vancouver tourist attractions summer

18 Things to Do in Vancouver, British Columbia in the Summer

Summer is most Vancouverites' favorite season. When the sun shines on Vancouver, there's no prettier place on earth, and locals make the most of the summer months—June, July, and August—with tons of festivals, parties , outdoor adventures, and more.

Celebrate Canada Day

City of Surrey

Canada Day, celebrated on July 1,   is always a massive party in the city, with free events popping up across Metro Vancouver. The patriotic flair of the celebrations at Granville Island  are incredibly festive (who doesn't love the Truly Canadian Pancake Breakfast?), plus all the street festivals, parades, and fireworks. There's also Surrey's Canada Day outdoor concerts—the biggest Canada Day celebration in all of western Canada.

Attend a Unique Summer Festival

Tourism Vancouver/ Dannielle Hayes

June through August in Vancouver is the season for festivals, and some of the year's biggest and best music and multicultural events happen at this time of year. Vancouver's International Jazz Festival is held each year at the end of June, while the Vancouver Folk Music Festival typically takes place each July.

Hit the Beach

Whether it's barbecuing or wading into the low tide on Spanish Banks, playing volleyball on English Bay Beach or sunbathing on Kits Beach , summer weather makes Vancouver's already-stunning beaches the place to be.

Eat at a Summer Night Market

Corbis / Getty Images

Asian-style night markets are a summer tradition in the Lower Mainland. There are two great night markets to visit: the Richmond Night Market and the Shipyards Night Market in North Vancouver. The Richmond market is a must-see; it features over 300 vendors, fantastic food (pork shumai , Osaka balls, hurricane potatoes, and snow-cones,  at the same time ) and live entertainment, that attracts nightly crowds of thousands.

Watch an Incredible Fireworks Display

If there is one event that defines summer in Vancouver, it's the Celebration of Light international fireworks competition: three nights of the best fireworks displays you've ever seen. Lighting up the sky over English Bay in incredible color compositions, the annual event, typically help late July through early August ,  has become one of the most prestigious fireworks competitions in the world.

Go Swimming in Kits Pool

With its white bottom and turquoise water and its spectacular views—of the ocean, the mountains, Kits Beach, and the Vancouver skyline glittering across English Bay— Kits Pool , open mid-May through mid-September, is a vacation destination unto itself. Just stepping through the gates feels like an escape and many Vancouverites will tell you that summer wouldn't be summer without a swim in this pool!

Watch a Play on the Beach

Bard on the Beach

With the gorgeous summer weather comes lots of outdoor theatre and concerts: There's the Theatre Under the Stars in Stanley Park and the Enchanted Evenings Concert Series at Dr. Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Among the best, however, is the Shakespeare festival Bard on Beach, which stages plays in open-backed tents in Vanier Park. The northern mountains and glory of English Bay become the plays' backdrop. What could be more dramatic than that?

Hike at Stanley Park

Tourism Vancouver

Stanley Park may be a tourist destination—it attracts 8 million visitors a year—but it's also cherished by locals, especially in the summer months. When the sun shines, there's nothing better than biking or walking the scenic Seawall or hiking the 16 miles of forest trails. The Stanley Park Gardens are also a summer must-see!

Celebrate the Vancouver Pride Parade & Festival

Vancouver Pride Society

Rainbow-colored balloon awnings, fabulous drag queens, leather daddies, and more! From the scantily-clad to the elaborately-head-dressed, Vancouver's Pride Parade is a magnificent display of diversity, spirit, creativity, and unity, and one of Vancouver's biggest summer events. Of course, the parade is just the climax to an entire week of celebration: Pride week is packed with parties, art shows, and more.

Ring in Summer at the Fair at the PNE

If there's one summer tradition that can bring out the kid in anyone, it's the annual Fair at the PNE . Cotton candy, mini donuts, Playland rides , farm animals, live performers like Superdogs, and the nightly concert series make this end-of-summer extravaganza one of the best family events of the season.

Pick Berries at Krause Berry Farms

Krause Berry Farms & Estate Winery

Take a quick trip to Langley where you can spend an entire day picking blackberries, blueberries, or strawberries at the 200-acre Krause Berry Farm . Even if picking berries yourself isn't your thing, the family-run farm has tons of fresh fruit for sale, as well as pies, jams, jellies, and more. It's a great outing for little ones, who can take tractor train rides or simply enjoy spending time outside.

Take a Day Trip to a Hot Spring

Halcyon Hot Springs

British Columbia is home to a vast array of hot springs, which can make for the perfect summer day or weekend trip from Vancouver. Halcyon Hot Springs, in Nakusp, is among the most popular, featuring breath-taking views and mineral-rich waters that are supposedly healing. There are also chalet-style homes that you can rent.

Do a Beer Crawl Down Brewer's Row

If you love beer, get thee to Brewer's Row, a tiny Vancouver street filled with local breweries. Murray Street, right across from Vancouver's Rocky Point Park, has four small breweries that are open to visitors for tastings and tours, making it a great way to spend the afternoon. Start your day at Yellow Dog, before moving on to Moody Ales, Twin Sails, and Murray Street's newest addition Parkside Brewing.

Shop at Vancouver's Eastside Flea

This modern flea market features more than 50 vendors selling vintage clothing, collectibles, plants, and artisanal food. If shopping isn't your thing, the flea's organizers also invite food trucks and local DJs to turn the event into a veritable party. The flea typically takes place every weekend and moved to Eastside Studios in fall 2018.

Watch a Movie Alfresco in Stanley Park

For more than a decade, Stanley Park has hosted its Summer Cinema series on Tuesday nights. Movies start right after sunset and mostly include family favorites like  Mean Girls , The Lion King , and  Grease.  Admission is free, but you'll want to bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket.

Join in on a Massive Water Fight

A newer event on Vancouver's summer calendar, the massive Vancouver Water Fight has already become tremendously popular. Held in mid-August, the great water war takes place at the Lumberman’s Arch at Stanley Park. Bring your bathing suits, water guns, and water balloons.

Go Kayaking at Deep Cove

If you want to spend a day outside, head to Deep Cove, a seaside village on the Eastern edge of Vancouver. The cove has great hikes and is a tranquil spot to go kayaking. The Deep Cove Kayak Centre will rent out kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes, and also offers lessons.

Listen to Classical Music in the Park

JPL Designs/Getty Images 

The  Vancouver Symphony Orchestra performs a free outdoor concert each year at Deer Lake Park. The lineup typically includes classics from Tchaikovsky and other renowned composers as well as contemporary favorites, like the score from Star Wars .

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25 unmissable things to do in vancouver in the summer (2024).

I love exploring the city of Vancouver, but there’s no matter time than the summertime. The days are long, and the weather is perfect in Vancouver in the summer, making it the perfect time to explore this beautiful city. The town comes alive with the season’s bright hues, highlighting the stunning natural scenery of the surrounding mountains, forests, and coastline.

Summer in Vancouver is an ideal time to take advantage of all the water activities, which is a huge reason I love visiting from Seattle every year during this season. You can whale watch, kayak, or just enjoy the Vancouver waterfront in addition to plenty of other summer activities in Vancouver.

This article goes over tips to keep in mind when visiting during this time of year, plus the best summer things to do in Vancouver, BC.

Table of Contents

Tips for Visiting During Summer in Vancouver

Vancouver, British Columbia, is a summer gem. You’ll be spending a significant amount of time outdoors, so it’s worth paying some attention to sun protection on your packing list. Aside from that, here are a few pointers to help you plan a memorable summer visit to this Pacific Coast city, also known as The City of Glass. 

• Depending on what you’re used to, Vancouver weather may seem somewhat cool, even in the summer. It’s a good idea to dress prepared for layers. Daytimes may be warm, evenings chilly. 
• Bring walking shoes. Vancouver is relatively small in the city area, so it’s ideal for walking. Getting around on public transport is also fairly easy if you need to get further out. 
• Vancouver has Wi-Fi! Most of the city is hooked up to free Wi-Fi via its #VanWifi hotspots. 

Tip : Not sure where to start? Try this three-day itinerary for Vancouver as a starting point.

Weather in Vancouver in Summer

Similar to visiting Seattle in the summer , August is the hottest month in Vancouver, averaging a high of 64°F. Those coming from more tropical climates may not seem terribly warm, but by local standards, that’s a good summer day.

These days, many locals and visitors take advantage of the beach or go hiking in the region’s forest and garden walks. 

That said, the hottest days over the summer can reach 70°F+. There isn’t much rain over July and August, though you may still get the odd day of precipitation in June. 

Vancouver in June

Warm days and cool evenings are what Vancouver is all about in June. The average high is 68°F, and the low is 53°F . Half the month sees some rain in the daytime. Though spring has arrived and some festivals and summer activities have started, there’s still a bit of hesitation in the air regarding beach days.

Vancouver in July

July averages a high of 73°F and a low of 58°F . There is significantly less rain now that the summer has arrived. Whereas June saw about 2 inches, July, on average, saw only one inch. July’s big event is Canada Day, with the center of celebrations at Canada Place.

Vancouver in August

This is the hottest month of the year, so beaches and water-based activities are likely to be crowded. The average range is between 64° to 77° F each day. August also happens to be when BC Day comes around. British Columbia Day is a public holiday in the state, and you are most likely to find some kind of party or celebration going on at your local pub or restaurant when spending a weekend in Vancouver .

Where to Stay in Vancouver in the Summer

Here are a few hotel options to consider when looking for where to stay in Vancouver (BC) during your summer trip:

• Vancouver West Cozy Retreat   — This well-loved guest house offers a garden, patios for each room, and a bit of relative quiet. The benefit of the guest house over a hotel is the personal level of service and attention. This accommodation is also close to VanDusen Botanical Garden. (rates start at $130 per night)
• Moda Hotel — If downtown is where you want to be, you can’t get much better than this. Close to all shops and local nightlife, the Moda offers cozy rooms, two restaurants, bars on-site, and a coffee machine in every room. (rates start at $240 per night)
• YWCA Hotel Vancouver — Situated next to the BC Place Stadium, This is a great choice for budget-conscious and single travelers. A bright and cheerful common area hints at the vibrant feel of the hotel and its neighborhood. The location is convenient, and a self-catering facility is available to all guests. (rates start at $160 per night)

25 Incredible Things to Do in Vancouver in the Summer

Vancouver does really come alive in summer, with a surprising amount of festivals and events to boot. It also boasts many regular attractions, and choosing the best of them is a tough job. Here are the 25 Vancouver summer activities that simply have to be at the top of your list. 

1. Do the FlyOver at Canada Place

If you want to get a taste of a Vancouver landmark, Canada Place is a good place to start. It is situated within the harbor and designed to resemble a big ship. One of the most famous attractions within this convention center is the FlyOver Canada film experience. This is an absolute must-do if you’re planning to visit here.  

FlyOver Canada is a half-hour multimedia experience for visitors to the city and country. Viewers are strapped into their chairs, and the floor “falls away” as films are projected all around. The experience is like flying through the air, catching incredible landscape views.

2. Walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge & Cliffwalk

This is a thrilling walking experience along a series of platforms and walkways above a forest and river. In total, the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Cliffwalk are around 700 feet, but the engineering of the cantilevered walk provides a unique, adrenaline-generating sensation.

The suspended section of the walkway reaches out from a sheer granite cliff, so this may not be for those who get nervous too easily. However, it’s a fun experience in general to go to during this time of year (or you can save it for fall in Vancouver to see the foliage).

3. Try a Cultural Experience in Chinatown

As with most Chinatowns all over the world, the rich culture and heritage of the East are a sure-fire attraction here. Chinatown Vancouver boasts a vibrant Asian food scene, markets, and interesting fashion and curio outlets. Seekers of a certain mood can look in at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. 

Why not consider a guided tour of Chinatown ? You’ll likely learn a lot more and get the best tips that way. Chinatown can be found just east of downtown Vancouver and has been in existence since the 1880s. 

Fun fact : It is the third-largest Chinatown on the North American continent. 

4. Spend Some Cash on Commercial Drive

Commercial Drive is one of the city’s main commerce streets, running around two miles long. It hosts a number of shops, restaurants, theaters, and nightlife spots and is an ideal place to find entertainment if you’re unsure about what to do in Vancouver at any given moment. 

Among the many highlights along the 22 blocks is little Italy, tons of taphouses, and parks like Grandview Park and John Hendry Park. Both of these are popular social hangouts for picnics, markets, and drum circles, especially in the summer.  

5. See a Show at Commodore Ballroom

One of Vancouver’s iconic live music and dance venues is the Commodore Ballroom on Granville Street. This historic venue has been in operation since the 1920s. Time your visit right, and you might see an A-lister perform on stage, as this is a legendary venue among industry types. 

Other times, the club bounces on the dance floor with a very casual vibe. Think burgers and beer with great music. 

6. Feel the Rush of Elaho Whitewater

Summer brings with it water activities, and few are better than the Elaho Whitewater experience in Vancouver. This is a white water rafting thrill ride, made particularly adventurous due to snow melting in the mountains.

Fortunately, you can opt for something a little less nerve-wracking than a class three rapid ride. Fair warning, prepare to get soaked! 

7. Stroll the False Creek Neighborhood

False Creek is a seaside neighborhood in Vancouver known for its seawall, which doubles as a pathway system. Visitors here love the area for its pleasant walking and biking. It’s also close to Granville Island and the Olympic Village (which still offers a variety of sports activities to participate in). 

Aside from that, the bustling neighborhood also offers a broad range of eateries, bars, and shops to discover, not to mention wonderful views of the river and city. 

8. Check the Time in Gastown

Checking the time in Gastown means visiting a very special steam-powered clock. Yes, the clock actually has steam emanating out the top. The National Historic Site and neighborhood are thriving tourist centers with hotels, shops, and clubs. 

Gastown happens to be the oldest part of the existing city. It bears remnants of the old era, including cobbled streets, vintage-era lamp posts, and even a top food outlet creatively named Food and Bread. 

Fun fact: Gastown was allegedly named after a talkative English settler who was given the nickname “Gassy Jack.” 

9. Visit Granville Island

Granville Island is primarily known as a bustling Granville Island Market but has several charms to appreciate. One of them is just getting there via the Aquabus ferry from downtown Vancouver.

In Vancouver in the summer, the waterfront of the island is particularly popular. There are a number of beer taprooms, a kids’ market, and several truly unique curio shops to explore as well. While it’s a fun activity during spring in Vancouver , summer is when you can almost guarantee good weather for being outdoors on the island.

10. Stroll the Greenheart TreeWalk

The University of British Columbia’s Greenheart TreeWalk is a series of suspended bridges and walkways within a forest garden. More than 60 feet above the canopy floor, the walkway stretches about 950 feet offering viewing platforms and a nature lover’s thrill. The walkways only operate between April and October, making it a perfect summer activity.

11. Take a Skyride at Grouse Mountain

Though Grouse Mountain is usually known for its snow-related activities during winter in Vancouver , summer seems an ideal time to take the Skyride. This is an aerial tramway that takes you more than a mile up to the peak, from which you can take in breathtaking views. While you’re there, try the food at Altitudes Bistro.  

Feeling more energetic? The Grouse Grind is a hiking trail up the hill, just over 1.5 miles long. It’s a tough one, so plan to take the Skyride down. 

