In search of the most effective issues to do in Vancouver? Whether or not you’re right here for a weekend or planning a full West Coast itinerary, this metropolis blends oceanfront journey, mountain magnificence, and cultural depth like nowhere else in Canada. As former Vancouver residents, we’ve explored each nook of this coastal gem, from biking round Stanley Park to catching sunsets at English Bay, and we’re sharing our high picks so you possibly can expertise the perfect of it.
This up to date 2025 Vancouver journey information options the highest points of interest, native favorites, household actions, day journeys, and hidden gems. Whether or not you’re touring solo, as a pair, or with youngsters, we’ve acquired insider suggestions, maps, and must-sees to make your journey unforgettable.
Able to dive in? Right here’s what to do in Vancouver, Canada.
Prime Issues to Do in Vancouver, At a Look
| Class | Prime Sights |
|---|---|
| Nature & Parks | Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, VanDusen Botanical Backyard, Grouse Mountain, Lynn Canyon Park |
| Cultural Sights & Museums | Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Artwork Gallery, Museum of Vancouver, Science World, Christ Church Cathedral |
| Neighborhoods & Native Vibes | Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown, Olympic Village, False Creek |
| Waterfront & Views | Vancouver Lookout, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Sea to Sky Gondola, Sundown Dinner Cruise, English Bay & Kitsilano Seashore |
| Household-Pleasant Actions | Vancouver Aquarium, Science World, Whale Watching Excursions, Suspension Bridges, False Creek Ferries |
| Finest Day Journeys | Whistler, Squamish, Sea to Sky Freeway, Victoria & Butchart Gardens, Britannia Mine Museum |
Prime 10 Issues to Do in Vancouver
Brief on time? These are the most effective issues to do in Vancouver, BC, that showcase town’s pure magnificence, cultural hotspots, and must-see landmarks.
1. Stroll or Cycle the Stanley Park Seawall
Begin your Vancouver journey with a motorbike trip or stroll alongside the Stanley Park Seawall. This iconic 9-kilometre path wraps across the metropolis’s beloved inexperienced house, providing unbeatable views of the skyline, mountains, and ocean. Lease a motorbike or be a part of a biking tour to discover the park’s high points of interest, together with the totem poles and the Vancouver Aquarium.
2. Go to Granville Island Public Market
A should for meals lovers, Granville Island Public Market is full of recent seafood, baked items, and artisan cheeses. Browse native crafts, snack on the go, and catch a view of False Creek from the dock.
3. Experience the Grouse Mountain Skyride in North Vancouver
Hop on the Skyride gondola to succeed in Grouse Mountain’s summit. In summer season, you possibly can hike the Grouse Grind. In winter, the mountain transforms right into a snowy playground with snowboarding, snowshoeing, and twinkling lights, simply quarter-hour from downtown Vancouver.
4. Discover Gastown’s Historic Appeal
Cobblestone streets, Victorian buildings, and the well-known Steam Clock give Gastown its old-world really feel. Store for souvenirs, sip cocktails in heritage bars, and take a guided strolling tour to be taught the neighborhood’s wild backstory.
5. Snap Images at Capilano Suspension Bridge
The 137-metre Capilano Suspension Bridge permits you to stroll excessive above the river valley. Arrive early to beat the crowds, then discover the Cliffwalk and treetop trails
6. Cruise Round False Creek
Board a False Creek Ferry from downtown Vancouver or hire a kayak to discover this scenic inlet. You’ll move Science World, Olympic Village, and a number of the finest views of the Vancouver skyline.
7. Watch a Vancouver Canucks Sport
Even in the event you’re not a hockey fan, the vitality at Rogers Area is infectious. Seize a ticket throughout NHL season and cheer on the Canucks with the locals.
8. Uncover Chinatown
Vancouver’s Chinatown is one in all North America’s oldest and largest. After dim sum, wander by way of natural retailers and go to the peaceable Dr. Solar Yat-Sen Classical Chinese language Backyard—an city oasis impressed by the Ming Dynasty.
9. Sundown at English Bay Seashore
This metropolis seashore is the right spot for a late-day stroll, seashore volleyball, or a picnic with mountain views. In the event you’re visiting in summer season, catch the Celebration of Gentle fireworks present right here.
10. Take a Whale-Watching Tour
From March to October, hop on a ship tour to see orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales off the coast of British Columbia. Excursions go away proper from downtown and provide a spectacular have a look at the wild facet of Vancouver.
