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The 15 Best Things to Do in Vancouver

By Jennifer Van Evra

There are a few refrains Vancouverites always hear from travelers: “It’s so beautiful,” “Everybody's so nice here” and “There’s so much to do.” And they’re right on all three counts: surrounded by mountains to one side and the ocean to the other, the stunning city is a paradise for people who love the outdoors. You can ride out to see a pod of killer whales, hike over a jaw-dropping suspension bridge, take a kayak tour, climb a mountain—all 2,830 steps—or simply stroll the seawall in an urban park that’s ranked among the best in the world. But it’s not all about the elements: Vancouver has culture too, and boasts stellar museums, a public market that makes foodie hearts sing, and one of the most acoustically perfect concert halls in North America.

Read our complete Vancouver travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Capilano Suspension Bridge & Park Arrow

For people whose knees shake at the mere thought of walking a wooden suspension bridge 230 feet above terra firma, this is definitely not a top spot, but travelers who love the thrill of heights and gorgeous rainforest views are handsomely rewarded at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. First built as a tourist attraction in 1889, the North Vancouver park continues to draw droves of visitors who stroll the bridge and other high-level offerings.

Prince of Whales Whale Watching Arrow

The Prince of Whales tour is a sure-fire way to get an up-close look at some of British Columbia’s incredible marine life—orca whales, humpbacks, Pacific white-sided dolphins, elephant seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and more. The tours are conservation-focused—no cetacean-chasing cowboys here—and along the way, travelers also pick up fascinating facts about whale biology and behavior, marine conservation, and Vancouver’s history as a port city. Options include three- to five-hour tours from Vancouver or Victoria on a luxury catamaran, or if you’re departing from Victoria or Telegraph Cove, you can get down to water level on a Zodiac tour.

Snowshoe Tour on Cypress Mountain Arrow

If you’re not a downhill diehard or a Nordic racer but still want to find some "Frozen"-level winter magic, the snowshoe tours at Cypress Mountain are well worth the trek from downtown. After a fresh snowfall, there's nothing like walking through a forest of cedars and firs laden with snow, the ground sparkling all around, especially when you have certified guides leading the pack. The tours, which are currently on pause due to the pandemic , typically run daytime and evening, and range from a kid-friendly Hollyburn Meadows tour to the magical evening cheese and chocolate fondue tours. 

Stanley Park Arrow

Regularly heralded as one of the best parks in the world, Vancouver’s 988-acre Stanley Park is larger than the city’s entire downtown core, and is best known for its ocean and mountain views, its beaches and seaside swimming pool, its playgrounds and miniature train, and its walking trails through soaring fir and cedar forests. But it's especially beloved for its six-mile seawall, which draws millions of walkers, joggers, and cyclists every year.

Jessica Puckett

Jamie Spain

Yulia Denisyuk

Ikya Kandula

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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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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🍔  The best restaurants in Vancouver 🎡 The best attractions in Vancouver 🏨 The best hotels in Vancouver

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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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Richmond Night Market (@richmondnightmarket)

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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8 essential Vancouver experiences to add to your itinerary

Feb 2, 2024 • 7 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Cycle around the Stanley Park seawall

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

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

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

5. Take a trek through the treetops

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

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

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

6. Hit the local ski slopes

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

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

7. Do dim sum on the Dumpling Trail

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

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

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

8. Take in a spectator sport

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

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

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

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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.

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

Vancouver, Canada   Travel Guide

Courtesy of danbreckwoldt | Getty Images

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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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

38 of the Best Things to Do in Vancouver

May 23, 2022 By Matthew G. Bailey 20 Comments

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Vancouver

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

Stanley Park

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

Vancouver Aquarium

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

Granville Island

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

Ride a Ferry

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

Vancouver Maritime Museum

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

Take a Boat Tour

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

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

Rent a Seadoo, Kayak, or Paddleboard

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

Grouse Mountain

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

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

Rent a Bike

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

Capilano Suspension Bridge

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

Buy Your Capilano Suspension Bridge tickets here.

Lynn Canyon Park Suspension Bridge

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

The Polygon Gallery

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

• Vancouver Whale Watching

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

Gastown and the Steam Clock

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

Beaty Biodiversity Museum

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

Take a Historic Walking Tour

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

Go on a Date

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

Vancouver Mysteries

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

Robson Street

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

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

Watch a Sporting Event

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

Find Filming Locations of Your Favourite Movies

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

Go Nude at Wreck Beach

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

Vancouver Art Gallery

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

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

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

VanDusen Botanical Garden

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

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

Nitobe Memorial Garden

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

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

Greenheart TreeWalk

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

Get a View from Harbour Centre Observation Deck

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

Museum of Anthropology at UBC

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

Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art

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

Richmond Night Market

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

Go on a Food Tour

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

Experience Canada with FlyOver Canada

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

Vancouver Police Museum

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

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

Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site

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

Explore the Sea from Sewell’s Marina

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

Take a Day Trip to Whistler

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

Taste Craft Beer at the Many Vancouver Breweries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Eat in Vancouver

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

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

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

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

Tips for Saving Money in Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Vancouver

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

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

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

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

Getting to Vancouver

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

Getting to Vancouver by Plane

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

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

Getting to Vancouver by Car

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

Getting to Vancouver by Bus

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

How to Get Around Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

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

Weather in Vancouver (Best Time to Visit)

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

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

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

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

Fun Things to Do Beyond Vancouver

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

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

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

About Matthew G. Bailey

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

Reader Interactions

April 21, 2020 at 6:15 pm

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

April 21, 2020 at 11:22 pm

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

May 10, 2021 at 10:13 am

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

May 12, 2021 at 12:38 pm

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

May 15, 2021 at 12:45 pm

Great ideas!

May 18, 2021 at 11:31 pm

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

May 24, 2021 at 2:13 pm

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

May 26, 2021 at 12:07 am

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

May 26, 2021 at 7:20 am

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

May 26, 2021 at 7:22 am

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

May 26, 2021 at 7:43 am

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

May 27, 2021 at 7:40 am

Hit up Wreck Beach last Friday, absolutely loved it!

February 6, 2022 at 10:16 pm

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

February 8, 2022 at 4:47 pm

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

April 5, 2022 at 11:35 pm

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

May 25, 2022 at 9:22 pm

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

May 26, 2022 at 2:50 pm

Bang on! Been many times!

June 1, 2022 at 10:54 am

These all sound awesome!

June 7, 2022 at 6:39 am

Hope to go one day!

August 29, 2022 at 8:18 am

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

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

Home | Travel | North America | Canada | Vancouver | 25 Best Things to Do in Vancouver, BC (Canada)

Vancouver is a popular tourist destination in British Columbia, and during our last trip there, I quickly discovered why that is. There are tons of things to do in Vancouver . The city is also surrounded by some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes, but you can find plenty of Vancouver attractions downtown  too.

Since I’m crazy about whales, we did a 2-day layover in Vancouver before heading to the Canadian Rockies (Yes, Vancouver is one of the best places in the world for killer whale watching). However, I was surprised by the number of places to visit in Vancouver, Canada, so I came back six months later to keep exploring the city.

There is never a wrong time to visit, as there are always things to do in Vancouver . I recommend you spend at least one day in Vancouver ’s downtown district, another day if you want to take a whale watching tour, and one more day to explore the fjords and mountains that surround this beautiful city. However, if you’re short on time, I recommend this 4-hour tour or this 7-hour city tour . There is also a hop on, hop off sightseeing bus that will take you to the most popular areas in case you want to explore the city on your own.

To help you plan your trip and figure out what to do in Vancouver , check out our top 25 things to do in Vancouver, BC, below.

1. Biking in Stanley Park, the best thing to do in Vancouver

Stanley Park is one of the best places to visit in Vancouver . It’s full of walking and biking paths, and one of the most popular things to do in Vancouver is to take a bike tour there. We did this one , which takes you around the park as a guide shares historic tidbits about the area.

If you’re willing to pay a bit more, you can bike around the park and other parts of the city on this tour . Still, when considering what to do in Vancouver , I recommend budgeting enough time for Stanley Park.

As you pass by Brockton Point on the east side, be sure to check out the lighthouse and the First Nations totem poles , which represent the indigenous Coast Salish people. To the northeast, try to spot the Girl in a Wetsuit sculpture sitting on a rock in the water.

Prospect Point is also on the park’s northern tip and offers great sightseeing in Vancouver . Here, you’ll be at the highest point in Stanley Park, so you’ll have views of the city, the Lions Gate Bridge, and the walkers and bikers along the Seawall Path . The path makes a 5.5-mile loop around the park, so it’s a nice place for a leisurely stroll.

Nearby, you can see Siwash Rock, a basalt outcropping that towers over the water. It was formed 32 million years ago and is the subject of a Squamish legend about a man who was transformed into an indestructible rock.

If you want a more nature-centered adventure, I suggest walking along the Cathedral Trail or Beaver Lake Trail. The latter path will take you to Beaver Lake , a mile-long wetland where you may spot native wildlife and enjoy some quiet time. Alternatively, you can visit the Second Beach or Third Beach on the southern coast. These are some of the best beaches in Vancouver, which I will share more about later in this article.

2. Granville Island, a place you don’t want to miss in Vancouver Canada

Another great attraction by the water is Granville Island . This peninsula shopping district is accessible via the Granville Street Bridge. The moment you cross the bridge, you can feel the relaxed vibe of this place.

As an artistic and cultural hub, one of the best Vancouver attractions here is the Granville Island Public Market. Open 7 days a week, it’s where you can find fresh produce, artisan foods, and all sorts of accessories and items. This multi-cultural market is one of the fun things to do in Vancouver , not to mention a great way to support local businesses.

I also recommend checking out the Granville Island Brewing Co . for some seasonal beers. This is what to do in Vancouver if you want to totally immerse yourself in easy-breezy island culture. For something more action-packed, check out the island’s waterpark or rent a kayak or paddleboard and hit the water. You could also walk along the Seawall to get away from it all and take a nature break.

Granville Island is also kid-friendly, so a visit here is one of the best things to do in Vancouver for families. There are lots of kids’ markets, playgrounds, and specialty shops like toy stores and magic shops. The island is also a popular spot for whale watching and boating.

3. Capilano Suspension Bridge & Cliffwalk

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of the best things to do in Vancouver BC , and it’s much more than a simple bridge. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vancouver , so I recommend booking this self-guided tour in advance (it includes a discounted entrance + shuttle from Vancouver city).

You’ll stand 230 feet above the ground while traversing the 450-foot-long suspension bridge. What’s cool about the Capilano bridge is that it has several lookout points. In addition to the bridge itself, you can check out Treetops Adventure, which is a collection of seven attached bridges hanging among gorgeous Douglas-firs. The bridges and platforms are at various heights, so you can observe the forest from wherever you feel most comfortable.

3. Capilano Suspension Bridge & Cliffwalk, one of the most spectacular views over Vancouver

You can also brave the Cliffwalk, a circular and narrow path that winds 700 feet through the rainforest. While the safety rails stand at about shoulder-height, it’s still a heart-stopping experience! After this thrilling activity, I recommend checking out the educational center where you can learn about the First Nations people at Kai’palano and their traditional totem poles.

The suspension bridge is very touristy and crowded, but still a worthy thing to do in Vancouver. It overlooks the Capilano River and Regional Park , which you may also want to visit. Unlike the Capilano Bridge, entry to the park is free, as is the Cleveland Dam, which has a walking bridge and observation deck above it. The huge and thunderous spillway, which can hold 16.5 billion gallons of water, is quite a sight. For more tranquil things to do in Vancouver, I suggest kayaking or canoeing in the regional park.