12. Kayak Around Vancouver

Vancouver is, in many ways, a kayaking hotspot. You can find a spot to sea kayak around almost every corner. There are also a few options for rivers, though. Depending on the season, you may also have options to kayak with whales or go river kayaking. There are several kayak rental spots dotted throughout the city. 

13. Do the False Creek Olympic Village Destination Walk

I’ve already mentioned the Olympic Village, but you should definitely try the Destination Walk, a two-mile promenade walk that features some interesting waypoints. For example, the 2010 Olympic Aboriginal Welcome Work and Indigenous Mural are fantastic tributes to the native people of the region. 

14. Visit Pacific Spirit Regional Park

Nature lovers seem to enjoy an abundance of attractions in Vancouver. Pacific Spirit Regional Park has almost 40 miles of hikes and trails. Along the way, you’ll see some of the region’s favorite birds, plants, and even a few critters. Break for a picnic at Acadia Beach, which is especially since after coming up from a Seattle to Vancouver drive .

15. Flyby the City Seaplane

If you’ve never been on a seaplane, you can try a scenic flight over the city in one. You truly cannot beat the view of the city skyline from the air itself. These flights are especially fun in summer when the weather tends to play along more frequently.

Most seaplane routes glide past the harbor area, taking in the Olympic Village district. Seaplane tours offer the added thrill of water landings, which are quite fun for first-timers!

16. Visit Science World

The non-profit ASTC Science World Society runs this educational center near False Creek. It’s an extraordinary and fascinating facility that will fascinate children and adults alike. That said, it is primarily aimed at stoking interest in STEM subjects among kids. 

17. Head Out to the Sea To Sky Gondola

If you’re up for a day trip, the famous Sea To Sky Gondola in Squamish is about a 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver but well worth the effort. In summer, the hikes are pleasant, and the viewing platforms are especially rewarding, offering views of the Howe Sound.

If taking the gondola, the ride lasts around ten minutes. Squamish is also a fun area to have a weekend trip from Vancouver .

The Sea to Sky Highway in British Columbia is one of the most scenic roads in North America and well worth the excursion if you opt to drive on holiday.

You could also extend your trip and go visit Whistler in the summer to see yet another fun town. There’s so much to do during a weekend in Whistler , from mountain biking to strolling the village to finding the best Whistler coffee shops .

18. Take in Some Sun on Second Beach

What better thing to do in Vancouver in the summer than go swimming? Second Beach in Stanley Park offers some wonderful facilities for a day-long beach excursion. There are barbecues nearby, a playground for kids, and even a special heated outdoor public pool. Every summer needs beach days, and this is where to spend one in Vancouver. 

19. Explore the Rest of Stanley Park

Speaking of Stanley Park, the urban landmark is considered Vancouver’s first and most beloved. Second Beach is not the only beach to enjoy here, but you can explore all that with several miles of hiking trails and paths. There are animals and cultural landmarks to discover.

20. Discover Vancouver Aquarium

Stanley Park is also home to Canada’s largest aquarium, which I always love stopping at during the rare rainy day in Vancouver in the summer. Around 65,000 animals are housed here, hosted in all manner of habitats and interactive experiences like the 4D Shark Experience. Exhibits include the Wild Coast, Canada’s Arctic, The Tropics, Penguin Point, and more. 

21. Get to Know Vancouver Island

Vancouver, the city, is within ferry distance of Vancouver Island , which is just off the coast. This island is known for its unspoiled beaches, surfing, and leisure pastimes, especially in summer.

The main center is Victoria, and you’ll love taking a one day trip to Victoria , but most of the island offers superb natural, camping, dining, and cultural experiences. This is a popular

Among the many highlights to be found on Vancouver Island are: 

• Tofino – The surfing hotspot on the island also offers bear watching!
• Victoria – The biggest city on the island also happens to be the capital city of British Columbia. 
• Hot Springs Cove – A long haul out into the isolated woods brings you to seven geothermal pools. Well worth a day trip if nature is your thing. 
• Pacific Rim National Park – Not at all related to the kaiju movie, but a coastline wilderness of unequaled beauty. 
• Comox Valley – Set in a beautiful valley with mountain views and access to the famous Comox Glacier. 

22. Take a View From Vancouver Lookout

The Vancouver Lookout is an observation deck offering 360° views of the cityscape. The sunset hours are absolutely stunning, as the city lights start to mix with the twilight sky. That doesn’t take anything away from the spectacle at any other time of the day. Vancouver’s qualities as a seaside town really do stand out when you ascend the glass elevator to appreciate this view. 

23. Explore the VanDusen Botanical Gardens

As botanical gardens go, this one rates highly and features a few extras that you may not find in others. For example, the Elizabethan Maze with its hedge walls is a throwback to aristocratic traditions. The Stone Garden is a specially designed rock feature that you’ll love when visiting Vancouver in the summer.

Several fountains and stone sculptures also adorn the garden, part of two separate symposiums. The gardens host seasonally themed walks and blooming calendars, too, so there’s always a thematic focus to look forward to on your visit. 

24. Go Whale Watching

The summer months are ideal for whale watching in Vancouver , with some service providers reporting a 95% spotting rate between April and October. Orcas, Minke, gray, and Humpback whales are common in the area. Depending on your budget, you can head out with a kayak, cruise, or seaplane. 

25. Enjoy a Festival

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that Vancouver hosts bucketfuls of festivals in the summer, many of which are free. Check the calendar for your dates; you may be lucky enough to be in town when one happens. Some of the better-known ones include: 

• Vancouver Folk Music Festival (music)
• Khatsahlano Street Party (music)
• Vancouver Mural Fest (street art)
• Kits Fest (sports and beach)
• Canada Day (July 1st)
• Honda Celebration of Light (three nights of fireworks)

You’ll love exploring all the things to do in Vancouver in the summer!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

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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.

More on Canada

16 Must-See Vancouver Tourist Attractions

Updated : April 03, 2024

AAA Travel Editors

Table of contents.

• Top Tourist Attractions in Vancouver, Canada 
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park 
• Vancouver Aquarium 
• Gastown, Vancouver 
• Vancouver Lookout 
• Stanley Park 
• Granville Island 
• VanDusen Botanical Garden 
• Museum of Anthropology at UBC 
• H.R. MacMillan Space Centre 
• Bloedel Conservatory 
• Kitsilano Beach 
• Vancouver's Chinatown 
• Museum of Vancouver 
• Vancouver Maritime Museum 
• Cypress Mountain 
• Brockton Point 
• Planning Your Trip to Vancouver 

Vancouver is cultured and metropolitan, diverse and colorful. It's Canada's second most-visited city (after Toronto) as well as the third largest, with a metro area population of 2.6 million. Vancouver is marked by cutting-edge technology, contemporary high rises and rugged natural beauty, from the coastal bays to the untamed mountains soaring around the city's edges.  

Vancouver's tourist attractions run the gamut from world-class fine dining to cutting-edge museums with interactive displays that appeal to all ages. You'll find modern art, First Nations art, incredible architecture and a thriving theater and music scene. And alongside all those contemporary metropolitan attractions is a world of possibilities just outside of town; from hiking trails to kayaking adventures, you'll find it all nearby. 

Top Tourist Attractions in Vancouver, Canada  

Vancouver, with its stunning scenery and rich cultural scene, is a dream destination for many travelers. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there's no shortage of amazing attractions to explore. Finding the right places to stop on your trip can be a big task, so here are 16 must-see tourist attractions in Vancouver that will make your visit truly memorable.

1. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park  

Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada 

Get a feel for Vancouver's natural beauty at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , a wonder of the Pacific Northwest which combines many suspension bridges and gorgeous walking trails in a manicured park environment. Enjoy picturesque views of the temperate rain forest and Capilano River below as you walk across the largest suspension bridge, a 450-foot-long pedestrian-only suspension bridge spanning the river gorge. 

2. Vancouver Aquarium  

Address: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada 

An incredible aquarium and one of the city's biggest family-friendly tourist attractions, the Vancouver Aquarium doesn't disappoint. It's a fascinating and pleasant place to explore, with beautiful exhibits showcasing over 50,000 sea creatures. But it's also one of Canada's largest centers for marine research and ocean education. You'll find other Vancouver Canada tourist attractions within easy walking distance of the aquarium, as well; all are located within Stanley Park , with Brockton Point and the Vancouver Seawall just a stone's throw away. 

3. Gastown, Vancouver  

One of Vancouver's distinct neighborhoods, Gastown might be the most highly Instagrammable areas in the city. Gastown is Vancouver's oldest neighborhood and it's still a hotbed of fashion and art. It's known for its cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture and eclectic, fun boutique shops. 

4. Vancouver Lookout  

Address: 555 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6, Canada 

Like getting a bird's eye view of your surroundings? The Vancouver Lookout is one of the most popular Vancouver tourist attractions thanks to its 360-degree views of the city from the observation deck at the top of a downtown high rise building. It doesn't take long to take the glass elevator ride to the top, then you can take your time enjoying the view and grabbing a few stunning shots of the city. 

5. Stanley Park  

Stanley Park is one of Vancouver's largest city parks, spanning 1,000 acres. It's surrounded on three sides by water and offers ample walking trails; you can walk around the park in 2-3 hours, or just pick a spot for what might be the most scenic picnic you'll ever enjoy. Much of the park is covered by dense rain forest, but you'll also find a smattering of historic features, children's play areas, picnic spots, restrooms, lakes and beaches. 

6. Granville Island  

Granville Island isn't technically an island; it's actually a peninsula, best-known as a shopping neighborhood full of family-friendly attractions. Granville Island is home to an indoor public market, countless artist galleries and shops, a marina, a park with an outdoor amphitheatre and a lively community center with an active event calendar. 

7. VanDusen Botanical Garden  

Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada 

The VanDusen Botanical Garden is a world-class botanical garden featuring thousands of plant varieties, a Japanese zen garden, a formal rose garden, a Canadian heritage garden and a labyrinth. Many species of waterfowl and other wildlife live within the park's confines and meandering trails lead to uniquely beautiful sights to enjoy around every bend. During the winter, holiday light displays transform the garden into a sparkling winter paradise. 

8. Museum of Anthropology at UBC  

Address: 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada 

The University of British Columbia considers its Museum of Anthropology to be a heritage museum, showcasing a huge collection of First Nations artwork including enormous carved sculptures and ethnographic artifacts from local First Nations people and other cultures around the world. The architecture is magnificent, made to honor the traditional post-and-beam construction of aboriginal PNW people and the views from the museum are also magnificent. It's easy to lose track of time exploring the many exhibits at this beautiful museum. 

9. H.R. MacMillan Space Centre  

Address: 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3J9, Canada 

Perfect for adults and kids with even a passing interest in space, the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre brings the wonder of the cosmos into plain view. A huge spate of interactive exhibits, shows and gorgeous displays ensure that you'll be engaged practically the moment you walk through the doors. Learn about galaxies, black holes, planets, gravity and other topics via the exhibits and shows, timed throughout the day. 

10. Bloedel Conservatory  

Address: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Y 2M4, Canada 

The Bloedel Conservatory is a gorgeous glass-domed botanical garden, home to exotic birds and plants from three climate zones: desert, tropical and subtropical. From cacti to banyan trees, you'll spot it here--along with orchids and other flowers, gorgeous birds and more. The conservatory is located in Queen Elizabeth Park, which is a worthy destination in itself if you're in search of peace and seclusion from the city's crowds. 

11. Kitsilano Beach  

Kitsilano Beach , known locally as Kits Beach, is a favorite summer spot for Vancouverites. A public beach access with a saltwater pool, volleyball areas and designated zones for alcohol consumption, you'll find all the facilities you'd want from a beach--plus a good deal of seclusion and space--less than ten minutes from downtown Vancouver. 

12. Vancouver's Chinatown  

Just south of Gastown, you'll find Vancouver's Chinatown , another of the city's oldest neighborhoods and one of the most lively, bustling Chinatowns in North America. This neighborhood is filled to the brink with excellent eateries, shops and bakeries; Asian grocers; herbalists; and more--all with the signature color and architectural style you'd expect from a bustling metropolitan Chinatown. 

13. Museum of Vancouver  

The Museum of Vancouver is (relatively) small, but it packs a punch. You'll see a variety of exhibits featuring historical fashion and costume, First Nations history and ethnographic artifacts from historical to contemporary. Archeology, art and building materials are all represented here. This is a great stop for history buffs or those wishing to learn a little more about Vancouver's history. 

14. Vancouver Maritime Museum  

Address: 1905 Ogden Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1A3, Canada 

Take a step back in time at the Vancouver Maritime Museum , where you'll wish you could walk in the footsteps of the original maritime explorers. The Vancouver Maritime Museum features an Arctic exploration ship and a huge variety of exhibits showcasing Vancouver's maritime history. Much of that history surrounds the exploration of the Pacific and Arctic waterways to the north. This family-friendly museum even has a large open play area for kids, making it a great stop for younger explorers, as well. 

15. Cypress Mountain  

Cypress Mountain isn't a single peak, but a group of three: Black Mountain, Mt. Strachan and Hollyburn Mountain. It's a winter-sports wonderland just minutes from downtown Vancouver and it was one of the primary locations for Olympic events when Vancouver hosted the Winter Olympics in 2010. One of the top tourist attractions in Vancouver Canada, especially in the winter months, you'll find a wide variety of downhill ski runs, tubing hills and snowshoe and cross-country ski trails to explore. 

16. Brockton Point  

Brockton Point is home to a centuries-old lighthouse and it's one of Vancouver's most well-visited tourist destinations. You'll find quintessential PNW coastal views here, with shoreline, mountains and an iconic red-and-white-striped lighthouse. Brockton Point is also home to a collection of First Nations totem poles, all sourced from various isolated areas throughout British Columbia. This is a convenient stop to combine with Stanley Park and the Vancouver Aquarium, both of which are right next door. 

Planning Your Trip to Vancouver  

When thinking of the best time to visit Vancouver it’s important to know that AAA members can access perks and take advances for vacation planning such as getting the best discounts on hotels , rental cars and entertainment tickets. 

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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.

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

Arati Menon

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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45 Things to do in Vancouver in the summer

I love summer in Vancouver, BC and one of the reasons why is that there are so many things to do in Vancouver in the summer.

The winters in Vancouver are usually pretty rainy, but Vancouver in the summer is something special. The city truly comes alive, everyone’s out of hibernation and the seawall is bustling with people skating, cycling, rollerblading, and hanging out on the beach.

The mountains begin to thaw out and those long summer days mean lots of hiking and exploring. It doesn’t get much better than summer in Vancouver!

If you’re visiting Vancouver in summer, or are a local who’s just looking for new summer activities in Vancouver to do this year then be sure to check out this pretty extensive list of things to do this summer in Vancouver!

Outdoor things to do in Vancouver in summer

Looking for outdoors and fun things to do in Vancouver, Canada? Look no further! These fun outdoors activities include some adventure and activities that just take place outside.

Backpacking near Vancouver

Dust off that camping gear and load up your backpack! Summer in Vancouver means getting outside and soaking up enough sun to last us through the winter. One of the best things to do in Vancouver, BC this summer is to go backpacking. We’re lucky enough to be surrounded by beautiful mountains (with the closest only 30 minutes away!) so make sure you make the most of it!

