vancouver free city tour

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Vancouver Walking Tours

This post provides information about a variety of free walking tours you can take in Vancouver.

We include services that cover the history of Gastown, the architecture of the city, and locations such as the Waterfront.

• Overview + Schedule
• Historic Gastown
• Architecture Tour
• Hollywood North

OVERVIEW + SCHEDULE

Vancouver is an interesting city filled with history and culture, so it shouldn’t be too surprising that there are a lot of free walking tours you can take in the area.

Most of these tours focus on the historic Gastown neighborhood, but there are some that cover additional subjects such as the architecture of Vancouver.

There are also free tours of popular filming locations in the city, so fans of popular movies and television shows may want to consider these options.

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Alternatively, you could also take a free bike tour which will provide a look at one of the most beautiful parks in the city.

Almost all of these free walking tours are offered on a tip-based basis, which means you can pay however much you think the tour was worth once it is completed.

Most people feel comfortable tipping anywhere from $10-$20, which is a more than fair price, considering that many paid tours in the city will cost much more than that.

These pay-what-you-wish walking tours are a very affordable way to see the city.

But, if you’d rather take a bus, boat, or even a seaplane, there are several paid Vancouver tours you may want to consider instead.

HISTORIC GASTOWN

There are a few different pay-what-you-wish walking tours that cover the most historic area of Vancouver, otherwise known as Gastown.

In addition to learning about how this settlement grew from its roots as a timber town in the 1860s into a hub of culture and artistic vision.

While on these free walking tours, you can expect to see sites like these:

• Sinclair Centre
• Granville Plaza
• The Steam Clock
• Maple Tree Square
• Waterfront Station
• Gaoler’s Mews

If you’re interested in learning more about these locations, consider one of the following services listed below.

Toonie Tours

This highly-rated tour covers a lot of topics related to the history of Vancouver.

In addition to learning about the city, you’ll also get recommendations for the best places to eat, grab a drink, go for a hike, and more.

At 3 hours in length, this is the longest free walking tour on our list .

With an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars , Toonie Tours is arguably one of the best tour services in the city, and guests indicate that they will answer any questions you may have about Gastown.

They offer tours daily at 10 am year round. In summer (June-August), you can also find tours at 2 pm and 6 pm.

Book this tour in the calendar above .

Additional Historic Gastown Tours

If you’re looking for a tour that either covers more ground or offers a different type of experience in Vancouver, there are several paid tours that provide information about the history of the city.

While some of these services are walking tours, others take place on a boat, seaplane or even hop-on, hop-off bus. Ticket prices range from $20-$100 or more.

Learn more about these paid Historic Gastown tours .

VANCOUVER ARCHITECTURE TOURS

There is a lot of interesting architecture in Vancouver stretching from the oldest buildings in the city to an art-deco-inspired skyscraper.

In addition to covering these locations, you can also expect architectural tours to provide details about a variety of public artwork and even some places you may want to visit if you’re interested in seeing more art.

Here are just a few of the sites you’ll see while on an architecture tour:

• Christ Church Cathedral
• Vancouver Art Gallery
• Olympic Cauldron
• Marine Building
• Canada Place
• The Seawall

Self-Guided Architecture Tours

If you’re looking for another free opportunity to explore the most significant examples of architecture in Vancouver, there are a few self-guided tours you may want to consider.

The first opportunity is provided by the city of Vancouver.

Their self-guided architectural tour includes a map and several notable stops with details about each notable building you’ll see along the way.

In addition to that option, there is also a self-guided walking tour offered by the Architectural Institute of British Columbia.

This service also includes a map and covers multiple neighborhoods in Vancouver.

HOLLYWOOD NORTH TOURS

Vancouver has earned the nicknames “Hollywood North” and “Maplewood” thanks to all of the film studios that have set up shop in the city and often shoot some of the biggest, most popular movies and television shows in the area.

Although there aren’t a lot of walking tours covering this subject, there are at least a few options you should consider if you want to see some of the most notable filming locations in the city.

Here are just some of the movies and television shows you can expect to learn about on these tours:

• The X-Files
• Bates Motel
• Supernatural
• 50 Shades of Grey

If you’re interested in seeing where scenes from these popular films and TV shows were shot, consider one of the tours listed below.

Self-Guided Hollywood North Tours

Although there aren’t currently any free guided walking tours in Vancouver that cover this subject, you may want to think about using one of these self-guided film location tours instead.

The first option comes from Canadian Sky , and this one is written more like an article with a variety of information about filming locations you may want to visit.

You might need to plot these sites out on a map before heading out because they don’t offer any maps or GPS guidance.

Inside Vancouver has a similar self-guided tour that actually offers some directions to help you find your way around the city until you find each filming site.

Fans of Vancouver

This is one of the only companies in the city that offers a Hollywood North walking tour, but their service isn’t free.

That said, they are well-reviewed with a 5 out of 5-star rating on TripAdvisor.

Their filming location tour lasts for about 1-2 hours on average, and it is frequently updated to account for new film productions taking place in Vancouver.

Learn more or book this tour .

VANCOUVER BIKE TOURS

If you’re looking for more than just a walking tour, there is at least one free bike tour you can take in Vancouver.

The only thing you’ll have to account for is the bicycle, and you can either bring your own or rent one for the tour.

While the only free bike tour in this city focuses on Stanley Park, there are some other paid bike tours that branch out to additional locations like Chinatown, Granville Island, and more.

In addition to learning about some of the most interesting attractions in Vancouver, you’ll also receive tips on the best views in the city.

Mortour Guides

In addition to its Historic Gastown tour, this company also has a bike tour that will take you through Stanley Park to see some of the most popular landmarks in the area.

While riding through the park, your tour guide will take you down some of the best trails to reach locations with beautiful scenic overlooks.

This 3-hour tour is pay-what-you-wish, but you’ll need to provide the bike yourself. There is a bike shop where you can rent a bicycle for $20 at the meeting point for this outing.

Expect to cover 10 Km on this outing, much of it offroad. While some guests won’t find this challenging, it could be difficult for some riders. 

You can take this tour every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 10:30 am in English. Alternatively, it is also available daily in Spanish at 14:00 (2 pm).

Book this tour or learn more .

Additional Vancouver Bike Tours

If you’re interested in exploring and learning about more than just Stanley Park, consider taking a paid bike tour instead. 

These services cover several other locations and subjects in Vancouver. Ticket prices range from $45-$80 and tours last for 2-4 hours on average.

Check this list of Vancouver bike tours to find one that fits your itinerary.

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Vancouver Free Walking Tour

The best introduction to vancouver for any budget.