If you find the Capilano Bridge entrance expensive, another suggestion is Lynn Canyon , which is less impressive but free. Here, you can find hiking trails, swimming holes, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge 160 feet above the canyon. Located further east, it’s a bit more out of the way, but still a pretty (and more peaceful) place to visit.

4. Gastown, something interesting to do in Vancouver, BC

Gastown is a must-see neighborhood in Vancouver. Not only it is a historical place, but it’s also one of the most enjoyable places to go in Vancouver . It has a downtown feel, but the old-time details are still there, including cobblestone streets and the Steam Clock, one of the most famous Vancouver attractions .

You can find the Steam Clock on the corner of Cambie and Water Streets. While at one time it was powered by electricity, today the clock uses a low-pressure steam heating network to operate a pendulum clock. When it strikes the time, you can hear it whistle throughout the square.

While you’re in Gastown, you must try the food. I suggest this walking food tour , which will take you to nine different restaurants and shops. You’ll get to sample a variety of cuisines as well as some sweet treats.

This old neighborhood is also known for its nightlife scene, so if that’s your thing, I recommend checking out some bars. Some of the places host live music, while others are more laid-back. Gastown is also the host of the Vancouver International Jazz festival every summer. Whether you want to browse the boutiques, grab a bite to eat, or listen to live entertainment, this Vancouver neighborhood is one of the hippest spots to check out.

5. Chinatown, an awesome place to visit in Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver has the largest Chinatown in Canada, and it offers lots of free things to do in Vancouver . The first and most obvious attraction is the Millennium Gate , which you can find on Pender Street. The gate stands three stories tall and features a tiled roof made of terra cotta, bright colors, and two stone lions on either side.

Over the past decade or so, Chinatown has undergone a huge transformation, thanks to revitalization efforts and recognition as a National Historic Site. Today, you can explore the modernization of this neighborhood while glimpsing a few remnants from the past.

The Ho Ho Restaurant and Sun Ah Hotel has been around for decades and still displays its 1950s neon sign. The five-story building was built in 1911 for a wealthy Chinese merchant, and today it offers authentic Chinese fare like chop suey. I also suggest trying dim sum while in Chinatown. This is a meal of small Cantonese dishes, such as dumplings, buns, seafood, and vegetables.

Besides food, there is a lot of history in Chinatown. The oldest building in the area is the Wing Sang Building, the former home of a Chinese immigrant who came to Canada in search of gold in the late 1800s.

I also highly recommend the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden , Canada’s first Chinese “scholars” garden (and the first outside of China).  The surrounding park is free to enter, and the garden admission fee is CAD $16. Here, you can walk through lush greenery, stroll past serene lakes, and take a peaceful moment of rest in a pagoda-inspired gazebo. Throughout the grounds, you’ll see feng shui and Taoist elements, including koi ponds, symbolic dragons, and delicate plants juxtaposed with large rocks. It’s one of the downtown Vancouver attractions you can’t miss.

6. Grouse Mountain, an unforgettable place to go in Vancouver

We love to get out in nature no matter where we go, and Grouse Mountain is one of the best places to visit in Vancouver at any time of year. While it offers plenty of winter activities, it’s the most-visited natural attraction in Vancouver year-round.

Grouse Mountain is one of the North Shore Mountains of the Pacific Range, and just a 20-minute drive from the city center. If you’re not sure what to do in Vancouver , I suggest taking a day trip here since there is something for everyone.

The mountain has two cable cars. The Super Skyride is the main one and can carry about 100 passengers at once from the valley to the top of the mountain. A round-trip Skyride ticket is included with general admission, which you can purchase in advance here along with a complimentary shuttle from Vancouver downtown.

The great thing about Grouse Mountain is that it’s open year-round. Depending on the season, you can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, eco-walks, paragliding, disc golf, ziplining, ice skating, skiing, or snowboarding. The mountain has a popular hiking trail, the Grouse Grind , which is nicknamed “Mother Nature’s Staircase.” It’s a nearly two-mile climb that takes you up 2,800 feet. An alternative is the elevator-accessible observation deck, where you can see the Eye of the Wind , a 1.5-megawatt wind turbine. It provides 25% of the resort’s energy supply.

Grouse Mountain has some add-on attractions that you can purchase separately, one of which is the Mountain Zipline . The five-line circuit passes over the valleys below and the entire “tour” lasts about two hours, but it is one of the most memorable things to do in Vancouver.

If you want something equally as exciting but maybe closer to the ground, this combo ticket includes Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

7. Whale Watching Tours, the best thing to do in Vancouver, BC

If you are in Vancouver between April and October, be sure to add whale-watching to your things to do in Vancouver . This is the best time of year to catch orcas, humpbacks, dolphins, and even sea lions. There are several tours available in the area as I already wrote in our Vancouver whale watching guide.

The thing with seeing whales in the wild is that they can’t guarantee that you’ll see these majestic creatures. However, if you go during the summer, you have a good chance of spotting some whales. This is always one of my favorite activities in Vancouver , and the reason why I took the tour again during my second trip to this marvelous city.

Wild whales are the best things to see in Vancouver , and since it’s a coastal city, you don’t have to go far. I took this tour from Granville Island both times I’ve been in the city and I was lucky in May and even in November. Both times I saw killer whales, humpbacks, and sea lions. However, don’t worry. If you don’t see any whales the first time around, you get a complimentary second tour.

A whale-watching tour is a wonderful family activity to do in Vancouver , too. Just be sure to dress for the weather, and don’t forget to bring a camera. Safely observing these wild creatures from a distance, in a beautiful place like British Columbia, is a one-of-a-kind experience.

8. Panorama Tour by Seaplane, a unique thing to do in Vancouver

Lots of cities have bus and boat tours but seeing the city from a seaplane is an entirely different experience. A panorama tour by seaplane is a great way to see all the top places in Vancouver from a birds-eye view. It’s also an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Riding in a seaplane is especially exciting because you get a huge spray of water when you take off and land. To be honest, it feels quite different from being in a typical airplane!

I didn’t take the tour during my first trip but, after seeing how the seaplanes landed next to Stanley Park, I thought it would be a great idea to do it when we were back in the city, so I took this tour six months later.

It is the most popular one, and it departs from downtown, at Vancouver Seaplane Terminal, next to Stanley Park. Plus, it flies over the city in a loop, so you get a complete tour. During those 20 minutes, you’ll see Vancouver Island and the North Shore Mountains, as well as aerial views of hotspots like Stanley Park, Grouse Mountain, and Granville Island. If you would also like admission to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, check out this combo tour .

Right next to the seaplane terminal, at the Convention Center, be sure to check out the digital orca statue . The sculpture was created in 2009 and is made of powder-coated aluminum and steel. It has become a popular landmark in the city, and its interesting pixelated form is something you don’t see every day. Visiting it is one of the fun things to do in Vancouver, BC for free.

9. Waterfront Sightseeing Adventure, a popular thing to do in Vancouver

You can’t leave Vancouver without a waterfront sightseeing adventure . This is a tour that takes you on a 1.5-hour boat ride along the English Bay, North Shore , and more. The waterfront offers lovely views of the city, making it one of the nicest things to do in Vancouver . It’s pretty popular and there are different companies offering it, but we took this one.

Some of the best places along the waterfront include Coal Harbour , North Shore, and False Creek . Coal Harbour is the area of the Burrard Inlet between the downtown peninsula and Brockton Point. This is where you’ll see lots of piers, marinas, and rowing clubs, as well as a good view of the Vancouver skyline.

The North Shore is another section of the Burrard Inlet where you can get views of Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain, and Mount Seymour. This area is popular with water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. The south side of the inlet is where you’ll find False Creek, which got its name from a hydrographer in the 1850s. This body of water is crossed by major transit bridges and is a popular spot for kayaking and boating.

As you make your way to English Bay, you’ll approach Stanley Park, and you might see some seals or dolphins too.

If you’re traveling on a budget, a good alternative is to take the ferry to North Vancouver. It’s not the same, but at least you can see the city skyline and Canada Place . This huge building includes the Vancouver Convention Centre, digital orca statue, and FlyOver Canada , a virtual flight ride.

10. Whistler, one of the most popular places to go in Vancouver

Whistler sits in the Coast Mountains along the southern Pacific Ranges, about 75 miles north of Vancouver. The region is most known for its Whistler Blackcomb ski resort , the largest in North America.

Whistler was the 2010 Winter Olympics venue, and it’s easy to see why. The area offers 200 ski runs, dozens of lifts, and over 400 inches of snow each year. It’s the ultimate playground for winter sports, so a visit here is one of the best things to do in Vancouver in winter.

While you’re there, check out the Sliding Center , where you can race down the ice track in a bobsleigh or skeleton sled. There are also snowmobile tours and Zipline tours , in which you glide down a series of ziplines. The most popular one is the Ziptrek , the longest zipline in North America. The Glacier sightseeing experience by seaplane from Whistler is another of the top activities you can do here. When it’s time to relax, head to the Scandinave Spa for a massage or Scandinavian bath. Pricing depends on the service, but it is a separate charge from Whistler Blackcomb admission.

Whistler is about a 90-minute drive from the city center, so if you don’t have a car, I suggest booking this full-day tour with transportation included. It’ll take you along the Sea to Sky Highway, where you can take in the views of Horseshoe Bay and Tantalus Glacier .

If you visit Whistler in the warmer months, it’s still one of the most fun things to do in Vancouver, BC. Summertime activities at the resort include mountain biking, hiking, and the Cloudraker Skybridge . The suspended bridge extends nearly 430 feet long over the Whistler valley. Admission is included in the Peak 2 Peak Gondola ticket that you can buy when you get there.

No matter the time of year, a Whistler visit is one of the best things to do in Vancouver, BC .

11. Sea-to-Sky Gondola, another thing to experience in Vancouver

The Sea-to-Sky Gondola is one of the top tourist attractions in Vancouver any time of year. It takes you from the Shannon Falls Provincial Park basecamp up to the Summit Lodge 9,000 feet above ground. To make the most of your time, I recommend this day trip , which combines the Sea to Sky Gondola with some of the best attractions in Metro Vancouver.

The area that the Sea-to-Sky Gondola covers is full of photo opportunities. Shannon Falls Provincial Park has the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia, at nearly 2,000 feet. Howe Sound is on the edge of the park and joins a series of fjords around the Strait of Georgia. The nearby islands are accessible via ferry and see few visitors during the year.

At the summit of the Sea-to-Sky Gondola, you’ll have views of Whistler Village, Pacific Ocean, the Sea to Sky Highway, and the surrounding mountain peaks. The Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge is another one of the cool things to do in Vancouver. Those who are brave enough to step across this 330-foot-long bridge will get 360-degree views of the natural landscape. It leads to a series of observation decks, including the 5,000 square foot Summit Lodge Viewing Deck , which hosts events throughout the year.

You can grab a bite to eat at the Summit Lodge or embark on a hiking or walking adventure. A series of paths are accessible form the top of the gondola, as is the Via Terrata , a fixed-ropes course overlooking the Squamish area. It requires a certain level of physical fitness since it involves hiking and climbing.

Whether you choose to stay at base camp, or you climb to the Summit Lodge, the Sea-to-Sky Gondola is one of the most amazing things to do in Vancouver .

12. Vancouver Island – Victoria, one of the best places to go near Vancouver

One of the nicest things to do in Vancouver, British Columbia , is to take a trip to Victoria . Situated in southern Vancouver Island, Victoria is home to urban green spaces and hiking trails. You can get to Victoria by plane but I always recommend this option since it includes the ferry to Vancouver Island and you can see whales on your way there. Besides, it also includes admission to Victoria’s Butchart Gardens.