Discover Vancouver’s Neighborhoods & Native Sights
Top-of-the-line issues about Vancouver is how simply you possibly can hop from mountain trails to craft breweries to waterfront artwork scenes—multi function afternoon. These neighborhoods showcase the range and persona that make Vancouver so memorable.
False Creek
This scenic inlet cuts by way of downtown Vancouver and is dwelling to a number of the metropolis’s most enjoyable actions. Stroll or cycle alongside the Seawall, take a False Creek Ferry between Granville Island and Science World, or get pleasure from a 90-minute boat tour to see resident seals, sandy seashores, and Lions Gate Bridge.
Olympic Village
As soon as dwelling to athletes through the 2010 Winter Olympics, this sustainable neighborhood is now an area favourite. You’ll discover top-rated eating places like The Flying Pig and breweries like Brassneck and Foremost Avenue Brewing. Don’t miss the general public artwork installations and beautiful metropolis views alongside the water.
Yaletown
Fashionable and upscale, Yaletown is full of boutique retailers, patios, and a buzzing nightlife. It’s additionally an important base for exploring downtown Vancouver. Be a part of a guided bike tour by way of Yaletown, Chinatown, and the serene Dr. Solar Yat-Sen Backyard—a simple technique to hit a number of Vancouver points of interest in a single trip.
Granville Island (Sure, Once more!)
This vibrant arts district deserves one other point out, as a result of there’s extra than simply the market. Catch a present at one of many native theatres, browse the artisan galleries, or seize a pint at Granville Island Brewing. It’s top-of-the-line issues to do right this moment in Vancouver in the event you’re brief on time however need a true native vibe.
The place to Keep in These Neighborhoods
- Yaletown: Opus Vancouver – A trendy boutique lodge with walkable entry to retailers, eating places, and the waterfront.
- Close to Granville Island: Granville Island Resort – Tucked proper on the water with views of False Creek.
- Downtown Core: Fairmont Pacific Rim – Excessive-tech luxurious with rooftop views steps from Canada Place.
Household-Pleasant & Cultural Issues to Do in Vancouver
Whether or not you’re touring with youngsters or simply need to discover town’s museums and interactive points of interest, Vancouver has loads of hands-on experiences and culture-forward gems.
Science World at Telus World of Science
You’ll be able to’t miss the enormous geodesic dome on False Creek—it’s dwelling to some of the enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver with youngsters. Inside, Science World options over a dozen interactive displays on movement, biology, water, and innovation. Cap it off with a movie on the five-story OMNIMAX Theatre—the most important of its type on the planet.
Vancouver Artwork Gallery
Proper in downtown Vancouver, this main Canadian artwork establishment blends Indigenous and up to date exhibitions with immersive occasions. Take a guided tour to dive deeper into the tales behind the work, or simply soak all of it in earlier than stress-free on the bistro patio subsequent to Robson Sq..
Vancouver Maritime Museum
Overlooking English Bay, this museum shares tales of seafaring life, Arctic exploration, and West Coast maritime historical past. A standout is the St. Roch, the primary vessel to circumnavigate North America. Hop aboard and picture navigating the Northwest Passage below sail.
Museum of Vancouver
Devoted to town’s evolving story, the Museum of Vancouver covers every little thing from Coast Salish traditions to Nineteen Sixties counterculture. Positioned in Vanier Park, it’s excellent to pair with a cease at Kitsilano Seashore or a stroll alongside the seawall.
Dr. Solar Yat-Sen Classical Chinese language Backyard
A peaceable retreat within the coronary heart of Chinatown, this genuine Ming Dynasty-style backyard options ponds, pathways, and sculpted rock. It’s some of the distinctive cultural actions in Vancouver—and a photographer’s dream.
Christ Church Cathedral
Even in the event you’re not spiritual, this downtown landmark is value a go to. In-built 1889, it’s a mixture of Gothic Revival and Romanesque structure, with hovering bell towers and good stained-glass home windows. Quiet and delightful, it’s a fast detour into Vancouver’s historic roots.
Nature & Parks: Vancouver’s Nice Outside
Out of doors lovers, that is your playground. One of many high causes to go to Vancouver is its pure setting, the place ocean, forest, and mountain meet. From peaceable metropolis gardens to heart-pumping hikes, these are the most effective outside issues to do in Vancouver.
Stanley Park
This 1,000-acre city forest is greater than only a park—it’s the inexperienced coronary heart of town. Stroll or bike the Stanley Park Seawall, go to the totem poles, or pop into the Vancouver Aquarium. In summer season, hit the outside pool. In spring, stroll beneath the cherry blossoms. Stanley Park is likely one of the finest free issues to do in Vancouver BC, and it’s simply minutes from downtown.