Gratuity-based 

Tour Capacity

Tour Details

5 km / 3 mile walk

Meeting Location

Canada Place Welcome Centre – Your guide will be holding a red umbrella

Important Notes

• Arrive 15 minutes early to check in. We greatly appreciate your punctuality. 
• Restrooms at the Canada Place Convention Centre or during the break.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible but is not recommended for those who cannot walk or stand for long periods of time. 
• Walk-ups are welcome, space permitting. It is recommended to book the tour online to reserve your spot. 

Not available for school groups or large parties, please book a private walking tour .

• Instant Confirmation
• Email & Mobile Tickets Accepted
• Discover Gastown, where the early settlement began
• Listen to the world-famous Gastown Steam Clock chimes
• Find Waterfront Station, connecting you to the entire Lower Mainland
• Explore the hidden gems of Downtown
• Admire the city’s defining architecture and its impact
• Take photos with local Canadian Heroes

What’s Included

• Local English-speaking guide, Spanish when selected
• Passionately researched local history
• Recommendations for the best food, entertainment, and nightlife
• Discounts on must-do experiences

What’s Not Included

• Gratuities for your guide

What to Bring

• Cash or credit card to tip your guide ($30/person tells your guide you had an valuable experience)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Secured camera
• Appropriate clothing/umbrella for the West Coast weather
• Your sense of humor and adventure!

Important...

While we do accept walk-up participants, our tours regularly sell out. To get your preferred tour and to avoid missing out, we highly recommend booking as soon as possible.

Vancouver Free Walking Tour - Overview

The Vancouver Free Walking Tour has been a trip highlight for more than 10,000 guests to Vancouver! It’s not just a touristy sightseeing excursion; it’s a heartfelt invitation for you to truly know the city. From its natural marvels and artistic brilliance to its rich history and cultural diversity, this tour embodies Vancouver’s uniqueness. As you walk your way through, you’re not merely a spectator; you’re connected to the city through the eyes of a local guide.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a local revisiting your city’s charm, we promise a Vancouver experience like no other. With stories that resonate, moments that captivate, and a personal touch that endears, this is one journey you won’t forget.

Join us, and let the streets of Vancouver unfold their tales, one step at a time, always in great company. 

Get the Lay of the Land

We’ve crafted the ideal tour to kick off your first day, allowing you to effortlessly navigate through the must-see neighborhoods and points of interest. It’s the perfect way to familiarize yourself with the city and make the most of your adventure.

Meet The Locals & Fellow Travelers

We know one of the most exciting things about traveling is the people you’ll meet. Our tour attracts a diverse group, from locals to globetrotters, from all walks of life. Be part of the tapestry of diversity and fun!

Friendly, Personable, Award-Winning Guides

Take a tour with a guide who is primed and on-point every time. Our gratuity-based model rewards and retains the industry’s finest guides. Come experience it for yourself.

Local Recommendations & Travel Tips

Our knowledgeable, local guides are filled with suggestions for you to make the most of your trip, and they look forward to answering your every question. 

Affordable For Any Budget

Whether you’re budget-conscious or looking to splurge, we welcome gratuities of all sizes with open arms.

Limited Time? Get The Ultimate Overview

Experience the best of our city in just a few short hours with a tour focused on offering the most coverage and value that you can get

Why Toonie Tours

The best value. hands-down.

We understand your time is valuable, especially when visiting for the first time with a finite schedule and budget. That’s why Toonie Tours is the most logical choice when choosing a tour operator - join our Free Tour risk-free, and get the best guides the city has to offer who hone their craft day-in-and-day-out with real, tangible feedback from the gratuity-based reciprocity.

Connected Locally & Nationally

Our network extends from coast to coast, offering you access to exclusive deals, day-trips, events, venues, attractions, and more. Choose Toonie Tours and embark on a journey with the most well-connected guide network in the country.

What Our Guests Are Saying

Bilal, Airbnb

“All the reviews are accurate. Even as someone from Toronto, this is well worth it. Andrew is easy going, friendly and informative. He kept the group engaged and entertained. Highly recommended as a way to see a lot of the city.”

Sahesh, Airbnb

“The tour was amazing! I was in Vancouver only for a few days and the tour was one of the highlights of my trip. I learned a lot of facts and walked through quite a number of places which was part of my itinerary. Loved it! :)”

Liliana, Airbnb

“Nuestro guía fue Roberto, fue un recorrido muy ameno y realmente pudimos conocer no solamente de los lugares de la ciudad sino que también aprendimos sobre la cultura, datos curiosos sobre los diferentes sitios, sobre las costumbres y estilos de vida de los locales e incluso nos brindó recomendaciones como restaurantes y tips para lugares por visitar.”

“You would think that a guide who does the same tour daily would just be on auto pilot, but Andrew's enthusiasm was fresh and endless. And he was always happy to answer questions or give further insights as we strolled about for 3 miles...which did not feel long because there was so much to see and talk about.”

A Brand You Can Trust

Over 40,000 world-wide guests since 2018

2000+ 5-star Review

Award Winning Tour & Service

Recommended By

Frequently Asked Questions

Look for the red umbrella around the tour start location. If you don’t see it from there, unfortunately we’re not able to connect you with your guide once the tour has departed.

Yes! We accept cash, credit cards, and all foreign currencies. Alternatively, you may send a paypal or e-transfer to [email protected] with a note for which guide it’s for. Thank you!

Yes! However, please note that there will be sections where stairs are required.

You can find paid parking at the Vancouver Convention Centre W- Lot - <a href ="https://maps.app.goo.gl/wvysATxKHiVU9SVR7" target="_blank">https://maps.app.goo.gl/wvysATxKHiVU9SVR7</a>. We recommend booking it for 3.5 hours or more.

Yes! There are ATMs at our midway stop and final stop.

Gratuity-based (recommended tip $30/person)

Make it Private!

