On the lookout for one of the best 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 prime picks so you possibly can expertise the perfect of it.
This up to date 2025 Vancouver journey information options the highest sights, native favorites, household actions, day journeys, and hidden gems. Whether or not you’re touring solo, as a pair, or with children, we’ve bought insider ideas, maps, and must-sees to make your journey unforgettable.
Able to dive in? Right here’s what to do in Vancouver, Canada.
High Issues to Do in Vancouver, At a Look
| Class | High Points of interest |
|---|---|
| Nature & Parks | Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, VanDusen Botanical Backyard, Grouse Mountain, Lynn Canyon Park |
| Cultural Points of interest & 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 |
| Greatest Day Journeys | Whistler, Squamish, Sea to Sky Freeway, Victoria & Butchart Gardens, Britannia Mine Museum |
High 10 Issues to Do in Vancouver
Brief on time? These are one of the best 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 motorcycle journey 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 motorcycle or be part of a biking tour to discover the park’s prime sights, 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 filled with contemporary 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 achieve Grouse Mountain’s summit. In summer time, 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 Allure
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 Photographs at Capilano Suspension Bridge
The 137-metre Capilano Suspension Bridge helps 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 among the finest views of the Vancouver skyline.
7. Watch a Vancouver Canucks Recreation
Even should you’re not a hockey fan, the power at Rogers Enviornment is infectious. Seize a ticket throughout NHL season and cheer on the Canucks with the locals.
8. Uncover Chinatown
Vancouver’s Chinatown is considered one of North America’s oldest and largest. After dim sum, wander by 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 seaside is the right spot for a late-day stroll, seaside volleyball, or a picnic with mountain views. Should you’re visiting in summer time, catch the Celebration of Mild 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 supply a spectacular have a look at the wild facet of Vancouver.
Discover Vancouver’s Neighborhoods & Native Points of interest
The most effective 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 variety and character that make Vancouver so memorable.
False Creek
This scenic inlet cuts by downtown Vancouver and is residence to among the metropolis’s most enjoyable actions. Stroll or cycle alongside the Seawall, take a False Creek Ferry between Granville Island and Science World, or take pleasure in a 90-minute boat tour to see resident seals, sandy seashores, and Lions Gate Bridge.
Olympic Village
As soon as residence to athletes in the course of 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 Predominant Avenue Brewing. Don’t miss the general public artwork installations and beautiful metropolis views alongside the water.
Yaletown
Fashionable and upscale, Yaletown is filled with boutique retailers, patios, and a buzzing nightlife. It’s additionally an excellent base for exploring downtown Vancouver. Be part of a guided bike tour by Yaletown, Chinatown, and the serene Dr. Solar Yat-Sen Backyard—a straightforward method to hit a number of Vancouver sights in a single journey.
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 among the best issues to do as we speak in Vancouver should you’re quick on time however desire a true native vibe.
The place to Keep in These Neighborhoods
- Yaletown: Opus Vancouver – A classy boutique resort with walkable entry to retailers, eating places, and the waterfront.
- Close to Granville Island: Granville Island Lodge – 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 children or simply wish to discover town’s museums and interactive sights, Vancouver has loads of hands-on experiences and culture-forward gems.
Science World at Telus World of Science
You may’t miss the large geodesic dome on False Creek—it’s residence to some of the enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver with children. 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 sort on this planet.
Vancouver Artwork Gallery
Proper in downtown Vancouver, this main Canadian artwork establishment blends Indigenous and modern 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 beneath sail.
Museum of Vancouver
Devoted to town’s evolving story, the Museum of Vancouver covers all the pieces from Coast Salish traditions to Nineteen Sixties counterculture. Positioned in Vanier Park, it’s good 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 should you’re not spiritual, this downtown landmark is price a go to. Inbuilt 1889, it’s a mixture of Gothic Revival and Romanesque structure, with hovering bell towers and sensible stained-glass home windows. Quiet and delightful, it’s a fast detour into Vancouver’s historic roots.
Nature & Parks: Vancouver’s Nice Outdoor
Out of doors lovers, that is your playground. One of many prime 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 one of the best 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 time, 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 motorcycle rental to circle your entire seawall.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Vancouver’s highest level delivers panoramic views of town and North Shore Mountains. This 130-acre park is thought for its lush Quarry Backyard, arboretum, and the tropical Bloedel Conservatory, residence to unique birds and tropical crops beneath a glowing geodesic dome. Bonus: it’s one of many prime 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 Pageant 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 prime 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 ft) throughout and hovers 70 meters (230 ft) above the Capilano River.
However there’s extra: discover the Cliffwalk, a collection of slim 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 one of the best gentle for pictures.
Lynn Canyon Park
Need a quieter various to Capilano? Head to Lynn Canyon for a free suspension bridge, forest trails, waterfalls, and swimming holes. It’s an area favourite, good 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 learn how to showcase after darkish—and in each season. Whether or not you’re chasing summer time sunsets or winter ski runs, listed below are among the most enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver as we speak (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 power. Should you’re questioning what to do in Vancouver at night time, that is it. Test the lineup, you by no means know who is likely to be enjoying.