Don’t Miss: Totem Poles Viewpoint, the Rose Backyard, Beaver Lake Path, and a motorbike rental to circle the complete seawall.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Vancouver’s highest level delivers panoramic views of town and North Shore Mountains. This 130-acre park is understood for its lush Quarry Backyard, arboretum, and the tropical Bloedel Conservatory, dwelling to unique birds and tropical vegetation beneath a glowing geodesic dome. Bonus: it’s one of many high sundown spots within the metropolis.
VanDusen Botanical Backyard
For one thing extra tranquil, VanDusen is a 55-acre oasis in the midst of Vancouver. With over 7,000 plant species, peaceable strolling paths, and seasonal festivals just like the winter Competition of Lights, it’s a favourite for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Grouse Mountain
Simply quarter-hour from downtown, Grouse Mountain is your go-to for year-round journey. In hotter months, problem your self on the Grouse Grind or take the Skyride gondola for scenic views. In winter, there’s snowboarding, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and visits with rescued grizzly bears. It’s one of many high issues to do close to Vancouver, BC.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Vancouver’s most well-known bridge isn’t only a bucket checklist picture; it’s a whole rainforest expertise. The Capilano Suspension Bridge stretches 137 meters (450 toes) throughout and hovers 70 meters (230 toes) above the Capilano River.
However there’s extra: discover the Cliffwalk, a collection of slender bridges clinging to the canyon wall, and the Treetops Journey, a community of platforms excessive within the cover. Open year-round with free shuttles from downtown, this iconic attraction delivers the right mixture of thrill and tranquility.
Journey Tip: Arrive early or late within the day to keep away from the height crowds and catch the most effective gentle for pictures.
Lynn Canyon Park
Desire a quieter different to Capilano? Head to Lynn Canyon for a free suspension bridge, forest trails, waterfalls, and swimming holes. It’s an area favourite, excellent for a half-day escape into Vancouver’s wild facet.
Nightlife & Seasonal Issues to Do in Vancouver
From concert events to cruises, Vancouver is aware of the best way to showcase after darkish—and in each season. Whether or not you’re chasing summer season sunsets or winter ski runs, listed here are a number of the most enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver right this moment (or tonight).
Catch a Live performance on the Commodore Ballroom
A staple on Granville Avenue, the Commodore Ballroom has hosted everybody from David Bowie to Nirvana. The venue is intimate, historic, and alive with vitality. In the event you’re questioning what to do in Vancouver at evening, that is it. Examine the lineup, you by no means know who is perhaps taking part in.
Richmond Night time Market
Simply 20 minutes south of downtown, this summer season and fall market is a sensory overload in one of the best ways. Assume neon lights, over 200 meals distributors, carnival video games, and cultural performances. Come hungry and convey money, that is the place you’ll discover the most effective road eats within the area.
Take a Sundown Dinner Cruise
In the event you’re on the lookout for a calming night exercise in Vancouver, hop aboard a sundown cruise. As you sail previous the skyline, West Vancouver mansions, and the North Shore Mountains, get pleasure from a buffet dinner with stay music. Golden hour views don’t get higher than this.
E book it: This sundown cruise provides a full dinner, music, and panoramic views from the water.
English Bay Polar Bear Swim
Mark your calendar: January 1, 2025, would be the one hundred and fifth annual Polar Bear Swim at English Bay, and sure, it’s nonetheless completely bonkers.
The primary plunge occurs at 2:30 PM, with 1000’s of swimmers and tens of 1000’s of cheering spectators. The free occasion runs from 12 PM to 4 PM, with stay music, costume contests, and scorching chocolate for courageous souls. It’s simply some of the distinctive and enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver in winter, even in the event you keep dry.
? Native Tip: Register on-line to get your official swim tag and bragging rights. Or simply present up and cheer from the seawall.
Indoor Sights, Museums & Metropolis Views
When the skies open up (as they typically do in Vancouver), head inside to find town’s vibrant historical past, artwork, and structure, from 360° viewpoints to Indigenous tradition and traditional museums.
Vancouver Lookout
Wish to see all of Vancouver in a single view? Head to the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre. This 360-degree commentary deck stands 168 meters (553 toes) tall and is accessible through a glossy glass elevator.
From right here, you’ll spot Stanley Park, English Bay, the North Shore Mountains, and past. It’s an important orientation cease initially of your journey, or a sundown vacation spot to wrap up your Vancouver journey in model.
