vancouver west end walking tour

The Ultimate Self-Guided Vancouver Walking Tour

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Vancouver. My hometown, it is a city well-known for its ever-present veil of rain clouds. Regardless, Vancouver is an amazing city to walk around, with stunning views of the vast Pacific Ocean on one side and the towering North Shore mountains on the other. And, I would like to share my Vancouver walking expertise with you; this is my self-guided Vancouver walking tour!

While there are many possible walking routes around Vancouver, this one will take you from the Vancouver Art Gallery to the aquarium (two worthwhile visits on your Vancouver itinerary). Without any stops, this walk typically takes around 1.5 hours.

However, my favorite part of walking around a new city is the freedom to explore as I please. So, this walk will take you anywhere from 3 hours to a whole day to complete – you can go at your own pace! Browse the cute shops, admire the views of the endless Pacific, learn more about Vancouver’s marine life at the aquarium; you’ll have one incredible travel day.

Without further ado, let’s begin! This is my ultimate self-guided walking tour of Vancouver, BC.

Vancouver Art Gallery and Robson Square

First, we’ll start our Vancouver walking tour at the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Located on Robson Street, the Vancouver Art Gallery features incredible pieces of work, including paintings by one of the most famous Canadian artists, Emily Carr.

You can easily spend hours at Vancouver’s Art Gallery, admiring its selection of fine art, relaxing at the Vancouver Art Gallery café, and browsing the gift shop for souvenirs. And, if you’re visiting Vancouver in the winter, you can also go skating at Robson Square!

Overall, the Art Gallery in Vancouver, BC is definitely worth a visit.

• Address : 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7, Canada
• Cost : $24 for adults, $20 for seniors, $18 for students
• Hours : Tuesday and Friday: 12 pm – 8 pm. Every other day: 10 am – 5 pm.
• Website : https://www.vanartgallery.bc.ca/

Holy Rosary Cathedral

Next, you’ll head over to the Holy Rosary Cathedral, a catholic church in downtown Vancouver. A lovely cathedral with a gloomy, Gothic exterior and a charming interior, it is a delightful place to stop by.

Built in 1885, the Rosary Cathedral is not as extravagant as the majestic cathedrals you’ll see in Europe. Nevertheless, it holds its own charm on the modern streets of Vancouver. I definitely recommend checking out this downtown Vancouver church as you walk around Vancouver!

• Address : 650 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3A3, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 10 minutes from the Vancouver Art Gallery.
• Website : https://www.holyrosarycathedral.org/

Next, you’ll proceed to one of Vancouver’s oldest and coolest neighborhoods: Gastown. A key location for all walking tours in Vancouver, Gastown was founded by John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton in 1867 (the same year Canada became a country)!

Today, Gastown is one of Vancouver’s key historic districts, well-known for its Victorian architecture, cobble-stoned streets, old-fashioned lamp posts, and cute Gastown shops. There is also a large variety of delicious restaurants, making it one of the best places to eat in Vancouver !

Some key sights include the Gassy Jack statue and the Gastown Steam Clock!

• Address : 305 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B9, Canada
• Time to Get Here : It takes 7 minutes to walk from the Holy Rosary Cathedral to the Gastown Steam Clock.

Waterfront Station

After exploring the historic Gastown district, head over to Waterfront Station. Located neatly between Gastown and the Vancouver waterfront, it is the final stop on many of the Vancouver Skytrain lines.

However, there’s no need to stay here long, as it’s simply a train station. Nevertheless, it does feature some pretty lovely architecture!

• Address : Vancouver, BC V6C 2R6, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 4 minutes from the Gastown Steam Clock.

Want to learn more about the great things to do around Vancouver? Click here for my guide on the best hikes in Whistler !

Canada Place

Now, head over to Canada Place. Built for the Expo ’86 world’s fair, Canada Place is set right on the downtown Vancouver waterfront. With a cruise ship terminal and views of the seaplane terminal nearby, the Canada Place pier is the perfect place to relax and gaze at the surrounding scenery.

However, that’s not all you can do at Canada Place. Part of Vancouver’s main convention center, it includes the FlyOver Canada multi-sensory theatre experience.

Nevertheless, my favorite thing to do at Canada Place is to simply walk along the Vancouver waterfront, and admire the views of the tranquil ocean and North Shore mountains. And, fun fact, this is actually where I went after prom; as an introvert, I needed a place to relax after all the socializing that comes with graduation.

• Address : 999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3T4, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 4 minutes from Waterfront Station.
• Website : https://www.canadaplace.ca/

Olympic Cauldron

Next, you’ll walk a few minutes from Canada Place to the Vancouver Olympic Cauldron. A prominent stop in all Vancouver walking tours, it was built for the 2010 Winter Olympics held in Vancouver.

Nowadays, the Olympic Cauldron is only lit for special events. Nevertheless, it is a cool display to check out as you walk along the Vancouver waterfront!

• Address : 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 4 minutes from Canada Place.

Digital Orca

Near the Olympic Cauldron sits the Digital Orca Vancouver statue. A sculpture by Douglas Coupland, it looks as if it was made by LEGOs. While some people don’t like the sculpture, I think it’s a pretty cool piece of art with a great backdrop, and a worthwhile stop on your Vancouver walking tour.

• Address : Vancouver Convention Centre West Building, 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 1 minute from the Olympic Cauldron.

Vancouver Seawall

While you can end your Vancouver walking tour at the Digital Orca (as the next portion of the walk is the longest), you’ll be missing out on some of the best views in Vancouver . So, I definitely recommend continuing, and heading down the Vancouver Seawall.

Not a destination, the Vancouver Seawall is one of the easiest Vancouver hiking paths. With construction beginning in Stanley Park in 1917, the Vancouver Seawall has since grown exponentially. Today, the Seawall is 22 kilometres (13.5 miles) long.

However, you’ll only be walking a portion of it, from Canada Place to Stanley Park.

But, the Seawall passes by some of Vancouver’s greatest attractions, including Granville Island, Science World, BC Place, Yaletown, Stanley Park, and Canada Place. So, while this Vancouver walking tour is only doing a small portion of the Vancouver Seawall, I definitely recommend walking the other portions as well!

Nevertheless, on this walking tour, you’ll walk on the Vancouver Seawall from the Digital Orca to our next destination: the Brockton Point Lighthouse.

Wondering what else to do around Vancouver? I recommend hiking! Click here for my guide to hiking in Vancouver , and click here for my guide to hiking the Greater Vancouver Area .

Brockton Point Lighthouse

Named after Francis Brockton, an engineer that surveyed the coast of British Columbia from 1857 to 1860, the Brockton Point provides some pretty incredible ocean views.

While the lighthouse itself is diminutive, it is a part of the history of Vancouver, as it was designed and built by Colonel William Anderson in 1914 (which is considered ancient in Canada )!

All in all, I recommend taking a small break on your walk to admire the delightful lighthouse and the beautiful ocean views, before heading into Stanley Park.

• Address : Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 45 minutes from the Digital Orca.

Stanley Park

Once again, Stanley Park is less of a destination, and more of an opportunity to explore some of the Vancouver walking trails. Definitely one of the best parks in Vancouver, Stanley Park is huge, covering 400 hectares (1,000 acres).

Covering such an immense space, it’s not surprising that there are many things to do in Stanley Park. Filled with the temperate West Coast rainforest and surrounded by beautiful beaches, you can spend hours wandering through the Stanley Park trails.

But, one of the top sights is definitely the Stanley Park totems. Unfortunately, Canada’s indigenous (the First Nations people) have suffered a lot from colonization and the Canadian government. Stanley Park itself sits on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples (as is most of greater Vancouver). So, it’s always great to learn, appreciate, and pay respects to the First Nations people and culture.