The gardens are a National Historic Site of Canada and bring in over a million guests annually. Established over 100 years ago, the gardens now cover 55 acres and include 26 greenhouses and 900 plant varieties. Butchart Gardens offers activities year-round, such as electric boat tours and fireworks in the summer, Christmas events in the winter, fall foliage and greenhouse tours, and beautiful springtime blooms.

Another site worth visiting in Victoria is Beacon Hill Park , which opened in 1882. Here, you can visit landscaped gardens and ponds, walking several trails, or hang out by the playground or tennis courts. The park is a scenic spot to picnic or people watch, and various events are held at the pavilion throughout the year.

Besides Victoria, Vancouver Island has many other places that are worth visiting. If you are into outdoor activities, I suggest checking out the West Coast Trail for some great hiking or backpacking. The trail is part of the Pacific Rim National Park , which has world-renown hiking trails. Along the West Coast Trail, you’ll find waterways, campgrounds, forests, and bogs. There are a few climbing and rappelling spots around here, too. The rest of the national park has recreational areas for water sports, including scuba diving at Long Beach .

Victoria and Vancouver Island is a can’t-miss day trip during your stay in Vancouver, especially if you love being in nature.

13. Richmond Night Market, a place to enjoy the nightlife in Vancouver

Every major city has a vibrant nightlife, and that includes Vancouver. During the summer months, be sure to check out the Richmond Night Market , which brings the River Road area along the Fraser River to life. The night market is one of the fun things to do in Vancouver, BC both for locals and tourists.

It’s in the Richmond neighborhood, south of downtown, and it’s the best place to learn about the impact of Asian influence on Canada’s west coast. The population of the neighborhood is mainly Asian, making up 65% of the total population. Restaurants, shops, grocery stores – for a second you will think you’re somewhere in China. Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world and at Richmond Night Market, we experienced this firsthand.

Here, you can sample some of the best Asian food in the city. It is one of the things to do in Vancouver that engages all your senses, and you won’t go home hungry since there are over 250 food stalls. The convenient location makes it easy to get there, simply take the Canada Line on the SkyTrain . Before you arrive, be aware that there is a CAD $4 entry fee and most of the stalls are cash-only. I suggest taking public transportation to avoid the headache of finding a parking spot.

The Richmond Night Market isn’t just for food. You can also find arts and crafts and other goodies. There is also nightly entertainment, so you may hear local musicians and performers on the main stage while you’re there. The venue is open from 7 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Sundays. It’s open from May to October, so if you visit during this time, be sure to check it out.

14. Second Beach, one of the best beaches in Vancouver

When you think of where to go in Vancouver, you probably think of mountainous areas. However, the city also has lots of beaches that I recommend checking out. One of the most popular beaches is Second Beach , which is in Stanley Park. Here, you can enjoy beach volleyball, picnicking, a dog-friendly area, and a stroll along the Seawall.

There is also the Second Beach Pool , a heated, oceanside pool that’s a huge hit with visitors. The entrance fee is around CAD $6, and you can check the pool’s schedule here . It’s open daily, but there are specific time slots for public swimming sessions.

While you’re exploring Second Beach, it may be worth visiting the other beaches in Vancouver. First Beach , also known as English Bay, is also in Stanley Park. This family-friendly beach has a café, kayak rentals, a water slide, volleyball courts, and parking. This is also the site for the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Swim in Vancouver.

Stanley Park’s Third Beach is a crowd favorite for watching the sunset. It’s surrounded by lush forest, so it offers a nice break from the noisier areas. Jericho Beach is another beach with a relaxed vibe, located to the west of Kitsilano. People come here to picnic or play sports. For an even more laid-back beach, there is Wreck Beach , where clothing is optional. Close to the University of British Columbia, this beach is part of Pacific Spirit Regional Park, a nature reserve with over 45 miles of hiking trails, as well as horseback riding and bike paths.

The Spanish Banks are a few blocks west of Jericho Beach and is a great spot for water sports like kitesurfing. If you go past Jericho Beach, you’ll arrive at Kitsilano Beach , a summertime hotspot. Facing the English Bay, it features a salt-water outdoor pool, playgrounds, and several sports fields. Clearly, hitting the beach is one of the things to do in Vancouver Canada !

15. Indian Arm, a tranquil place to visit in Vancouver

Indian Arm is one of the nicest places to visit in Vancouver , and a must-see for water lovers. It’s a beautiful glacial fjord that extends out of the Burrard Inlet and runs into Burnaby Mountain . This tranquil waterway was formed during the last Ice Age and remains relatively untouched, with no crossings and limited road access.

I highly recommend this half-day cruise of Indian Arm for a calm and scenic four-hour boat ride. Traveling on Indian Arm is a reminder how vast the natural world is, and you’ll be surrounded by lush forests and granite cliffs. The surrounding area is home to several waterfalls, including Granite Falls, Silver Falls, and Spray of Pearls Falls .

The isolated and pristine nature of this place means that you have a high chance of coming across various wildlife, such as seals, bald eagles, black bears, and waterfowl. Nearby is Indian Arm Provincial Park, which covers nearly 17,000 acres and includes a few campgrounds. Here, there are also areas for kayaking and diving.

To the southeast, you can find Panorama Park in Deep Cove. This is another haven for nature and water sports enthusiasts. While there, you’ll have views of Burnaby Mountain in the distance. Getting time away from the big city is a great idea, and Indian Arm is one of the top things to do in Vancouver, Canada.

16. Elaho Whitewater, something exciting to do in Vancouver

Another gorgeous waterway in Vancouver is the Elaho River . Unlike Indian Arm, this river has some invigorating rapids. If you’re down for it, Elaho whitewater rafting is one of the coolest things to do in Vancouver, Canada .

I suggest booking this tour in advance, which meets at either Squamish, Vancouver, or Whistler. It includes your wetsuit, safety gear, lunch, and guidance from an experienced rafting instructor. The rapids are Class 3-4, so they’re fine for beginners who aren’t afraid to challenge themselves.

Along the Elaho River, you’ll witness a gorgeous alpine forest, one of the most beautiful things to see in Vancouver . The entire river is over 40 miles long and starts in the Coast Mountains near Whistler. The tour we did was incredible because our guide shared a lot of information about the area, such as the geography and native wildlife. We even spotted some native birds and a beautiful waterfall.

17. Commercial Drive Dining (aka “The Drive”), a must-visit in Vancouver

For things to do in Vancouver downtown , you can’t miss Commercial Drive . Lovingly known as “The Drive” among locals, this is one of the oldest and most unique streets in the city center. The road extends from the East Vancouver neighborhood north to the Grandview-Woodland district, where it approaches the waterfront at Powell Street.

The Drive is full of local businesses, cultural icons, and residential homes. It’s also easily accessible via the SkyTrain, just hop off at the Commercial-Broadway Station . I recommend The Drive if you’re in the mood for great food. The restaurants and cafes on this street will take your taste buds on a cultural journey. Here, you can find lots of ethnic cuisines spanning Italian, Latin American, Asian, Indian, African, and other communities.

Many people consider The Drive to be a beautiful testament to Vancouver’s diversity, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s a great place to simply walk around and take in the sights, although you could also support local business and restaurant owners. If you head towards John Hendry Park to the south, you can find a nice green space. From May to October, there is a Saturday farmer’s market there, too.

Visiting The Drive is one of the fun things to do in Vancouver, British Columbia , and a must-do when you’re downtown. In addition to cafes, coffee shops, and bars, you can find alternative shops, clubs, and other entertainment venues. The neighborhood is LGBT-friendly and open to Canada’s counterculture, so it’s a great place to learn something new and meet outgoing people.

This area also hosts cultural events throughout the year. If you visit in early July, you can catch Car Free Day, where Commercial Drive is closed to vehicles to make room for performers, artists, and outdoor activities.

18. Greenheart TreeWalk, another fun thing to do in Vancouver

The Greenheart TreeWalk is one of the best things to do in Vancouver with kids. It’s also a lot of fun for adults! This hanging walkway is over 1,000 feet long and is suspended over 65 feet in the air. As you journey across the pathway, you’ll get up close and personal with the forest, trees, and the lush ambience of the rainforest.

This attraction is part of the largest UBC Botanical Garden at the University of British Columbia. It’s the oldest university botanical garden and covers 110 acres. On the grounds, you’ll find smaller gardens including an Asian garden, medicinal garden, and alpine garden. There is also the Nitobe Memorial Garden, a 2.5-acre Japanese Garden.

I would plan a few hours to visit the UBC Botanical Garden as well as the Greenheart TreeWalk. The TreeWalk is open between April 1 st and October 31 st , and guided tours are available. General admission to the Botanical Garden costs CAD $10 for adults and CAD $5 for kids, while the TreeWalk is an additional CAD $13 for adults and CAD $5 for kids. The Nitobe Memorial Garden has a CAD $5 entry fee for everyone over six years old.

The UBC Botanical Garden has several smaller areas to check out, such as the BC Rainforest Garden, Carolinian Forest Garden, and Food Garden. If you’re wondering what is there to do in Vancouver , the University of British Columbia has got you covered.

19. Kayak in the Gulf Islands, a tranquil place to go in Vancouver

To the southwest of Vancouver, you can find the Gulf Islands , a beautiful area for outdoor recreation. If you need some time away from the city but you don’t want to go far, visiting the Gulf Islands is one of the best things to do in Vancouver, BC .

Here, you can explore provincial parks and protected areas and spend some much-needed time in nature. The Gulf Islands are in the Strait of Georgia, between the mainland and Vancouver Island. The Islands are typically split between the north and south and are accessible via ferry.

There are regional parks and recreational areas on several of the islands. For example, Galiano Island is home to the Dionisio Point and Montague Harbour Marine provincial parks. Both offer hiking trails, and Montague Harbour Marine park is popular with kayakers. The area is camper-friendly, so it’s a nice spot to spend the day kayaking and resting on shore.

If you want a no-fuss kayaking trip to the Gulf Islands, I suggest booking this tour , which includes equipment, lunch, guided kayaking along the Canadian Pacific Coast, and a short seaplane flight. It’s truly one of the most memorable things to do in Vancouver, British Columbia, and something I will do for sure on my third trip to Vancouver one day.

If you decide to journey out on your own, you might want to check out Hornby Island’s Helliwell Provincial Park . It’s a great spot for scuba diving and canoeing, plus the cliffs overlooking the Strait of Georgia are magnificent.

20. Museum of Anthropology, an interesting attraction in Vancouver

In addition to the botanical gardens, there is other stuff to do in Vancouver at the University of British Columbia. The school also houses the Museum of Anthropology , a major attraction with a collection of nearly 50,000 ethnographic objects and 535,000 archaeological artifacts.

The MOA is a teaching museum as well as an internationally recognized facility for conservation, anthropology, archaeology, and First Nations works. Founded in 1947, some of the museum’s first objects were salvaged totem poles and First Nations art. Over the years, the facility expanded to include offices, laboratories, research rooms, exhibition halls, and a recording studio.

The museum’s exterior is quite impressive too and features a reflecting pool out front. Inside, there are several galleries where you can browse through ceramics, cultural artifacts, sculptures, textiles, photographs, and more. Admission costs CAD $18 and the museum is easily accessible via public transportation (get off at the West Mall stop).

The MOA hosts temporary exhibits to accompany its permanent collection. Some highlights include the Great Hall, Bill Reid Rotunda and The Raven and the First Men sculpture, and the outdoor museum grounds, where you’ll find a Haida house and Mortuary House designed by indigenous artists. A visit to the MOA is one of those things to do in Vancouver if you want to learn more about the culture and history of the area.