Here are a few of my favourite backpacking trips near Vancouver (expect the list to grow!)

• Elfin Lakes
• Wedgemount Lake
• Garibaldi Lake & Panorama Ridge

AmazingCo Mystery Picnic Adventure

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Vancouver, look no further than AmazingCo’s mystery picnics! This experience has you working as a team to solve clues and pick up food for your picnic from local producers that are hidden gems in the Mount Pleasant area of Vancouver .

The destination remains a surprise too until you’ve completed all the clues. Delicious food and an adventure? Sounds like the perfect Vancouver activity to me!

Go car camping near Vancouver

We love our van Elvis but you don’t need a van to go car camping. Just roll down those back seats and put your sleeping pad and bag on top! There are plenty of legal car camping spots near Vancouver and just across the border in Washington.

If you’re wondering how to find them check out this post on how to find places to sleep for free in Canada and the US .

Go on a sunset hike

Longer days mean it’s easier to get out hiking after work and getting outdoors has to be among every local’s favourite Vancouver activities.

Pack some dinner and a headlamp (as well as your other 10 essentials ) and you’re reading to catch an incredible sunset. The hike to St Mark’s Summit is great if you’re a pretty fast hiker. Otherwise, you can catch the sunset from Bowen Lookout which is quite possibly my favourite easy hike near Vancouver.

A sunset hike is also a pretty romantic thing to do in Vancouver too. If you’re doing a sunset date hike, check out my guide on what to wear on a hiking date.

Go on a day hike

Why limit yourself to just sunset? One of my favourite activities in Vancouver is to go hiking and I’ve been rather impatiently waiting for the snow to melt for the last month or so now so that I can tackle some of the longer hikes on my (even longer) to-hike list!

If you don’t yet have the gear to or aren’t keen on camping, then doing an all-day hike means you can still get some of the incredible views but go back to your comfy bed afterwards.

Here are some of my favourite day hikes near Vancouver as well as the best hikes on public transit if you don’t have a car.

• Mt Seymour Peaks
• Panorama Ridge
• Garibaldi Lake
• Joffre Lakes

Catch the sunset on the beach

Still wondering what to do in Vancouver, BC? This is one of the top free things to do in Vancouver! In fact, I’m just going to throw it out there and say it’s a must do in Vancouver.

Vancouver sunsets are often pretty spectacular and they’re even better when they’re watched on a sandy beach. I guess you could say that the beaches are one of the top attractions in Vancouver – you’ll see what I mean!

Go to the drum circle

Another great free thing to do in Vancouver in summer is to go to the drum circle.

The “ Brahm’s Tams Drum Circle ” has been getting together since 2006 every sunny Tuesday in English Bay around 6 pm. Third Beach is one of the main places to go in Vancouver on Tuesday evenings!

Meet at 3rd Beach in Stanley Park on Tuesday evenings and jam along with tons of other enthusiastic music-lovers. Simply bring yourself or any instrument that you desire.

Swim in an outdoor pool

How’s this for a cool thing to do in Vancouver? There are two great outdoor pools in downtown Vancouver. Both the Kitsilano Pool and Third Beach Pool outdoor pools open only in the summer months and have incredible views of the mountains and the sea.

They’re heated too so if you’re not ready to brave the sea itself then this is a great alternative.

Go kayaking in Deep Cove

Wondering where to go in Vancouver for kayaking or paddleboarding? You could just kayak off English Bay but kayaking and Deep Cove go hand in hand.

If you don’t have your own kayak or paddleboard you can hire them from Deep Cove Kayak but be sure to book in advance because they book up very quickly.

Hire a paddle board

Seeing Vancouver from the water is quite a unique experience and a fun way to see some of the top Vancouver attractions. 

You can rent kayaks and paddle boards from Vancouver Water Adventures .

They have a stand on English Bay and Kitsilano beaches or you can rent from their main location on Granville Island.

Learn to play Spikeball

Spikeball, also known as Roundnet, is a sport that’s a little like volleyball only you don’t need to put up a net.

It’s played on a little round net-trampoline type thing which you bounce the ball of off rather than over.

I’d never seen or heard of Spikeball before coming to Vancouver but you’re sure to see it being played on the beach.

Go on a bike ride

I ride my bike basically every day rain, sun or snow. I think Vancouver is a great city for cycling thanks to all the cycle lanes and cycling is a much quicker way to tick off all those places to see in Vancouver on your list.

If you’re visiting Vancouver then you  have to cycle around the Stanley Park section of the seawall (it is one of the top Vancouver tourist attractions after all!) or, if you’re local just grab your bike and cycle to the bar or beach instead of driving.

More great bike rides in Vancouver

Watch movies outside

The Evo Summer Series is back this summer! This means every Tuesday from July 2nd to August 30th you can catch a movie classic in the open air in Stanely Park, FOR FREE!

This is one of the top things to do in Vancouver for free in summer.

This year’s movies include Harry Potter & the Prisoner of Azkaban, Sleepless in Seattle and Shrek. Full line up here .

Play beach volleyball

I’d never played volleyball before we moved to Vancouver and now it’s not summer if I haven’t spent at least a few evenings out on the beach playing volleyball with friends.

There are lots of places you can play volleyball in Vancouver. There’s space for nets on Sunset Beach, English Bay Beach, Concord Park near Science World and loads over on Locarno-Jericho beaches!

Go to a drive-in cinema

Did you know there’s a drive-in cinema near Vancouver? If you’re looking for things to do in Vancouver at night then add this one to the list and it’s also a good idea for things for couples to do in Vancouver too.

The Twilight drive-in cinema shows two films every week. In the summer it’s open 7 days a week and tickets cost $13.50. Take some snacks and tune in your radio!

Try climbing outside

We’ve yet to try climbing outside but have been climbing in the gym. There are loads of places to climb outside and if you climb I’m sure you know about them already.

If not, then maybe this year is the year to take a climbing course up in Squamish ?

Swim in a lake

There are a lot of great lake hikes near Vancouver and summer means they’re finally thawed out from under the snow. Some great lakes near Vancouver for a dip include Mystery Lake, Cabin Lake and Brohm Lake (although there are plenty more!)

Check out this big list of the best lakes near Vancouver

Picnic whenever you get the chance

Food tastes better when it’s eaten outside with friends. Head to the store and buy some snacks or make dinner at home and take it down to the beach. A personal quick picnic is a rotisserie chicken from the store with some salad and good bread!

Find a new park to hang out in

One of my (many) favourite things about Vancouver is how green it is. There are SO many parks and they’re some of the top places to visit in Vancouver too!

I live in the West End so tend to go to Stanley Park and Sunset Beach most of the time but sometimes I’ll break the habit and go to another beautiful park. Crab Park near Gastown has great views if you’re over that way and Queen Elizabeth Park is popular for a reason!

Take a road trip

You know by now that I love a road trip! And, with our van Elvis , we’re always ready to go. These road trips to places to visit near Vancouver are perfect for weekend to weeklong trips.

Take a look at these Vancouver weekend getaways or read about a week road trip to the Rockies !

Do yoga at the top of Grouse Mountain

Be a real Vancouverite and do some yoga outdoors this summer. Grouse Mountain, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vancouver, has free 60-minute yoga classes led by YYOGA instructors, every Saturday morning from 10 – 11 am in July and August.

If you’re really after a Saturday workout then do the Grouse Grind beforehand!

Attend free yoga on the beach

And if you’re looking for more regular free yoga classes then check out Mat Collective who hold free yoga classes in Vancouver daily during summer.

Join the swimming club in Kitsilano

For the past few years, I’ve been going to the Vancouver Open Water Swimming Association practice swim on Kitsilano Beach on Monday and Thursdays. It costs $5 per session and they have a 1.6km course in the sea.

Lifeguards are on hand during these swims which always leave me feeling invigorated!

Rent skates or a skateboard and hit the seawall

I tried skateboarding for the first time last year and while I definitely feel a lot cooler than I look, I had a great time. We rented longboards from Flatspot Longboards and practiced on quieter sections of the seawall and empty car parks before going around the seawall.

You can also rent rollerskates or rollerblades if that’s more your thing.

Salsa dancing in Robson square

Want to know how to dance? Learn how to salsa dance for free in Vancouver this summer with Sunday Salsa in Robson Square . It’s got to be one of the more unusual things to do in downtown Vancouver!

This year Sunday salsa runs from July 7th to August 25th. Lessons run from 3 pm to 3.30 pm followed by social dancing and performances.

Vancouver festivals in summer

There are a lot of Vancouver summer events, from food festivals to fireworks there are fun festivals in Vancouver every weekend! They’re great if you’re looking for things to do in Vancouver in the summer. Oh, and most of these festivals are free, so add them to your list of cheap things to do in Vancouver.

Car Free day

Car Free Day happens every summer in Vancouver and celebrates the diverse neighbourhoods in the city. It’s an arts and culture festival where you can enjoy artists, performers and producers. There are currently car free days in the West End, Main Street, Commercial Drive and there are Kits Block Parties too.

Il Mercato Italian market

Il Mercato Italian Market is the place to go if you love everything about Italy. The summer market takes place on June 14th and admission is free.

There are more than 30 vendors selling olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pasta and more! Feast on great food while enjoying live music on a (hopefully) sunny afternoon.

Vancouver Mural Fest

Vancouver Mural Festival is the cities largest free annual public art celebration. It happens around Main Street and you can watch the murals being painted and enjoy some music and an arty vibe.

Vancouver Folk Music Festival

The Vancouver Folk Music Festival runs from July 19th-21st on Jericho Beach so you get great views and music! Even if you don’t know much folk music, it’s always enjoyable Tickets start at $47.

Khatsahlano Party

One of the biggest things to do for free in Vancouver is the big Khatsahlano Stree Party. This huge free music and arts festival on West 4th Avenue has several stages with over 50 top musical performances across 10 blocks from Burrard to MacDonald Street.

There’s also plenty of food, giveaways and licensed beer gardens! This year’s street party is happening on 6th July from 100 am to 9 pm.

This is just one of the best things to do in Kitsilano!

Kits Fest is a sport and healthy living beach festival that takes place for a week in August. This year it’s from 9th August to 11th. There’s basketball, sunset yoga, bathtub races, volleyball and more!

Canada Day is on July 1st every year and cities all over Canada celebrate it. Vancouver holds the Canada Day celebrations at Canada Place and this year will see food, live entertainment plenty of activities and more.

It’s a great free event in Vancouver this summer but it does get super busy so not something if you don’t like crowds!

Honda Celebration of Light

The Honda Celebration of Light, or Festival of Lights, Vancouver,  happens every year in July. Over the course of three evenings (rain or shine), you can watch amazing fireworks set to music. The fireworks are launched from a boat in the sea and it’s best watched from one of the beaches.

A different country does these Vancouver fireworks each night and this year its Canada, India and Croatia. It’s completely free to watch unless you want to book tickets to the VIP/stage area on English Bay beach.

Take a radio down to the Vancouver festival of lights with you to tune into the music or strategically place yourselves next to someone else with one. It’s much better when you can also hear the music at the fireworks on English Bay!

Vancouver food and drink things to do

Lover of food and drink and wondering what to do in Vancouver in the summer to satisfy your tastebuds? Be sure to check out these food & drink inspired events in Vancouver.

Go wine tasting in Fraser Valley

Did you know you can go wine tasting in the Fraser Valley? You don’t have to drive all the way to The Okanagan for wine tasting , there’s some great wine right in our backyard.

We recently explored some of the wineries near Langley but there are some all over the Fraser Valley. It’s a great sunny day activity near Vancouver if you can decide on a designated driver!

Do a beer crawl

If beer is more your thing than wine then head out to Port Moody or East Vancouver or the Main Street area. The best things about this beer crawl in Vancouver is that they’re accessible on public transport. I guess you could just say its a different way to go sightseeing in Vancouver..?

Some of our favourites are along Main Street like Main Street Brewing and Brassneck Brewing.

Go patio hopping

Now the sun’s out it’s time to explore the patios in Vancouver too. Vancouver does pretty well on the patio front, I guess it’s easy when the scenery is so good pretty much everywhere you look…

Some of the best patios in Vancouver are:

• Cactus Club English Bay or Waterfront (get super, super busy though)
• Tap Shack under Burrard Bridge
• Local, Kitsilano
• Bridges on Granville Island
• Mahony & Sons

Drink frosé

Yeah, it’s full of sugar but it’s also super tasty. Frosés from Cactus Club only appear on the menu in summer and these pink, sweet drinks made from rose wine, strawberries and some vodka just go down waaaay too easy. Get them during happy hour and you won’t regret it!

Go to Richmond night market

The Richmond Night Market is the largest night market in North America. It runs from mid-May to mid-October and is packed full of street food eats, shops, entertainment and people.

It’s easy to get to on transit as it’s just a couple of minutes walk from Bridgeport station.

The market is open Friday-Sunday. Be prepared to queue!

Browse the farmers’ markets

Most of the farmers’ markets go into hibernation in the winter months with the exception of a couple of them. But in the summer you’re sure to find a market in your local Vancouver neighbourhood .

If not, there’s also the Berry Mobile that springs up along the seawall selling fresh, local fruits and veg.

Find a rooftop bar

Vancouver has a few rooftop bars that are great for a summer drink. A few of the best rooftop bars in Vancouver are:

• Reflections Garden Terrace
• Joey on Broadway
• Vij’s Restaurant

Tour Vancouver’s ice creameries

If there’s one thing that Vancouver has in spades, then it’s ice cream places. There’s everything from vegan ice creameries to ice cream made with liquid nitrogen and places that only do ice cream sandwiches.

Our favourite is D’oro Gelato & Caffè on Denman or Rain or Shine!

Check out my Vancouver Travel Guides to discover more great Vancouver ice cream shops!

Go to Shipyards Night Market in North Vancouver

The Shipyards Night Market in North Vancouver is one of the best night markets near Vancouver. I personally prefer this to the Richmond Night Market as it has a more varied choice in food and absolutely beautiful views.

This Night Market runs from Friday Nights 5-10 pm – May 3 to September 27.

Attend a summer sporting event in Vancouver

If you’re from outside of North America, catching these sports can be a great way to explore a new destination. It’s one of the best things to do in the summer in Vancouver.

Gastown cycling race

If you’re visiting Vancouver in July don’t miss out on the Gastown Grand Prix, it’s one of the very cool things to see in Vancouver and one of the best things to do in Vancouver in July.

During this race, cyclists take to Gastown’s cobbled streets and do super fast laps. You can watch for free on July 10th. Don’t miss out on one of North America’s most historic and prestigious road cycling events!

Check out this list of the best things to do in Gastown!

Cheer for the Vancouver Whitecaps

Vancouver Whitecaps are the local football/soccer team and they play at BC Place in downtown Vancouver. Tickets aren’t too expensive compared to football tickets in Europe so if you’re looking for a fun afternoon then go cheer them on.

Watch the BC Lions

The BC Lions are Vancouver’s football team. They also play at BC Place and Vancouver gets very busy around the stadium during their games.

