vancouver tourist attractions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Go for a Walk in Stanley Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location: South of and underneath the Granville Street Bridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

Address: 6393 NW Marine Drive, Vancouver, British Columbia

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

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

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

Address: 2305 Cornwall Ave, Vancouver, British Columbia

• Read More: Best Beaches in Vancouver, BC

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 999 Canada Place, Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1455 Quebec Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels :

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

Budget Hotels :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

• All Things To Do
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Stanley Park Stanley Park free

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

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

Granville Island Granville Island free

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

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

Queen Elizabeth Park Queen Elizabeth Park free

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

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

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Museum of Anthropology at UBC Museum of Anthropology at UBC

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

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

Mount Pleasant Mount Pleasant free

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

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

Kitsilano Beach Kitsilano Beach free

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

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

Gastown Gastown free

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

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

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

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

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

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VanDusen Botanical Garden VanDusen Botanical Garden

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

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

Yaletown Yaletown free

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

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

English Bay English Bay free

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

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

Grouse Mountain Grouse Mountain

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

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

Capilano Suspension Bridge Capilano Suspension Bridge

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

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

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Spanish Banks Beach Spanish Banks Beach free

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

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

Museum of Vancouver Museum of Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

Steveston Village Steveston Village

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

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

Lynn Canyon Park Lynn Canyon Park free

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

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

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Robson Street Robson Street free

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

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

Vancouver Aquarium Vancouver Aquarium

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

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

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The 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.

Sarah James

Jessica Puckett

Kimberly Wilson

Rachel Chang

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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Must-see attractions in Vancouver

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A-maze-ing Laughter

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Maplewood Farm

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UBC Botanical Garden

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The 21 best things to do in Vancouver

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

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

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Fun things to do in Vancouver

1.  Stanley Park

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

2.  Grouse Mountain

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

3.  Vancouver Whale Watch

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

4.  VanDusen Botanical Garden

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

5.  Sea to Sky Gondola

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

6.  Granville Island

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

7.  Rogers Arena

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

8.  Richmond Night Market

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

9.  Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden

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

10.  Pacific Arts Market

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

11.  The Seawall

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

12.  Gastown

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

13.  Capilano Suspension Bridge

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

14.  Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia

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

15.  Mr. Bannock

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

16.  Wreck Beach

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

17.  Vancouver Aquarium

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

18.  English Bay Beach

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

19.  Jericho Beach

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

20.  False Creek

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

21.  Pam Rocks

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

Admire art at the Vancouver Art Gallery.

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

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

Take a day trip to Bowen Island.

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

See sea creatures at the Vancouver Aquarium.

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

Walk around the Capilano River Hatchery.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

Snowshoe the Howe Sound Crest Trail.

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

Find alpine adventures on Grouse Mountain.

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

Visit the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.

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

SUP the Salish Sea.

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

Teeter across the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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

Play at Creekside Park.

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

26 Best Things to Do in Vancouver in 2024

Since 1986, I’ve been on a quest for the best things to do in Vancouver.

As a child, I relished forest trails, beach clam digs, and feeding squirrels in Stanley Park.

As I grew older, my tastes evolved to include culture, cuisine, and cocktails. Now, I’ve found a comfortable balance.

So, let’s dive straight into my eclectic list of the most fun things to do in Vancouver, featuring highlights like Stanley Park.

Best Things to Do in Vancouver, BC Canada

Climb grouse mountain.

The Peak of Vancouver is Vancouver’s year-round alpine recreational playground .

From the epic Grouse Grind hike and zip lining in Vancouver in summer , to skiing in Vancouver in winter , the mountain has no shortage of year-round activities on offer.

However, it’s also a vital cultural and educational hub as well. Visit the popular wildlife sanctuary, take in a world-famous lumberjack show or even the best breakfast in Vancouver – because it’s with the grizzly bears. 

Just 15 minutes from downtown , our city’s most visited attraction is simply a must see thing to do in Vancouver.

Go Whale Watching

How many big cities can offer you once-in-a-lifetime wildlife right on your doorstep?

Especially between March and September, you’ll find the top Vancouver whale watching tours in full stride.

Here, just outside of Vancouver Harbour, you can experience killer whales , humpback whales, and all sorts of Pacific wildlife to last a lifetime.

Half-day tours roll with expert naturists, state-of-the-art boats, and even food and drinks.

Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Name any top tourist attraction that can string you on a line through an old-growth rainforest 280 feet above the thundering, salmon-filled Capilano River…

Then give you the rush of a roller coaster without even a slight drop in altitude.

The 800,000 people who traverse North Vancouver’s Capilano Suspension Bridge every year will tell you it’s one of the most unique experiences you can have.

Beyond the bridge, you’ve also got a daring Cliff Walk attraction and the exciting Treetops Adventure included in the price.

Take in the Museum of Anthropology

Those looking for a window into the rich history of the Northwest Coast First Nations will find answers in the art and archaeology at the Museum of Anthropology .

The 535,000 archaeological objects also include a notable presence from faraway continents like Africa and Asia, though the piece de resistance is a yellow cedar sculpture called The Raven and the First Men – a depiction of a common Haida creation myth.

A little tip: plan the visit around dusk so you can see a spectacular sunset down at nearby Wreck Beach .

Related: The 20 Best Museums in Vancouver

Take an Aerial Tour of the City

To truly appreciate all of Vancouver’s beauty together, these 20-minute Vancouver seaplane tours are a great option.

You’ll take off right in front of Canada Place and the Vancouver Cruise Terminal , cruise past Stanley Park and the Lions Gate Bridge , trace the majestic Coast Mountains , then circle back for views of Vancouver’s beaches and cityscape.

Even better? You’ll be flying the world’s first carbon-neutral airline .