21. Vancouver Art Gallery, a great activity to do in Vancouver

One of the other cultural things to do in Vancouver is to visit an art gallery. The Vancouver Art Gallery is where you can see the city’s greatest collection of fine art, all nestled in a neoclassical courthouse. It’s the largest public art museum in Western Canada and makes for a nice way to spend a few hours.

The art gallery contains over 10,000 pieces by North American and Vancouver artists. The works span a variety of media, including photographs, paintings, sketches, and ceramics. The facility holds complimentary tours and lectures. Admission is CAD $23 for adults, or by-donation on Tuesdays.

Another place to check out some art is at the Vancouver Contemporary Art Gallery (CAG). It offers free admission and works from local, national, and international artists. The exhibitions change throughout the year and range from art installations to photography collections to video content and more traditional media.

You might also want to check out South Granville Street , also known as “Gallery Row.” This strip of road is home to different art and antique stores as well as public art displays. It’s a less formal way to take in the local arts culture and maybe bring home a new piece for your collection.

22. VanDusen Botanical Gardens, a lovely place to go in Vancouver

Another gorgeous outdoor attraction in Vancouver is the VanDusen Botanical Garden . The garden covers 55 acres and houses plants from all over the world, including native Northwest Coast varieties. May is the perfect time of year to visit since both the Laburnum and Rhododendrons are in full bloom. Even so, the garden is open year-round and offers a stunning display of foliage and plant life no matter the season.

Between April and October, you can take a volunteer-guided tour of the grounds via golf cart to learn more about the plant and tree varieties. In the springtime, there is a huge plant sale where you can pick up some blooms like the beautiful blue poppy. The VanDusen Garden is open to the public, and admission ranges from CAD $8 to CAD $12, depending on the season.

Nearby, you can find the Bloedel Conservatory , which sits in Queen Elizabeth Park . The conservatory is an impressive 70-foot dome structure made of plexiglass and measuring 140 feet in diameter. It is separated into three habitats: a tropical rainforest, subtropical rainforest, and desert. Throughout the dome, you’ll see birds flying free, as well as hundreds of species of plants ranging from citrus trees to figs to yucca. Admission costs CAD $5.30.

Taking a stroll around Queen Elizabeth Park is one of the free things to do in Vancouver, BC , and I suggest paying a visit while you’re at the Gardens or Conservatory. You can get a nice view of the grounds from the top of Little Mountain, and the park includes an arboretum, fountains, gardens, and serene resting spots.

23. Pacific Spirit Park, a must-see in Vancouver

For some natural sightseeing in Vancouver , I recommend visiting Pacific Spirit Park . Located near the University of British Columbia, this wide expanse of green space is super accessible and perfect for catching a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The park covers over 2,100 acres and offers miles of walking, hiking, and biking paths. If you follow Trail #7, you’ll arrive at Wreck Beach, and there are other trails that can take you to the Spanish Banks or Jericho Beach. Pacific Spirit Park is within close proximity to several tourist attractions such as the UBC Botanical Gardens and Museum of Anthropology, so it’s one of the top-rated places to visit in Vancouver .

This place has something for everyone and offers plenty of things to do in Vancouver, BC . You could travel along the hiking trails through forests and bogs, or spend some time soaking in the sun at one of the beaches. Besides being accessible for all ages and abilities, the park is free to access. It opens at 7 a.m. and closes around dusk, although hours vary depending on the time of year.

Whether you choose to spend a few hours here or just stroll through on your way to a nearby attraction, you’ll want to check out Pacific Spirit Park. It’s one of the best places to get your nature fix without leaving the city center.

24. Ice hockey match, something you can’t miss in Vancouver

It’s impossible to visit Canada without hearing about hockey. Watching an ice hockey match is a Vancouver must-do if you’re a sports fan. The Vancouver Canucks are the local team here, and they play their home games at the Rogers Arena in the city center.

The arena not only hosts the Canucks games, but it was also a venue for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Throughout the year, the facility hosts concerts, UFC events, and WWE matches. So, even if you’re not into ice hockey, there are other fun things to do in Vancouver ’s Rogers Arena.

If you want to check out other local ice hockey teams, I recommend checking out the Pacific Coliseum , which is about 3.5 miles east of Rogers Arena. Known to locals as the Rink on Renfrew, the Pacific Coliseum hosts several sports teams, and in the past has offered community skating events. It’s one of the things to do in Vancouver if the weather isn’t cooperating!

25. Visit the Canadian Rockies, the best thing to do from Vancouver

As I said during the intro of this article, we did a 2-day layover in Vancouver before our trip to the Canadian Rockies. Actually, for many international travelers, Vancouver is the biggest city they can pass through to reach the Canadian Rockies.

If you’ve never been there, it’s not only one of the best places to visit from Vancouver , but one of the most beautiful destinations worldwide. It will take your breath away.

These mountains include the Alberta Rockies and B.C. Rockies , and it’s no surprise they’ve been named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A trip to this area is one of the top things to do in Vancouver , and well worth the traveling. To make things easier, you might consider a guided 5-day tour like this one , which also includes a visit to Monte Creek Winery and Spahats Falls on your way there.

Of course, there are numerous national parks and recreational areas to visit in the Canadian Rockies, and it’s impossible to list them all here. So, you should check our guide for visiting the Canadian Rockies. Still, there are a few places I must recommend.

First are the national parks: Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, and Waterton. Banff is where you’ll find gorgeous and world-famous lakes, including Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. If you travel along the Icefields Parkway , you can journey into Jasper National Park . This is where you can visit the Athabasca Glacier and Falls, the Columbia Icefield, and Pyramid Mountain. Besides, it’s one of the best places for wildlife spotting in Canada.

Kootenay National Park is home to the Radium Hot Springs and the Sinclair and Marble Canyons. Waterton Lakes National Park borders the state of Montana and features scenic trails and prairies. Yoho National Park is smaller, but has some of the most stunning geology, including Takakkaw Falls, Wapta Falls, Mount Stephen, and Mount Burgess. If you go to Yoho, I recommend stopping by Emerald Lake and the Natural Bridge of the Kicking Horse River.

The Rockies may be last on our list, but it’s one of the most exciting adventures to do in Vancouver .

Finally, I’ll conclude this guide with a handy map of Vancouver .

I hope you find our list of what to do in Vancouver useful! This Canadian city is full of activity, but there is no denying its easy-going Pacific Northwest feel. We’d love to know which Vancouver attractions you are most excited to see! Feel free to drop us a comment or reach out if you have any questions.

Ascen Aynat

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27 Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver: What to Do DT

If you’re looking for the best things to do in downtown Vancouver, I’ve got the mother lode.

These downtown Vancouver attractions run the gauntlet from a chill urban oasis to epic food and drink to full-on nights out.

Let’s figure out what to do in downtown Vancouver!

Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver

Check out stanley park.

Stanley Park is a 405-hectare (1,001 acres) public park situated alongside the Westernmost border of Downtown Vancouver.

This is one of the best things to do in Vancouver , downtown or not. And trust me, it’s not just any park. In fact, Trip Advisor has recently christened it “The Best Park in the World.”

Stanley Park is a uniquely natural evolution of the pre-existing coastal rainforest that has been adapted to its surrounding urban environment.

Here you can bike along the park’s world-renowned Seawall, marvel at the exotic Coast Salish  totem poles , or explore the wonders of the Vancouver Aquarium .

I also suggest taking Stanley Park tours to get the full experience.

Related : Best Hotels Near Stanley Park

Take a Tour of Downtown Vancouver

You can check off all the places to visit in downtown Vancouver by taking one of Vancouver’s top sightseeing tours .

I find this the best way to take in the sights, learn about the city, and even get in some exercise.

Some of the top tours include:

• Lost Souls of Gastown : Live the Great Vancouver Fire, smallpox outbreaks, and  tales of revenge   and redemption in this delightfully  macabre Vancouver walking tour .
• Stanley Park Bike Tour : Take a guided bike tour of Vancouver and weave through  old-growth forest trails , learn about local flora and fauna, and live  Coastal First Nations history .
• Vancouver City Highlights Tour : Check out the Vancouver Lookout and Capilano Suspension Bridge and get a Vancouver downtown city highlights guided tour all at once.

Related : Best Walking Tours in Vancouver

Walk Through Gastown

When people ask me what to do in downtown Vancouver my gut reaction is to direct them to Gastown.

Vancouver’s most historic district is famous for its cobblestone streets and bars, and the best things to do in Gastown include:

• Epic souvenir shopping at places like the Coastal Peoples Gallery
• Happy hour craft beer and cocktails at places like Clough Club
• Some of the city’s best restaurants, like St. Lawrence
• The Gastown Steamclock : Vancouver’s most photographable object
• The Vancouver Police Museum : maybe the most macabre museum in Canada

Looking for more places to eat? Check out my post on the best restaurants in Gastown .

Related : Best Gastown Hotels

View Local Indigenous Art at the Bill Reid Gallery

A Vancouver itinerary cannot be considered complete without exploring the history and culture of the indigenous people who’ve called the area home for time immemorial. 

Nestled in the heart of downtown, this small gallery is the only facility dedicated entirely to contemporary Northwest Coast Indigenous Art .

It is named after the acclaimed Haida artist, carver and goldsmith Bill Reid who did more to popularize the style than any other.

The Bill Reid Gallery contains an extensive collection of his works and those of his contemporaries. If you can’t make it out to UBC’s Museum of Anthropology , then a trip is highly recommended.

Related : Best Things to Do in Summer in Vancouver

Eat at Some of Vancouver’s Best Restaurants

Booking a table at one of Vancouver’s best downtown restaurants should be an automatic for anybody, visitor or local.

Here are a few amazing options:

• Blue Water Cafe : Fresh , high-quality , sustainable seafood. An extensive raw bar features premium cuts of sushi and sashimi and an extensive selection of local and imported oysters  and caviar .
• Cioppino’s : Award-winning chef and owner Pino Posterano masterfully combines the rustic simplicity of his Calabrian roots with elevated Italian culinary techniques and fresh West-coast ingredients.
• Marutama : Ramen spot that was initially founded in Japan, famous for its creamy chicken broth and house-made noodles . Also a great gyoza spot and one of the best value places downtown.

Take a Downtown Vancouver Food Tour

Eating must eat Vancouver food doesn’t have to mean booking a table at Vancouver’s best restaurants .

One of the best ways to get a guided tour of downtown Vancouver is to see the city while scheduling stops at some amazing Vancouver treat spots.

Two of my favourite Vancouver food tours that include Vancouver downtown activities include:

• Gastown Historic Food Walking Tour : A walk through Gastown’s classic cobblestone streets with an improv comic as a guide and stops for seven food tastings and three alcoholic beverages . Expect poutine, dumplings, cheesecake, and more.
• Wok Aroun d Chinatown : Prowl for goodies at traditional medicine shops, cookware stores, and a Chinese bakery – all led and narrated by a neighbourhood chef. You’ll learn the streets and crispy BBQ duck.

Walk Through Chinatown

Chinatown Vancouver is the second largest in North America, and it’s a great way to experience a bit of Chinese culture in the city.

It’s conveniently located right on the outskirts of downtown. Some of the best things to do here include:

• Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classical Garden : The first Chinese “Scholars” garden built outside of China remains the largest outside of Asia and is an amazing urban escape right in the chaos of downtown Vancouver.
• The Chinese Cultural Centre Museum : The first Chinese Canadian culture museum. Here you can experience the Chinese Canadian immigrant experience in the 19th and early 20th centuries. 
• Chinatown Millennium Gate : These terracotta tiled arches create one of the most emblematic spots in downtown Vancouver and make an awesome photo spot.
• Chinatown BBQ : The best BBQ chicken, pork, or duck you’ll ever get – done in the traditional Hong Kong style, this is one of the best value meals in the entire city.