They’re one of the better sports teams in Vancouver having won 13 Western Division regular season championships, 10 Western Division championships and six Grey Cup championships.

Support the Vancouver Canadians

My favourite summer sport to attend in Vancouver is baseball. Yeah, I don’t know all the rules but the atmosphere is usually pretty good. The Vancouver Canadians play at the Scotiabank Field and Nat Bailey Stadium.

There are also firework extravaganza nights where you get a firework show for free after the game and special dog days where dogs are allowed too. I’d definitely add attending a game to your “what to see in Vancouver” list.

Final thoughts on Vancouver things to do in summer

There are so many fun things to do in Vancouver during summer. The city comes alive with people outdoors and enjoying the beautiful weather. Whether your summer activities in Vancouver are outside or involve festivals and weekend trips, you’ll find plenty of Vancouver summer activities to keep you entertained.

FAQs about what to do in Vancouver in summer

What to do in vancouver in summer.

In the summer, visitors to Vancouver can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and beach-going, as well as cultural events like the Celebration of Light fireworks festival and the Vancouver International Jazz Festival. Additionally, exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods and trying its many excellent restaurants are also great options.

What to do in Vancouver in July?

In July, visitors to Vancouver can enjoy a variety of outdoor events and festivals, such as the Vancouver Folk Music Festival and the Honda Celebration of Light fireworks display, as well as take advantage of the city’s numerous beaches and parks.

Last Updated on June 9, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

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We’re new to Vancouver and this has given us so much inspiration for the summer! Thanks for putting it together!

Welcome to Vancouver! Summer’s definitely the best time to arrive 🙂

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The best Vancouver attractions

What a stunner of a city Western Canada's largest metropolis is. These are the absolute best attractions in Vancouver

The best attractions in Vancouver cover a whole lot of ground. The museums tell story after story while the famous nature surrounding the city more than speaks for itself, although you may well hear a pin drop while crossing the magical Capilano Bridge. From lung-busting hikes to lung-filling gardens and more, Western Canada’s largest metropolis is a major destination for visitors of all ages and dispensations. Simply put, if you like things, you’ll find plenty to love about Vancouver. Double it all up with a gorgeous gourmet meal at one of the city’s best restaurants , and you’ve got yourself one heck of a time.

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Vancouver

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Best Vancouver attractions

1.  Stanley Park

This must-see park offers 1,000 acres of active pursuits, with beaches, an aquarium, playgrounds, a pool and splash park, botanical gardens, a golf course, 17 tennis courts, and more. 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.

2.  Capilano Suspension Bridge

The oldest tourist attraction in the city, the Capilano Suspension Bridge has attracted thrill-seeking visitors since 1889. Test your mettle as you walk the bridge—suspended 230 feet high and 450 feet across the Capilano River—and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the temperate rainforest. The park also features a cliff walk, nature tours, a treetop adventure, and a Living Forest exhibit.

3.  Museum of Vancouver

Snap a pic with the giant crab sculpture out front before heading into Canada’s largest civic museum. Located in Vanier Park, the MOV fosters a greater understanding of Vancouver through fascinating exhibits on a range of topics, including ancient First Nations history, the relationship between nature and urban environments, and that time in the ‘50s when Vancouver had more neon than Las Vegas.

4.  Vancouver Aquarium

A Stanley Park highlight, the 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. Enjoy the antics of the otters and penguins, be mesmerized by the jellyfish and gain a greater appreciation of the importance of protecting the world’s oceans.

5.  Vancouver Art Gallery

Robson Street is a popular destination for shopping, but don’t miss the Vancouver Art Gallery. The Gallery’s collection is highly acclaimed, featuring both contemporary arts and historical exhibitions. The well-known British Columbian artist Emily Carr has a dedicated collection, so be sure to check it out for some local pride. 

6.  Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden

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

7.  Granville Island

Overhauled in the 1970s, this former industrial site—technically a peninsula rather than an island—is now a thriving destination with plenty to explore. Take an Aquabus to the island and spend an afternoon checking out restaurants, artist studios and galleries. The highlight is one of Canada’s most beloved culinary destinations, the Granville Island Public Market, which features confections, cheeses, bread, meats, and a food court with more tasty local eats.

8.  Gastown

The original downtown neighbourhood of Vancouver, Gastown is now a vibrant, trendy 'hood, with unique shopping, dining, art galleries, and more. Densely-packed and stylish, Gastown is filled with cobblestone streets and beautifully refurbished buildings. After browsing the boutiques and galleries, grab a cocktail or dinner and make it a night out. Don’t miss the famous Gastown Steam Clock, one of only a few working steam clocks in the world. The clock shoots steam every quarter-hour, and each whistle blows on the hour.

9.  Telus World of Science

The futuristic sphere (built for Expo ‘86) at the end of False Creek is a world of scientific wonders. While hands-on activities and interactive displays will certainly entertain kids, it’s eye-opening for adults too. Scientific demonstrations on Centre Stage and OMNIMAX® Theatre shows are sure to wow even the most jaded museum-goer.

10.  Sea to Sky Gondola

This ten-minute gondola ride takes you up almost 2,800 feet past Shannon Falls. Drive the stunning Sea to Sky Highway to Squamish, then gaze out the gondola window for spectacular views of Howe Sound and the mountains surrounding Vancouver. More things to do: 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.

11.  Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia

Located on the traditional territory of the Musqueam people, the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) features art by indigenous peoples from Canada and around the world. As 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 the renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson.

12.  VanDusen Botanical Garden

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

13.  FlyOver Canada

Want a birds-eye view of Canada? This state-of-the-art, special effects-driven simulation ride in Canada Place is a thrilling intro to the beauty of the country. Suspended in your seat with feet dangling, you’ll feel like you’re actually flying from coast to coast while watching projections on the huge dome screen. You’ll fly through valleys, countryside, mountains, forests, and lakes. Wind, mist, and the scents of nature make the experience all the more realistic.

14.  Grouse Mountain

A year-round destination, Grouse Mountain is popular with outdoor enthusiasts, as well as those simply seeking a beautiful view. 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 has something for everyone. 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.

15.  Kitsilano Pool

Swim in turquoise waters with stunning views of the mountains, ocean, and the Vancouver skyline. The 137-meter heated saltwater pool is located outdoors on the bay near Kitsilano Beach. Three sections cater to all crowds: A shallow end for kids and families, a deep end for teens and adults, and a section for lap-swimmers. There are lockers and an on-site cafe for refreshments.

16.  Vancouver Lookout

Temporarily closed

This Harbour Centre attraction is a great way to get the lay of the land before touring around Vancouver. A glass elevator zooms skyward more than 550 feet to the observation deck, where you’ll have 360° views of the city. The admission ticket is valid all day, so be sure to check it out in the morning and evening for two different, equally beautiful perspectives.

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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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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.

Jau-Cheng Liou/Getty Images

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

Find alpine adventures on Grouse Mountain.

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

Visit the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.

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

SUP the Salish Sea.

edb3_16/Getty Images

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

Teeter across the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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

Play at Creekside Park.

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

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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75 Best Things To Do In Vancouver (From A Local)

Last Updated on February 1, 2023

There is no place like home, and Vancouver is ours. We love the city’s diversity, its natural beauty, and its lively culture.

Vancouver has something for everyone, whether you are looking for an urban adventure or a scenic escape. And with so many activities and attractions to choose from, there is never a dull moment.

From strolling along Granville Island to skiing in the mountains, we have always been able to find ways to enjoy ourselves. We were born and raised here and we are proud to call Vancouver our home.

Here is your insider’s guide to all the best things to do in Vancouver. Since we are locals, this post will be a continual work in progress and we will keep adding to it as we explore more of this beautiful city.

Check back for updates!

Table Of Contents

Enjoy The Scenery From A Boat

Explore stanley park, visit the vancouver aquarium, admire the stanley park totem poles, go for a stroll on the seawall, ride the stanley park train, pacific national exhibition, vancouver canadians, check out craft breweries, join a food tour, capilano suspension bridge, go kayaking in false creek, explore deep cove and climb quarry rock, go whale watching, sea to sky gondola, sea to sky highway, explore gastown, visit grouse mountain, hike the grouse grind, attend a festival or event, granville island, visit science world, take a seaplane tour, hike the chief, english bay, golden ears provincial park, vancouver city sight-seeing tour, explore the vancouver art gallery, walk lynn canyon, explore chinatown, robson street shopping, have fun in the snow, relax on the beaches, kitsilano pool, hike through lighthouse park in north vancouver, visit sasamat lake, take the seabus to lonsdale quay, explore commercial drive, go stand-up paddleboarding, wander through pacific spirit park, eat fish & chips at steveston, go airplane spotting, visit the richmond night market, van dusen botanical gardens, watch a concert at the commodore, catch a canucks game, catch a show at stanley theatre, queen elizabeth park, bloedel conservatory at queen elizabeth park, dr. sun yat-sen chinese garden, museum of anthropology, cypress lookout (barrett’s view), vancouver lookout, vancouver maritime museum, museum of vancouver, lights to the lodge on cypress mountain, walk around canada place, flyover canada, vancouver football, vancouver murals, enjoy the public art, go scuba diving or snorkeling, burnaby village museum, h. r. macmillan space centre, visit vancouver olympic sites, visit olympic village, ride the skytrain, dundarave pier, bowen island, gulf islands, harrison hot springs.

One of the best ways to see Vancouver is from the water. There are plenty of boat tour operators in the city, so you can easily find a tour that fits your schedule and interests. On a boat tour, you will get great views of Vancouver’s skyline and natural landmarks like Stanley Park and Lion’s Gate Bridge. You might even spot some wildlife! Whether you are looking for a leisurely sightseeing experience or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, a Vancouver boat tour is sure to give you memories that will last a lifetime.

Stanley Park is one of Vancouver’s most popular tourist destinations, and for good reason. Situated on the edge of downtown, the park offers stunning views of the coastline, along with a range of amenities including walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Stanley Park is a 1,001-acre magnificent green oasis in the midst of the urban landscape of Vancouver,  with Vancouver’s famous seawall on the outskirts of the park that stretches 8.8 km.

The park also features several historic landmarks, including the famous Lion’s Gate Bridge and the Brockton Point Lighthouse.

In fact, Stanley Park is considered to be the top park in all of Canada. Even more amazing, it was named ‘top park in the entire world’ by TripAdvisor. This award is not just any old compliment, but the result of millions of reviews submitted to their website’s travel community.

This stunning natural space has earned its place as one worth visiting before you die.

The Vancouver Aquarium is a world-renowned marine science center that is in the heart of Vancouver’s Stanley Park. The Aquarium first opened its doors in 1956 and has since become one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.

The aquarium houses around  300 species of fish, almost 30,000 invertebrates, and 56 species of amphibians and reptiles . They also have around 60 mammals and birds. In addition to its many beautiful exhibits, the Aquarium also offers a variety of educational programs and events that are sure to interest everyone in the family.

Whether you are looking to learn more about marine life or simply enjoy a fun day out, a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium is sure to be a memorable experience.

Stanley Park is home to nine totem poles that were carved by members of the Squamish and Musqueam nations. The poles are a popular tourist attraction, and they provide a glimpse into the rich culture and history of the Squamish and Musqueam peoples.

The display of totems has been at Brockton Point since the 1960s. The 9th and newest pole was added in 2009.

Four of the totems are from Alert Bay on Vancouver Island. The other totems are from Haida Gwaii and River’s Inlet (on BC’s west coast).

The newest pole that was set up in 2009 and is the only one made by a Vancouver-area artist. It was carved by Robert Yelton of the Squamish Nation.

Vancouver has the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront pathway. The 28 km seaside greenway is an uninterrupted pathway, including the Stanley Park Seawall (8.8km), that extends from the Vancouver Convention Centre to Spanish Banks Park. It is a great place to stretch your legs or go for picturesque cycling around town.

If you are new to Vancouver this is an excellent introduction because it goes past many must-see sights during its 28km route.

The seawall is a popular spot for walkers, bikers, and rollerbladers, and on a sunny day, it is not unusual to see the path crammed with people enjoying the fresh air and stunning scenery.

This 20 gauge, 2 km track winding through the forest is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Take a look at the vintage engine before you board for the 15-minute ride.  The Stanley Park Railway’s replica Canadian Pacific Railway Engine #374, is famous for pulling Canada’s first transcontinental passenger train into Vancouver in the late 1880s.

The train is especially awesome during the holidays. You must book your tickets in advance, but it is one of the best things to do in Vancouver at Christmas . The train ride is paired with the Bright Nights light display of over three million sparkling lights that will ignite your excitement for the Christmas season. It is one of the best festive and family-friendly light displays in Vancouver.

You can ride the train year-round with different themes for the seasons (Halloween and Easter too).

Stanley Park Railway is adjacent to other popular destinations such as Lumberman’s Arch, Malkin Bowl, and the Rose Garden.

Read Next – Best Things To Do In Vancouver At Christmas

Vancouver’s Pacific National Exhibition is a must-see for any visitor to the city to end the summer with some fun.

The exhibition has something for everyone, with a wide range of exhibits and activities to enjoy. From farm animals and food trucks to rides and games, Coca-Cola Stage bands, and Summer Night Concerts, there is something to keep everyone entertained.

The exhibition is also a great opportunity to learn about Vancouver’s history and culture. With an annual attendance of over two million people, the Pacific National Exhibition is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.

A big PNE favorite is the SuperDogs. There is something special about a SuperDogs show. Maybe it is the way the dogs seem to fly through the air or the way they contort their bodies in seemingly impossible ways. Or maybe it is the look of complete joy on everyone’s faces as they perform. Whatever the reason, watching a SuperDogs show is an unforgettable experience. The dogs are incredibly talented, and their handlers are clearly dedicated to providing them with the best possible training. As a result, the dogs are able to perform amazing feats that leave spectators amazed. If you ever have the chance to see a SuperDogs show, do not miss it – it is an experience you will not soon forget.

The Vancouver Canadians are a Minor League Baseball team that plays in the Northwest League. They play their home games at the gorgeous Nat Bailey Stadium. The Canadians are affiliated with the Toronto Blue Jays.

The team was founded in 1978 and they have been playing baseball in Vancouver ever since.

Attending a Vancouver Canadians game is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening. The games are affordable and family-friendly, and there is always a great atmosphere at the stadium.

If you are looking for a fun night out, make sure to check out the Vancouver Canadians baseball game!

Vancouver is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with dozens of breweries dotted across the city. Whether you are a fan of hoppy IPAs or malty stouts, you will find something to suit your taste.

Many of Vancouver’s breweries are in former industrial areas, and they often make use of repurposed materials to create a unique atmosphere. In addition to brewing great beer, many of Vancouver’s breweries also host events such as live music and comedy nights. If you are looking for a fun night out, be sure to check out one of Vancouver’s many craft breweries.

Some of the most popular are Granville Island Brewing, Steamworks Brewing Company, Andina Brewing Co., and Parallel 49.

Read Next – Things To Do On Granville Island

Vancouver is a food lover’s dream, with a wide range of cuisines from all over the world represented in its restaurants. And what better way to sample the city’s culinary delights than on a food tour?