Walk Through Stanley Park

The mother of all Vancouver parks.

Stanley Park actually checks in about one-fifth bigger than Central Park in New York, with about (just a guess) 72 times more natural beauty.

It’s home to the Vancouver Aquarium , a miniature railway, and the city center’s world-famous Seawall .

However, what’s truly Vancouveresque is the city’s hands-off approach: Stanley Park isn’t the work of a landscape architect but simply an old-growth forest that was allowed to evolve with a city next door.

You’ll swear you’re in the middle of the bush, not a city of millions.

Tip: you can really double down on the knowledge taking tours of Stanley Park .

Related : Best Vancouver Festivals

Go on Vancouver Food Tours

For me, there’s no better way to discover a city than to eat up its local delicacies with a guide who also feeds you a bit of history.

Among our list of the best Vancouver food tours , you’ll find the following:

• Granville Island Market Food Tour
• Chinatown Walking Food Tour
• Gastown Historic Food Tour
• Little Italy Food Tour
• Richmond Dumpling Tour

Along the way, you’ll get to try signature eats like Canada’s national dish, poutine , local smoked salmon, gourmet food from top restaurants, and local beers and wines.

Visit Granville Island

Granville Island used to be a boring mud flat just south of downtown Vancouver , but today it has swapped its turn-of-the-century sawmills and machine shops for local artists and their art galleries .

It’s also home to street performers, some of Vancouver’s best shopping , and the city’s top food market .

When I visit, I go straight to Granville Island Public Market for the double-smoked sockeye salmon strips – everything else is just a secondary attraction, including our beloved maple syrup!

A local seafood meal at Sandbar or a night at The Improv Centre also can’t miss.

Cross the Country with a 4D Flight Simulator

Visit Canada Place , right next to the Vancouver Convention Centre in downtown Vancouver , for what has been dubbed “the ultimate flying experience.”

Flyover Canada utilizes state-of-the-art 4D video technology to simulate the sensations of flight across all of Canada’s disparate landscapes.

You’ll be strapped in to hang suspended in front of a 20-metre spherical screen for your exhilarating 8-minute journey clear across Canada.

Along the way, special effects such as wind, mist and scents will be combined with motion to create a true lifelike experience – it’s one of the best cheap things to do in Vancouver .

Take a Vancouver Boat Tour

Vancouver’s city motto is By sea , land , and air ; we prosper – so it’s only fitting to pay tribute to the sea by taking Vancouver’s best boat tours .

And we’ve got some pretty insane options: harbour cruises, wildlife boat tours , whale watching tours, dinner cruises , sunset excursions and more.

As a base, expect most tours to take you along city beaches, Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, the Coast Mountains, and the city skyline.

Hit the Vancouver Art Gallery

The largest art gallery in Western Canada hosts a permanent collection of about 11,000 pieces of art – with some notable contributions from Emily Carr, Marc Chagall, and the Group of Seven.

Walking down the famous Robson Street , you won’t miss this National Historic Site of Canada building. The Vancouver Art Gallery is often the site of protests and demonstrations and is the city’s true cultural heart .

All the big international exhibitions touch down here.

A bonus? The cafe here is one of Vancouver’s best-kept secrets as it offers a garden oasis in the middle of the city, yet it is rarely packed. They also have wine, and in the winter, there is ice skating out in the square.

Go Kayaking in False Creek

Why not discover Vancouver by water and perfect a useful skill while getting into shape at the same time? If you’re visiting between late April in Vancouver and early October, then hit up Creekside Kayaks .

Not wanting to lift a finger? You can try out one of Vancouver’s best kayaking tours for $44.80.

False Creek is our recommendation due to its connection with downtown Vancouver , sheltered waters and great stop-off options, like Science World, Granville Island and Yaletown .

Ride the Sea to Sky Highway

If you’re renting a car, there’s no greater way to soak up the breathtaking beauty of British Columbia than burning up this 132 km (88 miles) stretch of highway that connects Vancouver with world-class ski resort Whistler .

You can stop at the breathtaking Sea to Sky Gondola or the historic Britannia Mine Museum .

Pick a sunny day, and your senses won’t be able to decide between the evergreen elegance of our mountain rainforest or the scintillating sea below.

Just keep an eye on the road!

Visit the Museum of Vancouver

The Museum of Vancouver is a popular civic history museum that recounts the history of its namesake city.

Learn about the history of the three local First Nations  who called the area home long before the arrival of European explorers.

Proceed in chronological order through the exhibits to gain an informative look at Vancouver’s dramatic transformation from a rough-and-tumble pioneer outpost to the cosmopolitan city we see today.

Go for Chinese Food

Many of Vancouver’s Best Restaurants tend to have an Asian twist.

Conde Nast Traveler even boldly claimed that Vancouver not only has the best Chinese food in Canada but the best Chinese food in the entire world .

Their reviewer was left ‘trembling’ by the city’s variety of top Cantonese, Shanghainese, and Szechuan chefs utilizing the area’s top-notch seafood and produce.

Peaceful Restaurant is a good start, and Dinesty Dumping House and Chinatown BBQ are great value spots.

The Best Restaurants in Chinatown are a good place to start. 

Visit Gastown’s Steam Clock

It may not get the air time as other Vancouver landmarks, but this is one of the only functioning steam clocks in the world . It was built in 1977 as part of a throwback revitalization plan for Gastown.

You’ll see it in action at the top of the hour and every 15 minutes after.

You can find more information in our Gastown neighbourhood guide.

Related: The Best Gastown Bars

Go For Sushi

The 600 sushi restaurants in Greater Vancouver account for about 10% of the city’s total eateries, making them as common as coffee shops. Still not impressed by the number? Los Angeles only has 300, and they’re seven times bigger.

