatown is home to the first Ming Dynasty-styled garden built outside of China, with 52 craftsmen coming from Suzhou, China, to ensure the authenticity of the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Named in honor of the first president of the Republic of China, the garden takes visitors back to 15th century China, though it was built only in the mid 1980s.

The garden’s rocks that were imported from Suzhou, plants, water and architecture blend into an oasis of serenity in this bustling city. The garden’s courtyards provide a good place for visitors to relax and let their senses take over.

8. Robson Street

Just as New York has its Madison Avenue and London has its Knightsbridge, Vancouver has Robson Street, the best shopping district in British Colombia. Named after a provincial premier, Robson Street has been attracting shoppers like honey draws flies since the late 1800s.

Robson Street has more than just fashionable shops and upscale boutiques. It also offers art galleries, and casual and fine dining in various ethnic cuisines. Street performers come out in force at night to entertain shoppers or people-watchers who sip coffee at a sidewalk café.

7. Museum of Anthropology at UBC

The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is a must-see for anyone who wants to learn more about native peoples of the world, including British Columbia’s Northcoast Indians who are known as First Nations. Founded in 1949, the museum houses 38,000 ethnological items and more than 500,000 archaeological objects.

Wonderful examples of huge totem poles, used by Northcoast natives to tell stories, can be found here as well as implements used by all indigenous peoples in their daily lives. Besides being a public museum, the Museum of Anthropology is Canada’s largest teaching museum, though it is difficult to imagine anyone studying in this spectacular setting that overlooks the sea and mountains.

6. Canada Place

Canada Place is a striking landmark on Vancouver’s skyline, with fabric-covered roof peaks that resemble sails. The facility itself is colorful with the colors representing the diversity found in Canada. Canada Place was built in 1927 to serve Canadian Pacific Railway and other traders shipping goods by sea across the Pacific Ocean.

Today, the multipurpose facility sends passengers on cruises to Alaska. It also is home to the Vancouver World Trade and Convention Center and a major hotel. Remodeled over the years, the waterfront Canada Place served as the Canadian Pavilion during the 1986 World’s Fair.

5. Grouse Mountain

The first people to climb Grouse Mountain, just 15 minutes outside of Vancouver, hunted grouse on their way to the top, thus giving the mountain its name back in 1894. Grouse Mountain today is one of the most popular year-round adventure attractions in Vancouver, with hiking in the summer and great skiing in the winter.

Any season of the year, a tramway whisks visitors to the top of the mountain where they’ll see awe-inspiring views as well as nature movies. The resort also boasts a wildlife refuge, complete with bears, wolves and interpretive programs. Equally enjoyable is a lumberjack show where visitors can watch lumberjacks competitively chop, saw and roll logs.

4. Stanley Park

Stanley Park is a treasure set on almost 1,000 acres in central Vancouver. The city’s first and biggest park is a place to relax with a bike ride on 8.8 kilometers (5.5 miles) of the seawall along English Bay. Meanwhile, 27 kilometers (16.7 miles) of trails through a rainforest beckon visitors who prefer a more leisurely pace as they stop to enjoy wildlife, such as the hundreds of species of birds that call the park home.

The City of Vancouver, which owns the park, offers horse-drawn carriage rides through this serene and scenic setting. Nine totem poles carved by First Nations tribal members add a colorful touch to the park, which has been serving the city since 1888.

3. Granville Island

One of the most successful urban renewal projects in North America, Granville Island (actually a peninsula) started off as industrial land. Overtime, its warehouses and shops were abandoned and left to decay when the industry moved on. Today Granville Island serves many uses.

A public market selling fresh produce and fish is open daily. There are waterfront restaurants, art galleries and a lively entertainment scene that offers everything from comedy to contemporary theater, with plenty of buskers to entertain shoppers throughout the market and around the boutiques.

Gastown is Vancouver’s Old Town. The city’s original city center was named for a Yorkshire seaman, “Gassy” Jack Deighton, but became Vancouver in 1886. It was destroyed by fire that same year, and was quickly rebuilt, but deteriorated in later years.