Vancouver Food Tours offers a variety of different tours, each showcasing a different neighborhood and its unique culinary offerings. The Chinatown tour, for example, takes visitors to some of the best Chinese restaurants in the city, while the Gastown tour showcases Vancouver’s historic downtown district, with stops at trendy cafes and local breweries. No matter what your interests are, there is sure to be a food tour that is right for you. So come on down and see what Vancouver has to offer!

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of Vancouver’s most popular tourist attractions. Spanning 450 feet across and 230 feet above the Capilano River, the bridge offers breathtaking views of the canyon below. Originally built in 1889, the bridge has undergone several renovations over the years, but it still retains its original charm.

Visitors can stroll across the bridge at their leisure or wander through the treetop adventure and cliffwalk.

No matter how you choose to experience it, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is sure to leave a lasting impression.

One of the best ways to explore Vancouver is from the water, and there is no better place to do that than False Creek. This protected inlet is perfect for kayaking, and several rental companies offer kayaks, SUPs, and canoes. You can paddle around the Seawall, past Science World, under the Burrard Street Bridge, and around Granville Island.

False Creek is also home to several waterfront parks and beaches, so you can always stop for a picnic or a swim. And if you are feeling adventurous, you can even paddle out into English Bay.

Whether you are a seasoned paddler or a first-time adventurer, be sure to explore Vancouver by kayak!

Vancouver’s Deep Cove is a beautiful and serene place that is perfect for a day of exploring and relaxation. The cove is in the easternmost part of the city, and it is surrounded by forested mountains and calm waters.

There are plenty of trails to explore, and you can even rent kayaks to paddle around in. Deep Cove is also home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles, seals, and otters.

The Quarry Rock trail begins in Deep Cove and is well marked and easy to follow. The views from the top are breathtaking; on a clear day, you can see Vancouver Island.

Looking for a delicious treat in Deep Cove? Be sure to check out Honey’s Doughnuts! This charming shop is in the heart of the cove, and it specializes in fresh, handmade doughnuts. The selection changes daily, so there is always something new to try. Whether you are looking for a classic glazed doughnut or something more adventurous, you are sure to find it at Honey’s. And do not forget to get a cup of coffee to go with your treat – the shop has some of the best coffee in town. So next time you are in Deep Cove, be sure to stop by Honey’s Doughnuts and indulge in a little sweetness.

Deep Cove is also one of the best places to find starfish in Vancouver.

Whale watching is a popular activity in Vancouver, and for good reason. The city is in the heart of whale territory, and there are many different species to see.

Orcas, also known as killer whales, are a particularly popular sight. These massive creatures can grow up to 30 feet long, and they are often seen hunting in packs. Humpback whales are another common sighting. These gentle giants are known for their striking tail fins, which they use to propel themselves through the water. Blue whales are the largest animals on Earth, and they can sometimes be spotted off the coast of Vancouver.

Whether you are looking for majestic orcas or gentle giants, Vancouver is the perfect place to go whale-watching.

The Sea to Sky Gondola is a must-do activity when visiting Squamish, BC. The gondola takes you 885 meters (2900 feet) above sea level, providing stunning views of Howe Sound, and the Coastal Mountains.

Once at the top, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as restaurants and a kid’s playground. The Sea to Sky Gondola is open year-round, and in winter there is also a network of cross-country ski trails.

Whether you are looking for an adventure or just want to take in the incredible views, the Sea to Sky Gondola is sure to please.

The Sea to Sky Highway is one of the most beautiful drives in the world. It winds its way through the coastal mountains of British Columbia, offering stunning views of glaciers, forests, and waterfalls.

The drive can be taken in a day, but it is worth taking your time to enjoy all that the highway has to offer. There are plenty of pull-offs and picnic areas where you can stop to take in the view and several hikes that can be accessed from the highway.

Whether you are driving to Whistler for a ski trip or just exploring the coast, the Sea to Sky Highway is a must-see.

Take a look at our guide for the Best Stops Along The Sea To Sky Highway so you do not miss the best sights!

Read Next – Best Stops Along The Sea To Sky Highway (From A Local)

Gastown is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vancouver. Located in the downtown core, Gastown is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Visitors can explore the cobbled streets and admire Victorian-style architecture. The neighborhood has a rich history dating back to the city’s founding in 1867. Today, Gastown is a vibrant and thriving community that is always worth a visit.

One of the only functioning steam clocks in the world is located right in Gastown. Built as part of a throwback revitalization plan for this historic community, it was completed back in 1977 and has been running ever since!

Catch the tune and steam show every hour on the hour and every fifteen minutes after.

Just a short drive from Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers stunning views of the coastal mountains, as well as plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. In winter, the mountain transforms into a winter wonderland, with skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities on offer. Whether you are looking for a summer adventure or a winter retreat, Grouse Mountain is the perfect destination.

The Grouse Grind at Grouse Mountain is a Vancouver landmark and a popular hiking trail for locals and visitors alike. As the name suggests, the trail is notoriously steep, with an average grade of 30% and a total elevation gain of 853 meters.

Despite its challenging nature, the Grouse Grind is extremely popular, with over 100,000 people hiking it each year. The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. If you are looking for a strenuous hike with a rewarding payoff, the Grouse Grind is worth checking out.

You are not allowed to hike down the Grouse Grind. Enjoy the scenery as you take the Skyride down.

Also, make note that this is a legit hike. Do not show up in jeans and flip-flops and bring extra water. It is hard work!

Vancouver is a vibrant city with a lot to offer. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Vancouver is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. Throughout the year, the city hosts several festivals and events that celebrate its diverse communities. From the Vancouver Mural Festival or Vancouver Jazz Festival to the Celebration of Light fireworks display, there is always something exciting happening in Vancouver.

If you are looking for an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon or evening, be sure to check out what is happening around town. You are sure to find an event that is perfect for you.

Read Next – Vancouver Mural Festival Showcases Incredible Art Scene

For an unforgettable day out in Vancouver, be sure to visit Granville Island. This vibrant community is located in the heart of the city and is home to a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Start your day by browsing the stalls at the Granville Island Public Market, where you will find everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods. Then, explore the many galleries and studios that line the island’s streets. You will find everything from paintings and sculptures to handcrafted jewelry and pottery. And when you are ready for a break, enjoy a bite to eat at one of Granville Island’s many cafes and eateries.

With so much to see and do, Granville Island is the perfect place to spend a day in Vancouver!

Read Next: 15 Things To Do On Granville Island In Vancouver

Science World Vancouver is a museum dedicated to promoting the scientific and technological understanding of the world. The museum has interactive exhibits on topics such as space, energy, the environment, and the human body. In addition, the museum is home to the OMNIMAX Theatre, which offers educational films on a range of scientific topics.

Science World is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the world around them.

If you are looking for an unforgettable way to see Vancouver, taking a seaplane ride is a great option. Several companies offer seaplane tours, and they typically last around 30 minutes. During the tour, you will get incredible views of the city skyline, mountain ranges, and coastline. You may even spot some marine life, such as dolphins or whales.

Taking a seaplane ride is a great way to see Vancouver from a different perspective, and it is an experience that you will never forget.

For those looking for an amazing hike with incredible views, look no further than the Chief in Squamish. This popular trail features a challenging route to the top of a mountain, with panoramic views of the surrounding area. There are several different routes to take to the top, so hikers can choose their level of difficulty. The trail is also well-maintained, so hikers can enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience.

And for those who want to make a weekend of it, there are several camping sites located near the trailhead.

Vancouver is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. One of its most popular attractions is English Bay, which is located on the city’s waterfront. The bay is a great place to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery, and it is also a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area, so you can grab a bite to eat while you enjoy the view.

Golden Ears Provincial Park is a beautiful spot for a day trip. The park is located near Vancouver and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy hikes to more challenging ones. The Alouette Lake trail is a great option for those who want to enjoy the scenery without having to hike too far. The trail winds its way around the lake, providing plenty of opportunities to take in the views.

The Golden Ears Lower Falls Trail to Gold Creek Falls is one of the most popular trails in Golden Ears Provincial Park. The trail is wide and groomed the entire way to the waterfall. With only a couple of quick hills, the elevation gain is minimal, making it a great option for those who are new to hiking, or for a family hike with young children.

Alouette Lake is one of the most popular swimming spots in the area. The water is refreshing on a warm day and the setting is simply beautiful. With the towering mountains in the background, it is no wonder that so many people flock to this spot during the summer months.

Camping at Golden Ears Provincial Park is also a fantastic option for summer fun!

Vancouver is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. From its bustling downtown core to its stunning natural scenery, there is something for everyone in Vancouver. One of the best ways to explore the city is to take a sightseeing tour. Many different tour companies offer a variety of Vancouver sightseeing tours, so it is easy to find one that suits your interests and budget. A sightseeing tour is a great way to get the most out of your Vancouver experience.

The Vancouver Art Gallery is a must-see for any art lover visiting the city. Housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts building, the gallery features an impressive collection of work by Canadian and international artists. A visit to the gallery is a perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon in Vancouver.

Highlights include the paintings of Emily Carr, one of Canada’s most celebrated artists, as well as a rotating selection of contemporary exhibitions. The Vancouver Art Gallery also offers several educational programs, making it a great destination for families.

Whether you are an art aficionado or simply looking for a way to spend some time indoors on a rainy Vancouver afternoon, the Vancouver Art Gallery is well worth a visit.

If you are looking for a breathtaking natural setting to explore near Vancouver, Lynn Canyon is a great option. The canyon is home to a beautiful suspension bridge that spans across the rushing waters below. The bridge is particularly popular with hikers, as it provides access to some of the best trails in the area.

Whether you are looking for a challenging hike or a peaceful place to relax, Lynn Canyon is worth a visit.

Vancouver’s Chinatown is one of the oldest in North America, and it is home to a vibrant community of Chinese Canadians. The neighborhood is centered around Pender Street, and it is full of traditional Chinese shops and restaurants. Many of the businesses in Chinatown are family-owned, and they have been passed down through generations. The neighborhood is also home to several cultural institutions, including the Chinese Canadian Historical Society and the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Chinatown is an important part of Vancouver’s history, and it is a great place to experience authentic Chinese culture.

Do not miss the New Town Bakery, a Vancouver favorite for barbeque pork buns.

Robson Street is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Vancouver. The street is home to a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to chain stores. Visitors can find everything they need, whether they are looking for new clothes, souvenirs, or just a place to relax and people watch. There are also several great restaurants on Robson Street, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after a day of shopping.

Winter can be gorgeous. When the snow starts to fall, the city comes alive with whole new energy.

While some people might hunker down indoors, others take advantage of the winter weather and head for the mountains. After all, Vancouver is lucky enough to be surrounded by some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world.

If you are looking to enjoy the snow during your winter visit, why not hit the slopes? Popular options closest to downtown include Mount Seymour, Cypress Mountain, and Grouse Mountain.

Vancouver is a city with many hidden gems and one of them just so happens to be its stunning beaches. Although it may come as a surprise to some, Vancouver is home to nine beautiful beaches that are perfect for any season or activity.

One of the most popular beaches in the city is Kitsilano Beach. This beach is bustling with activity all year round and is the perfect spot for sunbathing, playing sports, or simply relaxing. If you are not a fan of swimming in the ocean, there is also an outdoor salt-water pool that is great for cooling off on hot days.

If you are feeling more adventurous, venture to UBC’s Wreck Beach. It is Canada’s largest nude beach and the optional section is clearly marked with signs and stretches approximately 6.7 kilometers from Acadia Beach, in the north, to the Booming Grounds Creek on the north arm of the Fraser River.

There are plenty of people who love this place for its relaxed atmosphere.

No matter what you are looking for, Vancouver’s beaches are sure to have something for everyone.

Located in the heart of Vancouver, the Kitsilano Pool is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike when the summer heat arrives. With a length of 137 meters, it is the longest pool in North America. Relax on the deck where people can sunbathe, and take in stunning views of the city. Kitsilano Beach, one of Vancouver’s most popular beaches, is just a short walk away, making the Kitsilano Pool a great spot to cool off after a day in the sun.

Whether you are looking to take a dip or just enjoy the view, the Kitsilano Pool is definitely worth a visit.

Lighthouse Park is a beautiful spot to take in the city’s skyline and watch boats. The lighthouse and light station grounds at Point Atkinson are a national historic site, and one of the most photographed landmarks in all lower Mainland.

It is nothing short of a magical example of British Columbia’s coastal rainforest, with its huge trees, deep forest, rugged coastline, and magnificent ocean views. With its stunning views and rich history, Lighthouse Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Vancouver.

Read Next: The Ultimate Guide To Kid-Friendly Hikes Near Vancouver

Just a short drive from Vancouver, Sasamat Lake is the perfect spot for a day trip. The tranquil lake is surrounded by lush forests, and there are gorgeous trails to explore in the area. Visitors can swim, paddleboard, or go for a hike. There are also several picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the views. Sasamat Lake is a beautiful spot any time of year.

Hike around Sasamat Lake for gorgeous views. Jug Island is another incredible trail to hike nearby.

Read Next – Hiking To Jug Island In Belcarra Regional Park

The SeaBus is a passenger ferry that crosses the Burrard Inlet, connecting Downtown Vancouver to North Vancouver. The SeaBus is a fun way to explore more of Vancouver and see the sights. It departs every 15 minutes during the day and takes a short 12-minute ride to cross the Inlet.

Lonsdale Quay is a vibrant public market and shipping terminal located in North Vancouver, British Columbia. The market features a wide variety of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handcrafted gifts. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of Vancouver’s skyline and mountains, as well as the bustling activity of the harbor.

The terminal is home to many ferry and water taxi services, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the beautiful coastal regions of British Columbia. Whether you are looking for a unique shopping experience or a gateway to adventure, Lonsdale Quay is sure to delight you.

Do not miss the shipyards district in lower Lonsdale. The area was once the site of several shipyards, and today it is home to a museum, a heritage park, and a working dockyard. The district is also a great place to enjoy the city’s views, with plenty of restaurants and cafes overlooking the water.

During the winter, the covered outdoor rink is a great spot to go ice skating.

If you are visiting Vancouver, be sure to add the Shipyards District to your itinerary.

Vancouver’s Commercial Drive is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood, full of culture and history. The Drive, as it is colloquially known, is home to many immigrants, and as a result, is a melting pot of different cultures.

The area is also well known for its independent businesses, many of which have been in operation for decades. In recent years, the Drive has become increasingly gentrified, but it still retains its character and charm.

Whether you are looking for good food, interesting shops, or just a place to people watch, Commercial Drive is worth a visit.

If you are looking for a fun and unique activity to do in Vancouver, stand-up paddleboarding is a great option. It is perfect for all skill levels, and you can enjoy stunning views of the city as you paddle around. There are plenty of rental companies that will provide you with everything you need, so all you have to do is show up and have fun.

Stand-up paddleboarding is a great workout, and it is also a great way to relax and enjoy time on the water.

With over 750 hectares of forest, Pacific Spirit Regional Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Situated on the University of British Columbia endowment lands, the park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life. The park is also crisscrossed by an extensive network of trails, making it a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and birdwatchers.

Whether you are looking for a stroll or an invigorating hike, Pacific Spirit Regional Park has something to offer everyone. And with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the majestic coastal mountains, it is easy to see why this urban oasis is such a beloved spot in Vancouver.