• Private Tour for up to 32 people/guide
• Starting at US$219

More Vancouver Tours

US$74 - US$79

Street Art & Craft Beer Vancouver Tour

US$94 - US$99

Gratuity-based

Vancouver Private City Tour

1 - 8 Hours

1 - 32 per guide

Our Company

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• Destinations
• Tours in Vancouver

The Free Walking Tour of Vancouver

Overview of the tour in Vancouver

Discover Vancouver and Canada through the eyes of a local. This 3-hour free walking tour will show you all the best sights in the city. Local experts will take you to must-see spots such as Gastown, Chinatown, Downtown, and much more. Expert guides take you where buses simply can’t go, while they breathe life into the history of Vancouver and give you an authentic introduction to one of Canada's favorite cities. FREE Tour concept The tips-based model gives you the freedom to determine the price and ensures that the tour fits within your expectations and budget. Our expert guides give their best every tour to earn your highest support and gratuity

This activity includes:

• Victory Square
• Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
• Canada Place
• Granville Street Entertainment District
• Marine Building
• Vancouver Public Library, Central Library
• Robson Square
• Granville Station
• English-speaking guide
• Spanish-speaking guide (if selected)

Meeting point

Canada Place Welcome Centre

MEETING POINT: at Canada Place - beside the Welcome Centre Kiosk. Please find your guide with the RED UMBRELLA that reads TOONIE TOURS. Please introduce yourself upon arrival so that the guide has you accounted for.

Things to note

Our guides provide a memorable experience on every tour to all groups, sharing Vancouver, Canada with solo travellers, couples, locals, and worldwide visitors.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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Vancouver Tours

Vancityasks’ free vancouver walking tours, explore vancouver’s history and architecture with food tastings. register free today.

At VancityAsks.com, we endeavor to help locals rediscover the amazing city they live in and we also desire to help tourists to find the best Vancouver has to offer. As part of doing so, we carefully compile the best businesses and attractions in Vancouver on our website, manually curated and reviewed by locals.

This summer, we’re also offering free walking tours of Vancouver downtown core to show you around the best of this city. It’s impressive the amount of sights and experience packed into 3 hours! W e have been careful with choosing the right tour guide to ensure you, the guest, have a pleasant experience of Vancovuer. Eac tour is lead by a local  and friendly  tour guide who enjoy showing  guests around Vancouver, BC .

At the moment the tour runs weekly on Saturday. The tours explores ten points of interest leading from outside Vancouver Convention Centre to Gastown (where you’ll enjoy chocolates and coffee on the house!) then up to Robson (foodie enclave – try the Japadog), followed west to the Westend (get more chocolates?) and back down to Coal Harbor for breath taking views. You’ll explore the city of Vancouver and get a good lesson about the city’s history at different point of interests (Gassy Jack statue, Old Vancouver law courts, Olympic Torch).

Did we mention, it’s free!

Register today to secure your spot(s). Please sign up on the link bellow the date you’d like to attend for one of our operating walking tours this summer.

Update July 5, 2016 : We’re now extending this tour year-round though one per month after summer. Great way to welcome your family or friends to Vancouver.

More about VancityAsks’ Vancouver City Tour : It’s a free Vancouver walking city tour but we aim to have it rival any paid tours you may have. If you’re in town, register for our complementary tours bellow. (Unlike most other free walking tours, ours includes some delicious food tastings and a knowledgeable, friendly, and capable tour guide.)

The guided walking tour will feature ten points of interest across the West-end, Coal Harbour, and Gastown.

Here are the food highlights to note:

• Coffee at Trees Organic Coffee (the #3 Best Cafe in Vancouver – great atmosphere to experience, single-origin beans, freshly roasted)
• Try a taster of the Teri-Mayo Japadog at Japadog (iconic Vancouver and the #3 Best Food Trucks in Vancouver )
• More chocolate tasting at Daniel’s Chocolates (one of the first artisan Belgium Chocolates in Vancouver & the #2 Best Chocolates in Vancouver

Plus meet great people 😀

The tastings are complementary in our free Vancouver walking tours. We thank these amazing local business (who excel in their craft) for accommodating our walking tour. Please do consider purchasing their merchandise for gifts with your trip back home.

We enjoy welcoming visitors to Vancouver. Free transportation can be arranged to and from YVR for visitors transiting through Vancouver. Please indicate that you require transportation on your registration. (some have requested pick-up from other locations, please note this free amenity is only available for transiting travelers.)

Schedule and Availability :

[VancityAsks will continue to operate our free tours once per week throughout the summer season of July 15 to August 26. These tours are provided to tourists and locals as an expression of our love for this awesome city and people. The tours are temporary on hiatus. Registration will be available on June 15, 2017.]

VancityAsks’ Vancouver Walking tour pictures : Want an idea of what to expect? Here are some pictures that you can check out!

VancityAsks’ Vancouver walking tour at Roger’s Chocolate (Tour Guide – Sandra Bennett)

Guests from our VancityAsks Vancouver Walking tour enjoying the wonderful cafe atmosphere at Milano Coffee in Gastown (http://www.vancityasks.com/best-cafe-in-vancouver/)

VancityAsks Vancouver Walking tour at Japadog. Guests enjoy a bite-size taste of the Teri-mayo hot dog. Appears there’s no room indoors at their Robson store! It’s delicious Japanese style Hotdog. at Japadog (http://www.vancityasks.com/5-best-food-trucks-in-vancouver/).

Guests from our July 2, 2016 tours at the end of their free Vancouver Walking tour (http://www.vancityasks.com/vancouver-tours/)

Our fabulous tour guide, Sandra Bennett, for the tour on July 2, 2016.

Terms & Conditions :

• VancityAsks.com reserves the right to adjust tour schedules and availability at any time.
• VancityAsks.com reserves the right to deny services. [If you book a tour on a date that’s already full before we were able to update this page, we’ll see if we can accommodate you on another date]
• VancityAsks.com provides these Vancouver City tours freely; we hope you enjoy it!
• VancityAsks.com assumes no liability for these free tours. We are organizing these tours on a voluntary basis. We have indeed taken precautions to ensure an excellent experience (such as planning the tour route away from East Hastings for safety concerns and checking for allergies on our registration form)
• Pictures may be taken by the tour guide to be shared. This is in part to help with the promotion of our free Vancouver walking tours (you may opt-out of the photos by informing your tour guide your request before hand)

Past Tours : Previous Vancouver walking tours where registrations are now closed.