Gastown was reborn in the 1960s. Today, Gastown is Vancouver’s center for art, food, fashion and entertainment. As a national historic area, Gastown’s old buildings are filled with trendy shops and boutiques, innovative restaurants, traditional Native and cutting edge art, and a lively entertainment scene.

1. Capilano Suspension Bridge

A walk through the forest takes on an entirely new meaning when it comes to the forest at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Visitors walk among the upper reaches of an old-growth rain forest on a suspension bridge that is 140 meters (460 feet) long and peaks at 70 meters (230 feet high) as it crosses the Capilano River.

The park also offers Cliffwalk, a walkway that clings to the side of a granite cliff, and Treetops Adventure where seven suspension bridges are as high as 30 meters (100 feet) above the forest floor, with platforms where visitors get a squirrel’s eye view of the forest. Less adventuresome visitors will enjoy strolling a ground trail and seeing Totem Park and Northwest natives making traditional crafts.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Vancouver

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

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

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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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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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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14 must-see places in Vancouver recommended by a local

• Post author: Charlotte Hoareau
• Post published: March 6, 2024
• Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Located on Canada’s southwest coast, along the Pacific Ocean in British Columbia, Vancouver stands out as a cosmopolitan metropolis, often ranked among the world’s most pleasant cities. Its perfect balance of dynamic urban life and breathtaking natural scenery makes it a popular destination for both expatriates and travelers. 

Charlotte, one of Flytrippers’s writers, fell in love with this big Canadian city like no other, so much so that she decided to make it her permanent home! 

You too will be charmed by its mild coastal climate, the active lifestyle of the locals, and the many iconic landmarks for which the city is famous.

Here’s a brief introduction to Vancouver and 14 must-see places to visit. We’ve even added a few bonus places for you to enjoy.

Overview of Vancouver

With an estimated population of nearly 3 million in 2024, the Vancouver metropolitan area is the most populous in British Columbia (and the 3rd in Canada).

Known for its rich history, the region was first inhabited by the Salish, a First Nations people. The city then became highly cosmopolitan after several waves of immigration, notably Asian (mainly Chinese) and European. 

So how do we explain Vancouver’s excellent reputation? First of all, the city is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes.

Between the impressive North Shore mountains, the pretty beaches and vast forests nearby, and the glass skyscrapers, Vancouverites enjoy a picturesque and diverse setting. 

If you’re a fan of outdoor activities like skiing , biking , and paddle boarding , it’s the ideal place to visit. 

What’s more, the West Coast is the only region in Canada where the average temperature remains in the positive range, even in winter. Although precipitations are frequent, Vancouver is the only major Canadian city to escape freezing winters and heavy snowfalls.

The city also offers diverse employment opportunities, a vibrant cultural scene , and one of the country’s top universities (UBC). The city’s economy relies mainly on the technology sector, the film industry, tourism, and the green economy.

However, all these positive aspects don’t erase the reality of exorbitant housing costs, the city being one of the most expensive in the country.

But don’t let that put you off. This list of places to visit and things to do is proof that the beautiful city is well worth a visit.

Flytrippers also regularly spots plane tickets from Toronto to Vancouver for $120 roundtrip on ultra low-cost carrier Flair. And there’s accommodation for $37 a night , if you want to save!

Discover these 14 must-see places during your stay in Vancouver.

1. Stanley Park

This immense park, nestled in the heart of the city, is the equivalent of New York’s Central Park.

Much more than just a green space, Stanley Park is beloved by locals for its waterfront promenade, which offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, the mountains, and the city.

You can explore the park on foot, in a horse-drawn carriage , or cycle along the Seawall .

There are also impressive Indigenous totem poles , a lake, an aquarium , and several beaches .

2. Granville Island

This lively area is ideal for shopping or enjoying local specialties. 

You can spend an entire afternoon discovering the public market , artisan shops, art galleries, breweries , and numerous restaurants.

It’s also the starting point for boat tours or marine safaris to observe orcas .

3. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

For a view from above of North Vancouver’s majestic forests, you need to visit at least one of the two great suspension bridges. 

You have two options: the Capilano Suspension Bridge and the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge . 

Access to the first one is subject to a fee and is rather expensive, at $66.95. It’s one of the most popular attractions in the city, highly appreciated by travelers. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is 140 meters long and sits 70 meters above the river.