Take a 4D Flight Across Canada

Right at Canada Place , next to the  Vancouver Cruise Terminal , you can strap in and prepare yourself for an amazing flying experience.

The Flyover Canada  ride uses state-of-the-art  4D video technology  to create a flight simulator for the ages. This contraption takes you on an eight-minute ride through Canada’s best natural and urban landscapes

You’ll get special effects, such as wind, mist, and scents and a thrilling, realistic flight experience. Who needs to buy a flight across Canada when it’s right here?

Plan My 4D Flight Now

Shop up a Storm on Robson Street

Some of Vancouver’s best shopping is along Robson Street , right in the heart of downtown.

The fun begins on Granville Street , where you can find the Pacific Centre Mall . This spot is home to popular department stores, the Hudson Bay Co. and Holt Renfrew .

At Robson Square , you’ll find a multitude of shops and boutiques, including favourites like Roots , Lululemon , Nike , Muji and Aritzia

Head a block North to the “ Luxury Zone, ” which can be found on Alberni and West Georgia Streets. This area is perfect if you’re looking for something more opulent.

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

Experience Vancouver Nightlife

Fun things to do in downtown Vancouver usually stop (and end) at Vancouver’s best bars .

Downtown Vancouver also has a handful of nightlife districts bound to make you turn it into a crawl. Here are a few areas you’ll want to check out:

• The Granville Strip : Vancouver’s closest answer to the Vegas Strip, the Granville Entertainment District, is six blocks of bars, mostly frequented by young people, backpackers, and clubbers.
• Yaletown : A plethora of bars, restaurants and lounges catering to yuppies, celebrities, foodies, and anybody else cool. It’s Vancouver’s most stylish nightlife area.
• Gastown : World-class cocktail bars and cheap and cheerful dive bars serving up the best Vancouver craft beers are the names of the game here. If you’re a drinker through and through, this is it.

Take in the Views at Vancouver Lookout

Located a stone’s throw away from Waterfront Station , the Vancouver Lookout is a 553-foot (168 metres) tall  observation deck . It provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the Vancouver skyline, the North Shore Mountains and Burrard Inlet.

Take advantage of the interactive displays or a multi-lingual tour from a knowledgeable local guide. That way, you can learn more about the city’s past, present and future.

The best part is that admission is valid all day! So you can head up in the morning and return at dusk for sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. This is one of the best things to do in Vancouver when the sun is going down.

Vancouver Lookout Tickets

Catch a Canucks Game

Hockey is so deeply intertwined with Canada’s cultural identity that it’s arguably as much of a  national religion as a national pastime .

Playing out of downtown’s Rogers Arena , the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks  have just celebrated their 50th anniversary. While their play has resulted in more broken hearts and hockey riots than championships, Vancouverites still can’t get enough.

If you’re in town between October and April (or June if we make the playoffs!), read up on your hockey slang and grab some Canucks tickets .

Maybe this year is the year! (editor’s 2023 note: no, it isn’t )

Related : Best Things to Do in Vancouver in Winter

Hit up the Art Gallery

Housed in a stunning 165,000-foot neo-classical building in the heart of Downtown Vancouver. The Vancouver Art Gallery is guaranteed to add a little culture to your visit.

You’ll find it adjacent to Robson Square, which frequently hosts political rallies and cultural festivals. The VAG (I swear I didn’t make it up!) is the city’s informal cultural heart.

You can head inside and marvel at any of the 11,000 pieces . These include  Coastal Indigenous works, famous local artists such as Emily Carr and a significant European Classical collection.

Grab My Tickets Now

Things to Do Downtown Vancouver Map

Whether you’re up for cool things to do in downtown Vancouver or something a little more laid back, downtown contains many of the top areas to stay in Vancouver .

Let’s take a closer look at the area’s geography to clear up the confusion.

Related : Best Vancouver Festivals

The Downtown Core

The central portion of downtown contains the Financial District , the Granville Strip entertainment district and Robson Street – arguably Vancouver’s best shopping district.

This is where you’ll find most of the best hotels in Vancouver , and some of the best cheap hotels in Vancouver .

A former warehouse district transformed into one of the city’s hippest neighbourhoods .

The area is home to sidewalk cafés, chic restaurants, trendy bars and various beautiful parks along its stunning stretch of the Vancouver Seawall .

Related : Best Hotels in Yaletown

The Stadium District

The location of Rogers Arena and BC Place, the home to the city’s perennially suffering professional sports franchises; the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks , the MLS’s Vancouver Whitecaps and the CFL’s BC Lions .

The area also contains a variety of hotels, bars and restaurants catering to sports fans and concertgoers.

It’s even home to Parq: our number-one choice on our list of the best Vancouver casinos .

Related : Best Hotels near Rogers Arena

The West End

This largely residential neighbourhood is most widely known as the gateway to Stanley Park.

However, the West End also contains Davie Village, the home to much of the city’s LGTBQ community .

The area also houses numerous bars and restaurants, a collection of parks and some of Vancouver’s best beaches nestled along the shores of False Creek.

Coal Harbour

Stretching between Canada Place and Stanley Park, Coal Harbour is a peaceful waterfront area contains a mix of residential and commercial buildings.

The area is most known for the striking juxtaposition between its large glass condominium towers and the peaceful tranquillity of Burrard Inlet.

Related : What is Vancouver Known For?

Gastown and Chinatown

Technically downtown includes the neighbourhoods of  Chinatown and Gastown .

However, due to the abundance of attractions in these historic neighbourhoods, we’ve elected to grant them the special attention they deserve.

You can get free visitor tips, things to do, food, and nightlife options by clicking the links below:

Related: The Best Things to Do in Gastown Vancouver | Chinatown Vancouver Neighbourhood Guide

Looking for Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver?

Still looking to fill out your downtown Vancouver things to itinerary?

I invite you to write me in the comments below with what you want. That way, I can give you custom advice for your travels.

Whichever of my top things to do in downtown Vancouver you choose, I wish you the best of luck! ?

Related posts

4 Best Vancouver Whale Watching Tours (2024 Reviews)

12 Things to Do in Vancouver with Kids

The Vancouver Lookout: Visit a Panoramic Paradise

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16 Must-See Vancouver Tourist Attractions

Updated : April 03, 2024

AAA Travel Editors

Table of contents.

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

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

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

Top Tourist Attractions in Vancouver, Canada  

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

1. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park  

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

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

2. Vancouver Aquarium  

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

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

3. Gastown, Vancouver  

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

4. Vancouver Lookout  

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

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

5. Stanley Park  

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

6. Granville Island  

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

7. VanDusen Botanical Garden  

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

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

8. Museum of Anthropology at UBC  

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

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

9. H.R. MacMillan Space Centre  

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

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

10. Bloedel Conservatory  

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

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

11. Kitsilano Beach  

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

12. Vancouver's Chinatown  

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

13. Museum of Vancouver  

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

14. Vancouver Maritime Museum  

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

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

15. Cypress Mountain  

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

16. Brockton Point  

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

Planning Your Trip to Vancouver  

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

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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 

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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

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

VANCOUVER'S MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

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THINGS TO DO IN VANCOUVER

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

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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.

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The top 21 tourist attractions in british columbia.

There are so many must-see tourist attractions in B.C.—from the Totem Poles in Stanley Park to Whistler Village there are history, charm, and stunning scenic views that you don’t want to miss. From Vancouver to North Shore, Victoria, and Whistler, these locations house the top 21 tourist attractions in BC, and we can’t wait for you to see them. 

Check out the Top Tourist Attractions or Points of Interest by Region

Points of interest in vancouver.

1. Totem Poles in Stanley Park

The Totem Poles in Stanley Park are one of the most visited tourist attractions in BC. Their original purpose was to pass on their stories to younger generations, as a written language did not exist for many Indigenous People until the late 20th century. Using the interpretive signs provided, travellers can uncover the tales behind these artifacts. You can see the Totem Poles in Stanley Park on both the Vancouver Highlights Tour and the Highlights + Vancouver Lookout & Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour.

  2. Prospect Point in Stanley Park

On the northern side of Stanley Park, Prospect Point offers an opportunity to soak up a panoramic view of Burrard Inlet, marvel at the gorgeous mountains lining Vancouver’s North Shore, and admire the architecturally impressive Lions Gate Bridge. It’s a great place to grab a snack or a drink and just enjoy the view.

3. English Bay

Palm trees, sand, and endless dining options are what the locals love the most about English Bay. Being one of Vancouver’s most popular beaches, English Bay is all about relaxing and enjoying the simple things in life. You can walk along the beach and check out the two art installations, the ‘A-maze-ing Laughter’ statues and the stone Inukshuk or walk down Denman Street where mouthwatering treats from around the world await. You can gaze upon the English Bay on both the Vancouver Highlights Tour and the Vancouver City + Lookout & Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour.

4. Granville Island

Granville Island is Vancouver’s premier market for crafts, food and interesting products. It boasts a focus on small, independent local businesses that specialize in artisan creations. With galleries, boutiques, and cafés, you might end up doing more shopping than you intended! 

If you are looking for a little bit of guidance and free time in Granville Island, both the Vancouver Highlights Tour and this extended tour that includes + Vancouver Lookout & Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour are great options.

The rough, cobblestone streets of Gastown make it easily stand out amongst the city’s neighbourhoods. As Vancouver’s original downtown, this area was a booming center for the industry due to the port and trains. Today, you will find stores, tucked amongst bars, pubs, and various art galleries. Visit the statue of Gassy Jack, the infamous Saloon owner who the area is named after, and keep an ear out for the Westminster Chimes from the steam clock. 

You can pass through Gastown on both the Vancouver Highlights Tour and the Highlights + Vancouver Lookout & Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour.

6. Yaletown

Marked by the historic red-brick warehouses, Yaletown is one of the chicest areas of Vancouver and attracts trendsetters and visionaries alike. Tucked along the narrow streets, you’ll find the perfect combination of shops and restaurants with plenty of outdoor patios for lounging and soaking up the Vancouver sunshine. Visit the Roundhouse Plaza to see Engine 375, showcasing Vancouver’s history with the railroad.

7. Chinatown

Once home to the Chinese immigrant population, Chinatown is now a booming area within the city of Vancouver with delicious food options, shops, and cultural attractions like the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Gardens. To find this neighbourhood, look out for the Millenium Gates marking the entrance and the red lamp posts lining the streets. You can observe Chinatown from the comfort of a luxury bus on both the Vancouver Highlights Tour and the Highlights + Vancouver Lookout & Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour . 

8. Canada Place

Canada Place, easily seen by its iconic five white sails, serves as Vancouver’s Cruise Ship Terminal. From here, you can watch as cruise ships glide under the Lions Gate Bridge against a backdrop of the coastal mountains. You can also wander over to the Olympic Cauldron, designed for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, and meander your way down the Canadian Walking Trail to the Port Discovery Centre to learn about the ever-growing Port of Vancouver. Canada Place is the pickup destination for pre and post-cruise tours.

9. Vancouver Seawall

Designated as the longest-stretching, uninterrupted waterfront pathway in the world (that’s a mouthful), the Stanley Park Seawall spans the perimeter of Stanley Park and beyond. Originally designed to protect the shoreline against erosion, it has become a well-known tourist attraction in BC and a must-do Vancouver experience. You’ll see these stonewalls touch the water’s edge as you walk or cycle all around the city.