If you are looking for a charming town to explore near Vancouver, be sure to add Steveston in Richmond to your list. This quaint fishing village is situated on the banks of the Fraser River and is known for its fresh seafood, beautiful waterfront views, and charming heritage buildings. While you are here, be sure to visit the Steveston Museum and Gulf of Georgia Cannery.

To learn more about the area’s history, check out the various shops and galleries, and enjoy a meal at one of the delicious seafood restaurants. With its friendly atmosphere and lovely setting, Steveston is sure to please visitors of all ages.

If you love watching airplanes, there are several great spots to go plane spotting near Vancouver International Airport .

Walk the Iona Jetty to experience airplanes flying overhead. Or, Larry Berg Flight Path Park features a big globe of the world to watch airplanes from. Both locations are minutes from the airport.

The Richmond Night Market is a must-see for any visitor to Vancouver. Held every summer, the market features a wide variety of food and merchandise from all over Asia. Highlights include delicious street food, unique jewelry and clothing, and beautiful artwork. A market is also a great place to people watch, as it attracts a diverse range of locals and tourists alike.

With its vibrant atmosphere and wealth of stalls to explore, the Richmond Night Market is an experience not to be missed.

Van Dusen Gardens is a 55-acre oasis in the heart of Vancouver. With more than 65,000 plants from all over the world, it is easy to see why this is one of the city’s most beloved parks. Visitors can stroll through carefully curated gardens, wander along the trails, or simply relax in the shade on a hot summer day.

No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something in bloom. The Van Dusen Garden is a must-see for any nature lover – and a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

If you are looking for an unforgettable concert experience, look no further than the Commodore Ballroom. With its intimate setting and excellent acoustics, the Commodore provides a truly unique concert experience.

While the venue may be small, it manages to pack a powerful punch, with a lineup of world-renowned artists that is sure to please. From up-and-coming bands to international superstars, the Commodore has something for everyone.

If you are in the mood for some great music, be sure to check out the schedule at the legendary Commodore Ballroom.

If you are ever in Vancouver, be sure to catch a Canucks game at Rogers Arena. The atmosphere is electric, and the fans are passionate. You will want to get there early to grab a beer and some food before the game starts. If you are lucky, you might even catch a fight or two.

Trust me, it is an experience you will not forget anytime soon.

The Stanley Theatre in Vancouver is one of the city’s most beloved historic landmarks. Built in the early 1900s, the theatre has been home to countless performances, from blockbuster musicals to iconic plays. Today, the Stanley Theatre remains a popular destination for theatergoers, offering a wide variety of shows throughout the year.

Whether you are looking for a night of laughter or a heart-wrenching drama, you are sure to find a show that will captivate you at the Stanley Theatre.

Queen Elizabeth Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vancouver. Situated on top of a hill in the heart of the city, the park offers stunning views of downtown Vancouver and the surrounding mountains.

The park is Vancouver’s horticultural jewel and is a major draw for floral display enthusiasts and view-seekers. The park also features The Bloedel Conservatory – you can read more about it below.

The Bloedel Conservatory is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Vancouver. Located atop Queen Elizabeth Park, the conservatory is home to hundreds of exotic birds and plants. Visitors can stroll through the indoor rainforest, and enjoy the subtle scents of a healing garden, and the sound of waterfalls.

The Bloedel Conservatory is open year-round, making it a perfect spot for a winter walk or to pair with a summer picnic in Queen Elizabeth Park. With its lush gardens and peaceful setting, the conservatory is an oasis of calm in the busy city.

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Vancouver. Modeled after the traditional gardens of China, it is a place of peace and tranquility. Visitors can stroll through the garden that features beautiful pavilions, covered walkways, a jade green pond with koi fish, and a collection of 150-year-old miniature trees.

In addition to being a lovely spot for a stroll or picnic, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden is also a popular venue for weddings and other special events.

This Ming Dynasty-style garden home is the first among its kind to have been built outside of China and continues to be unique in the world due to the collaboration between community members, the Canadian Government, and the People’s Republic of China.

Whether you are looking for a place to relax or celebrate, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden is sure to please.

The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is one of the world’s leading institutions for the study of anthropology. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from around the world, and its exhibitions are renowned for their insights into the human experience.

The museum is also home to a research center, which is dedicated to furthering our understanding of anthropology. In addition to its exhibits and research facilities, the Museum of Anthropology also offers a variety of public programs, such as lectures and workshops. These programs provide an opportunity for the public to engage with anthropology in a hands-on way. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or just somebody curious about the world around them, the Museum of Anthropology is well worth a visit.

If you want to get a great view of Vancouver, there is no better place to go than Cypress Mountain Lookout. Just a short drive from downtown, Cypress Mountain offers panoramic views of Vancouver, the surrounding mountains, and even the Pacific Ocean.

On a clear day, you can see across Georgia Straight to Vancouver Island and southeast to Mount Baker in Washington State. Whether you are a local or a visitor, Cypress Mountain is worth a visit. Head up there today and enjoy the amazing views.

The Vancouver Lookout is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Located in the heart of downtown, the Lookout provides breathtaking views of the cityscape. Visitors can take in the sights from an outdoor observation deck, or enjoy a meal or drink at the on-site restaurant.

The Vancouver Maritime Museum is a world-renowned museum that showcases the maritime history of  the Pacific Northwest and the Arctic . Located in the heart of Vancouver’s historic Gastown district, the museum is home to a variety of exhibitions and interactive displays.

Visitors can learn about the region’s Indigenous peoples, early European explorers, and the development of the modern fishing and shipping industries. The museum also houses a research library and archives, which are open to the public by appointment. With its unique blend of history, culture, and science, the Vancouver Maritime Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the maritime heritage of the Pacific Northwest.

The Museum of Vancouver is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. Located in downtown Vancouver, the museum is home to a wide variety of Vancouver-related exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can learn about the city’s history, culture, and art, and see firsthand how Vancouver has changed over time.

The museum also features many interactive displays, making it a great place for families to visit. Whether you are a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the Museum of Vancouver is sure to have something that will interest you.

There is something special about a winter hike. The air is crisp, the snow is glistening, and the silence is deafening. But when night falls, the trail can suddenly feel a lot less inviting.

That is why Cypress Mountain offers Light To The Lodge, where a snowshoe trail is lit up by thousands of lights. The lights provide a warm and welcoming glow, making it a magical snowshoeing experience after dark. And best of all, you can stop at the historic Hollyburn Lodge for a hot chocolate and warm meal.

Go experience the magic for yourself!

One of the must-see landmarks in Vancouver is Canada Place. Canada Place is an iconic building in the heart of downtown Vancouver. It is home to the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel, and many shops and restaurants. The best way to experience Canada Place is to take a walk around the perimeter. You will get stunning views of the North Shore mountains, Coal Harbour, and Stanley Park. If you are lucky, you might even see some marine life such as dolphins or orcas.

Canada Place is also a great place to watch the sunset or enjoy a meal with a view.

Flyover Canada located at Canada Place is the ultimate flying experience. You will feel like you are flying across all of Canada with this fun experience.

Using state-of-the-art 4D video technology, simulations recreate the landscapes for a mind-blowing flight.

You will be buckled into your seat to hang suspended in front of a 20-meter spherical screen, while special effects such as wind and scents create an unforgettable realistic 8-minute journey.

BC Place is Vancouver’s 53,000-capacity retractable roof stadium. It is home to the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League (CFL) from May to November, and the Vancouver Whitecaps, of Major League Soccer (MLS) from March to October.

Whether you are a diehard fan or just enjoy watching a good game, there is no denying that watching a sporting event can be a lot of fun. Part of the appeal is the excitement and suspense that comes with not knowing who will win. Will your team pull off a victory? Or will the other team spoil your hopes? There is also something special about experiencing a live event with a crowd of people who are all rooting for the same thing. The energy and enthusiasm in the air are simply contagious.

And even if your team does not come out on top, you can still take solace in the fact that you had a great time cheering them on.

If you are looking for something fun and unique to do in Vancouver, why not explore the city’s murals? You will find them in all sorts of unexpected places, from alleyways to parking lots. And each one tells a story about the city and its people. No matter what your interests are, you are sure to find a mural that speaks to you. So next time you are exploring Vancouver, keep your eyes peeled for these pieces of public art.

The Vancouver Mural Festival is an annual event that celebrates public art and promotes community engagement. Over several days, local and international artists create large-scale murals in various neighborhoods around the city. The festival also features live music, food trucks, and interactive art installations. In addition to bringing color and beauty to the city, the murals provide an opportunity for people to come together and explore their creativity. For residents and visitors alike, the Vancouver Mural Festival is a vibrant celebration of art and community.

Download the Vancouver Mural Festival app to help you find all the murals, even if you are not visiting during the festival itself.

Beyond all of the incredible murals around Vancouver, there is no shortage of public art to enjoy in Vancouver. From the towering totem poles in Stanley Park to the vibrant murals of Granville Island and around Vancouver, there is something for everyone to appreciate. Numerous sculptures and installations can be found throughout the downtown core.

Vancouver is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, and one of its best features is its proximity to the water. Whether you are looking to take a dip in a lake or enjoy the ocean views, Vancouver is the perfect place to do it. And for those who want to explore the underwater world, there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There are several dive shops in Vancouver that offer lessons and rentals, so you can learn how to dive or just enjoy the experience without having to worry about equipment. And with Vancouver’s clear waters and diverse marine life, there is plenty to see no matter where you go. So whether you are a seasoned diver or a complete beginner, Vancouver is an excellent place to check out some of the best that the underwater world has to offer.

A small group of rocks located in the middle of the Howe sound area, Pam Rocks is home to a colony of seals as well as a well-known bird breeding area. Pam Rocks are popular for diving to see the famous large marine life in the area.

The Burnaby Village Museum is a beautiful and historic site that is perfect for a day trip. The Museum is located in an old-fashioned village, and it includes a working tram, a schoolhouse, and a general store. Visitors can also explore the historic homes, which have been furnished to look like they did in the early twentieth century. The museum is open from May to September, and it is a great place to learn about the history of Burnaby. The village is also home to several shops and restaurants, so visitors can enjoy a bite to eat or do some shopping after exploring the Museum.

While you are there, do not forget to take a ride on the gorgeous vintage C.W. Parker Carousel.

The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is one of Vancouver’s most popular tourist destinations. Located in the heart of the city, the Centre offers a variety of exhibits and programs that allow visitors to explore the wonders of space. From hands-on demonstrations to stargazing parties, there is something for everyone at the Space Centre. In addition to its educational offerings, the Centre also houses a planetarium and an observatory, making it the perfect place for aspiring astronomers to get started in their studies.

The kids will love to try on space suits, break down rockets, and even touch a piece of the moon at this interactive museum. Enjoy your journey through all the galaxies, black holes, and meteor shows — it will blow your mind!

The next time you are looking for an out-of-this-world experience, be sure to check out the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre.

The Olympic cauldron in Vancouver is a must-see for any fan of the Games. Located in the heart of downtown, the cauldron was originally built for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Nowadays, it is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

The cauldron is constantly surrounded by people taking photos and admiring its impressive design. The cauldron is just one of many Olympic sites worth visiting in Vancouver. Other popular spots include the Olympic Village and the Vancouver Convention Centre. Whether you are a die-hard fan of the Olympics, or simply looking for something different to do, be sure to add the Vancouver Olympic sites to your list.

Yaletown is a chic neighborhood in Vancouver, British Columbia that is known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and shops. The area was originally developed as a warehouse district in the late 1800s, but it has since been transformed into a stylish urban center.

Thanks to its central location and convenient amenities, Yaletown is a popular place to live, work, and play. Whether you are looking for a sophisticated night out or a casual lunch option, you are sure to find what you are looking for in Yaletown. And with views of the city skyline and False Creek, it is also one of the most beautiful places in Vancouver.

The Vancouver Olympic Village is a vibrant and bustling community that was home to athletes, coaches, and officials from all over the world during the 2010 Olympics. Located just a short distance from the heart of downtown Vancouver, the village is situated on the banks of False Creek and offers stunning views of the city skyline.

Today, the accommodation is residential housing, with a growing number of shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities.

The village is truly a one-of-a-kind community that provides an unparalleled experience for those who are lucky enough to call it home.

The best way to get around Vancouver is by Skytrain. It is fast and efficient, and you can avoid traffic congestion.

The Skytrain runs on two lines: the Expo Line and the Millennium Line. The Expo Line takes you from Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver out to Surrey, while the Millennium Line runs from VCC-Clark Station in Vancouver up to Lafarge Lake-Douglas Station in Coquitlam.

You can purchase tickets at any Skytrain station, and fares are based on how far you are going. If you are staying in Vancouver, you can purchase a day pass for unlimited travel. The Skytrain is the best way to get around Vancouver, so take advantage of it during your visit.

Discover the beauty of Vancouver from a new perspective, without breaking the bank.

Buy a day pass for the Aquabus, which has eight dock locations between Vancouver’s urban beaches, Granville Island and Science World.

Located in West Vancouver, Dundarave Pier is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Stretching 700 feet into the Burrard Inlet, the pier offers stunning views of the city skyline and mountains. It is also a great place to catch a ferry to Granville Island or take a stroll along the waterfront. In the summer, the pier comes alive with street performers, buskers and artisans, making it the perfect place to while away an afternoon. Whether you are looking to sightsee, people watch, or simply relax, Dundarave Pier is worth a visit.

Getaways From Vancouver

Vancouver is a beautiful city, but there is so much more to see in British Columbia. If you are looking to get a better feel for the province, why not take a day trip? There are a number of great options within easy driving distance of Vancouver.

No matter what interests you, there is sure to be a day trip that is perfect for you. So get out there and start exploring!

If you are looking for a breathtaking natural setting that is also full of fun activities, look no further than Whistler, British Columbia. This picturesque village is surrounded by towering mountains and blanketed in forest, making it the perfect place to enjoy some time outdoors. In the winter, hit the slopes at one of Whistler’s world-renowned ski resorts. Or, visit in the summer to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or golfing. There is also plenty of shopping and dining to enjoy in Whistler Village.

Whistler is an endless adventure, from hiking to an abandoned trainwreck , exploring Parkhurst ghost town , white water rafting , chasing waterfalls, or wandering Whistler’s forest of enchantment , there is something for everyone.

We would recommend at least a couple of days in Whistler. Even then, you will still leave wanting more time.

Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Whistler is sure to please.

Vancouver is a beautiful city, but sometimes it is nice to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy some of the breathtaking scenery that surrounds it. Luckily, there are plenty of great day trip destinations accessible from Vancouver, including Bowen Island. Just a short ferry ride from Vancouver, Bowen Island is a beautiful natural oasis with plenty to explore.

From hiking and biking trails to beaches and picnic areas, Bowen Island has something for everyone. And with plenty of great restaurants and cafes, it is the perfect place to spend a day or two enjoying the great outdoors. So if you are looking for a change of scenery, be sure to check out Bowen Island.

There is no need to travel to the Mediterranean for a taste of island life – Vancouver’s own Gulf Islands offer all the sunshine, sandy beaches, and sheltered coves you could hope for. A quick ferry ride from downtown Vancouver will transport you to another world, where you can while away the hours exploring sheltered bays, hiking through lush forests, and kayaking around the rocky coastline.