The Lynn Canyon Park suspension bridge is free of charge. It’s a good alternative for travelers on a budget. However, it’s shorter and lower, standing 50 meters above a valley.

4. Grouse Mountain

Accessible by cable car or hike, Grouse Mountain , nicknamed “The Peak of Vancouver”, is best known for its unrivaled views of downtown.

Every season has its own activities to offer. In summer, visitors can enjoy the Wildlife Refuge , home to 2 orphaned grizzly bears , owls, and hummingbirds. Lumberjack shows and ziplines also delight both young and old. 

In winter, you can go skiing and snowboarding , snowshoeing on trails, or ice skating outdoors. 

This historic district near the center is one of the oldest in the whole city. You can find many souvenir shops, small independent art galleries, cafes, and restaurants housed in Victorian buildings . 

Gastown is best known for its steam clock . Even if the structure isn’t very impressive, you can’t leave Vancouver without taking a picture of it… It’s a tradition! 

The old-fashioned look of the place adds to its charm, but also its reputation as a haunted neighborhood. If you like ghost stories, you can take a guided tour to discover all the spooky secrets of the area, including The Old Spaghetti Factory , known as the most haunted building in the whole city.

Flytrippers co-founder Andrew stayed at The Cambie Hostel – Gastown as an affordable accommodation option ($52 a night) and certainly recommends the location even if the hostel isn’t the best!

6. Kitsilano

Often called “Kits”, it’s one of the most popular neighborhoods, thanks in part to its relaxed lifestyle and its proximity to downtown.  

In summer, especially on weekends, Kitsilano Beach is packed. Locals come here to picnic, swim, or play volleyball, a sport played on many of the city’s beaches. There’s also a superb swimming pool right next to the water, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.

Still close to the ocean, West 4th Avenue is Kitsilano’s main shopping street, ideal for window shopping or enjoying a cocktail on a terrace. 

During the sunny months, Vanier Park hosts outdoor movie screenings and the Shakespearean festival Bard on the Beach . It’s also where you’ll find The Museum of Vancouver , to learn more about the city’s history.

A little further on, towards the University of British Columbia (UBC), Jericho Beach and its park are also worth a visit, especially since you’ll find an impressive number of wild rabbits there. 

There’s another affordable hostel, the HI Vancouver Jericho Beach , for as little as $45 per night. That makes for a budget-friendly getaway with affordable flights !

7. West End

The West End is a trendy waterfront residential neighborhood, characterized by very tall buildings. Just steps away from downtown, it’s also the gateway to Stanley Park .

It’s a great place to live, with the large English Bay beach, the smaller Sunset Beach , and the Robson shopping street nearby. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to eating all kinds of cuisines and enjoying reduced prices during happy hours.

Davie Village , located in the southern part of the West End, is known as Vancouver’s LGBTQ+ street. Here you’ll find many restaurants, bars, and trendy nightclubs . If you like to party, you know where to go.

8. Coal Harbour 

Just meters from Canada Place , Coal Harbour, a gorgeous marina, is known for its luxurious condominiums and restaurants.

Canada Place houses the Convention Centre , FlyOver Canada , an immersive virtual flight attraction over Canadian landscapes, and the iconic white sail that dominates the skyline.

As you stroll around the area, you can spot several super cool artworks, including the Olympic Cauldron built for the 2010 Winter Games, the Digital Orca made of LEGO, and The Drop sculpture.

If you’re there during the holiday season, be sure not to miss the must-visit Vancouver Christmas Market .

9. False Creek

The Aquabus and False Creek Ferries are 2 water taxi companies that make it easy for you to travel between the various stops along this inlet.

It’s a mode of transportation you absolutely must try out, as the view of the city from the water is captivating. 

On your itinerary, don’t hesitate to stop at Granville Island to shop at the public market mentioned earlier.

You can also visit the Science World Museum , stroll through the trendy Yaletown neighborhood — perfect for happy hours  — or visit the Olympic Village .

You can also take the water taxi to Rogers Arena to watch the Vancouver Canucks playing hockey, or head to BC Place if you prefer football or soccer.

10. Granville Street 

Undoubtedly the most emblematic street in the downtown area, Granville Street charms with its multitude of restaurants, bars, theaters, and boutiques.