If you want to learn more about the First Nations people of Vancouver and British Columbia, check out these great resources:

• If you want to learn more about the Musqueam Nation, click this link .
• If you want to learn more about the Squamish Nation, click this link .
• If you want to learn more about the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, click this link .
• If you want to learn more about the First Nations in British Columbia, click this link .
• Address : Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
• Hours : 6 am to 10 pm (unless otherwise posted)

Vancouver Aquarium

Finally, after exploring the vast forests of Stanley Park, head over to our final destination: the Vancouver Aquarium.

With more than 70,000 aquatic animals, from mesmerizing jellyfish, adorable sea otters, and Amazonian snakes, the Vancouver Aquarium is well-worth a visit!

It’s also a great educational experience. Part of the Ocean Wise initiative, the Vancouver Aquarium is the perfect place to learn more about the threats to the marine environment of British Columbia.

Overall, the Vancouver Aquarium is filled with both cute animals and educational resources, making it the perfect ending to our Vancouver walking tour!

• Address : 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 16 minutes from the Brockton Point Lighthouse.
• Website : https://www.vanaqua.org/
• Note : Due to financial difficulties caused by COVID-19, the Vancouver Aquarium is currently closed.

Other Things to Do in Vancouver

While this walking tour takes you to many of Vancouver’s best sights, there are still several more amazing things to do in Vancouver, including:

• Explore Granville Island . An essential for any beginner in Vancouver , this island is filled with charming boutiques, a lively public market, and several art stores, you can spend hours wandering around this man-made island.
• Relax at one of Vancouver’s beaches , like English Bay, Kitsilano Beach, or for all the nudists out there, Wreck Beach.
• Visit the UBC Museum of Anthropology . With several indigenous artifact displays, it is a great place to learn more about the First Nations’ history and culture, and one of the best places to visit in Vancouver in the rain .
• Embark on one of the many hikes in Vancouver , such as the Grouse Grind or the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. Or explore the hikes in the Greater Vancouver area .
• Check out some of the hikes near Whistler . With epic alpine views and enchanting turquoise lakes, these hikes are some of the best in BC.
• If you’re visiting Vancouver in the winter, check out some of the winter activities around Vancouver and Whistler , like the ski hills and the spas!
• If you’re visiting in the summer, check out the Richmond Night Market for some mouthwatering food.
• Wander around Steveston Village . While Steveston is technically located in Richmond, it is definitely worth a visit. A historic fishing village, it is teeming with cute boutiques, great boardwalk trails, and a public fish market (the Fisherman’s Warf)!
• Take a day trip to the US , and explore Seattle through a self-guided walking tour . Or admire the dazzling scenery surrounding Seattle ; from Mount Rainier to Olympic National Park, they’re definitely worth the drive!
• If you’re interested in exploring more of British Columbia, check out some of the weekend getaways from Vancouver , like Salt Spring Island or Victoria.

Planning on going on a Canadian Rockies road trip? Click here for my 7-day road trip itinerary from Calgary to Vancouver!

In Conclusion,

While Vancouver (otherwise known as Raincouver) is not known for having the best weather, it is a charming city filled with great waterfront boardwalks, lush parks, and lovely beaches; overall, it’s a great place to walk around! I hope this article helped you decide where to go in Vancouver, and I hope you’ll enjoy this Vancouver walking tour!

Thanks for reading the article! If you have any questions, feel free to comment down below, and if you want to see more travel and hike-related content, make sure to check out my other articles.

Photos by Pixabay.

Enjoyed this Vancouver walking guide? Want to read more? Click here for my walking guide to Ottawa, Canada , and here for my Montreal walking tour !

Or if you’re interested in exploring the islands off the coast of BC, click here for my list on the best things to do in Salt Spring Island !

About to embark on a trip? Here are some helpful articles to make your trip as awesome and stress-free as possible:

• How to Travel Without Breaking the Bank
• 15 Things to Do Before a Trip
• How to Start Hiking: 15 Beginner Hiking Tips

And here are some additional helpful links:

• Click here for my walking guides
• Click here for my hiking guides
• Click here for more posts on North America
• Click here for more posts on destinations in Canada
• Click here for more resources

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Mia is the founder of Walk a While with Me, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the best self-guided walking tours, travel itineraries, and hikes for destinations around the world. A keen traveler, she has visited more than 20 countries in the past six years. She is excited for you to follow along on her adventures!

One Comment

Thank you so much for your article. I am going to be in Vancouver for only 16 hours and have been searching for things to do. Your article has been the most informative and well organized list of great activities with realistic timelines to help a newbie get as much out of a short trip. I appreciate it.

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Neighbourhood Guide

Downtown, vancouver.

The gateway from English Bay, the West End is one of the easiest neighbourhoods for visitors to explore, getting a real taste of how real Vancouverites live.

Home » Neighbourhoods » West End

The West End is an incredibly diverse area & home to the city’s LGBTIQ+ community (centred around Davie Village).

The parks and beaches are the main attractions, but the people-watching and dining come in a close second..

Picture a small community within the heart of downtown, where you can get to know your neighbours and make friends easily in a place that’s right next to an abundance of outdoor activities.  That’s the West End in a nutshell.

With its abundance of retail, grocery, and transit options, this area really can’t be beaten. You’ll no longer have to make the trek to the shops you love to frequent — and grocery shopping will never be easier. If you’re in the mood for something special, be sure to check out the unique stores and gourmet food and wine markets on Davie as well.

The West End neighbourhood is located downtown Vancouver and bordered by Coal Harbour , Yaletown & Downtown Vancouver .

Get Outside

The gateway to stanley park., spend your weekend biking the seawall, lounging at the beach, or venturing into the world famous stanley park..

The West End is ideal for beginning or ending your explorations of Stanley Park, the crown jewel of Vancouver’s green spaces.  That could take up most of the day given the 1,000-acre haven’s myriad of touring delights, including the Vancouver Aquarium, the heated outdoor Second Beach Pool and the ever buzzing Seawall that runs close to 9km from start to finish.

Beyond the natural attractions that make it easy to get outside with friends and family, the area is home to community gardens, the West End Public Library, community centres, and similar places for locals to mix and mingle.

Shop & Dine

The west end is home to a variety of restaurants, shops cafes & bars that represent the diversity of the people who live there., there’s something from every corner of the world from asia, europe, africa, australia, india… you name itv.

You’ll have no trouble finding traditional souvenir shops in the West End, particularly along Denman Street. Still, most retail stores cater to locals, including unique bookstores, and gourmet food and wine markets.

Culinary fans, head straight to Denman Street! Here, you’ll find a diverse selection of cuisines, including farm-to-table bistros, taco joints, pubs and brew-houses, multicultural flavours and clubs.

Learn more about the Davie Village shopping district. →

Learn more about the Robson St. shopping district. →

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Here are some more neighbourhoods that you may be interested in.

Coal Harbour

Bordering the northeast seawall of downtown & overlooking Stanley Park, Coal Harbour is a picturesque and luxurious neighbourhood in the downtown core of Vancouver.

False Creek

This seaside community has undergone an incredible transition from industrial land to a stunning waterfront community. It’s nothing short of amazing.

Yaletown is known for it’s artsy but edgy vibe, towering high rises mixed with historic architecture, posh boutique stores & international cuisine.

Olympic Village

What started as housing for the 2010 Olympic athletes has blossomed to one of the most coveted areas in Vancouver.

One of the most coveted neighbourhoods in Vancouver, Kitsilano is the perfect example of a beachside community with its pristine beaches and laid back vibes.

From old churches to stunning high rises, Downtown Vancouver is thriving, diverse and energetic. You’ll find everything from high-end shopping to bustling nightlife and everything in between.