Vancouverites are sushi mad – but that’s because there’s an abundance of affordable yet delicious fish available around all of coastal British Columbia.

Another fun fact: the California roll was invented in Vancouver at Tojo’s. Tom Sushi has also been rated the second-best restaurant in Canada and is not even that expensive!

Hit Some Vancouver Beaches

Ah, Vancouver in the summer months – spending a relaxing afternoon swimming, tanning, and barbecuing at one of Vancouver’s best beaches .

To hang with the beautiful people and check out Canada’s longest swimming pool, look no further than Kitsilano Beach: a quick taxi from downtown Vancouver .  

If you’re staying downtown, though, you can’t go wrong with any of the beaches facing west into English Bay.

For a more laid-back experience, you can head to Jericho, Locarno or Spanish Banks on the city’s West side.

More adventurous souls may want to head out to the University of British Columbia to check out Wreck Beach , Canada’s largest nude beach.

See the Bloedel Conservatory

If Vancouver’s gloomy weather has got you down, don’t fret; the city is home to its domed tropical paradise. Located at beautiful Queen Elizabeth Park , the Bloedel Conservatory was constructed to foster “a better appreciation and understanding of the world of plants”.

In pursuit of this goal, this beautiful domed heritage building was stocked with over 500 species of tropical plants and 120 free-flying birds in its tropical temperature-controlled confines.

Adjoining Queen Elizabeth Park is located at the highest point in Vancouver and thus contains some of the very best views in town. So be sure to bring your camera.

Looking to get off the beaten track? Check out our guide to the top Vancouver Hidden Gems .

Take in the Seaside Inukshuks

What was once a traditional stone landmark and navigational aid for Inuit cultures has become a symbol of the city and the 2010 Winter Olympic Games logo, owing to Alvin Kanak’s inukshuk built-in English Bay in 1986.

Just west of the famous landmark, you’ll see hundreds of copycats along the Seawall trying to recreate their own versions representing the theme of northern hospitality and friendship.

After your attempt, you’re walking distance to the West End for coffee, drinks, or a delicious ethnic meal.

Experience Commercial Drive

Vancouver’s Commercial Drive is part Little Italy and part hipster haven (maybe even more than Main Street ).

Here you can get into some Neapolitan pizza, hit a craft beer tasting room , sample some affordable cocktails, and visit a board game pub where dice determine your shots.

It’s one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Vancouver  if you can find an Airbnb, and regardless of being a bit far from downtown, it’s easily accessible via Skytrain.

Related: The Top Vancouver Streets: A Tourist’s Guide

Get Lost in VanDusen Botanical Garden

This 22-hectare public garden , maintained by over 1200 volunteers, displays plant species from all over the world with a particular focus on plants native to British Columbia.

If you’re visiting VanDusen Botanical Gardens in May, you’ll be treated to one of the world’s biggest Rhododendron collections, counting over 1000 varieties.

Also of note are the totem pole, Elizabethan hedge maze , and heirloom vegetable garden.

Get Educated at Science World

Yes, we locals still refer to Telus World of Science as Science World , and quite frankly, you should too for that full integration factor.

Here, we get an iconic Vancouver building : a geodesic sphere at the edge of False Creek that looks like Las Vegas had its way with a golf ball.

With a huge variety of science-themed galleries like BodyWorks, Puzzles & Illusions, Environmental Trail, and the Wonder Gallery, you’ll be edu-tained like no other place.

The kicker? It’s got the largest OMNIMAX dome screen in the world.

Eat Some Canadian Food

When I travel, people always ask me if there are any traditional Canadian dishes . I usually mumble something self-deprecating and say ‘maple syrup’ before changing the subject.

But you won’t have to.

Salmon n’ Bannock is a modest yet attentive restaurant where you can try updated Indigenous classics , such as salmon, elk, bison pot roast, and oolichans. While the Mr. Bannock food truck offers inventive “Indian fusion” items like Indian Tacos.

Many of the top downtown Vancouver restaurants also offer West Coast cuisine unique to our region.

Area: Stadium District l 800 Griffiths Way l SkyTrain: Stadium Chinatown l Website

Watch Concerts or Events at Rogers Arena

Rogers Arena showcases live concerts and hosts the Vancouver Canucks and Vancouver Warriors.

The good thing about this arena is service animals are welcome!

There’s also Canucks Team Store , offering the city’s most extensive array of Canucks gear , situated at Gate 6 (Abbott Street and Pacific Blvd. corner). Game attendees can also reach the store through Section 113.

Area: Chinatown l 578 Carrall St. l SkyTrain: Stadium Chinatown l Website

Visit Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden stands as a registered museum and ranks among Vancouver’s premier tourist destinations .

Serving as a distinctive setting for cultural activities and gatherings, the garden hosts guided tours , concerts, festivals, exhibitions, receptions, and educational programs.

This Ming Dynasty-inspired garden-home holds the distinction of being the first of its kind constructed beyond China, remaining a singular global marvel due to the collective collaboration of community members, the Canadian Government, and the People’s Republic of China.

Things to Do in Vancouver Canada FAQs

What are the must-do things to do in vancouver.

The things you absolutely must do in Vancouver are seeing the Capilano Suspension Bridge, visiting Stanley Park, heading up Grouse Mountain, shopping Granville Island, and taking a whale-watching tour.

What are some fun things to do in Vancouver Canada?

There are fun things to do in Vancouver, Canada, like strolling through the historic Gastown, skiing or snowboarding on Grouse Mountain, and enjoying the vibrant culture and diverse cuisine in Vancouver, Canada.

What are some non-touristy things to do in Vancouver?