If you’re looking for a festive atmosphere to dance until dawn, that’s the place to go!

Historic establishments such as the Irish pub Dublin Calling or The Roxy have stood the test of time and the COVID-19 pandemic, still offering a memorable nightlife experience.

Good to know: Most nightlife establishments in Vancouver close their doors at 2 or 3 AM.

For a more premium lodging option, Flytrippers’ co-founder highly recommends the Delta Hotels by Marriott Vancouver Downtown Suites . He loved the hotel and it’s just a block from Granville Street.

11. Commercial Drive

Located east of downtown, “The Drive” is also worth a visit. This bustling street is renowned for its cultural diversity, with a variety of restaurants, stores, and markets reflecting the influences of different communities.

The neighborhood hosts several festivals in the summer, including Italian Day , where you can enjoy delicious Italian street food.

Commercial Drive is a little way from downtown, but you can get there easily by using the SkyTrain , Vancouver’s rapid transit system.

12. Chinatown

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mary and Owl (@owl_in_vancouver)

Founded in the 1890s, Vancouver’s Chinatown is the talk of the town.

You absolutely must see its traditional Chinese gates, and its magnificent Dr. Sun Yat-sen Traditional Garden and dine in one of the many authentic restaurants . 

However, before you go, it’s important to note that Chinatown is adjacent to East Hastings, a street where, unfortunately, homelessness and drug addiction have persisted for many years.

It is, therefore, recommended to visit Chinatown safely during the day.

13. Queen Elizabeth Park

When you visit this iconic green space in the city, you’re in for a treat with breathtaking panoramic views and magnificent botanical gardens. 

The Bloedel Conservatory is a dome housing a vast collection of tropical plants, exotic birds, and beautiful butterflies. 

At Queen Elizabeth Park, there is also a golf course, a performing arts venue, and several trails for running enthusiasts.

14. VanDusen Botanical Garden 

A must-see for nature lovers in every season, the VanDusen Botanical Garden offers an exceptional experience, especially during the Festival of Lights in winter.

From late November to early January, the garden is transformed with dazzling illuminations and a festive soundscape atmosphere to celebrate Christmas. It’s a truly magical experience not to be missed.

• Vancouver Art Gallery , a must-see for art enthusiasts. The museum exhibits a vast collection of Indigenous art, as well as contemporary international artworks.
• Vancouver Public Library (the one located downtown) is a true paradise for book lovers. Its remarkable architecture evokes a Roman amphitheater. Enjoy the free rooftop terrace for stunning views of the city.
• If you have time, don’t hesitate to venture out of the city, as the surrounding area is just as spectacular. Whistler awaits you for unforgettable skiing adventures. You can also visit Squamish or take the ferry to Victoria , the capital of British Columbia.

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Featured image: Vancouver, Canada ( photo credit: Mike Benna )

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Must-Visit Attractions in Vancouver

Vancouver is one of Canada’s most popular cities, full of fun things to do , places to see and neighborhoods to enjoy. Here are 20 attractions you must visit during your next trip here. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Stanley park.

One of the biggest urban parks in North America, Stanley Park is almost entirely surrounded by water. There’s plenty to see in and around the park, including its beaches, lagoon and lake with spectacular views from every angle; and its seawall, where you can exercise. Stanley Park is also the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path, at 28km (17 mi).

FlyOver Canada

Called the “ultimate flying ride,” FlyOver Canada takes visitors on a journey across the country through state-of-the-art technology; that is, suspending them by their feet and dangling them over a spherical screen! The special effects and motions make this an unforgettable Vancouver experience .

Gastown is Vancouver’s most historic neighborhood, and it’s located just next door to the downtown area. Highlights in the area – besides the food and drinks – include the steam clock (one of only a few left in the world), Hotel Europe’s Flatiron Building-like exterior and Gassy Jack’s statue.

Metropolis at Metrotown

For shopping lovers, a visit to Vancouver isn’t complete without checking out the stores in British Columbia’s largest mall. Metropolis at Metrotown in Burnaby (in the Greater Vancouver area) is also the third-largest mall in Canada, with more than 400 stores across four floors. It has shops for everyone on every budget: from Old Navy to Michael Kors and Guess.