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12 Unique & Fun Things to do in Vancouver’s West End

From surreal sunsets and beaches to an abundance of great food options, there’s plenty of great things to do in Vancouver’s West End, for visitors and locals alike.

Known for its chill, laid back vibe, the West End is one of the most sought after neighbourhoods in Vancouver, and (honestly) one of the most fun.

Living Downtown, we visit the West End frequently for fun, food, and views. Especially in the summer, this neighborhood is pretty tough to beat.

So, wondering what there is to do in Vancouver’s West End? Read on for some of our favourites.

Relax at English Bay

Perhaps the #1 best known thing to do in the West End is hit the beach, and where beaches are concerned, English Bay is by far the most popular.

On a sunny day, it’s not uncommon to see every inch of this beach packed with eager sun soakers and large groups who come out to make a day of it… but to us the main selling point is how many great food options there are in the vicinity, especially takeout ones that you can enjoy on the beach.

You can check out our post on where to eat near English Bay for recommendations.

Looking for a chiller and more laidback alternative? We love heading over to Kitsilano , although let’s be real: sunshine is so rare in Vancouver that there’s pretty much no such thing as an empty beach once the sun comes out.

PS: If you’re looking for summer things to do in the West End, be sure to time your visit for the Celebration of Light , an amazing fireworks festival that takes place every year right at English Bay.

Enjoy Stanley Park & its Seawall

From the West End, you’re perfectly situated to explore one of the best gems that Vancouver has to offer: Stanley Park.

We’ve already written a list of the best things to do in Stanley Park, but to sum it up: this park is truly one of the best places to visit in the city, with everything from unique attractions and artwork to gorgeous trails and views.

If you’re looking for a workout, this 10km loop trail around the Seawall is by far one of the most popular must-dos in the area, whether on foot or by bike. The views are so perfect along the way, you won’t even notice you’re burning calories.

Catch sunset from Sunset Beach

As is fairly obvious from the name, Sunset Beach is one of the best places in Vancouver to watch sunset.

Which is why (of course) we had to include sunset here as one of the top activities you can enjoy in the West End, whether with friends, solo, or on a nice date.

Our tip? Grab some takeout and hunker down on one of the many benches here to enjoy the view.

NOTE: If you want something a little more active, one of our favourite ways to enjoy Sunset Beach is by walking over from Yaletown (or if you want an even longer workout, from Science World). It’s a scenic walk with great views along the Seawall. To complete the day, you can even hop on the Aquabus over to Granville Island and catch some improv or a beer at the brewery!

Party in Davie Village

The West End’s Davie Village (i.e. Davie St between Jervis and Burrard) is the epicentre of Vancouver’s LGBTQ+ scene, with some of the best gay clubs and bars in the city, all within walking distance of one another.

Learn more about places to go in this article.

PS: If you happen to be around during July, make sure to check out some of the neighbourhood’s Pride festivities. Pride here is one of the best celebrations and festivals of the year! Click here to learn more.

Marvel at some public art

One of the things that makes walking around in Vancouver SO enjoyable is that there’s public art all around, especially in the West End, where you’ll find a variety of fun statues, sculptures and art installations that make exploring a real treat.

One of the most famous pieces is of course the Laughing Men statues (known officially as A-maze-ing Laughter), found at the entrance of English Bay. Created by Beijing-based artist Yue Minjun for the Vancouver Biennale 2009-2011, they became a permanent fixture of the city after a donation from Chip Wilson (founder of Lululemon) and his wife, Shannon (who was one of Lululemon’s original designers).

These hilarious giants are possibly one of the most popular photo opps in the city, so be sure to strike a pose and get in on that.

Of course, there are also other public art pieces scattered around the area as well. You can see a full map here.

Try some authentic Québécois poutine

Poutine is the ultimate Canadian comfort food. Originating from Québec, it consists of mouthwatering fries, squeaky cheese curds, and dreamy gravy, all tossed together with delicious toppings or (for purists) inhaled plain as-is.

Now, there are a lot of places in Vancouver that serve poutine, but our personal favourite in the city is the amazing West End spot “ La Belle Patate “, where it’s pretty much as authentic as it gets in this city, with big squeaky cheese curds that are like little bites of heaven, smothered in a tasty flavour-packed gravy.

You can choose from 38 varieties of poutine here, although we like to pretty simple. Stop by and you won’t be disappointed!

Have some outrageously garnished caesars

While we’re discussing quintessentially Canadian foods, another fun foodie must-do in Vancouver’s West End is heading to the legendary Score on Davie to try their wildly garnished caesars.

While some of their caesars are relatively tame (e.g. the Grilled Chaesar, where it’s garnished with a grilled cheese and onion rings), their pièce de résistance is probably the Checkmate Caesar, garnished with a full roast chicken, burger, slider, wings, onion rings, and even a brownie for dessert.

And in case you’re questioning “how can this really exist?” we assure you it does, because we’ve tried it.

Excuse the blurry photo circa 2014. For the sake of our arteries, we decided that once you’ve had it once, you don’t need to try it again.

Sample some of Vancouver’s best local brews

Metro Vancouver is known for their craft beer scene, and while some other parts of the Lower Mainland like Mount Pleasant , North Vancouver or Port Moody are better known for their microbrewery scene, one of our favourite breweries happens to be in the West End.

We’re talking of course about Stanley Park Brewing.

Honestly, we’ve liked pretty much every beer we’ve tried here, and the location (steps away from the Seawall) makes it a convenient spot for pre/post beach drinks.

They also have one of THE best Happy Hours in the Downtown Vancouver area , with beer flights for less than $7.

If you want to try a larger variety of local beers, you can of course also stop by CRAFT, which has over 100 beers and ciders to choose from.

Enjoy a novelty bullet train sushi experience

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, the West End is home to Vancouver’s only “bullet train sushi” experience, where you order your food on an iPad and everything arrives via a cute little bullet train.

Sure, it’s kind of just a yassified version of old school conveyer belt sushi, but it’s something a little different nonetheless.

N OTE: We haven’t tried this spot yet, because the one time we tried, they told us to come all the way down to join the waitlist, only to tell us once we arrived that the wait list was closed. Since we’re not into holding grudges, we’ll still tell you about them for novelty sake, but just a disclaimer that we haven’t tried the food!

Stop by the Roedde House Museum

For history buffs, another West End must-do is the Roedde House Museum, one of the most underrated museums in Vancouver.

This house dates back to 1893, and was originally built for Gustav Roedde (the city’s first bookbinder) and his wife and Matilda.

After the family moved away in the 1920s, the house enjoyed a stint as a rooming house, before being restored and then reopened as a museum in 1990.

Today, the Roedde House Museum allows visitors to take a peek at what life might have been like during the Late Victorian period in Vancouver. The museum is said to have over 2,700 artifacts in its possession, from furniture and household items to period clothing. They also host fun events like movies, pop-up markets and concerts.

Enjoy some pastries and cake… 24/7

There are few places in Vancouver these days that are open 24/7, but you’ll find one of the best ones in the West End. We’re talking of course about the delicious Breka Bakery , which has several locations now across the Lower Mainland.

This European style bakery has the most delicious assortment of cakes, pastries, and sandwiches… all the better when consumed at 4am in your pyjamas.

Their West End location can be found on Denman St, close to the edge of Coal Harbour , but be sure to check out their official website to see if there’s one closer to you. There seem to be so many these days (and for good reason).

Rent a bike and explore

Last but not least, if you want to truly experience the West End, we’d recommend renting a bike and going out to explore. With parking as scarce as it is, and without easy Skytrain access, bikes are definitely the way to go here, as most locals will attest.