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 1 – May 21, 2016:

>>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 1

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 2 – May 28, 2016:

>>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 2

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 3 – June 4, 2016:

>>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 3

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 4 – June 11, 2016:

>>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 4

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 5 – June 18, 2016:

>>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 5

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 6 – June 25, 2016:

>>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 6

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 7 – July 2, 2016:

>>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 7

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 8 – July 9, 2016:

>>>  Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 8

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 9 – July 16, 2016:

>>>  Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 9

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 10 – July 23, 2016:

>>>  Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 10

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 11 – July 30, 2016:

>>>  Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 11

Cancelled – Vancouver City Tour 12 – August 6, 2016:

>>>  Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 12

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 13 – August 13, 2016:

>>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 13

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 14 – August 20, 2016:

>>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 14

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Tour 15 – August 27, 2016:

>> Click here to register for Vancouver City Tour 1

Cancelled – Vancouver City Walking Tour 16 – July 15, 2017:

>>>> Click Here to register for Vancouver City Walking Tour #16

Cancelled – Vancouver City Walking Tour 17 – July 22, 2017

>>>> Click Here to register for Vancouver City Walking Tour #17

Vancouver City Walking Tour 18 – July 29, 2017

>>>> Click Here to register for Vancouver City Walking Tour #18

Insufficient – Vancouver City Walking Tour 19 – August 5, 2017

>>>> Click Here to register for Vancouver City Walking Tour #19

Registration Closed – Vancouver City Walking Tour 20 – August 12, 2017

>>>> Click Here to register for Vancouver City Walking Tour #20

Cancelled – Vancouver City Walking Tour 21 – August 19, 2017

>>>> Click Here to register for Vancouver City Walking Tour #21

Cancelled – Vancouver City Walking Tour 22 – August 26, 2017

>>>> Click Here to register for Vancouver City Walking Tour #22

(tours for July 15, 2017 and July 22, 2017 were cancelled and have been applied to September 2, 2017 and September 9, 2017 respectively.)

Vancouver City Walking Tour 23 – September 2, 2017

>>>> Click Here to register for Vancouver City Walking Tour #23

Vancouver City Walking Tour 24 – September 9, 2017

>>>> Click Here to register for Vancouver City Walking Tour #24

Social media chatter about our Free Vancouver Walking Tours :

Vancouver Free Walking Tour Toonie Tours

Description

When it comes to exploring a new city, there's no better way to immerse yourself in its culture , history , and hidden treasures than by taking a free walking tour.

In Vancouver, the Vancouver Free Walking Tour offers an incredible opportunity to discover the city through the eyes of a local guide. This 3-hour adventure takes you through the most exciting and historic areas of Vancouver, sharing local legends, notable establishments, and invaluable recommendations along the way.

Unveiling Vancouver's Rich History

Your journey begins at the heart of Vancouver, near Canada Place , with breathtaking views of the city's iconic mountains rising above the pristine waters of Vancouver Harbor. As you embark on this guided tour, your local guide will make Vancouver's rich history come alive, taking you past iconic and Instagram-worthy sites perfect for your social media feed.

From the city's origins as a First Nation fishing village to its transformation into a wild west gold-rush settlement, you'll gain insights into Vancouver's impressive evolution. Discover how Canada emerged from a resource-rich settlement to become a nation among nations, all while exploring historic landmarks and neighborhoods.

Exploring the Vibrant City and Its Natural Beauty

Vancouver is a city that beautifully contrasts vibrant urban life with magnificent Canadian landscapes. During the tour, you'll not only learn about the city but also receive recommendations for food, entertainment, day-trips, nightlife, and nature adventures. Your local guide will share valuable tips on how to make the most of your visit to Vancouver and Canada.

Free Tours in a Nutshell

One unique aspect of the Vancouver Free Walking Tour is that it's a tips-based experience. This means you have the freedom to determine the price of the tour based on your experience and budget, allowing you to enjoy one of the greatest values Canadians cherish: freedom.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

What’s Included:

• Local English-speaking guide
• Passionately researched local history
• Recommendations for the best food, entertainment and nightlife
• Introductions & discounts on must-do experiences

What Should YOU Bring?

• Cash or credit card to tip your guide ($25/person tells your guide you had an excellent experience)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Water bottle
• Secured camera
• Appropriate clothing/umbrella for the always-changing weather
• Your sense of humor!

Suggested Activities

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Vancouver Free Tour

• 8.80 / 10 177 reviews | 2,090 travellers Roberto, thank you very much. Good guide and treatment with everyone! Thank you 8 Maria Del

Gastown , Waterfront Station , and other iconic sites await you on this free tour of Vancouver , one of British Columbia's most fascinating cities, not to be missed!

Description

Welcome to Vancouver! At the designated time, we'll gather at the Canada Place Welcome Centre to embark on an exciting free tour of this vibrant city.

Our journey begins as we stroll through the lively streets of Gastown , where Vancouver was born. Here, we'll encounter the captivating sights and sounds of this historic area, including a remarkable steam clock —a rarity found in only a few places worldwide. Ever wondered how it operates?

Our next destination is the Waterfront Station , a transportation hub connecting Vancouver with the Lower Mainland . From there, we'll venture downtown and walk down bustling streets, uncovering hidden gems and surprising secrets along the way.

As we continue, we'll pass by the iconic Rogers Arena and BC Place stadiums . BC Place is home to the Vancouver Whitecaps FC , one of Canada's premier soccer teams, making it a notable landmark for sports enthusiasts.

After an approximately 3-hour tour, our free tour will come to an end around the area of the starting point.

We don't accept reservations for more than 4 people on our free tour. If you're a larger group, we recommend checking out our Vancouver Private Tour .

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Not included

When to book.

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Toonie Tours Show more

Corporate name: Vancouver Toonie Tours

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Canada Place Welcome Centre

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On this guided tour of Vancouver , you'll discover the city's main attractions, visiting historic neighbourhoods such as Gastown , Chinatown or Granville Island .

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15 Best Vancouver Sightseeing Tours & City Excursions

Taking the best Vancouver city tours is the best way to learn, understand, and live the city.

Getting immersive, entertaining city information on Vancouver excursions also saves time – and increases the value of each second spent in the city.

Let’s break down the top sightseeing tours in Vancouver to see if we can find the right one for you.

⚠️ Warning ⚠️ – Especially during high season, tickets to the best Vancouver tours sell out quickly. Guarantee your tickets by booking in the Vancouver sightseeing shop at Viator . It also helps us get one step closer to doing Vancouver Planner for a living ?

Best Vancouver Sightseeing Tours & Excursions in 2024

The Lost Souls of Gastown Tour – Best Vancouver City Tour for History

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

Gastown is the most historic neighbourhood in Vancouver, hands down.

Its cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways hint at a feisty frontier town, not a cosmopolitan city of millions. The first building there was actually a pub built by loggers who were paid in whiskey.

Loggers, whiskey, you see where I’m going with this – this is the top of our best walking tours of Vancouver .

Throw in the Great Vancouver Fire, some smallpox outbreaks, and tales of revenge and redemption , and we’ve got the makings of a delightfully macabre Vancouver walking tour .

I like this one for groups seeking city tours as it’s arguably the most social Vancouver tour , and it offers lots of hidden gems.