Non-touristy things to do in Vancouver include visiting beaches on the West side (Locarno, Jericho), going to Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, going to Lonsdale Quay Market, and eating in Chinatown and Punjabi Market.

Still Looking for Awesome Things to Do in Vancouver?

This website goes beyond simply listing the top things to do in Vancouver and then disappearing. While that might be a straightforward approach, especially in this city, we aim to provide a more comprehensive experience.

If you’re seeking personalized recommendations for your upcoming holiday or night out in Vancity , feel free to drop a comment below, and I’ll be happy to assist!

This ensures you always have a wealth of things to do 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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Nice info thanks, I think i’ve planned the whole itinerary now! If my wife wasn’t afraid of heights we would do the bridge, is there anything for her in that area while I swing? lol

And what’s the best Chinese restaurant then?

Hey Norman,

Honestly the area is quite remote so you won’t be finding much else to do around there – that said, the are around the bridge is still packed with things to see and do without ‘risking’ your life 😉

For Chinese my favourite is Peaceful at the cross section of Broadway and Cambie.

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

Grizzly Bear Encounter at Knight Inlet    External Link Title

From CAD 5,095

7 days / 6 nights

The area is home to one of the largest concentrations of grizzly bears in British Columbia. On site, enjoy the various activities available, discover a surprising fauna and admire extraordinary landscapes where the shades of blues and greens beautifully merge.

Rockies Trail    External Link Title

From CAD 3,889 per person (double occupancy)

10 days / 9 nights

Experience hot springs, glacial ice fields, and breathtaking views of soaring peaks. Journey over rolling foothills and through interior canyons and discover the frontier legends of homesteaders, cowboys, and gold seekers. The mountain park settings of Banff, Jasper, and Whistler give way to the port cities of Vancouver and Victoria.

Pure West    External Link Title

From CAD 4,075 per person (double occupancy)

21 days / 20 nights

The observation of grizzly bears is certainly one of the most spectacular memories you will keep during this road trip departing in Vancouver. A perfect loop itinerary, including the Vancouver Island, the Inside Passage cruise, and the Canadian Rockies.

Get inspired

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

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

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

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

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

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

FlyOver Canada utilizes state-of-the-art technology to give you the feeling of flight. You will hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while our film whisks you away on an exhilarating 8-minute journey across Canada, from east to west. Read More

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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VANCOUVER'S MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

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

THINGS TO DO IN VANCOUVER

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

Your Vancouver fun starts here!

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

PURCHASE TODAY  

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

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

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Vancouver

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

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

17. Science World

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

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

16. Bloedel Conservatory

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

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

15. Vancouver Lookout

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

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

14. Spanish Banks Beach

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

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

13. VanDusen Botanical Garden

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

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

12. Queen Elizabeth Park

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

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

11. Vancouver Aquarium

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

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

10. Kitsilano Beach

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

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

9. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden

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

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

8. Robson Street

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

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

7. Museum of Anthropology at UBC

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

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

6. Canada Place

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

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

5. Grouse Mountain

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

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

4. Stanley Park

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

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

3. Granville Island

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

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

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

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

1. Capilano Suspension Bridge

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

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

Map of Tourist Attractions in Vancouver

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20 Top Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver, Canada

 Joe Daniel Price/Getty Images

Famed for its beauty, Canada’s most cosmopolitan West Coast city sits surrounded by mountains and beaches, with the green expanse of Stanley Park’s forest enhancing the downtown peninsula. While the great outdoors appeals to travelers looking for adventure, Downtown Vancouver is packed with attractions, shopping , and dining making it a must-visit for any traveler to the city.

There are four Vancouver neighborhoods in the downtown peninsula: Gastown/Chinatown, Yaletown, the West End, and Coal Harbour. Compact and easy-to-navigate, most of the neighborhoods are within walking distance from each other and the  SkyTrain Canada Line rapid transit (Vancouver's metro) makes it easy to move around the city center. There are also hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tours and walking tours that will take you to all major downtown Vancouver attractions, plus Stanley Park and Gastown.

Experience Art and Entertainment at Robson Square

 Leopoldine Bauer / TripSavvy

From the Canada Line's Vancouver City Centre station, you can walk to Vancouver Art Gallery , the largest gallery in western Canada. It's close to Robson Square , a hub for free ice skating in the winter and free dance classes in the summer.

Home to permanent and visiting exhibitions, Vancouver Art Gallery showcases international artists and British Columbian artworks by renowned Canadians such as the modernist landscape painter Emily Carr. Walk a few blocks to the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art , located at 639 Hornby Street, to see pieces by the prolific Indigenous artist and learn more about the people of Canada’s First Nations.

Shop at Luxury Downtown Department Stores

 Leopoldine Bauer / TripSavvy

Downtown Vancouver is  the  place to shop in Vancouver, in part because downtown Vancouver shopping is so diverse. And it's all within a three-block radius, making it easy to walk to each location. Robson Street Shopping  offers a lot of brand-name, mid-price fashion, including local brands like Lululemon Athletica and Aritzia . Pacific Centre Mall  also offers brand-name fashion like those stores found on Robson Street, but it is set indoors, which makes it ideal for a rainy day.

The Hudson's Bay Company (The Bay) is a historic Canadian department store that sells everything from clothing and accessories to homeware—look out for "Bay Days" for special sales.  Holt Renfrew  is a Canadian, high-end department store that is highly recommended if you’re looking for something quintessentially Canadian to take home. Nordstrom Pacific Centre found close by at 799 Robson Street, opened its doors in 2015 to offer fashionistas a taste of the American high-end department store experience.

Find Your Favorite Food Truck

Vancouver is a foodie city, teeming with incredible restaurants of every sort. The best restaurants in downtown Vancouver run the gamut from food trucks and izakayas (Japanese pubs) to seafood extravaganzas, and high-end Italian restaurants.