From the neighbourhood’s scenic beachside promenades to the peaceful and leafy residential side streets, there are tons of great places to bike around, but in our opinion, the West End is very much a lifestyle neighbourhood that’s less about sights and more about simply experiencing the little joys it has to offer. So, hop on a bike and seek out some of these hidden gems for yourself!

Don’t have a bike of your own? English Bay Bike Rentals is conveniently located on Davie St, super close to the beach.

Did we miss any of your favourite things to do in Vancouver’s West End?

Let us know in the comments so we can add more recommendations to our list!

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A Perfect Walking Day in Vancouver, B.C.–Seawall Loop

This is the long Seawall Loop walk. It can be cut short by taking shortcuts through Stanley Park.

Let’s Get Started With The Best Walking Tour in Vancouver!

My Seawall Loop walk starts from the Hyatt Regency because that’s where I always stay when I visit Vancouver, but alas, it is a loop, so one could jump in at any of the below points. I’ve done this walk in all kinds of weather but as you’ll see in the photos, luck was on my side for this Vancouver visit because the weather was amazing. Beautiful foliage everywhere.

Beautiful colors to begin our walk!

Starting from the Hyatt, you’ll exit onto Burrard Street and head north towards the water. As you walk four blocks to the water, you’ll pass a historic and architecturally beautiful building, the Marine Building . The art deco details are worth seeing so make sure to go into the lobby of the building and look around. Take the elevator up a few floors and when you get out, you’ll have an overhead view of the lobby. Beautiful!

Make Sure YOU Don’t Waste Money by Overpaying for Hotel Rooms!

Good Coffee Spot Along The Way

On the ground floor of this building, you will find one of my favorite JJ Bean coffee locations . It has seating on the second floor if you want to relax, read, talk, and stay a while. At the end of Burrard, you’ll cross the street to the waterfront. The Vancouver Convention Centre will be on your left. You’ll see a walkway along the water. Head left here and follow it along the water.

Canada Place next to the Vancouver Convention Centre

View across the water to North Vancouver.

You’ll notice that Vancouver is a very active seaplane location. Many people commute by seaplane or go to Victoria for visits. There are many seaplane destinations and it’s a great splurge just to take a tour of the area by seaplane. I did that once with a friend for his birthday and it’s really fun!

Seaplane in Vancouver Harbour.

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Beautiful Part of the Loop Along the Water

Also along this part of the walk, there are benches for sitting and taking in the views of the water, parks, and mountains. You’ll also notice history information plaques all along the walk with Vancouver, British Columbia, and Canada history stories. It’s easy to miss all these because you’ll likely be focused on all the natural beauty and watching the seaplanes land and take off!

You’ll notice the big condo buildings along the water. One thing I like is that even though there’s housing and tall buildings, there’s also lots of grass. Seems like great urban planning and multi-use thinking went into developing this area.

Speaking of multi-use along your walk, be aware that though I usually see more walkers than bicyclists along this walk, there are designated areas for bicycling. There are specific and easy-to-see signs for where the walkers go and where bicyclists ride, so just pay attention.

Coal Harbour

The next area you’ll come to is called Coal Harbour. You’ll see the Westin Hotel here, too. There are boats at docks and some large condo buildings and now you’re one mile from the Hyatt. Stanley Park is so close across the water you’ll feel like you can touch it!

View of Stanley Park from Coal Harbour.

Keep following the path along the water and you’ll come to the Denman Street cutoff. Don’t follow Denman Street because we’ll be coming back to the Hyatt on Denman. Rather, head towards Stanley Park and into the park. You’re now two miles from the Hyatt and have walked for about 45 minutes.

Seawall Loop in Stanley Park.

Stanley Park Is A Gem

For me, the beauty of Stanley Park is best experienced by taking the seawall outer loop of the park. It does add mileage, but if you’re up for it, go for it. You certainly won’t be bored because the natural beauty in the park, plus the views you’ll have of the mountains, are truly mother nature at her best. For me it’s the perfect walk!

As you loop around, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the ocean, and at midpoint you’ll see Lions Gate Bridge. It opened in 1938 and is quite a spectacular site. You’ve now walked 3.5 miles!

Lions Gate Bridge. No snow in those mountains……..yet.

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Where To Find Bathrooms

I would never call this the best walking tour in Vancouver if it didn’t include information about bathrooms and a visitor center!

So, if you’re wondering about bathrooms or a visitor center, you’ll see them from both sides of the loop in the park. They are well marked and a good place to stop for a breather. At the visitor center, there’s also an exhibit of totem poles. It’s a popular stop for people taking photos.

Totem poles in Stanley Park.

As you continue towards the bridge, you’ll see the aquarium and children’s park. I’ve never stopped to go to the aquarium so I have no idea how it compares to other aquariums. As you walk under the bridge, you’ll have a wide open view to the ocean and you’ll notice the coast and area along the seawall become very rocky. Siwash Rock is a popular place to stop for photos. There’s a plaque explaining its significance and history.

Siwash Rock in Stanley Park.

As you wind around this part of the seawall, you’ll come to a beach. It’s called Third Beach. It’s a great spot to catch the sunset. I’ve been to Third Beach at many different times of the year and no matter the weather, Vancouverites enjoy this beach. And you’ve just walked seven miles!

Third Beach in Stanley Park.

After passing Third Beach, you’ll start to see the city. After miles of walking in what likely felt like the country, you’ll spot civilization and English Bay. You’ll walk past an outdoor swimming pool and another big kids park. The grassy area around this part of English Bay is heavily used for picnics and just hanging out.

Vancouver’s West End

You’re at the tip of what’s called the West End of Vancouver. It’s one of the hip and trendy neighborhoods of the city. Even with several feet of snow on the ground, as I’ve experienced during winters in Vancouver, this area of English Bay is a destination in itself and well worth the walk.

View of English Bay from Stanley Park.

At this point you’ll have two choices as to which direction to use as you head back towards the Hyatt . Keep in mind you’ve walked over 7 miles already. Usually, I choose to go back towards the Hyatt by walking up Denman and then making a right on Robson. Robson is full of eateries and stores and is a lively street no matter the time of day. Your other choice would be to continue along English Bay toward the Burrard Bridge. Then you’d take Burrard north to the hotel. This way is longer, for sure, so it depends on your energy and time of day. If you take the first route up Denman and Robson, the WHOLE loop is nine miles!

Closeup of English Bay.

Congratulations! You’ve just completed one of my favorite walks in the world! I sincerely hope this seawall walking loop is something you’ll enjoy. I truly believe it’s the best walking tour in Vancouver! Walk parts of it, walk all of it, but just get out in Vancouver and walk. It’s the best way to see the city!

Here’s another great walking loop around Vancouver!

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Shelli Stein

Shelli Stein is a travel writer, personal development coach , and story teller. She has come to realize writing as a way of sharing travel experiences brings her a lot of pleasure! Her areas of expertise are: all things  Southwest Airlines ,  hotel reviews , and what to do, see, and eat in destinations around the world. She sees travel as an adventure, trying to somehow get inside and experience a different way of life, a different cultural heritage. Maybe she can  show you something  you’ve never seen.  Inspire you with new ideas  for your next vacation. Attempt to  put a smile on your face . Help you learn from her mistakes . Or challenge your  assumptions about the world . She lives life with humor, gratitude, and humility and always sees the coffee cup as half full!

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The infamous malfunctioning Olympic torch is permanently stationed at Jack Poole Plaza at the immediate west of Convention Centre West.

The West End of Robson/Denman is a great neighbourhood for authentic Asian ethnic eats. Those restaurants cater to homesick exchange students.

Otherwise great walk-through!

Good reminder about the torch. My favorite eatery at the end of Robson/Denman is Baoguette Vietnamese. I never miss a chance to eat there. Thanks for reading and adding your expertise!