The Stanley Park Bike Tour – Top Stanley Park Tour

Location: Stanley Park | Length:  3 hours | Cost:  From $103.50 CAD

Stanley Park is one of the most fabulous urban parks in the world, and it stands out because it’s not the byproduct of any fancy landscaping. It’s exactly as nature left it – with about half a million trees .

The park has the Vancouver Aquarium , is home to breathtaking First Nations totem poles , and counts some amazing panoramic city views along the Stanley Park Seawall .

This is one of the best bike tours of Vancouver , and you’ll weave through old-growth forest trails ,  learn all about local flora and fauna, and learn the Coastal First Nations history of life before the settlers came.

Wanting to leave the bike aside? Check out our top Stanley Park tours for other methods.

Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour with Stanley Park & Granville Island – Top City Tour for Tourists

Meeting Point: Georgian Court Hotel | Length:  3.5 hours | Cost:  From $78.75 CAD

Here’s a tourist tour for people wanting to check off major sights with the least amount of hassle possible .

The epic food market and artisan stronghold at Granville Island is tough to get to, so sitting back and letting them take you to the action is the highlight of this trip.

The fact it also includes all the highlights of Stanley Park makes this a great one-two punch.

Along the way, you’ll get all the info from First Nations to contemporary culture through a knowledgeable guide – and they even take you to Gastown and Chinatown as well.

Talking Trees Tour – Best Vancouver Walking Tour

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

This captivating interpretive walking tour in Stanley Park is an ideal way to learn about the history and culture of the First Nations peoples.

This is the real Vancouver local tour.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable cultural ambassador , the tour offers a unique firsthand perspective on how Aboriginal people have preserved and nurtured these lands, forests, and oceans for generations.

As you explore the natural beauty of Stanley Park, you’ll gain valuable insights into the rich heritage of the local First Nations , with the goal of deepening your understanding of their customs.

Vancouver Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour – Best City Tour for Cruisers

Location: Downtown | Length:  2.5 hours | Cost:  From $65.00 CAD

I always recommend Vancouver hop-on hop-off bus tours for anybody on day one of a Vancouver itinerary or for cruisers arriving at the Vancouver cruise terminal .

Since it includes all the major photo landmarks , it’ll look like you were here for weeks! 🙂

Once you’re picked up, you’ll be taken to prime downtown locations like Canada Place, Stanley Park, and Robson Street . It’ll also follow some of Vancouver’s best beaches along English Bay before dropping you off at Queen Elizabeth Park .

The tour in Vancouver finishes up in Chinatown and Gastown (with a stop at the Gastown Steam Clock).

Prince of Whales – Best Vancouver Day Tour on the Water

Location:  Granville Island | Length: 5 hours | Cost:  From $235.99 CAD

This is one of the top Vancouver nature tours, whether you’re grabbing their half-day tours or their full-on  day trips from Vancouver that’ll take you all the way to Victoria .

What I love about their half-day whale-watching tour is that it departs right from Granville Island aboard the Salish Sea Freedom – the biggest, fastest ship in the fleet that’ll have you on whale grounds in a hurry.

The chance to see orcas and humpback whales in the wild on the top Vancouver whale watching tours is true bucket list stuff.

There’s a 90%+ sighting rate, and if they don’t deliver, you’re allowed to come back another day.

Related : Best Vancouver Boat Tours

Small Group Grouse Mountain & Capilano Bridge Tour – Best Nature Tour in Vancouver

Location:  Hotel Pickup | Length:  5 hours | Cost:  From $289.99 CAD

Vancouver’s crown nature jewels are on full display with this small group (14 or fewer) family-friendly tour .

With convenient hotel pickup , you’ll be shuttled through Stanley Park and over the Lion’s Gate Bridge to North Vancouver: home of the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain .

You’ll get entry to both world-class attractions and around two hours to spend at each. Old-growth forest , epic views, grizzly bears , lumberjack shows, dining, patios, totem poles – it’s all here.

Evening Guided Bus Tour of Vancouver – Best Vancouver Night Tour

Location:  Downtown | Length:  90 minutes | Cost:  From $34.00 CAD

If you’re visiting Vancouver in summer and have limited time but want to squeeze in all the golden hour glory into one quick trip, this is the Vancouver tour for you.

The idea of this seasonal tour is to visit spots like Stanley Park (including Prospect Point), English Bay, and Queen Elizabeth Park under the amazing twilight rays, with much smaller crowds .

The tour winds up in Gastown , which is an ideal nightcap if you’re looking to explore the best bars in Vancouver .

These tours of Vancouver BC run at 19:30 daily between May 20th and October 10th. 

Epic Electric Bike Tour – Best City Tour of Vancouver on Bikes

Location:  Hornby Street | Length:  4 hours | Cost:  From $149.50 CAD

Here’s a top Vancouver tour for people who wanna cover a ton of ground that can’t be done on bus routes – or even traditional bikes, for that matter.

This small group Vancouver city tour (max 8 people) utilizes the city’s bike trails , taking you through Stanley Park and the Vancouver Seawall, + some of downtown’s top neighbourhoods.

This Vancouver city sightseeing tour is led by an entertaining and professional guide to get you up to speed on city lore.

Related : How to Plan a Weekend in Vancouver

The Grand Bike Tour – Best Sightseeing Tour of Vancouver for Exercise

Location:  Vancouver | Length:  5 hours | Cost:  From $129.00 CAD

I love this one for Vancouver visitors who just want to get after it , consuming real Vancouver culture (and calories!) over an un-rushed ride through the city’s best areas.

This is one of these all-inclusive Vancouver tours that’ll get any true traveller excited. Along the way, you’ll discover four major Vancouver can’t-miss sights , all from the seat of your bike:

• Granville Island Public Market
• Stanley Park

All will be explained by an entertaining, fact-packed tour guide who’ll weave you through old-growth forests, beachside promenades, and cultural hot spots .

Vancouver Instagram Tour – Top Photography of All Best Vancouver Day Tours

Location:  Downtown | Length:  1.5 hours | Cost: From $80.00 CAD

OK, so the name might be a bit deceiving for non-millennials and younger – but this is a legitimate sightseeing tour of Vancouver – with a photography focus .

The best part? It’ll load you up with iconic postcard-like photos with just your mobile phone.

This small group tour is run by a professional photographer. They’ll take you on seasonal and weather-specific tours to city landmarks like the Art Deco Marine Building, the Olympic Cauldron, the Vancouver Art Gallery balcony, Gastown, Chinatown, and more.

All the while, they’ll be giving great photography tips and telling compelling stories about the city.