The Vancouver Art Gallery plaza is a hub for some of the city’s most beloved food trucks such as  Tacofino , which now also has several brick and mortar locations serving the popular burritos and tacos, and Mom’s Grilled Cheese Truck. Vancouver's famous  Japadog —Japanese-inspired hot dogs—can usually be found nearby on Burrard Street. Download the  StreetFood app  to find out where and when the food trucks will be open, or just keep an eye out for the lines.

Fly Over Canada

Nicholas Untz/Wikimedia Commons 

Designed to resemble the cruise ships that berth alongside Canada Place , the white "sails" are a distinctive part of Vancouver’s waterfront. A stroll around the west promenade takes you along “The Canadian Trail” through the country’s 10 provinces and three territories.

Watch the seaplanes take off from the nearby Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre terminal, or take a trip across the country at the high-tech FlyOver Canada ride. Buckle up and sit suspended in front of a spherical screen that creates the illusion of flying across Canada’s awe-inspiring landscapes from coast to coast during your eight-minute flight.

Get Postcard Worthy Views

GoToVan/Flickr 

Close to Canada Place and Waterfront Station, the 551-foot-high (168 meters) panoramic observation deck at the Lookout at the Harbour Centre  is the perfect place to get a 360-degree picturesque view of Vancouver. From the snow-sprinkled mountains of the North Shore to grittier Gastown and the sparkling glass skyscrapers of Coal Harbour, the whole city can be seen from this unique vantage point.

Take a tour or explore on your own and enjoy lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch in the tower’s revolving Top of Vancouver restaurant.

Pick Up Some Local Labels in Gastown

 Naimul Alam / TripSavvy

Wander east from the Canada Line’s Waterfront Station to reach Gastown, Vancouver's most historic neighborhood. Wander down Water Street and Gastown’s cobbled streets to check out local fashion labels in bijou boutiques such as OAK + FORT , a Vancouver-based, minimalist clothing brand that has stores across Canada and in New York, and Six Hundred Four —a sneaker company that features ever-changing artwork on limited edition runs of shoes. Eccentric Canadian shoe designer John Fluevog’s flagship store and design studio can be found in the heart of Gastown , selling Art Deco-inspired footwear.

Sip a Sophisticated Cocktail

L'Abattoir

Stroll down Gastown’s illuminated streets at night to experience the top Gastown restaurants and make time for a pre- or post-dinner drink and become a cocktail connoisseur at one of the neighborhood’s many bars.

Try the Pourhouse for classic cocktails, L’Abattoir for crafted concoctions, Clough Club for cool surroundings or The Diamond’s secret back bar for speakeasy-style sips.

Discover an Authentic Chinese Garden

Bordering the edges of Gastown, Chinatown is a colorful neighborhood where you’ll find stores selling authentic Chinese ingredients, as well as trendy bars and artisanal coffee shops.

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a walled garden that is just a short walk from Waterfront Station and Gastown. This tranquil oasis was opened in the mid-1980s and was the first authentic Chinese scholar’s garden ever built outside of China. The garden often appears in film and TV shows, doubling as a location in China, thanks to its traditional-style house, pond, and cherry trees. Explore the free public park section of the garden (perfect for pictures) or learn more about the garden’s Feng Shui and Taoist principles in the museum area (with an admission fee).

Eat Your Way Around the World in Chinatown

Kissa Tanto

Chinatown is home to restaurants inspired by all corners of the globe, from handmade pasta at Ask For Luigi , to Latin American dishes at Cuchillo .

Modern Asian fusion food can be found at Sai Woo , Bao Bei , and Kissa Tanto . Start your night with contemporary cocktails at the Chinese apothecary-inspired The Keefer Bar or the retro Las Vegas-style Emerald Supper Club & Cocktail Lounge . 

Explore Science World After Dark

 Naimul Alam / TripSavvy

On the edge of Chinatown, at the mouth of False Creek, Science World at TELUS World of Science is housed in a distinctive golf ball-shaped building that makes it easy to spot from the nearby Main Street SkyTrain station. Home to educational exhibits that make science fun for all, the family-friendly attraction also runs “After Dark” adults-only evenings for anyone over 19 who wants to explore the exhibits while also enjoying a glass of wine or beer. 

Grab Lunch on Granville Island

Granville Island/Dominic Schaefer

False Creek Ferries and the rainbow-colored Aquabuses run from Science World to various points along the inlet such as Yaletown and Granville Island . Hop on the small ferry or take a bus to reach the bustling food market on Granville Island, which sells everything from salads and sushi to pizza and pies.

While you’re there, head to Railspur Alley to taste local tipples such as sake at the Artisan Sake Maker or pink gin and other craft spirits at Long Table Distillery . Catch a comedy show or musical at one of the theaters and improv centers, and enjoy local seafood for dinner at The Sandbar Restaurant and Edible Canada . 

Go Clubbing

Tourism Vancouver/Clayton Perry

Nightlife in Downtown Vancouver is centered on Granville Street, known generally as the Granville Entertainment District. Stretching, roughly, from Nelson Street to Robson Street, downtown Granville Street is packed with bars and nightclubs, making it easy to club-hop from one destination to another. Big-name DJs and dance acts often perform along the strip and legendary venues such as the Vogue Theatre and Commodore Ballroom host touring live bands.

Dine Out on Fresh Seafood

WildTale Grill

Reach Yaletown's restaurant and dining district by taking the Canada Line to Yaletown-Roundhouse Station. Yaletown is one of Vancouver's trendiest neighborhoods and is famous for its dining and nightlife. Dress to impress and head to  OPUS Bar ; you may even spot a celebrity.