Granville Island

A little peninsula over the bridge from Vancouver’s city center, Granville Island is known for its thriving artists’ community, brewery and public market. The market is open every day and features a food court and stalls selling fresh produce, delicious treats and handmade products. Its waterside location makes for picturesque photos, too.

Vancouver Aquarium

Located within Stanley Park, Vancouver Aquarium is a popular local attraction. As a non-profit organization, the aquarium is “dedicated to effecting the conservation of aquatic life through education, research and direct action.” Some of the animals include dolphins, sea otters, penguins, reef sharks, rays (which you can touch) and sealions.

Science World

Science World has hundreds of interactive exhibits inside its interesting geodesic dome exterior, including art displays, hands-on areas, live science shows, puzzles and the Made in Canada exhibition. Another feature is its Omnimax Theatre, great for a 3D cinema experience .

Museum of Anthropology

Vancouver’s Museum of Anthropology is located in Point Grey, on the University of British Columbia’s beautiful campus . It’s known for having a fabulous collection of Northwest Coast First Nations art. Its building is an award-winning design by Canadian architect Arthur Erickson.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Hiding in Stanley Park’s shadow is Queen Elizabeth Park. This 53ha (130-acre) park in suburban Vancouver offers fabulous views of the city and its surrounding mountains. It’s perfect to visit in every season, thanks to the ever-changing vista. People can wander the grounds outside, or head inside to Bloedel Conservatory and its indoor tropical garden.

Grouse Mountain

One of three major mountains in North Vancouver, Grouse Mountain has a cable car, which means it’s an accessible place to visit in both winter and summer. Around the holidays, the mountain transforms into the Peak of Christmas, with ice skating, Santa photos, sleigh rides and the usual winter activities. In summer, tackle the Grouse Grind and then enjoy the Lumberjack Show on top of the mountain.

Labeled western Canada’s premiere venue for live events, BC Place is a glowing beacon on the city’s skyline. Its retractable roof is the largest of its kind in the world, and it plays host to concerts, as well as Vancouver Whitecaps and BC Lions games. It’s also home to BC Sports Hall of Fame.

Vancouver Art Gallery

Vancouver Art Gallery, the largest gallery in western Canada, features both historical and contemporary exhibits by regional, national and international artists. It’s housed in the former provincial courthouse, and its exterior is used in many films and TV shows.

Kitsilano Beach

Known to locals as Kits or Kits Beach, Kitsilano Beach is where you will find a lot of residents in the summertime. There’s ample park space around the beach for picnics, plus volleyball nets and Kitsilano Pool. The 137m (450ft) outdoor pool is Vancouver’s only saltwater swimming pool, open from mid-May to mid-September.

Commercial Drive

One of Vancouver’s hippest neighborhoods , Commercial Drive’s main hub runs from Venables Street in the north to 13th Avenue in the south. There are more than 400 businesses here, which are predominantly owner-operated. Whether you’re searching for food, locally brewed beers or an unusual boutique, the Drive has it all.

Lighthouse Park

Found in West Vancouver, Lighthouse Park is one of the most attractive parks on the West Coast. There are many hikes that take people along the coastline or through forests of Douglas firs, but seeing the lighthouse on the cliff is the best part.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Capilano Suspension Bridge is a popular tourist attraction in Vancouver. Besides the bridge, which is suspended above the Capilano River and the surrounding forest, there’s also a cliff walk, other footbridges, a story center and treetop adventures.

Museum of Vancouver

The Museum of Vancouver’s mission is to “inspire a deeper understanding of Vancouver through stories, objects and shared experiences.” It achieves this through exhibits on the city’s history, plus a First Nations art and artefacts collection.

English Bay

English Bay’s First Beach is the most populated beach area in Downtown Vancouver. Although it’s known for being the place to watch the annual Celebration of Lights festival, English Bay is also at the end of West End’s Denman Street, which is filled with food and drink options. Head here for a sunset you won’t forget.