Thank you for this. I’m going to Vancouver next weekend (June 24-26) for my birthday. Can you tell me what day you did this walk? My weather app says it’s going to rain in Vancouver all next week and into the weekend. Thanks again!

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Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Things to See
• Best Restaurants
• Best Nightlife
• Organized Tours
• Planning a Trip
• Walking Tour 1
• Walking Tour 2
• Walking Tour 3
• Active Pursuits
• Spectator Sports
• Suggested Itineraries

Walking Tour 1 in Vancouver

Walking Tour 1: Downtown & the West End

Start : The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver.

Finish : Cathedral Place.

Time : 2 to 3 hours, not including museum, shopping, and eating stops.

Best Time : Daytime, particularly during the week, when the Law Courts building is open.

Worst Time : Late in the evening when the shops and offices have closed.

Once said to be the densest residential district west of Manhattan (now trumped by Toronto's St. James Town), it's surprising that Vancouver's West End doesn't overwhelm with tall buildings and concrete. Indeed, urban density has never been more beautifully planned or landscaped than in Vancouver. Every Edwardian house and every high-rise residential tower in the West End is surrounded by lush, beautiful plantings of trees, shrubs, and flowers. City council has given density bonuses to developers: trading more floors of condos for the preservation of heritage and trees. This appealingly green idea of the urban working with nature instead of against it carries over into Vancouver's commercial downtown, where the placement and orientation of buildings has been carefully controlled to preserve view corridors to the mountains and bodies of water. Remember to look up as you wander downtown -- more often than not, you'll be rewarded with a peek-a-boo view of a North Shore peak.

1. The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

At 900 W. Georgia St. and dating from 1939, this hotel was built and owned by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), just as the city itself was for many, many years. In return for agreeing in 1885 to make Vancouver its western terminus, the CPR was given 2,428 hectares (6,000 acres) of prime real estate -- nearly the whole of today's downtown. The Hotel Vancouver is built in the CPR's signature château style, with a verdigris-green copper roof. Construction took 11 years, halted mid-build by the Great Depression. It's worth stepping inside to see the grand, old-fashioned ambience of the lobby.

Leaving by the Burrard St. exit, turn left. Pass the intersection with Alberni St., and when you reach the corner, turn right, cross Burrard St., and you're on:

2. Robson Street

The shops on this corner are said to get more foot traffic than any others in Canada. But things were different back in the 1950s, when so many German delis and restaurants opened up that for a time the street was signposted as "Robsonstrasse." Beginning in the 1980s, the older businesses were replaced with high-end clothiers and new restaurants and gift shops with signs in Japanese. Whether you're into shopping or not, Robson Street is a great place to walk and people-watch. The street has an international cosmopolitan feel to it, and chances are you'll hear Cantonese, Croatian, Japanese, and other tongues as you stroll.

2 blocks farther down Robson St. at Bute St., turn left and walk 2 blocks and through a mini-park to Barclay St., and you've entered:

3. The West End

Beginning in about 1959, this down-at-its-heels neighborhood of once-grand Edwardian houses was transformed by the advent of the concrete high-rise. By 1970, most of the Edwardian houses had been replaced by apartment towers, and the West End was on its way to becoming one of the densest -- and simultaneously one of the most livable -- inner cities on the continent. The mini-park at Bute and Barclay is one of the things that makes the neighborhood so successful: Traffic is kept to a minimum on the tree-lined West End streets, so that residents -- though they live in the city center -- can enjoy a neighborhood almost as quiet as a small town. Beautiful landscaping, and plenty of it, adds to the area's appealing allure.

Turn right and walk 3 blocks down Barclay St. to Nicola St. Along the way, you'll see some of the elements that make the West End such a sought-after enclave: the gardens, street trees, and range and variety of buildings -- including a few surviving Edwardians, like the Arts and Crafts house at 1351 Barclay St. and the pair of houses on Barclay between Broughton and Nicola sts., otherwise known as:

4. Barclay Square

This beautifully preserved bit of 19th-century Vancouver consists of Barclay Manor, built in the Queen Anne style in 1890, and Roedde House, a rare domestic design by Francis Rattenbury, British Columbia's leading 19th-century institutional architect, who designed the Vancouver Courthouse that Arthur Erickson revamped into the Vancouver Art Gallery. Roedde House (tel. 604/684-7040; www.roeddehouse.org) is now a museum, open for guided tours Wednesday through Friday 1 to 4pm; admission is C$5 adults. On Sundays, tea and cookies are served and the admission price is C$1 more.

Turn left and walk south down Nicola St. for 1 block -- past Fire Station No. 6 -- then turn right and go 1 block on Nelson St., then left again onto Cardero St. Just ahead is the tiny Cardero Grocery at 1078 Cardero St. All the grocery needs of the West End were once supplied by little corner stores like this one. Turn right and walk 2 blocks on Comox St. to reach Denman St., the perfect place to:

5. Urban Rush & Delaney's on Denman

If Robson Street is the place Vancouverites go for hyperactive shopping sprees, Denman Street is where they go to sit back, sip a latte, and watch their fellow citizens stroll past. Urban Rush (1040 Denman St.; tel. 604/685-2996 ) is a fine spot for coffee and people-watching, particularly if you can nab a table on their outdoor terrace. One block down on the opposite side of the street, Delaney's on Denman (1105 Denman St.; tel. 604/662-3344 ) is a favorite coffee hangout for members of the West End's sizable gay community. Everyone's welcome, of course, and the pies and cakes at this little cafe are great.

When you're ready to continue the walking tour, go 2 blocks farther down Denman St. and you're at:

6. English Bay Beach

This is the place to be when the sun is setting or on one of those crystal-clear days when the mountains of Vancouver Island can be seen looming in the distance -- or any day at all, really, so long as the sun is shining. Every January 1, shivering Vancouverites in fancy costumes surround the bathhouse here at the very foot of Denman Street (entrance at beach level) to take part in the annual Polar Bear Swim. Check out the Bathhouse where a sign dating to 1931 prohibits "immodest attire"; back then, swimmers would rent wool bathing suits that tended to sag when wet.

Walk southeastward (left, as you're facing the water) on palm-tree lined Beach Ave., and you come to a tiny green space with a band shell known as:

7. Alexandra Park

Back around the turn of the 20th century, a big Bahamian immigrant named Joe Fortes used to make his home in a cottage near this spot -- that is, when he wasn't down on the beach teaching local kids to swim. In recognition of his many years of free service, the city finally appointed Fortes its first lifeguard. Later, a marble water fountain was erected in his memory by the Beach Avenue entrance to the park.

When you're finished looking around the park, head up Bidwell St. 2 blocks to Davie St., cross the street, turn right, walk 2 blocks farther on Davie St., and on your left at no. 1531, you'll see:

8. The Gabriola

This was the finest mansion in the West End when it was built in 1900 for sugar magnate B. T. Rogers. Its name comes from the rough sandstone cladding, quarried on Gabriola Island in the Strait of Georgia. Unfortunately for Rogers, the Shaughnessy neighborhood soon opened up across False Creek, and the West End just wasn't a place a millionaire could afford to be seen anymore. By 1925, the mansion had been sold off and subdivided into apartments. Since 1975, it's been a restaurant of one sort or another although at press time the building sat vacant and the gardens gated.