10. Sea to Sky Highway

The Sea to Sky Highway is easily one of the most scenic drives in Canada. Your journey along the BC-99 highway from Vancouver will feature a breathtaking view of Howe Sound, a glacier-made fjord filled with the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean and spotted with tiny islands. As you wind around the mountains, you’ll find yourself fully embracing the coastal life. The Whistler, Shannon Falls & Sea to Sky Gondola Tour will take you around each curve of the Sea to Sky Highway with a guide driving so that you can use every second to take in your beautiful surroundings.

11. Vancouver Lookout

A must-see in BC, the Vancouver Lookout Tower gives you a breathtaking view of the city and beyond. Standing at 168 metres (553 feet) tall, the Harbour Centre Tower offers visitors a 360-degree view of the city and its most prominent features. Admission to the Vancouver Lookout tour is included on the Highlights + Vancouver Lookout & Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour .

Points of Interest in the North Shore

12. Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is a quaint residential community only 30 minutes outside of Vancouver. Surrounded by mountains and the ocean, you’ll find coffee shops and cafes located right along the shoreline.

13. Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain is well-known for its height of 1,250 metres (4,100 feet) and its Skyride that offers astonishing views as you are carried to the top of the mountain. As one of the top attractions in BC, it has gorgeous sights year-round and outdoor activities for every season–from hiking to dining to skiing, and so much more. Experience the majesty of Grouse Mountain and so much more on the North Shore Mountain Discovery Tour .

14. Capilano Salmon Hatchery

Located along the shore of the Capilano River, the Capilano Salmon Hatchery is a not-for-profit dedicated to the conservation efforts of Pacific Salmon, a species that has been vital to ecosystems of BC for hundreds of years. Depending on the season, you can see fish make their way up the river to the hatchery as this incredible species will swim thousands of miles to return to their place of birth to reproduce. Visit and learn more about the Capilano Salmon Hatchery on the North Shore Mountain Discovery Tour . 

15. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Another top tourist attraction in BC is the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park . Crossing this legendary suspension bridge is thrilling at 70 metres (230 feet.) high and 137 metres (450 feet) long. While in the area, you can venture through the tree canopies with the Treetop Adventures, and walk along the side of the granite cliff with the thrilling CliffWalk. You can see the bridge on the North Shore Mountain Discovery Tour is an amazing option.  

Points of Interest in Victoria

16. Victoria Inner Harbour

When you turn the corner and see Victoria’s Inner Harbour for the first time, you will experience a truly breathtaking sight. Surrounding the glimmering water are the magnificent BC Parliament Buildings, Fairmont Empress Hotel, and Royal BC Museum. Head up along Government Street and enjoy the colorful Victorian-era buildings which now serve as storefronts. Exploring the Inner Harbour is a must-do for any trip to Victoria. To explore Victoria with the perfect balance of free time and access to an experienced guide, book the Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour . 

17. Victoria Chinatown

Victoria’s Chinatown is the second oldest in North America. Here you’ll find the Gates of Harmonious Interest as a welcoming sight. As Canada’s narrowest commercial street, make sure you wander through Fan Tan Alley during your explorations. Tucked amongst the brick walls of this alley are tiny storefronts full of treasures. You can spot Victoria’s historic Chinatown on the Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour . 

18. Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens is one of the most beautiful places in BC. Once the residence of the Butchart family, this property was purchased to extract limestone for a cement factory in 1904. After the quarry was exhausted, Jennie Butchart brought to life a vision she called the Sunken Garden. From that point on, this piece of industrial land has turned into 55 acres of gardens with over 50,000 bulbs and 900 plant species. Today, as a National Historic Site of Canada, the legacy of the Butchart family continues.

Adventure through the marvelous Butchart Garden with a guide that can open your eyes to the history and help you enjoy the beauty on the Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour or One-way Victoria to Vancouver with Butchart Gardens Tour.

19. Brentwood Bay

Many residents of Brentwood Bay enjoy magnificent views since the town is situated directly across from the gleaming ocean waters of the Brentwood Inlet. The peaceful ride between the Butchart Gardens and the BC Ferries terminal is a relaxing way to finish the day. In the summer months, you can see paddleboards and kayaks along the water as the sun begins to set.

Ride through the area on BC Ferries on the Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour , One-way Victoria to Vancouver with Butchart Gardens Tour, or the One-way Vancouver to Victoria Tour.   

Points of Interest in Whistler and Area

20. Whistler Village

Whistler Village, nestled at the base of the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, is the heart of the town of Whistler, where they “aprés-everything” (their words, not ours). Wind your way through the picturesque cobblestone paths, satisfy your sweet tooth by visiting the original Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory store, or indulge in the award-winning cuisine. Being a quintessential ski town, it has the perfect balance of world-class and homegrown. The Whistler, Shannon Falls & Sea to Sky Gondola Tour allow time to peruse the village and all its charm. 

21. Shannon Falls

The melting snow through the spring and summer adds to the magnificence of BC’s third-highest waterfall, Shannon Falls. The waterfall is technically in Squamish, and is found on the way to Whistler. This premiere attraction only requires a short, light hike to the viewing platform where you can feel the mist of the raging water and embrace the authentic, natural beauty of British Columbia. You can explore the stunning waterfall of Shannon Falls on the Whistler, Shannon Falls, & Sea to Sky Gondola Tour.

There's our point of view of the top 21 Tourist Attractions in British Columbia, including Vancouver, North Shore, Victoria, and Whistler. Now find out your top favourites. There are so many beautiful and fun places to visit and we love taking visitors and locals alike through the beauty that is BC. Check out our tours and let our experts guide you through the history and the sights. We can’t wait to see you here!  

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in British Columbia

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

British Columbia's mountains, lakes, islands, rainforests, beautiful stretches of coastline, picturesque cities, attractive towns, and world-class skiing make it one of the most popular destinations in Canada .

Most visitors to BC begin in Vancouver , which makes a great starting point for touring the province. A short flight or ferry trip from here will take you to Vancouver Island and the provincial capital, Victoria . Less than a two-hour drive from Vancouver is the resort town and ski destination of Whistler . In the interior of BC, the Okanagan Valley is another year-round hot spot, with the beaches on the shores of Okanagan Lake, golf courses, and numerous ski resorts.

For a more complete overview and to help plan your itinerary , see our list of the top tourist attractions in British Columbia.

1. Whistler

2. vancouver island, 3. okanagan valley & kelowna, 4. tofino and pacific rim national park reserve, 5. vancouver and stanley park, 6. victoria & the inner harbour, 7. yoho national park, 8. old-growth forests, 9. butchart gardens, 10. haida gwaii, 11. glacier national park, 12. salt spring island, 13. kootenay national park, 15. emerald lake, 16. mt. robson provincial park, 17. barkerville historic town, 18. hell's gate airtram in the fraser canyon, 19. squamish, 20. revelstoke, map of tourist attractions in british columbia.

At the foot of the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains , Whistler is the center of the biggest winter sports area in Canada. In 2010, this world-class ski resort attracted much international attention when it hosted the downhill ski events for the Winter Olympic Games.

While it is closely associated with skiing and snowboarding in Canada , Whistler is a year-round destination with hiking trails , mountain biking trails, golfing, and beautiful scenery to explore in the summer. Visitors don't even need to ski or be active to enjoy this lovely town. One of the main attractions is the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which joins Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. The distance covered is a record breaking 4.4 kilometers. The ride takes only 11 minutes and offers spectacular views of the area.

Whistler Village is a modern, upscale town with luxury hotels, high-end shopping, and fine dining. Although, you can still find casual restaurants and regular retail and grocery stores.

The town's close proximity to Vancouver, only a two-hour drive from the city, means it is also easily accessible. The drive to Whistler from Vancouver along the Sea-to-Sky Highway is beautiful. Popular stops on this route include the community of Squamish and Shannon Falls.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Whistler

On Canada's far western coast, Vancouver Island is home to some spectacular coastal scenery, mountains, lakes, and other natural attractions, as well as lovely small towns and the provincial capital of Victoria . Coastal beaches provide year-round surfing, particularly near the popular tourist town of Tofino and nearby Pacific Rim National Park .

Vancouver Island is the largest island on the Pacific coast of North America. Much of it is very remote with limited access. If you take the time to explore the island, you'll find some incredible hiking trails , including the epic multi-day West Coast Trail , one of the best hikes in Canada . Campers can find a variety of excellent campgrounds spread around the island.

Vancouver Island is located west of the city of Vancouver and reached either by a short flight or a ferry ride. Ferries or flights will take you to the Victoria area or into Nanaimo , another popular town on the Island.

Found in the interior of the BC, the Okanagan Valley, most often referred to simply as the Okanagan, is a lush, sunny valley with lakes, beaches, rolling mountains, and orchards. At the heart of the region is the 120-kilometer-long Okanagan Lake and the city of Kelowna on the eastern shore of the lake. Other popular towns in the area include Summerland , Peachland , Penticton , and Vernon .

The Okanagan has hot dry summers and mild winters making it a popular retirement destination and a prominent summertime retreat for people from across British Columbia and neighboring Alberta. Some of the most common summertime activities are houseboating, golfing, and spending time at the beach.

In winter, many people come here to enjoy some of the best ski resorts in British Columbia , including Big White Ski Resort and SilverStar Mountain Resort.

This tiny tourist town on the edge of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is the perfect place for nature lovers looking for a coastal retreat. Endless stretches of beach attract surfers year-round, but most people come here simply to stare out at the waves, storm watch in the off season, or walk for miles on the hard-packed sand.

Off the beach, visitors can hike through old-growth forests or camp along the oceanfront in some of the most stunning coastal scenery in British Columbia.

Couples often come here for a romantic getaway and to relax at one of the luxury seaside resorts and charming lodges . A variety of tours are also offered in the area, from kayaking on Clayoquot Sound to whale watching.

Tofino has an extremely remote feel to it, but it's relatively easy to access from places like Victoria or Nanaimo. Nearby, Ucluelet is another small town that makes a nice day trip from Tofino.

• Read More: Top Things to Do in Tofino

Stanley Park is one of the great features of Vancouver that sets it apart from other major cities across Canada. This huge green space on the edge of the downtown core offers a beautiful nature retreat for visitors and locals.

The park is home to ancient cedars and huge Douglas fir trees. The seawall is one of the main attractions, offering miles of scenic paved path for walking, jogging, or biking. Trails also run through the forest. Within the park is the Vancouver Aquarium , as well as various other attractions, including totem poles, gardens, and beaches.

• Things to See and Do in Stanley Park
• Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Vancouver

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and one of Canada's most scenic cities. Removed from the mainland, this city has the feel of a small town, but is home to a wealth of attractions and things to do . The city is considered by many locals and tourists alike to be one of the best places to visit in BC.

You'll find a mix of people living here, from retirees fleeing the cold in one of Canada's warmest cities to young tech workers and a large segment of the population working for the provincial government. Somehow it all works, and the people of Victoria tend to be relaxed and friendly, always happy to point you in the right direction should you get lost.

At the heart of the city for both locals and tourists is the Inner Harbour , dominated by the grand Empress Hotel , built in 1908 for the Canadian Pacific Railway. This area is always alive with visitors and locals enjoying the waterfront, particularly in the summer when restaurants open their patios for outdoor dining and street performers take to the sidewalks.

If you are looking for things to do, take in the incredible mountain and ocean views from hiking trails in and around Victoria . For something a little less strenuous, consider High Tea at the Empress Hotel or wander by the Parliament Buildings.