If you are looking for a relaxed day trip from the city, the Gulf Islands are the perfect place to unwind.

Our favorite Gulf Islands to visit are the Galiano, Mayne, and Saltspring Islands.

If you are looking for a beautiful and relaxing day trip from Vancouver, then consider heading to Victoria on Vancouver Island. Victoria is the capital city of the province of British Columbia.

The journey by ferry is itself a delightful experience, and once you arrive in Victoria you will find plenty of activities to keep you busy. Stroll around the picturesque Inner Harbour, visit the Empress Hotel, explore picturesque parks and gardens, or simply enjoy some people watching from a cafe.

With its colonial architecture, leafy streets, and Victorian charm, Victoria is the perfect place to spend a day exploring. And with Vancouver only a short distance away, it is the perfect day trip for those who want to escape for a while.

The Harrison River Valley is a rugged and beautiful slice of heaven. From mesmerizing mountains to stunning farmland, rivers, and lakes – you will find it almost impossible to stop when exploring this area.

When you hear the term Harrison River Valley, it encompasses the communities Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, and Harrison Mills (and those in between) in beautiful British Columbia.

A couple of hours’ drive outside of Vancouver, you will be away from the hustle of the city and get some great relaxation time.

Stay at the Harrison Hot Springs resort and enjoy the pools. Or, stay in a cabin and enjoy all of the nature around you.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting during the winter, you can also witness the world’s largest eagle migration . Over 35,000 eagles pass through the lower Fraser Valley annually from late October until February. The peak time for eagle spotting is in the middle of November until early December.

These are the best things to do in Vancouver, one of the world’s most liveable cities . Vancouver is mesmerizing; the more you experience it, the more you will fall in love with it.

Vancouver is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for an urban adventure or a scenic escape, there is always something to do in this vibrant city. We have always been able to find ways to enjoy ourselves and we are proud to call Vancouver our home.

Have you had the chance to explore all that Vancouver has to offer? If not, what are you waiting for? There is no better time than now!

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The Best Things to Do in Canada

38 of the Best Things to Do in Vancouver

May 23, 2022 By Matthew G. Bailey 20 Comments

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Vancouver

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

Stanley Park

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

Vancouver Aquarium

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

Granville Island

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

Ride a Ferry

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

Vancouver Maritime Museum

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

Take a Boat Tour

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

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

Rent a Seadoo, Kayak, or Paddleboard

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

Grouse Mountain

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

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

Rent a Bike

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

Capilano Suspension Bridge

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

Buy Your Capilano Suspension Bridge tickets here.

Lynn Canyon Park Suspension Bridge

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

The Polygon Gallery

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

• Vancouver Whale Watching

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

Gastown and the Steam Clock

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

Beaty Biodiversity Museum

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

Take a Historic Walking Tour

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

Go on a Date

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

Vancouver Mysteries

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

Robson Street

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

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

Watch a Sporting Event

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

Find Filming Locations of Your Favourite Movies

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

Go Nude at Wreck Beach

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

Vancouver Art Gallery

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

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

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

VanDusen Botanical Garden

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

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

Nitobe Memorial Garden

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

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

Greenheart TreeWalk

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

Get a View from Harbour Centre Observation Deck

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

Museum of Anthropology at UBC

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

Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art

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

Richmond Night Market

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

Go on a Food Tour

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

Experience Canada with FlyOver Canada

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

Vancouver Police Museum

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

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

Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site

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

Explore the Sea from Sewell’s Marina

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

Take a Day Trip to Whistler

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

Taste Craft Beer at the Many Vancouver Breweries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Eat in Vancouver

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

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

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

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

Tips for Saving Money in Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Vancouver

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

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

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

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

Getting to Vancouver

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

Getting to Vancouver by Plane

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

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

Getting to Vancouver by Car

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

Getting to Vancouver by Bus

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

How to Get Around Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

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

Weather in Vancouver (Best Time to Visit)

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

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

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

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

Fun Things to Do Beyond Vancouver

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

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

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

About Matthew G. Bailey

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

Reader Interactions

April 21, 2020 at 6:15 pm

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

April 21, 2020 at 11:22 pm

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

May 10, 2021 at 10:13 am

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

May 12, 2021 at 12:38 pm

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

May 15, 2021 at 12:45 pm

Great ideas!

May 18, 2021 at 11:31 pm

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

May 24, 2021 at 2:13 pm

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

May 26, 2021 at 12:07 am

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

May 26, 2021 at 7:20 am

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

May 26, 2021 at 7:22 am

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

May 26, 2021 at 7:43 am

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

May 27, 2021 at 7:40 am

Hit up Wreck Beach last Friday, absolutely loved it!

February 6, 2022 at 10:16 pm

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

February 8, 2022 at 4:47 pm

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

April 5, 2022 at 11:35 pm

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

May 25, 2022 at 9:22 pm

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

May 26, 2022 at 2:50 pm

Bang on! Been many times!

June 1, 2022 at 10:54 am

These all sound awesome!

June 7, 2022 at 6:39 am

Hope to go one day!

August 29, 2022 at 8:18 am

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

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Vancouver's top 10 attractions

Things to do

Vancouver is where incomparable nature and urban entertainment overlap and intertwine, ensuring you’ll never be bored.

Stanley Park

Stanley Park External Link Title  is the icing on the metaphorical cake of downtown Vancouver. The 1,000-acre park provides a green escape from the urban setting, and is brimming with activities that you can take in year-round. Walk the famous Seawall for unparalleled views of the Burrard Inlet or head inland and marvel at the giant trees that still live in this preserved forest. Tan on one of the beaches in the morning and then play a round of pitch-and-putt in the afternoon. Stand beside the awe-inspiring totem poles and learn about the First Nations that lived on this land. Or grab a lunch at one of the restaurants in the park then head to the aquarium to spend the day. Stanley Park has been a star attraction for over 125 years. There's no stopping it now.

Granville Island

No, not only trolls live under bridges. Beneath a major bridge near downtown Vancouver you'll find a hotspot of dining, shopping and entertainment.  Granville Island External Link Title  is a buzzing community full of artisans creating unique gifts, passionate foodies sharing the fruits of their labour, and aspiring musicians perfecting their craft. There's always something happening on the island. You can stop in for a beer or spend the entire day browsing stores, treating your senses at the Public Market, and taking in the entertainment. Whatever you do, just don't skip it.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Overcome your fear of heights in style, with the help of the almost 140-metre  Capilano Suspension Bridge External Link Title , which hangs 70 metres above the rushing Capilano River. Once you've conquered the big bridge, the Cliffwalk--a series of cliff side suspended and cantilevered walkways above the rainforest -- won't seem so daunting, right? And after those two experiences, the Treetops Adventure--seven bridges suspended by 250-year-old Douglas firs 34 metre above the forest floor -- will really be a piece of cake. You get the picture. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is full of adrenaline-pumping attractions that immerse you in the beautiful outdoors.

Vancouver Aquarium

Home to over 50,000 creatures, the  Vancouver Aquarium External Link Title  is what you might call an animal-lover's playground. From friendly sea otters to bright jellyfish, get up close and personal with wildlife from across the globe. Or buy tickets to one of the After Hours events and enjoy the aquarium with a drink in a hand and no kids running around. Oh, and don't forget to see if you can find Nemo.

Seawall in Vancouver

At 22 kilometres,  the Seawall External Link Title  is part of the longest uninterrupted waterfront path in the world. The seawall is a massively popular recreational route for walkers, joggers, and cyclists, and it's not hard to see why. Along the path you'll get beautiful views of English Bay and the mountain ranges that lie beyond Vancouver. You'll trace the outside of gorgeous Stanley Park, maybe stopping for photos of curious sea otters and harbour seals or the beautiful Siwash Rock. You might hop off the route at one of a handful of beaches along the route for a picnic or a swim, or pop into a restaurant for a dining experience with a view. If there's sun in the sky, and you want to enjoy the outdoors, the Seawall is hard to beat.

Grouse Mountain

Instead of enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery from within the city, take a short drive or hop on a bus, and go and enjoy it in person.  Grouse Mountain External Link Title  is just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, but offers everything you could want from a mountain. In the winter, hit the slopes for a few hours before enjoying a mountain-top apr?s-ski. In the summer, hike or take the gondola up, watch a lumberjack show and say hi to Grinder and Coola, the two rescued orphan grizzly bears who live in a fenced-in wildlife reserve.

The Museum of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology External Link Title  contains one of the finest displays of First Nations art in the world, all in a breathtaking setting overlooking the water and mountains of British Columbia. Located on ancestral Musqueam land, the museum strives to showcase the incredible culture and traditions of these First Nations hosts. Their artwork is the first thing to greet you as you walk through the front doors, and as you enter the Great Hall, you'll be awed by massive, intricate totem poles. Over 10,000 culturally significant objects from around the world are on display in the museum's galleries, and touring exhibits help bring fresh perspectives to the rich permanent collection. If you want to immerse yourself in the origins of Canada's West Coast, this is the place.

FlyOver Canada

Did you know that you can see all of Canada from Vancouver? No, not from the top of a mountain, but from the comfort of a seat.  FlyOver Canada External Link Title  is a flight simulation ride that brings you across this great country, from the Prairies to the Atlantic Ocean and back to Vancouver--all in less than 10 minutes. You'll feel the wind in your hair, the mist against your skin, smell the outdoor air and really feel like you're flying for the first time.

See Vancouver by Floatplane

If you want to see all of Vancouver, and you genuinely mean ALL of Vancouver, your best option is to book a flightseeing tour with  Harbour Air Seaplanes External Link Title . Harbour Air is part of the world's largest all-seaplane airline, and offers a number of different sightseeing options, that you can pick based on your mood. Book one of their Vancouver Panorama tours and take a quick flight over the city and surrounding mountains, with your camera at the ready. Or travel in real style with their Fly 'n' Dine tour, which includes a quick flight to Horseshoe Bay, a three-course meal, and a limo ride back into town. Feeling more adventurous? Try the Alpine Lakes and Glacier tour for an unbelievable flight over the peaks of Mount Mamquam and a remote alpine lake.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

The 55-acre  VanDusen Botanical Garden External Link Title  is considered one of the 10 best public gardens in North America. More of a work of art than a garden, VanDusen displays 255,000 individual plants from across the globe in a gorgeous setting. Woodlands and five lakes frame the grounds, but the unique climate of Vancouver allows plants from the Arctic Tundra to the Himalayas to the Tropics of South America to bloom at different points throughout the year. With the flora comes the fauna. Animals, from amphibians to 65 species of birds, make the Garden their home. Visitors can also enjoy an Elizabethan-style Maze, the botanical and horticultural library, and the many totem poles and sculptures scattered throughout the garden.

Western Canada Travel Packages

Oceanfront Lodge Experience: Discover Vancouver Island    External Link Title

From CAD 2,165 per person (double occupancy)

4-8 days / 3-7 nights

This journey to the western shores of Vancouver Island expedition takes you on an exploration of the ecosystems, wildlife, natural history, and Indigenous cultures of Barkley Sound, at the edge of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

Queen Charlotte Fishing Lodge    External Link Title

From CAD 7,317

4 days / 3 nights

Often called the Galapagos of the North, Haida Gwaii is home to Killer and Humpback whales, seals and sea lions, eagles and sea birds and exceptional Salmon and Halibut fishing!

The Ultimate Rail Journey aboard the Canadian    External Link Title

From CAD 1,307 per person

5 days / 4 nights

On this classic 4-night train journey with VIA Rail, you’ll zip past boreal forests, watch the sun set over the endless horizon of the Prairies and wake up to the wonder of the Canadian Rockies.

Get inspired

Other articles you might enjoy

Vancouver to Whistler: a 3-day itinerary

Vancouver Attractions Passport – City Pass for Tourists 2024

The Vancouver Attractions Pass is the best (actually, the only ) Vancouver tourism passport on the market.

With it, you’ll be able to explore the city’s most popular attractions with a single ticket.

The pass includes skip-the-line tickets to a dozen must-sees like Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain + bike tours , harbour tours, and more.

Let’s see how the Vancouver City Pass gets your holiday planned right from the couch.

Vancouver Attraction Passport

Vancouver’s unrivalled natural beauty and long list of cultural items make it a great city to explore.

Unfortunately, all of our city’s acclaim and accolades come with one major downside: it’s an expensive place to live – and visit.

Cue the Vancouver Attractions Pass .

With this convenient discount pass, you can save money on your upcoming holiday just for visiting stuff you’ve already had planned.

This Vancouver tourist pass includes many of the top things to do in Vancouver plus some of the city’s best tours.

What’s Included in the Vancouver City Pass?

This Vancouver Attraction Passport breaks down two ways:

• City Tour Pass : Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park, Vancouver Aquarium, Vancouver Art Gallery, Vancouver Lookout, Bloedel Conservatory.
• Summer Tour Pass : Grouse Mountain, VanDusen Botanical Garden, Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours, Vancouver Harbour Cruise, Cycle City Tours.

Both of these passes carry a one-year validity .

How Much Does it Cost and Is it Worth It?

The Vancouver Attraction Passport costs $113.66 USD (children $57.66).

The Summer Tour Pass costs $152.38 (children $94.72).

Let’s break down the Vancouver City Tour Pass:

• Capilano Suspension Bridge : $51.34
• Vancouver Aquarium : $34.25
• Vancouver Art Gallery : $22.57
• Vancouver Lookout : $13.52
• Bloedel Conservatory : $6.87

That brings you to a total of $128.55 – a savings of $14.99 per person .

Even taking away the Bloedel Conservatory, you’re saving money.

You’re also getting skip-the-line tickets which could save you 20-30 minutes per attraction in summer, which adds value as well.

This isn’t even counting the 5% discount voucher which I’ll get to below.

How Do I Buy This Vancouver Sightseeing Pass?

Post-COVID, the only place offering this tourist discount pass is travel discount site KKday .

It’s as simple as buying something on Amazon – once you’ve put the payment through you’ll get your voucher by email.

From here, all you do is show your Vancouver Attraction Pass voucher (sent via email) to get in at the attractions.

If you’re coming using the Vancouver Planner link button below, you can use a 5% discount code (APP5OFF) if you make the purchase using the KKDay app.

Finally, if you’re looking to experience Vancouver nature under one ticket (this was launched June 1st, 2023 ) you can also check out this amazing combo pass:

Vancouver Tourist Pass: What’s Included

Update: 05/12/2023 : The original Vancouver Attraction Passport still has not been reinstated after it was taken off the market for COVID. The attractions below were included in the original pass but many of them will not be found in the current pass.

For the full list of sights + terms and conditions, please click the button above or follow this link .

Museum of Vancouver (2-for-1 admission)

*up to a max value of $18.00

The Museum of Vancouver is a civic-history museum in the trendy Kitsilano neighbourhood , just outside downtown.

Here you’ll recount our city’s fascinating transformation from a rugged pioneer outpost to the cosmopolitan metropolis we see today.

Learn about the city before the city via a variety of exhibits outlining the history of the area’s First Nations groups .