Vancouver Lookout

Vancouver Lookout offers 360-degree views of Vancouver and beyond. Its observation deck is 169m (553ft) above Vancouver. The lookout’s UFO-shaped design is the main feature of Vancouver’s skyline.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

VanDusen Botanical Garden is close to Queen Elizabeth Park in suburban Vancouver. Although it doesn’t offer views of the park, VanDusen is a large garden filled with various plants and flowers that transforms into a light-filled wonderland during the holidays.

To discover more amazing things to see in Canada, check out our guide to incredible natural wonders in Canada that will take your breath away .

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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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 our film whisks you away on an exhilarating 8-minute journey across Canada, from east to west. Read More

Tour the underground, experience the award winning BOOM! show, pan for gold and engage with interactive exhibits as you explore over 10 acres of history.  Experience an unforgettable journey through time at this acclaimed destination.

Located fifteen minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain promises remarkable views and an unparalleled range of mountaintop experiences. Grouse Mountain is a snowy wonderland in winter and i n summer becomes an adventure seekers paradise    Read More

Buy Now!  And save 35%!

Come see the spectacular 360-degree view of cosmopolitan Vancouver, the majestic North Shore Mountains and perhaps even Vancouver Island.  Read More

Harbour Cruises, Vancouver’s leading boat sightseeing company, provides unparalleled views of Vancouver and offers a unique and delightful way to experience the city.  Read More

Playland offers Vancouver’s most thrilling rides, food, games, and memorable experiences for the whole family.

Cycle City Rentals is Vancouver's top bicycle tour and rental company offering a great selection of adult bikes, youth bikes, and children's' accessories along with complimentary detailed city bike touring maps and riding advice.

Hop-on our Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour and Visit multiple unique stops that showcase iconic landmarks, thrilling attractions and diverse neighbourhoods. Highlights include Stanley Park, Granville Island, Chinatown and Gastown.  Read More

Explore this active research collection showcasing the diversity of living creatures of both the past and present.  Read More

Immerse yourself and discover historic masterworks and groundbreaking contemporary exhibitions at the Vancouver Art Gallery.  Read More

Vancouver-focused exhibitions and programs that encourage dynamic conversations about what was, is, and can be Vancouver.  Read More

Sea otters, sea lions, snakes and sloths…plus 65,000 other aquatic creatures, await your arrival at Canada’s largest aquarium. Long-established as a global leader in marine research, education and conservation.

Spend the day on Vancouver’s North Shore! Take in a photography exhibition at the stunning Polygon Gallery then pop across the street to MONOVA: Museum of North Vancouver to unearth amazing stories of North Vancouver at the brand-new community museum. Read More

The Vancouver Maritime Museum is a fun, family-friendly place to explore and learn about the sea and the ships that sail it. Kids can imagine, create and play in Underwater World, and the whole family can explore galleries and exhibits that chronicle the rich maritime history of the Pacific Northwest and the Arctic.  Read More

Step aboard one of our old-fashioned horse-drawn vehicles and meander in comfort through the natural beauty of Stanley Park.  Read More

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is an urban oasis in the heart of Chinatown. Named the World’s Top City Garden by National Geographic, and awarded ‘Places that Matter’ status by the Vancouver Heritage Foundation.  Read More

Over 150 stories, 8 immersive exhibits, and a theatre space await you in the heart of Chinatown. The award-winning Chinatown Storytelling Centre is one of Vancouver's newest attractions and Canada's only permanent exhibit space dedicated to sharing the stories of the Chinese Canadian community.   Read More

Visit Canada’s first and only Chinese Canadian Museum housed inside Vancouver Chinatown’s oldest brick building. Opened in July 2023, the museum tells the stories, histories, and contributions of Chinese Canadians 

Explore Vancouver’s Coastal Rainforest on this award-winning eco-adventure, deep in the heart of UBC Botanical Garden.  Read More

A fun, family-friendly indoor attraction. Discover 100 exotic birds, koi fish and over 500 kinds of tropical plants inside the dome and then explore the fountains, gardens and sculptures around Queen Elizabeth Park.  Read More

One of Vancouver's most iconic sites Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, is more exciting than ever! The cliffwalks stunning walkway, made partly of glass, hugs the granite cliffside as it offers a panoramic view of the rainforest and canyon far below.  Read More

Get a unique perspective of the mountain town of Squamish and the surrounding alpine scenery, as you soar above it all on the Sea to Sky Gondola.  Read More