If it's open, cut through the garden and walk up through the Nicola St. mini-park, turning right on:

9. Pendrell Street

A few interesting bits of architecture reside on this street. One block farther, at the corner of Broughton Street, is the Thomas Fee house (1119 Broughton St.), where one of the city's leading turn-of-the-20th-century developer-architects made his home. Farther along, at the southeast corner of Pendrell and Jervis streets, is St. Paul's Anglican Church, a 1905 Gothic Revival church built entirely of wood. Next door at 1254 Pendrell, is the Pendrellis -- a piece of architecture so unbelievably awful, one gets a perverse delight just looking at it. Built as a seniors' home at the height of the 1970s craze for concrete, the multistory tower is one great concrete block, with nary a window in sight.

At Bute St., turn left and walk 1 block to Comox St., and you're at:

10. Mole Hill

These two dozen or so preserved Edwardian homes provide a rare view of what the West End looked like in, say, 1925. That they exist at all is more or less a fluke. The city began purchasing buildings here in the 1950s but continued renting them out, thinking one day to tear them down for a park. By the 1990s, however, heritage had become important. The residents of the houses waged a sophisticated political campaign, renaming the area Mole Hill and bringing in nationally known architectural experts to plead the case for preservation. The city eventually gave in.

Cut across the park to Nelson St. and continue down Nelson St. past Thurlow St. to 970 Burrard St., where stands:

11. The BC Hydro Building

Built in 1957 by architects Ned Pratt and Ronald Thom, it was one of the first modernist structures erected in Canada and has since become a beloved Vancouver landmark, thanks in no small part to its elegant shape and attention to detail. Note how the windows, the doors, and even the tiles in the lobby and forecourt echo the six-sided lozenge shape of the original structure. In the mid-'90s, the building was converted to condominiums and rechristened the Electra. And contrary to the former-tenant BC Hydro's present-day power-saving messages, lights in the building were once routinely left on with the idea to make the building a city icon.

From here, continue on Nelson St., crossing Burrard St. and Hornby St. to:

12. The Provincial Law Courts

Internationally recognized architect Arthur Erickson has had an undeniable impact on his native city of Vancouver. His 1973 Law Courts complex covers 3 full city blocks, including the Erickson-renovated Vancouver Art Gallery at its north end. Linking the two is Robson Square, which Erickson -- and everyone else -- envisioned as the city's main civic plaza. As with so many Erickson designs, this one has elements of brilliance -- the boldness of the vision itself, the tiered fountains (behind them are the offices of the Crown attorney -- the Canadian equivalent of a district attorney), the cathedral-like space of the courthouse atrium -- but, raised above street level, the entire ensemble is removed from all the life around it. To reach the courthouse, take the concrete stairway up and follow the elevated pedestrian concourse. The courthouse, with its giant glass-covered atrium, is worth a visit.

When you've seen the Law Courts, backtrack along the concourse, and you'll end up at:

13. Robson Square

As a civic plaza, Robson Square should be grand, but in fact, it's pretty underwhelming. Its basic problem is that it has been sunk 6m (20 ft.) below street level, so it's never exactly appealing or inviting to passersby. Despite the skating rink added for the 2010 Winter Games and a UBC bookstore, Robson Square lacks the throngs of people that add the essential ingredient -- life -- to a civic plaza. But look across the street, and you'll see the life that Robson Square lacks.

Directly across from Robson Sq., at 750 Hornby St., is the:

14. Vancouver Art Gallery

On sunny days, people bask like seals on the steps of the old courthouse-turned-art-gallery, a great gathering place and the perfect spot to see jugglers and buskers, pick up a game of outdoor speed chess, or listen to an activist haranguing the world at large about the topic du jour. Designed as a courthouse by Francis Rattenbury, architect of Roedde House, described earlier, and the Legislature Buildings and Fairmont Empress hotel in Victoria and renovated into an art gallery by Arthur Erickson, the Vancouver Art Gallery is home to a tremendous collection of works by iconic west coast painter Emily Carr, as well as rotating exhibits ranging from native masks to video installations. Film buffs may remember the entrance steps and inside lobby from the movie The Accused. To continue the tour, go around the gallery and proceed down Hornby Street. Note the fountain on the Art Gallery's front lawn. It was installed by a very unpopular provincial government as a way -- according to some -- of forever blocking protesters from gathering on what was then the courthouse lawn. In 2007, the 2010 Olympic Winter Games countdown clock was placed here. The clock has since been removed.

Cross Georgia St. and have a glance inside the Hong Kong Bank building (885 W. Georgia St.), where a massive pendulum designed by artist Alan Storey slowly swings back and forth. Cross Hornby St. and continue west on Georgia St. to 690 Burrard St., where stands:

15. Christ Church Cathedral

A Gothic Revival sandstone church with a steep gabled roof, buttresses, and arched stained-glass windows, the Anglican Christ Church Cathedral was completed in 1895. It was nearly demolished in 1971, when the church membership voted to build an Erickson-designed high-rise on the corner. But the public outcry overwhelmed the congregation's vote, resulting in the cathedral being named a heritage building in 1976.

Backtrack east to Hornby St., turn left, walk half a block, and climb the few steps into:

16. Cathedral Place

Often overlooked by Vancouverites, peaceful Cathedral Place is a charming example of an urban park. The building behind it, at 639 Hornby St., is a postmodern structure with small Art Deco parts melded onto a basically Gothic edifice. Some of the panels on its front were salvaged from the Georgia Medical-Dental building, a much-loved skyscraper that used to stand on this site. As for the Cathedral Place courtyard itself, which although it lacks sunlight, has the formality and calm of a French garden. The garden also adjoins the Bill Reid Gallery.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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13 Best Vancouver Walking Tours in 2024

Vancouver walking tours offer an engaging alternative to endlessly scrolling through Wikipedia.

With the city’s top guides, you’ll dynamically experience the city, ensuring you’re well-prepared to ace any Vancouver test with firsthand knowledge and bonus exercise.

Let’s discover the best Vancouver walking tours tailored just for you.

Vancouver Walking Tours

In a city known for its diverse neighbourhoods and cuisines, it’s only fitting that walking tours in Vancouver try and cover a lot of ground – both literally and figuratively.

I’m here to break down the best ones whether you want culture, history, food, or a bit of all three.

That said, here’s a list of the top Vancouver walking tours:

Lost Souls of Gastown – Best Vancouver History Tour

Location:  Gastown |  Length:  1.5 hours |  Cost:  From $37.80 CAD

Undoubtedly, Gastown is one of the best Vancouver historical walking tours neighbourhood – and the most interesting.

Its cobblestone streets and narrow alleys evoke the spirit of a wild frontier town – not a bustling metropolis of millions.

On this Vancouver walking tour, which we ranked #1 on our list of best Vancouver sightseeing tours , you’ll be led through the streets by a professional actor telling tales of:

• Vancouver’s Indigenous and colonial history
• The logging industry & the gold rush
• Unsolved murders
• The Great Vancouver Fire
• Smallpox outbreaks
• Tales of revenge and redemption

This tour is particularly popular with groups seeking a unique city experience , as it offers hidden Vancouver gems and plenty of opportunities for socializing .

For reviews of the Lost Souls of Gastown tour and the best online prices, click below:

Talking Trees Tour – Best Walking Tour in Vancouver for Nature

Location:  Stanley Park |  Length:  1.5 hours |  Cost:  From $75.00 CAD

There’s no better way to learn the history and culture of the First Nations peoples than this  captivating interpretive walking tour  in  Stanley Park .

Led by a knowledgeable cultural ambassador of the First Nations , this tour offers a firsthand perspective on the ways in which Aboriginal people have cared for these lands, forests, and oceans for generations.

Along the way, you’ll gain valuable insights into the rich heritage of local First Nations as you explore the natural beauty of Stanley Park.

The goal here? To deepen your understanding of their customs, traditions, and relationship with the environment .