Vancouver Seaplane Tour – Top Vancouver Sightseeing Tour for Couples

Location:  Downtown | Length: 20 minutes | Cost:  From $167.97 CAD

This small group tour of Vancouver is for those who want to not only get the best city view but for those looking for a true bucket list experience .

I mean, how many people have ever taken off in a seaplane? Departing right from Vancouver Harbour , you’ll be up in the air in 60 seconds with epic views of Grouse Mountain , the skyline, and the BC coast.

The splash landing (don’t get the wrong idea, there’s no danger) is a huge thrill . This is great for couples seeking city tours in Vancouver with a little adventure .

Related : Best Vancouver Seaplane Tours

Vancouver Private Tour – Best Private Vancouver City Tour

Location: Vancouver | Length:  3 hours | Cost:  From $312.50 CAD

For those looking for private sightseeing tours in Vancouver, look no further than the private Vancouver Sightseeing Tour – which is the top price-value ratio private Vancouver tour in the city.

Here you’ll get picked up directly at your hotel and taken on a five-star tour of Vancouver’s top attractions with your own professional guide – you’ll learn the history , laugh at jokes, and discover some great secrets to take advantage of during your stay.

The best part? With these private Vancouver Canada city tours, once you’ve booked, they’ll put you in touch with your guide to make a customized Vancouver tour depending on your interests.

Related : How to Plan 7 Days in Vancouver

FlyOver Canada 4D Video Experience – Cheapest Tour in Vancouver

Location: Downtown | Length: 8 minutes | Cost:  From $30.45 CAD

Tell somebody it’s possible to fly across Canada in 8 minutes and wait for the look on their face – then tell them you did that at FlyOver Canada in downtown Vancouver.

This state-of-the-art flight simulation uses 4D technology to make you feel like you’re really taking a flight across Canada – whether you’re being sprayed with the mist of Niagara Falls or breathing in the scents of an Alberta flowerbed, this is a true 5 sense experience. 

This is one of the cheapest Vancouver BC city tours, and in my opinion, since it’s indoors, it is one of the best things to do in Vancouver in winter .

Victoria Highlights Tour – Top Vancouver Tour to Escape the City

Location: Vancouver & Victoria | Length: 13 hours | Cost:  From $229.00 CAD

OK, so this isn’t a Vancouver day tour, but if you’re looking for Vancouver to Victoria tours , this is the fastest way to do it – and you’ll see a National Historic Site of Canada with over a million bedding plants while you’re at it.

Butchart Gardens is an oasis of fountains , stunning sculptures, and tranquil streams kept prime by over 50 full-time gardeners . You’ll also fit in the Empress Hotel , Canada’s oldest Chinatown, Victoria’s Inner Harbour and more.

This is one of the most romantic city tours on the list – and one of the most romantic things to do in Vancouver , period.

Related : Vancouver to Victoria by Seaplane

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Related : Vancouver’s top kayak tours

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That’s Vancouver’s top city tours wrapped. That said, maybe you’re looking for something a little different.

Don’t be afraid to write me in the comments below – we answer every question here about Vancouver city highlights tours or anything else Vancouver-related! Just try us.

Enjoy our list of top Vancouver sightseeing tours ?

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

I've lived in 5 countries and created content for travel websites like eDreams and Amex Essentials, but here I finally get to work my passion project - my hometown, Vancouver!

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free walking tours in vancouver

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Walking tours

Downtown & historic vancouver.

• 90 minute free walking tour exploring the streets and alleyways of downtown Vancouver's main sites. 
• This free tour departs from main plaza at Vancouver Art Gallery , and ends at Andy Livingstone Park
• Learn about the local indigenous Nations and their history with Vancouver.
• Hear stories about the first residents of the historic Gastown and Chinatown districts.

Stanley Park

• 2 hour free tour of Stanley Park while immersed in its nature and beautyk.
• This is a free walking tour that starts and ends at the Stanley Park Bus Loop .
• Walk along forested trails and learn about the local plants and animals, including ancient trees and medicinal plants.
• Visit the famous Seawall and look out for marine mammals.
• Gain an in-depth understanding of Totem pole carving and the indigenous history of Stanley Park.

Custom Tours

• Flexible schedule that can cater to short or long tours.
• Extensive knowledge of local plants and wildlife, including their traditional and western uses.
• Background in Archaeology with a deep understanding of Vancouver's local history from the past 10,000 years to the 21st century.
• Experienced with introducing and facilitating discussions around reconciliation and traditional land use.
• Knowledgeable about various areas around Vancouver and willing to work with you to develop the perfect tour!

My Background

I am honoured to work and live on the unceded territory of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh speaking peoples, the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations in the place we now call Vancouver. The indigenous nations have stewarded the land since time immemorial and I am grateful for all the learnings and lessons they have shared.

I have spent the last decade leading various tours and workshops around Vancouver that dive into the history and culture of this place I call home. I am a passionate learner and I love to share the knowledge that I have gathered through all my previous experiences working with indigenous groups, elders, school districts, tourist attractions, and museums. I look forward to meeting you on our free tour of Vancouver or Stanley park.

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The 25 best free experiences in Vancouver

Oct 25, 2022 • 10 min read

Don’t miss a ride or a stroll around Stanley Park’s beautiful 8.8km (5.5-mile) seawall © Marc Bruxelle / Shutterstock

Vancouver routinely lands on lists of the most expensive cities in Canada , but that shouldn’t put budget-conscious travelers off. Here are many ways to enjoy Western Canada’s biggest metropolis for no cost at all.

Take a spin around Stanley Park

The magnificent 404-hectare (998-acre)  Stanley Park  combines excellent free attractions with the powerful, almost mystical, draw of nature. Don’t miss a stroll around the 8.8km (5.5-mile) seawall  – fringed by a 150,000-tree temperate rainforest, the route will take you past the park’s popular totem poles and alongside the coast of the shimmering Pacific Ocean.

We also recommend Stanley Park’s admission-free Nature House  for the lowdown on the region’s plants and animals. Aside from its wildlife exhibits, the facility also hosts low-cost guided park walks, often illuminating resident critters, from herons to raccoons.

Take some sun at Kitsilano Beach

Kitsilano Beach is one of Vancouver’s favorite summertime hangouts. The wide, sandy expanse attracts buff Frisbee tossers, giggling volleyball players and preening sunbathers, with the ocean offering choice opportunities for a dip. 

Perch on a log on a summer afternoon to see one of the region’s signature panoramas: the shimmering seafront backed by the twinkling glass towers of downtown and the North Shore mountains beyond. It’s one of those vistas that might leave you considering your emigration options.