Burnaby Village Museum is a unique blend of nature, history, arts and culture. Stroll through the streets of our 1920’s village, explore historical exhibits, wander through the gardens and treat yourself at the Ice Cream Parlour.    Read More

Immerse yourself in interactive indoor and outdoor displays, inspirational feature exhibitions, jaw-dropping live science demonstrations, and larger-than-life OMNIMAX® films.  Read More

Spot and photograph local wildlife, enjoy the hedge maze with the kids and relax in a serene setting located in the heart of Vancouver.  Read More

A Vancouver icon, the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is world-renowned for its collections, public programs, innovative temporary exhibits, and community connections.  Read More

VANCOUVER'S MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

Offering the best savings and best selection of indoor, outdoor, cultural, historical and family activities.  Create your best Vancouver experience and start to save when you book two attractions.

THINGS TO DO IN VANCOUVER

Connecting people with immersive outdoor, indoor, indigenous, learning experiences and adventures. 

Your Vancouver fun starts here!

Create your perfect personalized Vancouver experience, choose from over 20 diverse world renown and must see attractions, museums, historic sites, scenic vistas, outdoor adventures,  gardens, hands on family activities and Vancouver's best arts and cultural opportunities.

PURCHASE TODAY  

Tickets are emailed directly to you for printing or downloading and are valid any day or time you wish to visit during your stay in Vancouver.   

Many experiences listed here are not for profit, your ticket purchase, and visit, support the educational and diversity endeavours of these institutions.

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16 Unique Things to Do in Vancouver + Hidden Gems

I want you to take an off-the-beaten-path Vancouver adventure – unveiling unique things to do and cultural enclaves not done by typical tourists.

Of course, with blogs like this nothing is a secret these days, but there are still some unique experiences in Vancouver known only to the locals.

Let’s walk through some of Vancouver’s hidden gems and some unique ways to experience them.

Best Unique Things to Do in Vancouver + Hidden Gems

Discover the lynn canyon suspension bridge.

Location: 3663 Park Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7J 3K2, Canada

Tops on my list of best off-the-beaten-path Vancouver adventures is Lynn Canyon, nestled within a stunning old growth rainforest.

While the renowned 459-foot (140-meter) Capilano Suspension Bridge draws large crowds, the lesser-known Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge provides an equally beautiful – and free – alternative.

As you make your way to this 167-foot (50 meters) high bridge above the canyon floor, you’ll be treated to clear-running waterfalls nestled among groves of Red Cedar and Douglas Fir groves .

During Vancouver in summer , you can even take a refreshing dip in one of the swimming holes nearby.

Looking for a cool photo tour of the area? One of the most unique things to book can be done using the button below:

Go on an Asian Food Walking Tour in Richmond

Richmond, right near Vancouver International Airport , boasts a vibrant culinary scene with renowned Asian eateries , from delightful dim sum places to charming Chinese bakeries and noodle stands .

If you’re visiting in July or August , you can discover diverse flavours through unique experiences at the open-air Richmond Night Market .

Otherwise? Join a guided tour with a seasoned local guide to navigate the maze of restaurants , immersing yourself in a rich cultural experience and discovering new culinary delights .

Meeting point: Aberdeen Canada Line Station Start time: 10:00 am

Explore the City With an Independent Bike Tour

Discover the true essence of Vancouver by renting bikes with a curated self-guided tour , offering a local’s perspective as you pedal through parks , historic districts , and scenic seaside paths ,

Here, you’ll also get the freedom to pause for snacks and capture stunning photo opportunities.

You’ll take in sweeping views of the coastline, Stanley Park , and the picturesque sandy beaches of Spanish Banks. 

This immersive experience perfectly outlines Vancouver’s diverse landscapes and attractions, highlighting its reputation as one of Canada’s most bike-friendly cities.

Location: 646 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G2, Canada

Open: Daily 9 am to 6 pm

Try the Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tour

The 1-hour horse-drawn carriage tour of Stanley Park is one of these off the beaten path activities in Vancouver – that literally takes you on a path inaccessible to most transport.

Your knowledgeable guide will share captivating insights about hidden gems like the Rose Garden , Girl in a Wetsuit Statue , and the First Nations totem poles while you enjoy the scenic views along Park Drive. 