Accessibility: Totally wheelchair-friendly, with huge doorways and accessible washrooms on website.
Museum of Anthropology (UBC)
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) reopened in June 2024 after an intensive seismic improve, and it’s much more spectacular than earlier than. Positioned at UBC, this cultural landmark stays some of the significant issues to do in Vancouver for these in search of perception into Indigenous artwork and heritage.
Step into the dramatically redesigned Nice Corridor to view towering totem poles, carvings, and ceremonial objects from the Northwest Coast First Nations. The encircling grounds and rose gardens nonetheless provide panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains, making this a high decide rain or shine.
Tip: Pair your go to with a stroll by way of UBC’s botanical gardens or right down to Wreck Seashore for a full day on campus.
Museum of Vancouver
Positioned in Vanier Park close to Kitsilano, this museum takes you from town’s Indigenous roots by way of its countercultural previous and into modern-day Vancouver. The displays are quirky, immersive, and uniquely native. Nice combo with the Vancouver Maritime Museum and H.R. MacMillan Area Centre close by.
Vancouver Seashores & Waterfront Escapes
Vancouver’s city seashores are as iconic as its mountains. Whether or not you’re sunbathing, biking the seawall, or catching sundown over the Pacific, these waterfront spots provide a number of the finest issues to do in Vancouver right this moment, particularly when the solar’s out.
English Bay Seashore
Proper on the fringe of downtown and the West Finish, English Bay is Vancouver’s most accessible seashore. Locals come right here to rollerblade, picnic, or simply chill out below big timber with a view of the mountains. In July, it’s the primary stage for the Celebration of Gentle fireworks competition. Courageous sufficient? Or take our recommendation from above and be a part of the Polar Bear Swim right here each New Yr’s Day.
Private notice: We used to stay close by and referred to as it “First Seashore.” This was our go-to sundown spot.
Kitsilano Seashore
Simply throughout the water from downtown, Kits Seashore is laid-back and filled with vitality. You’ll discover volleyball courts, a large outside pool (heated and proper on the water), and close by cafés for a beachy brunch. It’s a high decide for enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver BC throughout summer season.
Spanish Banks
Additional west alongside the waterfront, Spanish Banks is quieter and extra unfold out. Nice for beachcombing at low tide, flying a kite, or strolling your canine within the off-leash areas. On clear days, you’ll see all the best way throughout to Vancouver Island.
Wreck Seashore
This famously clothing-optional seashore close to UBC is just not for the shy, however it’s acquired critical chill vibes. With steep stairs main down and 0 commercialization, it’s some of the pure stretches of shoreline close to Vancouver. Count on drum circles, physique positivity, and jaw-dropping sunsets.
? Enjoyable reality: Wreck Seashore typically hosts artwork exhibits, seashore cleanups, and even stay music. It’s a complete scene.
Finest Day Journeys from Vancouver
Top-of-the-line components about visiting Vancouver? You’re only a brief drive or ferry away from mountain adventures, ocean escapes, and a few of British Columbia’s most iconic surroundings. These day journeys from Vancouver are straightforward, unforgettable, and properly value the additional time.
Sea to Sky Freeway
In the event you’re questioning what to do close to Vancouver that can utterly blow your thoughts, that is it. The Sea to Sky Freeway (Freeway 99) runs from Vancouver to Whistler and is likely one of the most stunning street journeys in Canada. Cease at waterfalls, lookouts, and Indigenous heritage websites alongside the best way.
Should-see stops:
- Shannon Falls
- Britannia Mine Museum
- Sea to Sky Gondola
- Squamish (hey, rock climbers!)
? Tip: Attempt to spend an evening in Squamish. It’s turn out to be a real journey city.
Whistler
A world-class ski resort in winter and a mountaineering, biking, and patio paradise in summer season, Whistler is simply two hours from downtown Vancouver. Experience the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, zipline by way of the timber, or take a look at the Olympic Village.
Fast journey? Sure, it’s doable in a day—however in the event you can, keep in a single day.
Vancouver Island & Victoria
Hop on a ferry or seaplane and escape to Vancouver Island. You’ll be able to go to in a day, however it’s finest explored over a weekend. Highlights embody:
- Victoria: Charming capital metropolis with English-style gardens and excessive tea
- Butchart Gardens: Probably the most beautiful floral shows in Canada
- Tofino (in the event you keep longer): Surf, storm watch, and soak within the wild Pacific Coast
Tour choice: This Victoria and Butchart Gardens day tour features a scenic ferry trip and guided stops.