Read More: Best Campgrounds near Victoria

Yoho National Park is home to some of British Columbia's most rugged and scenic mountain terrain. Snowcapped peaks, waterfalls, rivers, and crystal-clear lakes, including spectacular Lake O'Hara , draw large numbers of visitors to this park during the summer months.

Incredible hiking trails allow easy access to the backcountry, but even a drive through the park offers enough exposure to appreciate the landscape. If you are touring Yoho National Park by car, one of the highlights is Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest falls in North America .

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of Yoho National Park

BC has some of the world's most intact old-growth forests, these giant trees have stood as sentinels over the millennia. A visit to one of the stands of trees is a humbling experience that makes you feel small and insignificant.

The old-growth stands are located around the province, but the most accessible locations are on Vancouver Island. The most popular and easiest place to see the trees is at Cathedral Grove on Highway 4 between Qualicum, near Parksville , and Port Alberni. Here, you'll find walkways throughout the giant trees along with informational exhibits.

Another great spot to see the old growth trees is in the Pacific Rim National Park near Tofino. Excellent trails with raised boardwalks wind their way through the trees, up and down small valleys and over burbling brooks.

If you truly want to see the trees in their natural environment and have a sense of adventure, head to the logging roads north of Sooke in the small town of Port Renfrew. Up here are groves of majestic trees, some of which are threatened by logging. The main groves are Avatar Grove and Eden Grove . You'll find short walks through the forest along some stretches of boardwalk in both areas.

You'll need a high clearance vehicle to see the ones at Eden Grove, as the road gets very rough at one point. Most people drive to this point and walk along the road to the grove. Of all the groves in BC, this is the one most in danger of being cut down. See it before it's gone.

Set in an old quarry, Butchart Gardens offers a fabulous display of plants, trees, and flowers. Located just outside Victoria, the mild climate is perfect for changing seasonal displays. Spring through fall is outstanding, when the spring blooms come out and the fabulous display of summer color peaks.

Fall brings the changing leaves of autumn and a burst of color from a wide variety of trees and blooming plants. Extensive walkways wind their way around themed gardens and water features over the 20-hectare property.

Official site: https://www.butchartgardens.com/

Haida Gwaii is one of Canada's undiscovered treasures. These remote islands provide a wealth of culture and natural beauty, but are often overlooked by tourists. Formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, Haida Gwaii is an isolated group of more than 150 islands in the Pacific Ocean at the western edge of the continental shelf. The two main islands, Graham and Moresby , are located about 50 kilometers and 150 kilometers respectively off the coast of British Columbia.

The native inhabitants, the Haida people , are thought to have lived on these islands for at least 8,000 years. They were known as proud warriors and daring navigators. With their awesome 20 meter-long war canoes, they traversed the length of the Inside Passage as far south as Puget Sound.

Today, they are more famous for the skill and artistry of their carving. Their totem poles and elaborate argillite carvings can be found in every ethnographic museum on the Canadian Pacific coast.

Glacier National Park, along with Mount Revelstoke National Park a few miles further west, is a scenic area and a favorite with climbers and hikers. The parks lie in one of Canada's most inhospitable mountainous regions, the almost inaccessible northern Selkirk Range of the Columbia Mountains .

The landscape is one of jagged peaks, steep descents, and narrow valleys cut deep into the rock. There are approximately 400 glaciers in and around Glacier National Park. At lower levels, up to about 1,300 meters, the dense forests are home to some enormous old trees - western red cedars, hemlocks, and firs - as well as a ground cover of ferns. Mountain goat, woodland caribou, black bears, and grizzly bears are some of the wildlife that can be found in the park.

Most visitors simply drive through, but there are numerous hiking trails and camping facilities. Rogers Pass National Historic Site is also located within Glacier National Park.

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/glacier

In the Gulf Islands between Victoria and Nanaimo, Salt Spring Island has a small population and is known for its laid-back Bohemian lifestyle. Around this scenic island are artists' studios and farms selling cheese and homemade products. Funky shops sell clothes and trinkets you might expect to find in Southeast Asia.

The main town on the island is Ganges , where visitors will find ice cream shops, cafes and restaurants, and more traditional retail establishments and souvenirs. There is a provincial park on the oceanfront with walking trails, camping facilities, and day use areas. The island also offers inns and other accommodation options.

Ferries run from Tsawwassen on the mainland (Vancouver), Swartz Bay (Victoria), or Crofton (Nanaimo).

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do on Salt Spring Island

Kootenay National Park, in southeastern British Columbia, adjoins Banff National Park and Yoho National Park , and takes in the magnificent western flank of the Canadian Rockies. The main mountain range in Kootenay National Park reaches heights of over 3,000 meters, and the landscape features rugged rocky ridges and sawtooth peaks, snow and ice-covered mountains, cirques, glaciers, hanging valleys, and narrow gorges cut deep into marbled limestone.

Numerous day hikes in the park pass some of these unique sites and natural features. Key highlights in Kootenay are the narrow gorge of Marble Canyon , hiking around Sinclair Pass , and Stanley Glacier .

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/kootenay

Nelson lies in a beautiful spot on the western arm of Kootenay Lake , surrounded by the snow and ice-covered peaks of the Selkirk Mountains . This former mining town grew up at the end of the 19th century and quickly developed into a tourist center and one of the best cities in British Columbia . The town still has many carefully preserved Victorian buildings, which give it a charm all of its own. Nelson is also known for attracting artists and young adults interested in alternative lifestyles.

Nearby is the wild country of Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park , containing numerous picturesque mountain lakes. Most of this pristine mountain region lies at a height of more than 2,100 meters above sea-level. Kokanee Peak , at 2,774 meters, towers majestically above the rest of Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park. Also nearby is Kokanee Creek Provincial Park with sandy beaches and campsites.

Emerald Lake is one of the most spectacular lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Its green hues and glass-calm waters never fail to win the hearts of the casual visitor and amateur photographers. This lake is near the Alberta border but is considerably less busy than Moraine Lake or Lake Louise, and if you only have time for a quick look and don't want to take shuttles, this is the place to visit.

An easy, level gravel trail runs along one side of the lake for 5.2 kilometers and offers walkers incredible views of the surrounding mountain peaks and glaciers. Another popular pastime here is canoeing on the clear waters of the lake. Rentals are available at the concession stand near the lakeshore.

If you work up an appetite or thirst, stop in at the historic Emerald Lake Lodge . Dine inside the building and admire the architecture dating from 1882, or grab a patio seat and soak up the surroundings. If you want to spend the night here, be sure to book well in advance.

Near the BC-Alberta border, north of Jasper , Mt. Robson Provincial Park is home to Mt. Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies , at 3,954 meters. The magnificent mountain landscape is dominate glacier-capped peaks and huge waterfalls.

One of the most popular hikes here is the 25-kilometer trail through the " Valley of the Thousand Falls " to the lovely turquoise lake at the foot of Mt. Robson. On rainy days, the name "thousand falls" becomes obvious as the streams of water pour off the cliff walls.

The area was designated a provincial park in 1913. Even in those days, mountaineers and tourists were drawn to the area, undeterred by the distances involved. Today, the remoteness of this park means that it does not see the great numbers of tourists seen by parks to the south.

Official site: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/mt_robson/

Barkerville Historic Town has an interesting history. In 1858, when news spread that gold had been found in the fluvial sand of the Fraser River, there were soon thousands of men panning for gold all along the river and its tributaries. In the summer of 1862, Billy Barker made his sensational find here at Williams Creek and a typical gold-digging town of simple wooden huts, tents, saloons, and shops sprang up almost overnight. Until it burned down in 1868, Barkerville was the "largest town west of Chicago and north of San Francisco".

Although the town was immediately rebuilt, the end of the gold boom was already apparent. The introduction of machinery meant there was a need for fewer men. Following the end of the gold-rush, Barkerville continued, but was inhabited by settlers and lumberjacks.

Today, visitors will find a restored gold-mining town with about 75 historic buildings making this a fun destination and one of the best places to visit in BC. In summer, costumed interpreters dressed in period costume act out "living history," making it possible to visit a printing-works or smithy, a typical general store, a barber shop, or the "Barkerville Hotel" and feel completely transported back to the times of the gold-rush.

In winter , visitors can participate in snow and cold weather activities, like skating and tubing, or simply enjoy a hot chocolate and some time outdoors.

Official site: http://www.barkerville.ca/

A three-hour drive east of Vancouver is one of Canada's most impressive gorges. Here, the raging torrents of the Fraser River force their way through a narrow pass, known as Hell's Gate, between rocky walls towering almost vertically above the river.

The Hell's Gate Airtram is the best way to view this part of the Fraser Canyon. In days gone by, the Indians found a perilous way across by using ladders. Today, a funicular railway , with impressive views of the wild gorge below, leads down to the lower bank 150 meters below. At the base, are souvenir shops, a restaurant, and a small information center. A climb of a few minutes takes visitors down a reasonable path to the white, foaming river below. The opposite bank can be reached by means of a swaying suspension bridge .

Official site: http://www.hellsgateairtram.com/visit/

Once a sleepy town with an industrial economy, Squamish today is a fast growing, bustling community. Filled with an eclectic mix of those fleeing Vancouver, longtime locals, and a transient population made up of skiers and climbers, Squamish has a vibe all its own.

The city is located at the far end of Howe Sound and is spread out along Highway 99. Downtown is a collection of interesting and functional stores and, of course, a good number of coffee shops. Although the town is nice, the main draw here is the scenery, with the 700-meter-high Stawamus Chief rock face and Shannon Falls both located nearby.

One of the popular things to do when visiting Squamish is to ride the Sea to Sky Gondola. This incredible sightseeing experience allows you to access areas that would normally take long hours, if not days, of hiking to reach. At the top, a suspension bridge extends to a fantastic lookout.

In the summer you used to see kiteboarders and their colorful kites racing across the water. Unfortunately with the closure of the road to the launching site due to environmental concerns, this spectacle is now much, if not completely, diminished.

Read More: Top-Rated Hikes in Squamish, BC

The small town of Revelstoke, more commonly referred to as "Revy," is one of the best places to visit in the interior of BC. Roughly halfway between Banff and Kamloops, Revelstoke is known as one of the premier destinations in Canada, if not the world, for heli-skiing. Towering peaks stuffed with powder snow surround the town, and people come from far and wide to make fresh tracks in the untouched wilderness.

If heli-skiing isn't in your budget, the local ski hill, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, is a good option. The resort gets its fair share of the legendary snow falling on the nearby peaks. The town itself is a decent place to stay, with a cute main street and an excellent railway museum.

More on Canada

18 Pretty Towns To See In Canada's British Columbia

Travelers planning a trip to Canada may want to consider visiting British Columbia. This western province is teeming with stunning natural scenery, ample outdoor adventure, and rich indigenous culture. Undoubtedly, there are plenty of things one shouldn't miss doing in Vancouver , but this Canadian province is home to plenty of other breathtaking destinations too - particularly within its pretty towns . Curious (and adventurous) travelers will surely drop their jaws when discovering everything that beautiful British Columbia has to offer; here are 18 of the best towns to visit in BC this summer!

UPDATE: 2023/07/07 10:04 EST BY JAIMEE TERESE

Beautiful British Columbia: More of the Prettiest Towns In BC

There are so many amazing towns in British Columbia that this list has now been expanded to include 18 of the best towns to visit in BC. Ambitious travelers can visit them all and decide for themselves which one they would crown as the most beautiful place in British Columbia - the incredible landscapes of Canada's westernmost province won't disappoint!