For reviews of the Talking Trees Tour and the best online prices, click below:

Wok Around Chinatown Tour – Top Chinatown Walking Tour in Vancouver

Location:  Chinatown |  Length:  4 hours |  Cost:  From $137.50

Here’s a great way to indulge in the flavours of the Orient while learning the history of one of Vancouver’s most important neighbourhoods: Chinatown .

This is one of the best food tours in Vancouver . It’s led by a local chef , and you’ll explore traditional medicine shops, cookware stores, and a Chinese bakery in search of delicious goodies.

Along the way, you’ll also visit Chinatown’s best restaurants , sampling everything from crispy BBQ duck to exquisite teas from Asia.

But it’s not just about the food – this cultural tour also takes you to:

• Chinatown’s most iconic landmarks
• Chinatown markets
• Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

And the grand finale? A sumptuous dim sum lunch to satisfy your cravings.

This is a small group tour so it’s mandatory to book way in advance . You can do so using the orange button:

Street Art Tour + Top Breweries – Best Street Art Walking Tour in Vancouver

Meeting point:  Olympic Village Square   | Length:  3 hours | Price: From CA$136.14

Vancouver is renowned for its thriving craft beer scene and vibrant street art culture , making for this unique cultural combo tour that’s beautiful and thirst-quenching at the same time.

This one-of-a-kind 3-hour tour takes you to the hottest street art spots in the city.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore the lively Mount Pleasant neighborhood , known for its stunning annual Vancouver Mural Festival , where you can admire the colorful artwork that adorns the streets.

Stops include popular breweries such as Faculty Brewing Co. and Electrical Bicycle Brewing.

Walking & Tasting Tour: Best Walking Tour in Vancouver for Food

Meeting point : The Dominion Building (Gastown) | Length : 3.5 hours | Price : $129.28

Experience the culinary delights of Vancouver with a unique walking tour that takes you on a gastronomic adventure through downtown Vancouver .

With a local guide to lead, you’ll discover the city’s diverse cuisine and indulge in delicious tastings of sushi, poutine, ice cream, a ‘secret dish’ and more.

This walking tour not only satisfies your taste buds but also immerses you in Vancouver’s rich culture and history, as your guide shares fascinating history along the way .

With a limited group size of 10 people , you’ll enjoy personalized service and the opportunity to ask questions and get insider tips on where to eat , drink, and explore.

Make sure you book ASAP because they sell out quickly – you can do it using the button below:

3-Hour Tips-Based Walking Tour of Vancouver

Meeting point : Canada Place | Length : 3 hours | Price : $7.35

Embark on a unique tips-based walking tour of Vancouver, led by a local guide, where you set the price.

Discover the city’s highlights, including iconic landmarks like the Marine Building and Gastown Steam Clock, while learning about its rich history and First Nations roots.

Connect with fellow travelers and make new friends from around the globe on this engaging 3-hour excursion , filled with insider recommendations and memorable experiences.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to book this tips-based tour . Book now!

If you want to stay longer around this area, you can try any of the best Gastown Vancouver hotels .

The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour

Meeting point : Water St. | Length : 1 hour and 30 minutes | Price : $37,80

Explore Vancouver’s illicit history of bootlegging, rum-running, and prohibition on a guided best Vancouver walking tour spanning Victory Square and Gastown.

Journey through landmark edifices and historic locales as your knowledgeable guide animates the era with tales of corrupt officials , underworld figures , and glamorous showgirls who once dominated the city’s shadows.

Learn how Vancouver evolved from a rugged frontier settlement into a vibrant cosmopolitan center , concluding your stroll in Gastown, where former speakeasies and gambling establishments have transformed into trendy eateries and stylish Gastown bars .

This is one of the most interesting walking tour in Vancouver therefore get the change to book this already before it’s too late.

Top Vancouver Walking Tours Runners up:

Didn’t find something you’re looking for? Let me direct you to some runners-up:

• Gastown Historic Food Walking Tour : Try Canadian classic dishes like poutine, but also sample other top dishes from Vancouver’s foodie neighbourhood (CA$129.15)
• Prohibition City Walking Tour : The best cheap walking tour in Vancouver takes you through areas once famous for brothels, gambling dens, and speakeasies (CA$37.80)
• Food Walking Tour of Granville Island : Small group tour of Granville Island to try candied salmon, chocolate, cheese, and all sorts of artisanal products (CA$112.50)
• Craft Coffee & Street Art Walking Tour : Small group tour including a coffee roastery, a visit to a local art gallery, and a walk through Vancouver’s mural district (CA$136.14)
• Artisan Donut Walking Tour : A delightfully sweet look into Vancouver culture via donuts (CA$82.87)
• Vancouver Hidden Gems Walking Tour : Private and personalized tour of places you won’t find in the guidebooks (CA$131.84)

Why Take A Vancouver Walking Tour?

You learn the city history like nowhere else.

Each of the Vancouver walking tours listed above focuses heavily on Vancouver history .

This means you’ll learn how the city came to be, where the city is at, and where it is ultimately going.

If you’re a tourist this is a great education to take away from the endless consumption on holiday.

For locals, it’s a great way to learn about the place you grew up in – it’s amazing going around the city and having a new appreciation for familiar landmarks .

You Get Insider Information

The Vancouver walking tour options listed above also open new windows into the city.

Yes, having a knowledgeable local guide whose job is literally to entertain and send people to the city’s hotspots is an enormous advantage.

Ask them where to go after the tour. Get their opinion on the best things to do in Vancouver or how to properly craft your Vancouver itinerary .

These types of concierge services usually cost a bunch of money at hotels, but here it’s free.

It’s a Fun and Social Experience

I’ve been travelling around for most of my adult life and I’ve always met cool people on walking tours .

I’m not promising you’ll meet the love of your life on walking tours of Vancouver, but you’ll at least find a couple of drinking buddies for the evening if you’re looking for that kind of thing.

Hell, at the very least you put in a ton of steps – we all know exercise while on holiday is at a premium.

About to Take a Vancouver Walking Tour?

These best Vancouver walking tours are sure to immerse you in the experience.

However, since your preferences are unique, I may not have covered everything you’re seeking. If you’re still uncertain or have specific questions, feel free to reach out in the comments section—I’m here to assist.

Wishing you a fantastic time on your Vancouver walking tours!

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The 13 Best Walking Tours to Take in Vancouver

Vancouver is a very walkable city. It’s easy to stroll between tourist attractions and popular neighborhoods in the downtown peninsula. So take to the streets like a resident, and learn more about the incredible city through a walking tour. Here are 13 of the best ones to enjoy across the Greater Vancouver Area.

Gastronomic gastown.

Gastown is one of Vancouver’s coolest neighborhoods , and it’s also the oldest area in town, filled with many excellent local restaurants and bars. Learn more about the neighborhood’s history while sampling some of its best products on the Gastronomic Gastown Walking Tour . This all-inclusive three-hour walking tour includes stops at places such as Six Acres, Meat and Bread, and Nicli Antica Pizzeria. All of the walking and learning will definitely make you work up an appetite.

Downtown Vancouver

Explore Vancouver’s downtown core through a private walking tour. From the Olympic Cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza to Vancouver Art Gallery , this tour includes stops at the Marine Building, Christ Church Cathedral, and the Granville entertainment district. Your informative guide will tell you how the Marine Building is one of Canada’s most well-preserved Art Deco landmarks and about the famous people who have walked down Granville Street.

Secrets of Stanley Park

Who knew Stanley Park was filled with secrets? You can learn all about them through this walking tour. Your guide will take you along the seawall first to check out the beautiful vistas, totem poles, and a secret cemetery. It’s then time to head into the park and along the forested trails, where you’ll learn about a long-lost indigenous village. Following the tour, you can head off along the seawall on your bike or check out one of Stanley Park’s many beaches .