Yaletown’s converted warehouses are home to a wide range of restaurants from vegan eateries like  MeeT  to chains such as The Keg Steakhouse (worth a look for the hidden rooftop bar). The neighborhood is also home to a concentration of some of the city’s best seafood restaurants, from the Aburi sushi of  Minami  to fresh fish at  WildTale Grill and sustainable seafood at  Blue Water Café ; all can be found within a two-block radius of each other.

Relax in One of Yaletown’s Urban Spas

Ken Straiton/Getty Images

Home to beautiful people, Yaletown is  the  place to head for an urban spa experience. Discover local skincare brand and spa  skoah  on Hamilton Street to relax and leave the city far behind.

If blowouts and brows are your thing, Mainland Street is home to the Indian-inspired  Bombay Brows  and  Blo Blow Dry Bar .

Uncover Vancouver’s best LGBT Nightlife

Score on Davie

Davie Street runs from Yaletown’s waterfront to English Bay in the West End and is home to Vancouver's best LGBT nightlife .

Party at a drag show at Celebrities nightclub or The Junction , live it up at The Pumpjack Pub or go more low-key at 1181 ’s lounge. Recover the next day with a crazy Caesar cocktail (a Canadian twist on a Bloody Mary that features Clamato juice) on the patio at The Score on Davie —the extreme beverages come with everything from a burger and wings to chocolate brownies on top.

Hit the Beach at English Bay

Leopoldine Bauer / TripSavvy

The West End and Coal Harbour are the neighborhoods west of Downtown Vancouver, toward Stanley Park. There is no rapid transit to the West End; you can  walk or bike the Seawall , drive, or take a  bus . Downtown Vancouver’s most popular beach is at the entrance to Stanley Park, at the bottom of Davie and Denman streets. Summertime sees it bustling with tourists, especially during July and August when the annual  Celebration of Light  international fireworks competition lights up the night with epic displays.

Rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard to explore the coast or hit the beach at dusk to see spectacular sunsets over Vancouver Island on the horizon.

Cycle Around Stanley Park

TripSavvy / Tanya Nikolic

It’s possible to walk, cycle, or rollerblade the 8.8 kilometer (5.5 mile) seawall that stretches around the huge park but for visitors with limited time , Vancouver’s most well-known landmark is best seen by bike. Rent one (or try a tandem if there’s two of you) from one of several rental places along Denman— Spokes Bicycle Rentals  is closest to the Coal Harbour end of the seawall and  English Bay Bike Rentals  on Davie Street is nearest to English Bay.

Observe the one-way system to start near the rowing club and cycle around the seawall, passing stunning views, back to Canada Place and the downtown skyline, as well as the North Shore mountains, Lions Gate Bridge and Kitsilano.

Stop at Third Beach for photo opportunities of the ocean, mountains, and forest, or take one of the internal trails to discover the lakes and forests of Stanley Park.

Meet Local Sea Creatures at the Vancouver Aquarium

There’s plenty to do in Stanley Park —from checking out the totem poles to taking a horse-drawn carriage ride—but the Vancouver Aquarium is one of the city’s best-loved attractions. Exhibits at the non-profit center include sea lions at Steller’s Bay and an interactive experience called Discover Rays.

Get hands-on in the Wet Lab, explore the Tropic Zone, and learn more about the Pacific’s inhabitants. Head to an After Hours event to explore the exhibits in an adults-only setting and enjoy a glass of wine whilst learning more about the sea creatures that call the local ocean home.

Warm Up With Ramen on Robson Street

Marutama Ramen

Close to the Coal Harbour entry point to Stanley Park, Robson, and Denman Streets are home to some of the city’s most popular ramen and Korean restaurants. Eat Korean fried chicken at  Zabu  or choose from one of the many ramen joints to warm up with a bowl of Japanese noodles on a rainy day. Prepare for lines at popular places such as  Hokkaido Ramen Santouka ,  Marutama Ramen ,  Ramen Danbo , and Kintaro.

Check Out the Luxury Stores on Alberni Street

George Pimentel/Getty Images  

Walk up Robson Street, or take the parallel Alberni Street, to discover Vancouver’s version of Rodeo Drive and a golden mile of high-end hotels such as the  Shangri-La Hotel ,  Fairmont Vancouver  and  Trump International Hotel & Tower .

Home to  Tiffany & Co .’s flagship store, the 1000 blocks of Alberni also has  De Beers ,  Gucci ,  Louis Vuitton , Hermes, and  Burberry  stores. Shop for high-end luxury brands and look out for Lamborghinis while you indulge in some  Alberni Street luxury shopping .

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

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

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

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

1. Visit the Museum of Anthropology

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

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

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

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

3. Hike the Grouse Grind

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

Suggested tour : Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge

4. Cycle Around Stanley Park

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

5. Windowshop in Gastown

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

6. Dim Sum in China Town

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

7. Find Your Zen

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

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

8. Kayaking in Deep Cove

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

9. Take an Aquabus to Granville Island

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

Included in : Vancouver Delights: 7 Hour City Tour

10. Visit the Richmond Night Market

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

11. Take a Foodie Tour

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

12. Hike in Lynn Canyon

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

13. Wander Van Dusen Botanical Gardens

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

14. Watch a Concert at the Commodore

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

15. Catch a Canucks Game

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

16. Go for a Run in Pacific Spirit Park

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

17. Sea-to-Sky Gondola

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

18. Catch a Sunset in English Bay

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

19. Visit Christ Church Cathedral

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

20. Get Folksy on the Sunshine Coast

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

21. The PNE

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

22. Find a Local Event in the Georgia Strait

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

23. The Vancouver Aquarium

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

24. Lunch on the Drive

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

25. Ski, Snowboard or Play in the Snow

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

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

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

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A Guide to the Top 10 Vancouver Tourist Attractions

Reviews and Need-to-Know Information on the Best Vancouver Tourist Attractions - Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Granville Island and much more.