Stop and listen to the Steam Clock 

Halfway along Water St, the oddly popular Steam Clock is a tourist magnet with a tooting whistle that sounds every 15 minutes, and which marks each hour with little whistling symphonies. Built in 1977, the clock has a mechanism that is actually driven by electricity; only the pipes on top are steam-fueled (reveal that to those patiently waiting, though, and you might cause a riot.)

Once you’ve taken the requisite photo, spend time exploring the rest of brick-cobbled Water St. One of Vancouver’s most historic, the thoroughfare features well-preserved heritage buildings containing shops, galleries and resto-bars. Be sure to cast your gaze above the entrance level for cool architectural features, including statuary faces.

See majestic trees at Queen Elizabeth Park

The city’s highest point – 167m (550ft) above sea level and with panoramic views over the mountain-framed downtown skyscrapers – the 52-hectare (128.5-acre) Queen Elizabeth Park claims to house specimens of every tree native to Canada. This is a good place to view local birdlife: keep your eyes peeled for chickadees, hummingbirds and huge bald eagles whirling high overhead.

Sports fields, manicured lawns and formal gardens keep residents happy, and you’ll likely see wide-eyed couples posing for their wedding photos in particularly picturesque spots. Check out the synchronized fountains at the park’s summit, where you’ll find the Bloedel Conservatory  as well as a hulking Henry Moore bronze called Knife Edge – Two Piece .

Spot wildlife along the Arbutus Greenway

Arbutus Greenway is a former urban rail line that’s being transformed by the city into a cool linear park, and today, the 8.5km-long (5.3-mile-long) plant-fringed walking and cycling route is paved and open to the public. Running south to the Fraser River, it’s a popular and accessible nature-hugging trail that brims with birdlife, butterflies and lots of wildflowers.

Take a breather at Sun Yat-Sen Park

Vancouver's Chinatown has a couple of notable parks to visit.  Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden charges admission, but right next door is the free-entry Sun Yat-Sen Park, which echoes the same ancient horticultural ideals. The paid attraction is more ornate and has guided tours, but its free-to-enter sibling includes a similar turtle-rippled lily pond and terracotta-topped perimeter walls.

See the hand-carved ’Ksan Mural

Enter the lobby of the RBC Royal Bank at the corner of Georgia and Burrard Sts, and head up the escalator that’s directly in front of you. At the top, you’ll find one of the largest First Nations artworks in Western Canada – and although it’s in a bank, you don’t have to pay a cent to see it.

Measuring 30m (98ft) long and 2.5m (8ft) high, the nine carved and painted red cedar panels comprising the spectacular ’Ksan Mural cover an entire wall of the building. The work took five carvers three months in 1972 to create, and it visually narrates the story of Weget, or Man-Raven, and his often mischievous exploits.

Rise above the fray at the Vancouver Public Library

The dramatic, colosseum-like Vancouver Public Library building looks like a temple to the great god of reading. Even without a religious purpose, it’s certainly one of the world’s most magnificent book-lending facilities.

Designed by Moshe Safdie and opened in 1995, the library offers collections over several floors. Head straight up to the ninth for the rooftop garden, a lofty, tree-lined outdoor plaza with tables and chairs, perfect for a coffee break with a view.

Check out the Chung Collection’s vintage travel posters

The giant University of British Columbia is more than just your average college campus. It’s also home to some of the city’s best attractions, some of which are free.

In the basement of the Irving K Barber Learning Centre, the Chung Collection  showcases artifacts related to early Chinese immigrants and the Canadian Pacific Railway – vintage travel posters included. The space is currently closed for ongoing maintenance and renovations, however many items are also on view in the UBC Library Open Collections; check for updates before planning a visit. 

Experience a slice of early 1900s life at Colbourne House

Located in the Marpole neighborhood, one of Vancouver’s oldest,  Colbourne House  was built in 1912 as a small family home. Saved from the wrecking ball in the early 1990s, it’s now preserved as an evocative house museum, lined with nostalgic furnishings and period knickknacks. (Look out for the staircase “cupboard.”) The house is open when volunteers are in attendance; email ahead to confirm.

Embrace the avant-garde at Morris & Helen Belkin Art Gallery

The ever-intriguing Morris & Helen Belkin Art Gallery specializes in contemporary and often quite challenging pieces, with chin-stroking new exhibitions opening in its high-ceilinged, white-walled spaces throughout the year. Check ahead for workshops and presentations, often covering key or emerging themes in contemporary art.

Appreciate the art deco Marine Building

Vancouver’s most romantic old-school tower block is also its best art deco building. The elegant 22-story Marine Building is a tribute to the city’s maritime past.

After stopping for a moment to appreciate the elaborate exterior, with its seahorses, lobsters and streamlined steamships, nip into the lobby, a walk-through artwork in itself, with stained-glass panels and a polished floor inlaid with the signs of the zodiac. Also check out the inlaid-wood interiors of the brass-doored elevators.

The Marine Building was the tallest building in the British Empire when it was completed in 1930, and it’s said to have bankrupted its original owners. It now houses offices; the lobby area is free for visitors.

Listen to music at Christ Church Cathedral

Completed in 1895 and designated a cathedral in 1929, the city’s most attractive Gothic-style church is nestled incongruously alongside looming glass towers. Visitors are currently welcome for Sunday services on Thursdays from 10am to 4pm.

Check out the dramatic hammer-beam wooden ceiling, plus the slender, glass-encased bell tower recently added to the exterior. The cathedral also hosts a wide range of cultural events, including regular choir and chamber-music recitals and the occasional Shakespeare reading.

See contemporary art at Pendulum Gallery

A creative use for a cavernous bank-building atrium, the Pendulum Gallery offers a varied roster of temporary exhibitions. Expect mostly contemporary art, ranging from striking paintings to challenging photographs and quirky arts and crafts.

The space also houses one permanent exhibit: a gargantuan 27m (89ft) buffed aluminum pendulum that swings overhead throughout your visit. Designed by Alan Storey, the pendulum weighs 1600kg (3530 pounds) and moves about 6m (20ft).

Join the party at English Bay Beach

Wandering south on Denman St, you’ll spot a clutch of palm trees ahead announcing English Bay Beach , one of Canada’s best urban strands. Then you’ll see one of Vancouver’s most popular public artworks, A-maze-ing Laughter   by   Yue Minjun, a series of oversized laughing figures that makes everyone smile.

Across the street is the beach, where a summertime party atmosphere sees locals catching rays and panoramic ocean views or just ogling the volleyballers jumping around on the sand. Be sure to snap a few photos of the beach’s towering inukshuk (Inuit sculpture) south of the main area. Or just continue along the seawall into neighboring Stanley Park.