North Vancouver Foodie Tour

Unfortunately, visitors to Vancouver often overlook North Vancouver. This fantastic food and walking tour combines the history of North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale area with eight tastings, two alcoholic beverages, and desserts. Learn more about the neighborhood’s historic shipyards while you sample dishes such as turkey meatloaf, homemade soups, and candied salmon, brie, and pear pizza.

Brewery Tour

For beer lovers, this is the number one craft brewery tour in Vancouver. Tours depart every Wednesday and Friday and visit three breweries in the Brewery Creek neighborhood. Wednesdays include Brassneck Brewing, Faculty Brewing, and Big Rock Urban Brewery & Eatery, while Fridays highlight Main Street Brewing instead of Big Rock. Guests get to go behind the scenes at each brewery; receive a flight of beer at every stop; and get a free Vancouver Brewery Tours beer glass following the outing.

Downtown Ghost Walk

Many cities and towns around the world do ghost walking tours, and Vancouver is one of them. Step back in time and learn about the history of the city and its many hauntings. Along the tour, you will visit the Orpheum Theatre, Vancouver Art Gallery, and the Hotel Vancouver. Your animated guide will regale stories based on local legend, personal experiences, and paranormal investigations.

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This urban hike takes you out of the downtown core and through residential Vancouver, from Granville Island to Queen Elizabeth Park. It goes for six kilometers (four miles) and includes stops at Charleson Park, Vancouver City Hall, Cambie Village, Hillcrest Centre (the former Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Centre), and Nat Bailey Stadium. You will also pass “one of the city’s best ice cream shops” before arriving at Queen Elizabeth Park and its panoramic city views.

Little Italy

“From savory to sweet, if you are a fan of Italian food, you will love the Little Italy Food Tour.” Explore Commercial Drive and its Little Italy community through this foodie tour. Learn more about the neighborhood’s lesser-known history as you stop at eight different places and sample Italian dishes such as panini, deli meat, Italian sausage, authentic Neapolitan pizza, traditional spaghetti and meatballs, cannoli, and gelato. The guide will also introduce you to some of the owners of the family-run businesses that have shaped The Drive since the 1950s.

Architecture Tours

Learn more about the architecture in six Vancouver neighborhoods with the Architectural Institute of British Columbia. Their summer architecture walking tours include Gastown, Chinatown, Downtown, Yaletown , West End, and Strathcona. The best thing about these tours is learning about the areas’ buildings from passionate local architects. If you’re a fan of architecture, this is the tour for you.

Enjoy one of four free seasonal walking tours with the Tour Guys , one of Canada’s most popular tour companies. The four free tours take people to Granville Island, Downtown Vancouver and its Waterfront, Granville Street and Gastown, and Chinatown . Although free, the guides hope you enjoy their tours so much that you’ll leave a gratuity at the end. Tour Guys also offer private tours year-round.

Self-guided audio tour

“This culturally exciting audio tour will guide you through Vancouver . See popular sights such as the vibrant area of Gastown, the modern Olympic Cauldron, and the significant Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden.” If you enjoy walking tours, but want to go at your own pace, this self-guided audio tour through Viator is an excellent choice. When purchased, you’ll receive a mp3 audio guide, as well as a map. Let the fully narrated tour take you from the waterfront in Downtown Vancouver to Chinatown.

First Nations Interpretive Walk through Stanley Park

Back in Stanley Park, this walking tour is completely different to the secrets tour previously mentioned. It is an interpretive walking tour with a trained, local First Nations Cultural Ambassador. Your guide will share their own family history before leading you around Beaver Lake within Stanley Park. On this tour, you will learn more about the history of the park and the Coast Salish First Nations people . Discover how the First Nations lived and managed the land for many generations. You will undoubtedly end the tour with a deeper understanding of the First Nations people.

Lost Souls of Gastown

Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, of course, has the most ghost stories and the most gruesome history. Follow your guide’s lamplight on this Lost Souls of Gastown walking tour, and learn more about the horrific Great Vancouver Fire , Vancouver’s smallpox outbreaks, and the unsolved murder of John Bray. The tour is made for adult audiences, and it is not only a walking tour but also a theater piece, so expect to be entertained from beginning to end.

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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This free new audio walking tour takes you deep into the stories of Vancouver's eclectic West End

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A new audio walking tour will take you all over Vancouver's colourful and historic West End neighbourhood - all you need are some headphones and good walking shoes.

Launched by Car Free Vancouver and "hosted" by local historian and author Aaron Chapman, the We Live Here - West End Audio Tour  covers decades of local history and about 4.9 kilometres of ground.

Make your way through the streets of the West End and listen along as Chapman and four other storytellers bring you tales of the neighbourhood, representing a variety of styles and topics (including one segment that you'll want to skip if you're exploring with kids). 

There's no set time or course - the West End Audio Tour features a suggested walking route, but can also be broken up into smaller treks for multiple strolls, and, of course, stopping to enjoy the view, grab a bite to eat or something to drink, or relax with your walking companion(s) are all worthy diversions. It's truly a choose your own adventure.

Car Free Vancouver says they have been looking for ways to keep Vancouverites sticking close to home something fun and unique to do in our own city. 

Contemplate vacant spaces, learn stories about special West End residents, and find out more about what went on at night once upon a time. In addition to Chapman offering some local lore in his "West End Stories" segment, hear from the following: Squamish Elder Dennis Joseph, Journalist/Broadcaster and CBC Radio documentarian Pamela Post, writer, poet, podcast host and otter enthusiast Dina Del Bucchia, and beloved author and long-time West End resident Bill Richardson. 

The tour is bike-able (though two segments will need you to walk your bike to specific locations), and you'll want to time your listening of part five with the operating hours of the Robson Public Market (9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily) as it asks you to go inside. And of course, bring your water bottle and wear sunscreen.

Access the West End Audio Tour HERE .

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Experience Vancouver like never before! Let us immerse you in the city’s hidden history of dark crime, outrageous intrigue, and filthy scandal.

Discover the eerie history of Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood. Follow the lamplight of your guide into Vancouver’s earliest and most gruesome history. You’ll step inside a world of murder, revenge, and true grit in a dramatic retelling of Victorian Gastown’s earliest stories. Hear tales of deadly fire, smallpox, and more in this unique performance-theatre experience.

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Explore Vancouver’s heritage buildings – and their stories of murder, jealousy, sin, corruption, and irresistible glamour. Enjoy delectable treats at the city’s finest bakeries and chocolatiers and a private viewing inside the famous Marine Building.

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THE REALLY GAY HISTORY TOUR

Celebrate love with a raucous chronicle of Vancouver’s LGBTQ2+ community on a stroll through the vibrant and historic Davie Village. Discover the queer heroes who changed our city forever.

PRIDE MONTH PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE!

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Explore the breathtaking beauty and intriguing tales of Stanley Park. Beyond the lush forests, charming gardens, and beautiful beaches, lies a story of forced evictions, hidden treasures, chilling crime scenes, and the eerie legend of Deadman’s Island.

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SECRETS OF THE PENTHOUSE EVENT

Explore backstage at Vancouver’s most notorious nightclub with club owner Danny Filippone as your guide, with a live jazz band, and spaghetti & meatballs dinner.

STAY TUNED FOR SEPT DATE! (PAUSED FOR THE SUMMER) DOORS AT 6:30 PM | $70

PRIVATE WALKING TOURS

Plan a get together with your friends, family, or team members for an outdoor experience in Vancouver that’s original, active, fascinating, and utterly engaging. Explore Vancouver’s hidden history. Reach out today to get started!

FROM $30 PER GUEST CUSTOM START TIMES

OUR LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

We gratefully acknowledge our walking tours take place within the unceded, ancestral territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.