Great view of Vancouver and Canada Place!

Planning a major vacation in Vancouver, Canada? These pages will help you make the most of your visit, with over 20 places and things to see and do, this information will help you decide what Vancouver attraction you want to see on Canada's West Coast.

Each section on the best things to do in Vancouver BC includes:

Admission costs, hours of operation, how to get there and the best time of year to visit. The best way to get to each attraction from the airport, downtown hotels and cruise ship terminal. Our own ratings on how it compares to other Vancouver tourist attractions for value. Any alternatives if you don't have the time or find it too expensive.

Even if your stay in Vancouver is just a day or two, this guide will help you decide which Vancouver attraction you'll want to spend the most time with.

Top 10 Vancouver Tourist Attractions

Here are the Top Ten Vancouver Tourist Attractions chosen by visitors to Vancouver Travel Tips, we think you will enjoy visiting and experiencing all of them and hope you have a great time in our city of Vancouver.

1. Stanley Park

Of all the Vancouver tourist attractions this is the Best Place to Visit, when the seasons change so does the beauty of Canada's Largest Park and you can experience it here. Walk, Jog or Run around the Scenic Seawall. Take a stroll through out the park or just relax and enjoy getting away from the busy city. Here are a few photos take at Stanley Park

2. Granville Island

Locals come here for the Fresh Fruit, Vegetables and Seafood and the unique shops, tourists and visitors come here to see this Granville Island interesting place located only minutes from Downtown Vancouver.  Here are some  Photos of Granville Island that we took in the Summer.

3. Capilano Suspension Bridge

People from all over the world come here to experience this Suspension Bridge located in the Capilano area with all the natural beauty that surrounds it. New for 2012 is the Cliffwalk Simply awe inspiring and amazing...Wow.

4. Robson Street

Take a stroll down Vancouvers prestigious shopping area called Robson , checkout the shops, have a bite to eat or do like most Vancouverites do and just sit back enjoy the view and have a cup of coffee on Robson Street.

5. Canada Place

Three Million people visit this uniquely shaped building every year and leave happy they did, there are many things so see and do here. Located in Downtown Vancouver this attraction hosts many Community Events, Conventions and Conferences everyday.

6. Grouse Mountain

Winter or Summer there is always something new and interesting to do here. Try skiing, snowshoeing or hike on the many trails at Grouse . If your feeling adventurous, try the GROUSE GRIND a 2.9 kilometer trail that takes about one hour and thirty minutes to complete or if you're like me a bit longer than that say two hours. Did you know that Grouse Mountain has a wildlife Refuge? Here you can learn about the research, education and conservation going on at the mountain centre to help local wildlife.

7. Gastown Vancouver

This is Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood and because of its many heritage and historic building, Gastown was designated a National Historic site in 2009. Explore the interesting galleries, restaurants and local fashion designers shops.  Here are some Beautiful Pictures of the Gastown area.

8. Vancouver Chinatown

Looking to explore the far East then go no farther than Chinatown in Vancouver. With it long history, historic buildings and great chinese food, teas and medicine this is a very interesting place to visit for the day. There is even a Jimi Hendrix's Shrine at a restaurant that used to belong to Jimi Hendrix's grandmother.

9.Vancouver Aquarium

The ocean and all that live there are amazing, visit the Aquarium and see the creatures of the ocean up close as you are immersed in this exciting experience at Canada's Largest Aquarium. 

10. Dr. Sun Yat Sen Gardens

Go back in time and visit a 15th Century Chinese Garden and enjoy today the World's Top city Garden as chosen by National Geographic, Dr. Sun Yat Sen Gardens. Take a tour, enjoy some tea or just relax and soak in the beauty and serenity.

More Vancouver Tourist Attractions Tips

Below you will find many more Vancouver tourist attractions that we have enjoyed in our 40 years of living in Vancouver, so get out there and see our Great city.

Harrison Hot Springs

Only 90 Minutes from Vancouver is Harrison Hot Springs , this is a great place to get away from the city and relaxed. There are many thing to do Golfing , hiking, going out on Harrison Lake or just relaxing and enjoying the peace and quite.  Here are some  Photos  of Harrison Hot Springs.

When it Rains in Vancouver

No it doesn't rain everyday in Vancouver but there are times in the year that we get more cloudy or rainy days than sunny days. So if it's raining during your trip to Vancouver BC, see our picks of the things to do indoor when it rain's in Vancouver.

Richmond BC

There are many interesting things to do in Richmond BC. a suburb of Vancouver, Richmond is an Island below sea level surrounded by dykes that you can walk, jog or just sight see from, in fact the Vancouver airport YVR is located in Richmond BC. Here are some great Photos of Richmond

Enjoy time with your family doing a variety of fun and adventurous activities in the city. There are many indoor and outdoor things for those with Kids to do in Vancouver BC, from museums to interactive and thrill seeking fun! There is something for all ages to enjoy.

Wildplay Maple Ridge

Climbing in the trees is great fun and Wildplay Maple Ridge has it all and more. There are courses just for smaller kids and courses that kids and adults will climb together. Here are a few Photos of the fun that is in store at Wildplay Maple Ridge.  Go enjoy this and many other Vancouver tourist attractions today.

Vancouver Science World

Science can be educational, fun and exciting, and Vancouver Science World makes it happen. There are many different exhibits that happen during the year making this place worth seeing more than once, here are some Pictures from Science World.  Any time of the year this is a one of the best Vancouver tourist attractions for the whole family to spend the day.