Related : Best Vancouver City Tours

Vancouver Art Gallery (25% off admission)

*Maximum of two adults

Located in a stunning neo-classical building in the heart of downtown, the Vancouver Art Gallery is the largest public art museum in Western Canada.

With a collection of over 10,000 pieces , you’re guaranteed to find something that catches your eye.

Favourites include a series of works from BC modernist painter Emily Carr , a repository of works from local Vancouverites and an impressive collection of 17th-century Dutch masterpieces.

Vancouver Police Museum (one free admission)

*purchase of admission of equal or greater value required.

The Vancouver Police Museum will take you through the city’s history of policing, crime and punishment. Situated in the city’s former morgue, the VPM is the oldest museum of its kind in North America.

The building houses a collection of over 20,000 artifacts, photos and documents, including seized weapons, illegal drugs and counterfeit money.

Afterwards, you can visit the morgue, which remains primarily untouched since it was decommissioned.

Museum of Anthropology (2-for-1 admission)

*Up to a max value of $18.00

The Museum of Anthropology is a world-renown anthropological museum that houses an extensive collection of traditional and contemporary art from cultures all over the globe – with a heavy BC influence.

The MOA contains perhaps the most extensive collection of works from Northwest Coast First Nations groups worldwide. There is not a more prototypically British Columbian experience available in the city.

Be sure to catch the famous cedar sculpture The Raven and the First Men by acclaimed Haida artist Bill Reid. 

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden (2-for-1 entry or 25% off)

*2 for 1 (Oct 1-Apr 30) or 25% off up to 2 adults (May-Sep 30)

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is the first classical Chinese scholar’s garden built outside China. Moreover, the garden has been named the best urban garden in the world  by National Geographic. 

Located in the heart of Chinatown , this urban oasis is the perfect respite from the gritty streets. The stunning assortment of rocks, plants, pagodas and lily-covered ponds have been carefully positioned in accordance with the Taoist yin/yang principle.

Vancouver Lookout (25% off admission)

Many visitors have told us they left firm in the belief that Vancouver is the most beautiful city in the world .

Sure, it’s just a matter of opinion, but before making up your mind, I’d suggest taking a trip to the Vancouver Lookout observation deck.

Once you enter the glass elevator, you’ll be whisked 169 metres (553 feet) above the historic streets of Gastown below.

Once you reach the top, you’ll receive 360-degree panoramic views  of Burrard Inlet, the North Shore Mountains and the Vancouver skyline. 

VanDusen Botanical Garden (25% or 50% off admission)

*25% off in high season (Apr-Sep) and 50% off in low season (Oct-Mar)

The VanDusen Botanical Garden is a 55-acre urban oasis in the heart of Vancouver’s Oakridge neighbourhood – and it’s included in the Vancouver BC city pass.

The garden contains over 7,500 different species of plants and trees from all over the world.

Spot and photograph local wildlife, find your way through the Elizabethan maze or peruse the grounds at your own pace.

In addition, the garden is home to a variety of popular seasonal festivals, including the Sakura Days Cherry Blossom Festival and the Holiday Festival of Lights .

Related : How Many Days Do I Need to Spend in Vancouver?

Vancouver Attractions Discount for Tours

Vancouver Forbidden Walking Tours (2-for-1 with Vancouver Tourist Pass)

*Purchase one ticket online to receive your coupon and present it upon arrival for your tour.

Gaze deep beneath Vancouver’s surface to see a seedy underbelly riddled with crime , intrigue and scandal . You’ll wander the streets with an expert guide on one of five one-of-a-kind walking tours .

Discover Vancouver’s depression era secrets, unearth Stanley Park’s sinister past or check out a tour focused on LGBTQ travellers.

Either way, Forbidden Vancouver comes highly recommended, with a coveted five-star rating on Trip Advisor.

Cycle City Tours (15% off or 25% off, dependent on the season)

*15% off in July & August and 25% off the remainder of the year

Looking to get in a bit of exercise while you explore the city? Luckily with its generous bike lanes, relaxed biking culture and legendary Seawall , Vancouver is one of the most bike-able cities in North America .

In my opinion, the best way to take advantage is via the famous Cycle City Tour .

Casually cruise the city with your professional guide and as you hear fascinating and humorous stories along the way. Choose from the Grand Tour or focus on Stanley Park , one of the best urban parks in the world.

Related : Best Things to Do in Vancouver with Kids

Hop On Hop Off Tour ($10 off for Adults/$4 off for children)

Operated by Westcoast Sightseeing, the Vancouver Hop on Hop Off Tour allows you to create your own custom Vancouver itinerary from 28 convenient stops .

It includes Gastown , Chinatown , Granville Island and Stanley Park .

Travel on an open-air convertible bus or the popular San Francisco trolley-style vehicle along with a group of like-minded travellers.

It’s the fastest way to soak up the most Vancouver info.

Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain ($25 off with Vancouver Attractions Pass)

*$25 off for adults and $15 off for children

Also operated by Westcoast Sightseeing, this combination tour offers a trip to two of the most famous sights in Vancouver.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain draw over 1.2 million visitors yearly, so you won’t want to miss them.

Located in the suburb of North Vancouver , the 140-metre-long Capilano Suspension bridge traverses the beautiful Capilano River in front of a stunning mountain landscape.

Afterwards, you’ll head to nearby Grouse Mountain, where you’ll climb over 4,000 feet to take part in a variety of recreational, cultural and educational activities. 

Ski just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, enjoy the local wildlife, or take in the stunning views from the famous Eye of the Wind!

These are quite possibly the two most popular attractions in the city , so to receive admission to them both in one low-price package is a steal.

Vancouver Brewery Tours (15% off all tours with Vancouver tourism pass)

Beer always tastes better with friends, so why not join a group of thirsty travellers to sample the very best of Vancouver’s vibrant beer community ?

Join Vancouver Brewery Tours for behind-the-scenes access at three of Vancouver’s best breweries using this Vancouver sightseeing pass.

You’ll taste tons of Vancouver’s finest craft beers .

It’s ranked one of the top ten beer experiences in the world by Trip Advisor.

Taste Vancouver Walking Tours (20% off all tours)

This award-winning culinary walking tour series subscribes to the simple motto of offering more yum and fun! And it’s included in the Vancouver City Pass.

Enjoy a mouth-watering foodie experience that takes you on a journey through Vancouver’s most trendy neighbourhoods .

Taste Vancouver offers three different options, including culinary treks through; Gastown , Little Italy and the emerging Vancouver food scene of the Shipyards on the city’s North Shore . 

Vancouver Visitor Pass for Outdoor Adventure

Salmon fishing charters (save 10% with the vancouver tourism passport).

Some of the largest salmon runs in the world return to the waters of the Salish Sea, right outside Vancouver.

As a result, local anglers are blessed with virtual year-round access to  five species of salmon and a wide variety of groundfish.

If you’d like to test the waters, Pacific Angler Fishing Charters offers guided tours that will grant you the chance to catch a 50 lb Chinook right on Vancouver’s doorstep. 

Hyak River Rafting (2-for-1 rafting trips with the Vancouver tourist card)

*Max one free adult

The valleys of the Coast Mountain range serve as a conduit to empty the Vancouver area’s glacial river waters into the Pacific.

The result? Some of the best white water rafting available anywhere.

Hyak River Rafting offers a variety of exhilarating rafting tours to the rivers surrounding the Lower Mainland. Choose from the local Chilliwack River , or go further afield to BC’s interior to conquer the more challenging Thompson River .

1,2,3, and 6-day adventures are available.

Vancouver Whale Watch (save 20% per person)

The waters surrounding Vancouver are home to 4 species of whales, in addition to a stunning array of dolphins, porpoises, and marine mammals.

You can take part in an exciting local whale-watching tour to experience the thrill of seeing these amazing creatures in their natural environment.

Vancouver Whale Watch offers 3 to 5-hour tours from historic Steveston Village in both open-air and semi-covered zodiac-style boats. Onboard hydrophones will allow you to hear firsthand the wild calls of Killer Whales and Humpbacks.

And the best part is that sightings are guaranteed!

Windsure Adventure Watersports (2-for-1 lessons)

*Applies to windsurfing and paddle boarding group lessons.

I get it; watersports aren’t likely to significantly influence your decision to come to Canada. However, many people are surprised to learn that Vancouver is blessed with a stunning array of urban beaches .

To take advantage, Windsure Adventure Watersports provides a series of exciting instructional windsurfing and paddleboard classes from their Jericho Sailing Centre compound.

After a dry land simulation and sailing theory class, you’re on to the on-water instruction, where you can enjoy the sun from the sparkling waters of English Bay.

Day Trips with a Tourism Vancouver Passport

Whistler village & shannon falls ($30 off for adults/$15 for youth).

*Includes 3 hours in Whistler and a stop at the Shannon Falls waterfall.

Located two hours North of Vancouver on the Sea to Sky Highway , Whistler is home to the largest ski resort in North America .

The resort is most famous for hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics . However, it’s far from just a Winter wonderland.

The stunning landscape, pedestrian-only Village and down-to-earth mountain culture make Whistler an unforgettable year-round destination .

Enjoy world-class restaurants , a vibrant nightlife and a never-ending choice of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Victoria & Butchart Gardens ($25 off for adults/$12 off for youth)

*Includes a ferry ride to and from Victoria, entry to Butchart Gardens and a few hours to explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

Victoria is located 114 kilometres Southwest of Vancouver on Vancouver Island . This quaint provincial capital city combines old-world British charm with Westcoast beauty and sophistication.

After a two-hour ferry ride across the Salish Sea, you’ll head to legendary Butchart Gardens . Over one million visitors a year make the trek to marvel at over 55 acres of lush greens and blooms. 

Afterwards, you can take some time to walk the cobblestone streets of the picturesque Inner Harbour . Enjoy the music, shop in the area’s charming boutiques or enjoy a world-class dining experience. 

This is one of the best day trips from Vancouver .

Related : Victoria Hop on Hop Off Bus

Gulf of Georgia Cannery (2-for-1 admission or 50% off single access)

If you’re looking for a trip using the Vancouver City Pass that’s a little closer to your hotel, then a day trip to historic Steveston Village is just what the doctor ordered.

Located 40 minutes South of downtown Vancouver , Steveston is the epicentre of BC’s fishing industry and a popular tourist attraction.

Experience the area’s history firsthand with a trip to the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National historic site with the Vancouver Attractions Pass.

Enjoy interactive exhibits, films and guided tours celebrating this vital industry and the people who have worked in it for over a century.

Britannia Mine Museum (Save $5 per person)

*Up to a maximum of 2 adults and 2 children.

Located a 45-minute drive North of Vancouver along the Sea to Sky Highway , the Britannia Mine Museum is a national historic site and highly acclaimed tourist attraction.

With the Vancouver tourist card you can take the opportunity to see and experience what was once the largest copper mine in the entire British Empire .

The building has since transformed into an award-winning museum offering awe-inspiring sights and memorable family experiences through various interactive exhibits.

Related: The top things to do in Squamish

Vancouver Travel Discount Pass FAQs

What is the vancouver attraction passport and experiences guide.

The Vancouver Attraction Passport and Experiences Guide is a guidebook and discount pass that offers discounts at 55 museums, attractions, and restaurants.

How do you purchase the Vancouver Attraction Passport and Experiences Guide?

The tourist pass can be purchased online and shipped to your home.

Alternatively, you can pick up your guidebook at Vancouver International Airport or Downtown Vancouver upon arrival.

How much is the Vancouver Attraction Passport and Experiences Guide?

The guidebook costs $113.66 when purchased online via our friends at KKday .

Ready to Stamp your Vancouver Attraction Passport?

That signals the end of our look at the Vancouver Attraction Passport and Experiences Guide. But I promise, if you’re willing to make the small investment, the savings are just beginning!

Do you have any more questions about the guidebook? Or maybe something else Vancouver related?

I can always be reached in the comment section below or on the Vancouver Planner Facebook page. So don’t hesitate to ask.

But in the meantime, enjoy your Vancouver discount pass! ?️

I've used online guides on five continents to find the world's greatest travel spots and this is my chance to give back - with insider info on my home, the mighty Vancouver BC!

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16 comments

I’m traveling to Vancouver in late December 2021. I’d like to purcahe the Vancouver Attraction Passport now, but I can’t find the right area to do so. Please help.

Hello Beverly! Unfortunately at the moment due to COVID these types of passes have been temporarily put on hold while the industry recovers… I imagine a lot of their profitability has to do with large volumes of tourists, which we unfortunately haven’t had 🙁

I really hope we can have some news for you soon.

Hi, I am trying to purchase the Vancouver Attraction Passport and I can’t seem to find it.

Please help.

Unfortunately this pass has been discontinued during COVID. Once the pass has been reinstated we’ll be updating the website accordingly… let’s hope it’s back soon because that means tourism is back to normal!

Hello, so this passport is only to get discount for attractions correct? Does it cover any of the attractions at all?

Hi Veronica,

Yes indeed, it’s just a discount pass 🙂 Unfortunately it has yet to be reinstated post-COVID but we hope this is the case soon.

Hi, would like to do a quick check, the attraction passport is still not avail if we are travelling Vancouver in April 2022? If it isn’t, are there alternatives. Thanks.

Yes, unfortunately the pass is still not live yet 🙁 I have heard rumours they’re revamping it for a full relaunch but nothing going as of yet… I assume post-COVID they’re going to have to make some huge adjustments depending on who survived, who changed their prices/options etc. This is the same with all the passes unfortunately.

Such a weird time… but I hope to have some info soon.

HI, I’M NATALIA GOMEZ, I will travel with my Husband to vancouver in MAY 2022 and we would like to buy the discount pass or which package with some attractions ticket do you recommend to get to know Vancouver 1 week?

Hi Natalia,

Unfortunately the Vancouver Attraction Pass is still ‘in limbo’ due to COVID. I have a suspicion that they are changing a few things and will be relaunching it soon, but as of now there is no discount pass available online.

At this point I would simply plan my Vancouver Itinerary and book the attractions individually. That said, in the next couple months the pass might be relaunched so do keep an eye out.. I will be updating this page as soon as I know something.

Hi, We are travelling to Vancouver and Canada Rockies this May. Can I check if we are able to purchase Canada Sim Card at Vancouver International Airport? Thank you.

Hello Mei! Thank you for writing 🙂

Yes, you can purchase Canada SIM cards at the 7-11 in the airport – it’s located on Level 1 in the Domestic Terminal Building.

Please let me know if you have any more questions… always here to help!

Hello, hope you’re well.

Any news on the reinstatement of the passport?

Will it be available this summer?

Hi Sebastian,

No word yet 🙁 I’ve been anticipating word in spring for the summer but still nothing… once we hear something it’ll be posted here ASAP.

Dear Sirs: My wife and I are considering purchasing the “Vancouver Attraction Passport” for a visit to Vancouver in September, 2023. Is the price of 36.06 CAD a price per person or a price for a couple? You state that there are fifty-five (55) attractions with a discount available. I need a list of the 55 attractions, ideally with the 2023 retail price shown, then the discount amount or percentage shown.

Gary W. Jamison

Unfortunately as mentioned above this pass has been discontinued pre-COVID and we’re still waiting for it to come back. As such, I can’t make any comment about price or otherwise… I am hoping it comes back and I can have some info for you soon!