Richmond Night time Market
Simply 20 minutes south of downtown, this summer time and fall market is a sensory overload in the easiest way. 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 one of the best road eats within the area.
Take a Sundown Dinner Cruise
Should 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, take pleasure in a buffet dinner with reside music. Golden hour views don’t get higher than this.
E-book it: This sundown cruise affords 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 hundreds of swimmers and tens of hundreds of cheering spectators. The free occasion runs from 12 PM to 4 PM, with reside music, costume contests, and sizzling chocolate for courageous souls. It’s simply some of the distinctive and enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver in winter, even should 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 Points of interest, 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
Need to see all of Vancouver in a single view? Head to the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre. This 360-degree statement deck stands 168 meters (553 ft) 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 excellent orientation cease at first of your journey, or a sundown vacation spot to wrap up your Vancouver journey in type.
Accessibility: Absolutely wheelchair-friendly, with large doorways and accessible washrooms on web site.
Museum of Anthropology (UBC)
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) reopened in June 2024 after an in depth 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 searching for 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 supply panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains, making this a prime decide rain or shine.
Tip: Pair your go to with a stroll by 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 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 House 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 supply among the finest issues to do in Vancouver as we speak, 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 seaside. Locals come right here to rollerblade, picnic, or simply calm down beneath big timber with a view of the mountains. In July, it’s the primary stage for the Celebration of Mild fireworks pageant. Courageous sufficient? Or take our recommendation from above and be part of the Polar Bear Swim right here each New 12 months’s Day.
Private be aware: We used to reside 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 stuffed with power. 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 prime decide for enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver BC throughout summer time.
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 way in which throughout to Vancouver Island.
Wreck Seashore
This famously clothing-optional seaside close to UBC is just not for the shy, nevertheless it’s bought severe chill vibes. With steep stairs main down and 0 commercialization, it’s some of the pure stretches of shoreline close to Vancouver. Anticipate drum circles, physique positivity, and jaw-dropping sunsets.
? Enjoyable truth: Wreck Seashore typically hosts artwork exhibits, seaside cleanups, and even reside music. It’s an entire scene.
Greatest Day Journeys from Vancouver
The most effective components about visiting Vancouver? You’re only a quick 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 price the additional time.
Sea to Sky Freeway
Should you’re questioning what to do close to Vancouver that may 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 highway journeys in Canada. Cease at waterfalls, lookouts, and Indigenous heritage websites alongside the way in which.
Should-see stops:
- Shannon Falls
- Britannia Mine Museum
- Sea to Sky Gondola
- Squamish (whats up, rock climbers!)
? Tip: Attempt to spend an evening in Squamish. It’s develop into a real journey city.
Whistler
A world-class ski resort in winter and a mountaineering, biking, and patio paradise in summer time, Whistler is simply two hours from downtown Vancouver. Experience the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, zipline by the timber, or try the Olympic Village.
Fast journey? Sure, it’s doable in a day—however should you can, keep in a single day.
Vancouver Island & Victoria
Hop on a ferry or seaplane and escape to Vancouver Island. You may go to in a day, nevertheless it’s finest explored over a weekend. Highlights embody:
- Victoria: Charming capital metropolis with English-style gardens and excessive tea
- Butchart Gardens: One of the vital gorgeous floral shows in Canada
- Tofino (should 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 journey 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 was 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 straightforward—and so is discovering a spot to remain that matches your type.
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. Value: $9 CAD one-way (or $5 with a transit move).
- Taxi/Uber: Round half-hour, $25–$30 CAD.
We often hire a automotive, particularly for day journeys to Whistler or Vancouver Island. Examine charges on RentalCars.com to get one of the best deal from the airport.
Getting Across the Metropolis
Vancouver is a really walkable metropolis, however you may as well 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 reasonably priced.
- Bike leases: A prime 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 sights like Stanley Park, Gastown, and English Bay.
Luxurious
Mid-Vary
Funds
- Samesun Vancouver: Greatest location for the value—stroll to Robson Avenue, Stanley Park, and town’s finest eats.
Tip: Now we have a full breakdown on the place to remain in Vancouver if you would like 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 may discover neighborhoods like Yaletown, Gastown, and the West Finish totally on foot. The Seawall path additionally connects main sights like English Bay, Stanley Park, and Granville Island.
Vancouver is thought for its dramatic setting between mountains and ocean, its entry to outside journey, and its multicultural power. 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. Lots of Vancouver’s prime experiences are utterly free.
Summer season (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 prime day journey choices. Every affords a unique 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 seaside time at English Bay or Kitsilano.
Whether or not you’re planning a metropolis break, coastal highway journey, or prolonged West Coast journey, Vancouver at all times delivers. With mountain trails, neighborhood markets, artwork galleries, and sundown seashores all inside straightforward attain, this can be 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 at all times on the lookout for new causes to return.