Cowichan Bay

Cowichan is known for its incredible artisanal food and drink scene , lush forests, stunning orchards, and mesmerizing coastline, which offer something for everyone, whether one is looking for relaxation or indulgent experiences. But this is not it; there is more that makes this British Columbia town famous. The town hosts various entertaining concerts and festivals; it is also a mecca for thrill seekers, as there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy excitement, such as biking, hiking, kayaking, fishing, and many more. Travelers will find a plethora of things to do in Cowichan throughout the year.

• What to see & do: Mud Room Clay Works, Arthur Vickers Gallery, Bob and Sandy Vanderford, Cowichan Bay Estuary, Cow Bay’s Pirate Shack
• Noteworthy events : Cowichan Valley Wine Festival, Cowichan Valley Bluegrass Festival, Islands Folk Festival

Steveston is one of the best towns in BC to experience a laid-back vibe and take a break from the city's hustle and bustle. Once awarded the number one Metro Vancouver neighborhood, the town is a designated heritage zone and has plenty to do and see for travelers looking for fun. While strolling through its streets, they can explore various shops and architecture, and enjoy the village's historic ambiance. Foodies will also find a variety of local dishes, specifically seafood, to satiate cravings. Head to the dock at Steveston Spot Prawns and Seafood, or the Prawns on the Spot, to have some amazing seafood dishes.

• What to see & do: Boardwalk, Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, Steveston Heritage Fishing Village, Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, Steveston Tram, Steveston Museum
• Noteworthy events : Big Pirate Run, Steveston Farmers and Artisan Market, Christmas Craft Fair, Steveston Salmon Festival

The British Columbian destination of Nelson is a true hippie town with a rich history and culture . Many believe that Nelson is one of British Columbia's gems due to its rich culture and stunning views of the Selkirk Mountains with the Kootenay Lake. Besides enjoying its lakeside views and refreshing nature scapes, visitors can discover its historical attractions, including its 350 heritage buildings and restored streetcar! With its diverse array of offerings, Nelson is definitely among the best towns to visit in BC.

• What to see & do: Nelson Classic Car Museum, Natureland Zoo, Broadgarden Historic House, The Suter Art Gallery
• Noteworthy events : Nelson International Mural Festival, Aug 11-13; Kootenay Film Festival, Sept 2023 exact dates TBD.

Osoyoos sits between Penticton and Omak in the southernmost end of British Columbia's Okanagan Valley. Known as "Canada's Warmest Welcome," Osoyoos is home to Canada's only desert and one of Canada's hottest locations. Like other Okanagan Valley communities, Osoyoos is also known as a premier wine-producing region . Otherwise, its natural landscape is a huge tourist attraction, especially its notable destinations like the Osoyoos Desert Center and the Osoyoos Lake.

• What to see & do: Rattlesnake Canyon, Osoyoos Lake, Osoyoos Desert Centre, Spotted Lake

Wine enthusiasts take note: there are several wine festivals held in Osoyoos annually in October.

Formerly known as Oyster Harbor, this quaint town can be found in the eastern portion of Vancouver Island, south of Nanaimo and north of Victoria. Visitors can enjoy small-town vibes at Ladysmith, home to only 8,990 residents. Tourists can learn about the town's history and its original inhabitants (i.e., the Stz'uminus First Nations) while exploring its miles of hiking trails with hillside (and harbor) landscapes.

• What to see & do: Ladysmith Museum, Hike through Holland Creek, Roberts Memorial Provincial Park

RELATED: Why British Columbia's Capilano Suspension Bridge Is Worth The Visit

Qualicum Beach

Set at the base of Vancouver Island's Mount Arrowsmith along the Georgia Strait, Qualicum Beach has cottages and coastal views. Due to its proximity to British Columbia's coast populous cities like Victoria and Vancouver, Qualicum Beach is also a popular retirement destination! While visiting this Vancouver Island town, travelers can enjoy a family-friendly beach day or soak up the province's lush temperate forests on a hiking trail.

• What to see & do: Venture to Heritage Forest, Explore the caves at Horne Lake, Millner Gardens

Sunshine Coast

Yup, British Columbia has its own Sunshine Coast ! Sitting on the southern coast of the province, adventure-seeking and curious travelers can truly appreciate the beauty of British Columbia here, which stretches from Howe Sound to Desolation Sound. Don't bother renting a car to get here either, because this BC region is only accessible by ferry, private boat, or plane ! Teeming with mountain and coastal scapes (which are perfect for activities like diving or boating!), this gem of a region also boasts a rich Indigenous history related to communities like the Homalco, Tla'amin, Klahoose Nations, and many more.

• What to see & do: Francis Point Provincial Park, Persephone Brewing Company, Sunshine Coast Museum, Smuggler Cove Marine Provincial Park

Adventurers will feel like they stepped into a painting when visiting Ucluelet. Meaning "People of the Safe Harbor" to the Nuu-chah-nulth's First Nation community, the rugged views of Ucluelet are nothing short of spectacular. A true nature's paradise, this coastal destination on Vancouver Island is blessed with miles of temperate rainforests and quiet beaches and is near the Pacific Rim National Park ( which itself spans 126,500 acres !)

• What to see & do: Ucluelet Aquarium, Amphitrite Point Lighthouse, Pacific Rim National Park, Journey the shore on the Wild Pacific Trail

RELATED: 10 Best Things To Do In Abbotsford, British Columbia

Oliver is a quiet town with over 5,000 people and sits in Southern Okanagan. Though Ontario's Niagara region is known as one of Canada's notable wine regions, Oliver has built its reputation as the Capital of Wine Capital of Canada! Besides its arable land for grape growing and agriculture, Oliver has other attractions worth admiring, including the McIntyre Bluff and Mount Baldy, both offering picturesque (and somewhat challenging) hiking opportunities. The town is also great for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, mountain biking, and golfing.

• What to see & do: Sample the region's famous wine, McIntyre Bluff, Swiller's Pond Petting Farm, Inkaneep Provincial Park

Hester Creek Estate Winery, located in Oliver, was recently named the 2023 British Columbia Winery of the Year. Be sure to try their gold-medal winning Pinot Gris Viognier and Semillon.

Creston sits in the Kootenay region in southeastern British Columbia, offering visitors small-town vibes with plenty of nature-related excursions and travelers interested in agro-tourism. Creston is an excellent starting point to explore Creston Valley. Nearby, visitors can check out attractions like Kootenay Lake, the Selkirk (and Purcell) Mountains, local wineries, fruit farms, and much more!

• What to see & do: International Slekirk Loop, Kootenay Lake, Creston & District Community Complex, Creston Museum

RELATED: Mayne Island: The Complete Guide To One Of British Columbia's Most Beautiful Islands

While discovering Vancouver Island's Devil Bath and other attractions, consider visiting the island's communities like Tofino. Tofino is an eclectic mix of surf-town vibe and outdoorsy adventures, boasting popular attractions like Cox Bay, Chesterman Beach, and Long Beach. This beautiful British Columbia coastal town is also popular among tourists for its whale-watching excursions due to its long whale-watching season, running from March (or late February) to October.

• What to see & do: Cox Bay Beach, Pacific Rim National Park, Tonquin Park, Hot Springs Cove, Tofino Botanical Gardens
• Noteworthy events : Pacific Rim Summer Festival, July 1 - 21; Queen of the Peak surf contest held annually in October (dates vary depending on surf conditions)

Don't be fooled by the cold water - Tofino is home to excellent waves and is the capital of Canadian surfing. Novices can take a lesson at one of the several locally-owned surf schools in Tofino.

Haida Gwaii

Haida Gwaii is an archipelago off the west coast of British Columbia, boasting as an ideal getaway for the ultimate traveling nature (and outdoors) lover. Known as the Queen Charlotte Islands and home to the Haida Nation, prospective visitors who are keen on visiting Haida Gwaii must be mindful of the Haida ways and are encouraged to take the Haida Gwaii Visitor Pledge. Once they do so, they are invited to soak in the breathtaking sights of this British Columbian archipelago, which is best appreciated through kayaking, boating, surfing, and museum hopping!

• What to see & do : Gwaii Haanas National Park, See the totems at SGaang Gwaii, Skidegate Island, Port Clements Museum

To fully show respect to the people and their land, visitors are encouraged to take the Haida Gwaii Pledge upon arrival, as well as having the proper permits to set foot on the islands.

It's not all beaches and sunny lakes, British Colombia is also known for its idyllic resorts around the mountainous region . The town of Whistler is surrounded with mountains that are constantly covered in snow, making it one of the go-to destinations for adventurous travelers seeking a fresh escapade. During the winter, Whistler covers itself in snow and becomes one of the best spots for skiers and snowboarders in Canada, whereas summer makes the hiking trails available to traverse through.

• What to see & do: Ski during winter or hike in the summer, Lost Lake, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Audain Art Museum

Whistler's resorts aren't exactly cheap, but previous travelers say that if the budget's available, it's totally worth it.

Related: 10 Of The World's Best Hidden Family Vacation Spots To Visit In 2023

As a mix between vibrant displays of imposing mountains that offer all kind of activities accompanied by fresh air with blooming fields of wildflowers during the summer, the city of Revelstoke can grant both exciting adventures and relaxing experiences for anyone at a vacation in British Columbia. In 1914, Mount Revelstoke National Park was established, becoming Canada's eighth national park in existence.

• What to see & do: Mount Revelstoke National Park, Revelstoke Railway Museum, Wind down in one of the surrounding hot springs, Meadows in the Sky Parkway

With a population of only around 4,000 people, Invermere is undeniably a small community in eastern British Columbia, Canada, but its charm manages to greatly outweigh its size while being surrounded by picturesque locations and offering unique shops to browse around. Being right next to Windermere Lake also helps it gather a lot of tourist attraction during the summer.

• What to see & do: Windermere Lake, The Artym Gallery, Windermere Valley Museum

Welcome to the intrepid town of Squamish! Also known as the "outdoor-recreation capital of Canada", this British Columbia gem makes the most out of being in a valley surrounded by luscious forests, tall mountains, and clean lakes, with plenty of available hiking trails that perfectly frame the area's natural beauty. The lakes are also prime locations for kayakers wanting to challenge themselves against the elements, and anglers wanting to try their luck at catching the different species of trouts that inhabit the lakes and rivers.

• What to see & do: Squamish Adventure Centre, Shannon Falls Provincial Park, Alice Lake, Crooked Falls

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts: this British Columbia coastal town has tons to explore in its surrounding forests and ocean. Located on the southwestern coast of Vancouver Island, this quaint town is somewhat of a hidden gem. Adventure seekers can take try ziplining, fishing, and surfing in the nearby town of Jordan River. Those looking to relax can enjoy one of Sooke's day spas, or kick back at a charming café or microbrewery. There are also several picturesque walks that are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

• What to do : The Boardwalk Loop scenic stroll starts and ends downtown, while winding through spectacular coastline and forest. More experienced hikers have no shortage of rugged rainforest or craggy coastal trails nearby.
• Recommended day trip : Juan de Fuca Provincial Park
• Noteworthy events : Sooke Fine Arts Show, July 29 - Aug 7

Hornby Island

Hornby Island may very well be the most overlooked and underrated British Columbia coastal town. This small Gulf island paradise is situated in between Vancouver Island and the mainland, and it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in BC (not to mention some of the warmest water).

Hornby Island also retains a very distinctive identity, having been a counterculture hub for droves of artists, hippies, and intellectuals who arrived in the 1960s/70s. The Bohemian charm remains despite its growing popularity, and visitors can expect to find a palpable sense of community combined with a strong emphasis on nature, sustainability, and locally-produced goods.

• What to see & do : shop for unique items at funky local boutiques such as Island Potters, Hornby Creative, and Celestial Sphere. Sunbathe on Hornby´s white sand beaches, sample local wines and farm-to-table dining.