H.R. MacMillan Space Centre

The Space Centre has exciting exhibits and displays on the beauty of our planet and space. There are also daily astronomy shows highlighting our solar system. We have tips and information about the Space Centre located in Vanier Park Close to downtown Vancouver. Here are some interesting Photos of the Space Centre.

Playland and the P.N.E.

Everyone loves going to the amusement park, the rides, the food and the people. In Vancouver from April till September Playland and the P.N.E. is open, this is the Best amusement in Vancouver BC. with great rides, excellent exhibits and great family fun.

Cultus Lake

Located only 1 1/2 hours away from Vancouver is Cultus Lake with waterslides, camping, a beautiful Lake and many other activities for the whole family. If you are going to camp at Cultus Lake there are to options 1. camp at at private camp sites 2. Camping at the Provincial camp sites (this is the best place to camp but space is limited so book your camp site early). We camped at Cultus Lake for a few days during the Summer and here are some  Photos.    Getaway to Cultus Lake for the day or for the Summer as there are many things to do at Cultus Lake BC.

Wine Lovers

Wine Lovers there is no need to travel to the Napa Valley to try good local wine, here in Vancouver there are many Vancouver Wineries that are less than an hour away. Tasting undiscovered BC wines can be thrilling and a great way to spend the day.

Taking a Cruise

Taking a Cruise can be a little expensive but if you plan it right you can go on a cruise that will not be to expensive and still fit in your budget. We also have information on finding Hotels near Cruise Ship Terminal and information about Cruise Ship Parking .

Shopping in Bellingham

Just 60 minutes away is the Beautiful city of Bellingham, for Discounts on shopping in the US, travel from Vancouver to Bellingham and visit the Many Outlets and Bellis Fair Mall in Bellingham WA.

Coming Soon: Here are a few Vancouver Tourist Attractions that we are working on, Maple woods Farm, Burnaby Village Museum, Vancouver Library, Lynn Canyon Park, Museum of Anthropology, Queen Elizabeth Park, Van Dusen Botanical Garden and the Vancouver Art Gallery come back soon to read more on Vancouver and the things to do and see in this great City. If you're only in Vancouver for a few hours on a layover at Vancouver Airport, check out these special tips on how to see some great Vancouver sights on a do-it-yourself tour of just 3 hours!

Cruise the city in a Vintage Double-decker Bus

Whether you're in town for a day or a few, we highly recommend the using Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour to see the many Vancouver tourist attractions. It is the perfect introduction to Vancouver!

They offer both a One-Day or Two-Day Pass that give you the Unlimited Hop-On Hop-Off experience from any of their 24 stops around Vancouver. It's a steal of a deal starting at just $45!

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14 glorious things to do in Vancouver, the ‘California of Canada’

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It was a sunny day in Vancouver, Canada. From the beach at English Bay (like Santa Monica, but cleaner), you could see snow atop the mountains and hear kids laughing. After a bike ride in Stanley Park (like Griffith Park, but with beaches), I had just bought a hot dog from a cart and taken two bites when a voice rang out.

“No,” it shouted, startled and helpless.

That’s when everyone by the beach turned my way, with faces showing great concern. Because it was my voice. A sea gull had swooped, grabbed my hot dog and carried it away. The shout had left my body before I could think.

Immediately, the Vancouverites understood this. Then, with the same equanimity that allows so many Canadians to commit violence in ice rinks while displaying civility at all other times, they turned away and resumed their day.

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Let this be a lesson, all you who daydream of escaping to this place that people call the California of Canada. Amid the seaside parks, forest paths, stylish skyscrapers, good food and mingled cultures, you may begin to suspect that Vancouver is a superior version of home. But its seagulls are no better than ours.

In fact, the city is full of moments like that for a Southern California visitor. One minute, you’re feeling at home or slightly better than you do at home. The next, you’re confronting a menu full of poutine. Or realizing that the toilet is in a place called the Washroom. Or getting rained on.

Everyone drives on the right, but somehow, no freeways connect to downtown.

Every year, movie, TV and streaming studios spend billions on shoots here, yet much of the time Vancouver is standing in for Seattle, San Francisco or some other city.

There’s volleyball on the beach — but when the temperature dips near freezing, they keep playing.

And all the while you hear people speaking English that’s mostly like ours, but the signage is riddled with references to travellers, colours, harbours and Tim Hortons. (Horton, whose name is on Canada’s leading coffee-shop chain , was a pro hockey player and, apparently, an enemy of possessive apostrophes.)

This almost-familiarity kept me on my toes through several days of roaming Vancouver in March. For all those thinking about their own escapes, here are 14 very Vancouver adventures.

By the way, I’m talking about a short-term escape, not a post-election change of residence . I’ve also included a few spots on Vancouver Island, a popular side trip. All the prices here are in U.S. dollars. (At recent trading rates , $1 U.S. is worth $1.34 Canadian.)

Taste and sniff postindustrial Granville Island

Meet a pioneering painter in the Vancouver Art Gallery

Play on Kitsilano, a beach where hippies once crashed

Tiptoe high above a misty forest on the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Savor the game (or veggies) at Vancouver's only Indigenous restaurant

Cruise False Creek by ferry

See the 65-foot-high raindrop by Canada Place

Pedal (or walk or skate) along the scenic Stanley Park Seawall

Find the big dome (and lots of beer) in Vancouver's Olympic Village

Soar by seaplane between Vancouver and Vancouver Island

Climb and slide the open-air Malahat Skywalk

Roam among riotous flowers at Butchart Gardens

Board a Victoria Harbor warship that's been taken over by sauna people

Chase history around Victoria's Inner Harbor on Vancouver Island

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