You’ll also be able to capture unforgettable photos of Vancouver and the iconic Lion’s Gate Bridge during this relaxing and informative experience.

Meeting point: 735 Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada

Visit The Vancouver Police Museum

Located at the very heart of downtown Vancouver , the Vancouver Police Museum stands out as another Vancouver hidden gem.

It is a must-visit for fans of murder mystery novels and forensic science dramas , offering a unique look into the city’s crime history and law enforcement . 

Delve into the captivating world of forensic science as you explore this unconventional attraction – it’s one of the best cheap things to do in Vancouver .

Location: 240 East Cordova Street, Vancouver, BC

Catch t he Nine O’Clock Gun

Experience the off the beaten path charm of the historic Nine O’Clock Gun in Vancouver, a quirky naval artillery piece firing daily at 9:00 PM for over a century. 

Originally used to signal the end of the workday for fishermen , it has evolved into a cherished symbol of tradition and community , with sailors setting their timepieces to its precise blast. 

This iconic attraction is located on the Stanley Park Seawall , and is paired perfectly with a walk around the perimeter of the park to watch the sunset – and reflect off our skyline.

Check Out The Marine Building

The Marine Building is an iconic skyscraper with stunning Art Deco architecture – and it’s one of my best non-touristy things to do in Vancouver. 

Completed in 1930, it held the title of the city’s tallest skyscraper during its time and is now celebrated as one of Vancouver’s most iconic buildings , featuring intricate marine-themed ornaments . 

Its exceptional design and lavish interior have made it a popular filming location for iconic buildings in comics history, including the Baxter Building in the Fantastic Four films and the Daily Planet in Smallville .

Location: 355 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G8, Canada

See The Girl In a Wetsuit

The Girl in Wetsuit is a life-sized bronze statue situated on a large intertidal boulder off the shore of Stanley Park and symbolizes Vancouver’s close connection with the sea .

Modeled after the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen, the Vancouver version cleverly incorporates a wetsuit, snorkel gear, and fins to avoid copyright issues, making it a popular and family-friendly landmark . 

For a unique and Instagram-worthy experience , a unique experience is to come around sunset to see the colours really pop – with a beautiful mountain backgroup brought alive.

Visit a Market Off the Tourist Path

Discover the lesser-known Lonsdale Quay Public Market , a hidden gem away from the crowds of Granville Island .

Located on North Vancouver’s working waterfront, this two-story market offers a diverse selection of artisanal treats , fresh produce , clothing , and jewelry , providing a unique and authentic shopping experience.

Take the chance to include it in your North Vancouver tour, as you go to Grouse Mountain and the iconic Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Artisan Wine Shop is a great place to get some local wines to sip on.

Hidden Gem Activities in Vancouver: Runners-Up

• Explore the Harbour on a Jet Ski : This is pretty self explanatory – you’ll literally be able to explore places no other tourist can touch and get a unique view of the city at the same time.
• Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classical Chinese Garden : A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, this authentic Chinese garden offers a unique cultural experience.
• Hike Quarry Rock in Deep Cove : A relatively easy hike that rewards you with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and water. This won’t be a Vancouver hidden gem for long.
• Commercial Drive (The Drive) : This multicultural neighborhood offers a bohemian vibe, unique shops, and off the beaten path restaurants.
• Beaty Biodiversity Museum : One of the most unusual things to do in Vancouver, here you’ll discover a fascinating collection of over two million specimens, including rare fossils and animal specimens.
• Bloedel Conservatory : Located at the top of Queen Elizabeth Park, this domed conservatory houses exotic plants, birds, and even free-flying butterflies.
• Wreck Beach : One of Vancouver’s best beaches , it’s only accessible through a long staircase down through a coastal forest. It’s nude and it has its own market – I’ll let your imagination do the rest.

Ready for an Off the Beaten Path Vancouver Adventure?

Vancouver hidden gems can take your holiday to the next level – with very little effort, and probably much less of a crowd.

Venturing off the beaten path in Vancouver should be something you do at least once.

Still looking for something a little more custom? Just write to me in the comments below for more unique things to do in Vancouver.

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