Squamish
Usually overshadowed by Whistler, Squamish is a gem in its personal proper. Hike the Stawamus Chief, attempt whitewater rafting, or take the Sea to Sky Gondola to the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. There’s even a brewery scene for post-hike pints.
Britannia Mine Museum
This one stunned us. What we anticipated to be a fast cease became a spotlight. Experience a prepare into the historic copper mine, pan for gold, and take a look at the BOOM! Multimedia present—it’s far more thrilling than it sounds.
Whether or not you’re right here for a weekend or a full West Coast journey, navigating Vancouver is simple—and so is discovering a spot to remain that matches your model.
Attending to Downtown Vancouver
Most guests arrive at Vancouver Worldwide Airport (YVR), simply 9 miles from town middle.
- SkyTrain (Canada Line): 25 minutes to downtown, departs each 7 minutes. Price: $9 CAD one-way (or $5 with a transit move).
- Taxi/Uber: Round half-hour, $25–$30 CAD.
We normally hire a automotive, particularly for day journeys to Whistler or Vancouver Island. Evaluate charges on RentalCars.com to get the most effective deal from the airport.
Getting Across the Metropolis
Vancouver is a really walkable metropolis, however you can even use:
- Seabus: Nice for scenic rides throughout Burrard Inlet to North Vancouver.
- False Creek Ferries: Hop between Granville Island, Science World, and Yaletown.
- Public Transit: Clear, environment friendly, and inexpensive.
- Bike leases: A high decide for exploring the seawall and downtown parks.
The place to Keep in Vancouver
To get probably the most out of your journey, we suggest staying in Downtown Vancouver. You’ll be near main points of interest like Stanley Park, Gastown, and English Bay.
Luxurious
Mid-Vary
Finances
- Samesun Vancouver: Finest location for the worth—stroll to Robson Avenue, Stanley Park, and town’s finest eats.
Tip: We’ve got a full breakdown on the place to remain in Vancouver in order for you extra choices by neighborhood.
Issues To Know Earlier than You Go to Vancouver, BC
Begin with biking the Stanley Park Seawall, exploring Granville Island Market, visiting Gastown’s Steam Clock, and strolling throughout the Capilano Suspension Bridge. These spots showcase Vancouver’s pure magnificence, native tradition, and iconic views—all inside straightforward attain of downtown.
Sure! Vancouver is likely one of the most walkable cities in North America. You’ll be able to discover neighborhoods like Yaletown, Gastown, and the West Finish fully on foot. The Seawall path additionally connects main points of interest like English Bay, Stanley Park, and Granville Island.
Vancouver is understood for its dramatic setting between mountains and ocean, its entry to outside journey, and its multicultural vitality. Guests love the combo of nature and metropolis life—from whale watching and mountain hikes to sushi spots, markets, and artwork galleries.
Stroll or bike the Stanley Park Seawall, go to Lynn Canyon’s suspension bridge and forest trails, hang around at Kits Seashore or Spanish Banks, or discover the general public artwork in Olympic Village and English Bay. A lot of Vancouver’s high experiences are utterly free.
Summer time (June to September) is good for mountaineering, biking, seashores, and festivals—with lengthy sunny days and minimal rain. Spring and fall are nice for fewer crowds and cherry blossoms or fall colours. Winter is ideal if you wish to ski Grouse, Cypress, or close by Whistler.
Completely. The Sea to Sky Freeway to Whistler, ferry journeys to Victoria and Vancouver Island, or a scenic drive to Squamish and the Sea to Sky Gondola are all high day journey choices. Every provides a distinct slice of British Columbia’s wild magnificence.
Science World, the Vancouver Aquarium, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Stanley Park’s playgrounds and miniature prepare are all household favorites. Children additionally love the False Creek Ferries and seashore time at English Bay or Kitsilano.
Whether or not you’re planning a metropolis break, coastal street journey, or prolonged West Coast journey, Vancouver all the time delivers. With mountain trails, neighborhood markets, artwork galleries, and sundown seashores all inside straightforward attain, it is a place that evolves with you.
We spent years residing in Vancouver, and we return typically. It’s not only a scenic cease on the map; it’s a metropolis that invitations you again. So whether or not you’re whale watching off the coast or grabbing a craft beer in Yaletown, we hope this information helps you intend the right journey.
Tell us your favourite issues to do in Vancouver within the feedback; we’re all the time on the lookout for new causes to return.