Learn about railroad history at Engine 374 Pavilion

If the past is your bag, you should head to Yaletown’s Engine 374 Pavilion , which sounds fairly nondescript until you realize the hulking steam locomotive on display pulled the first transcontinental passenger train into Vancouver in 1887. Peruse the old photos on the walls and quiz the enthusiastic volunteers on its fascinating story.

Enjoy the atmosphere at Contemporary Art Gallery

A flexible three-room space, often with a different show in each, the smart, white-walled Contemporary Art Gallery exhibits striking, sometimes complex works in a wide range of media. Check ahead for talks, events and regular show openings. 

The CAG has never had that snooty gallery attitude, and it’s been working hard in recent years to broaden its appeal, including a collaboration to cover local buses in dramatic wrap-around art. 

Picnic at Second and Third Beaches

Second Beach is a family-friendly area on Stanley Park’s western side that features a grassy playground, an ice-cream-serving concession and the Stanley Park Pitch and Putt course. In summer, visitors can enjoy free outdoor movie screenings.

Alternatively, head to Third Beach for one of Vancouver’s best sunset-watching spots. A lovely sandy expanse with plenty of large logs to sit against, this is a favorite summer-evening destination for many locals, who watch the sky come alive with pyrotechnic color as they munch on the contents of their picnic baskets.

See works by local and national artists at Equinox Gallery

One of Vancouver’s oldest established private galleries, Equinox was one of the first big names to move here, pioneering the area’s new creative spirit. Look out for works by local and national artists – and if there’s a show by Fred Hertzog, make sure you visit. His brightly colored yesteryear photos of vintage Vancouver are simply spectacular.

Go for a nature walk at Maplewood Flats

Managed by the Wild Bird Trust of British Columbia , the delightful Maplewood Flats Conservation Area  is surprisingly accessible from Vancouver, yet it feels a million miles from the city. Its tangle of trees, winding paths and protected wetland beach lure swallows, ospreys and bald eagles – and nature-loving visitors. 

Snap an artsy selfie at Offsite

Offsite is Vancouver Art Gallery’s outdoor installation space, next to the Shangri-La Hotel. Its sometimes esoteric but always thought-provoking exhibits are changed several times a year. Aim for an attention-getting selfie or just read the explanation accompanying the work: these texts often contain arresting concepts that you may find enlightening.

Walk among giants at Mt Seymour Provincial Park

A popular retreat from the downtown clamor, the huge, tree-lined Mt Seymour Provincial Park is full of summertime hiking trails that suit walkers of most abilities. Many trails wind past lakes and centuries-old Douglas firs. The park is a great spot for mountain biking, too, with many dedicated trails. It’s also one of the city’s main winter playgrounds.

Cool off at Granville Island Water Park

If you have kids in tow, head to one of Vancouver’s splash-tastic free water parks. The biggest and best,  Granville Island Water Park  is conveniently located near Granville Island’s Kids Market , which means you’ll have the perfect way to lure the little ones away from the toy shops. Nearby is a large pond that’s filled with friendly ducks and geese; in May and June, you’ll often spot fuzzy babies of the feathered variety here.

Splash around in the jets and pools at Stanley Park

One of Stanley Park’s biggest enticements for kids, the free  water park is the perfect way to cool down on hot summer days. Jets and pools keep the giggles flowing, while magnificent views across the inlet to the mountain-framed North Shore delight any adult.

Find free entertainment in summertime

Vancouver has a number of free events, especially when summer rolls around. Historically, the CBC has staged free concerts at noon on summer weekdays in front of its downtown building; there’s also a summer-long series of free alfresco shows at the Kitsilano Showboat , often framed by spectacular Pacific sunsets. You’ll find many of the same Vancouverites catching free outdoor movie screenings in summertime Stanley Park – picnic blankets recommended.

This article was first published July 2012 and updated October 2022

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Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras Tour’ nearing Toronto and Vancouver - Get your tickets now

• Updated: Mar. 28, 2024, 10:58 a.m. |
• Published: Mar. 28, 2024, 10:58 a.m.

Taylor Swift performs during "Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour" at the National Stadium on March 2, 2024 in Singapore. (Photo by Ashok Kumar/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management) Getty Images

• Yzzy Liwanag | [email protected]

Taylor Swift is scheduled to hold nine consecutive shows in Canada this year as part of “The Eras Tour.” The tour, initially planned for Toronto and Vancouver from August 20 to December 8, has been extended to include additional cities such as Miami, New Orleans, Indianapolis, and Toronto. This expansion has resulted in the addition of a total of 15 extra concerts to the North American leg of the tour.

Related:  Get tickets for Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras Tour’ as she nears Toronto and Vancouver concerts

As part of her 2024 North American tour, Taylor will also be performing in Miami, Florida (Hardrock Stadium), and New Orleans, Louisiana (Caesars Superdome), with the tour slated to commence on October 18.

It is advisable to purchase your tickets in advance to secure your spot. Please note that tickets for these performances are in high demand on  StubHub , and specific dates have already reached full capacity on  VividSeats .

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• VividSeats , TicketNetwork , SeatGeek , StubHub

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Here's where you can watch the partial solar eclipse in Vancouver with available viewing glasses

Fingers crossed for clear skies!🤞

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The next solar eclipse in Canada is coming up on Monday, April 8th, and while it might be harder for the western provinces to catch the rare solar event in action, it’s still possible! In Vancouver, there are a couple of viewing events taking place with special eclipse glasses available.

According to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre , a partial solar eclipse will be visible in Vancouver starting at 10:43 am, with 27.8% of the sun covered by the moon. The space centre will be hosting an event with viewing glasses available at their front desk by donation.

Visitors can also witness the total solar eclipse visible in other parts of the country in the centre’s auditorium, where it will be streamed.

“A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun,” says NASA . As a result, “the sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.”

NASA reminds viewers that those looking directly at the sun – even through binoculars, a telescope, or a camera lens – can instantly receive “severe eye injury,” so make sure you’re using protective solar eclipse eyewear!

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Looking for another viewing event in Vancouver? The SFU Trottier Observatory will have solar telescopes set up for the public to use, as well as eclipse glasses free of charge.

Note that viewing of the eclipse will be weather-dependent – but as of now, it looks like we’ll have relatively clear skies!

H.R. MacMillan Space Centre

Sfu trottier observatory.

When:  Monday, April 8th Where:  643A Science Road, Burnaby Cost: Free

So there you have it, Vancouver! Time to snag some solar eclipse glasses and hope for good weather!

Curiocity Staff

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