In search of the very 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 may 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.
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 Seaside |
| 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 |
Prime 10 Issues to Do in Vancouver
Quick on time? These are the very best issues to do in Vancouver, BC, that showcase the 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 journey or stroll alongside the Stanley Park Seawall. This iconic 9-kilometre path wraps across the metropolis’s beloved inexperienced area, 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 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. Journey the Grouse Mountain Skyride in North Vancouver
Hop on the Skyride gondola to succeed in Grouse Mountain’s summit. In summer season, you may 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 Attraction
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 study the neighborhood’s wild backstory.
5. Snap Pictures 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 cross Science World, Olympic Village, and among the greatest views of the Vancouver skyline.
7. Watch a Vancouver Canucks Sport
Even when 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 among North America’s oldest and largest. After dim sum, wander by natural outlets 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 Seaside
This metropolis seaside is the right spot for a late-day stroll, seaside volleyball, or a picnic with mountain views. In case you’re visiting in summer season, 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 aspect of Vancouver.
Discover Vancouver’s Neighborhoods & Native Sights
Probably the greatest issues about Vancouver is how simply you may hop from mountain trails to craft breweries to waterfront artwork scenes—multi function afternoon. These neighborhoods showcase the range and character that make Vancouver so memorable.
False Creek
This scenic inlet cuts by downtown Vancouver and is house 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 get pleasure from a 90-minute boat tour to see resident seals, sandy seashores, and Lions Gate Bridge.
Olympic Village
As soon as house to athletes in the course of the 2010 Winter Olympics, this sustainable neighborhood is now a neighborhood 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 outlets, patios, and a buzzing nightlife. It’s additionally an ideal base for exploring downtown Vancouver. Be a part of a guided bike tour by Yaletown, Chinatown, and the serene Dr. Solar Yat-Sen Backyard—a straightforward strategy 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 at the moment in Vancouver when you’re quick on time however desire a true native vibe.
The place to Keep in These Neighborhoods
- Yaletown: Opus Vancouver – A trendy boutique resort with walkable entry to outlets, 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 the 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 possibly can’t miss the enormous geodesic dome on False Creek—it’s house to one of the crucial enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver with children. Inside, Science World options over a dozen interactive reveals on movement, biology, water, and innovation. Cap it off with a movie on the five-story OMNIMAX Theatre—the biggest of its sort 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 enjoyable 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 underneath sail.
Museum of Vancouver
Devoted to the town’s evolving story, the Museum of Vancouver covers all the pieces from Coast Salish traditions to Nineteen Sixties counterculture. Situated in Vanier Park, it’s excellent to pair with a cease at Kitsilano Seaside 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 one of the crucial distinctive cultural actions in Vancouver—and a photographer’s dream.
Christ Church Cathedral
Even when 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 the very 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 the 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 without doubt one of the greatest 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 the town and North Shore Mountains. This 130-acre park is understood for its lush Quarry Backyard, arboretum, and the tropical Bloedel Conservatory, house 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 course 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 prime issues to do close to Vancouver, BC.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Vancouver’s most well-known bridge isn’t only a bucket listing photograph; 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 sequence 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 very best gentle for images.
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 a neighborhood favourite, excellent for a half-day escape into Vancouver’s wild aspect.
Nightlife & Seasonal Issues to Do in Vancouver
From concert events to cruises, Vancouver is aware of how one can showcase after darkish—and in each season. Whether or not you’re chasing summer season sunsets or winter ski runs, listed here are among the most enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver at the 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 case you’re questioning what to do in Vancouver at night time, that is it. Verify the lineup, you by no means know who is perhaps enjoying.
Richmond Evening Market
Simply 20 minutes south of downtown, this summer season and fall market is a sensory overload in one of the best ways. Suppose 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 very best road eats within the area.
Take a Sundown Dinner Cruise
In case 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.
Ebook 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 principle 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 stay music, costume contests, and sizzling chocolate for courageous souls. It’s simply one of the crucial distinctive and enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver in winter, even when 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 the 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 statement deck stands 168 meters (553 toes) tall and is accessible by way of a glossy glass elevator.
From right here, you’ll spot Stanley Park, English Bay, the North Shore Mountains, and past. It’s an ideal orientation cease firstly of your journey, or a sundown vacation spot to wrap up your Vancouver journey in model.
Accessibility: Absolutely 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 in depth seismic improve, and it’s much more spectacular than earlier than. Situated at UBC, this cultural landmark stays one of the crucial 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 encompassing 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 Seaside for a full day on campus.
Museum of Vancouver
Situated in Vanier Park close to Kitsilano, this museum takes you from the town’s Indigenous roots by its countercultural previous and into modern-day Vancouver. The reveals 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 greatest issues to do in Vancouver at the moment, particularly when the solar’s out.
English Bay Seaside
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 loosen up underneath big bushes 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 a part of the Polar Bear Swim right here each New 12 months’s Day.
Private word: We used to stay close by and known as it “First Seaside.” This was our go-to sundown spot.
Kitsilano Seaside
Simply throughout the water from downtown, Kits Seaside 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 prime 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 Seaside
This famously clothing-optional seaside close to UBC isn’t for the shy, however it’s bought severe chill vibes. With steep stairs main down and nil commercialization, it’s one of the crucial pure stretches of shoreline close to Vancouver. Anticipate drum circles, physique positivity, and jaw-dropping sunsets.
? Enjoyable reality: Wreck Seaside typically hosts artwork reveals, seaside cleanups, and even stay music. It’s a complete scene.
Greatest Day Journeys from Vancouver
Probably the greatest elements 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 nicely price the additional time.
Sea to Sky Freeway
In case you’re questioning what to do close to Vancouver that can fully blow your thoughts, that is it. The Sea to Sky Freeway (Freeway 99) runs from Vancouver to Whistler and is without doubt one of the most stunning highway 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 (hiya, rock climbers!)
? Tip: Attempt to spend an evening in Squamish. It’s change into 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. Journey the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, zipline by the bushes, or try the Olympic Village.
Fast journey? Sure, it’s doable in a day—however when you can, keep in a single day.
Vancouver Island & Victoria
Hop on a ferry or seaplane and escape to Vancouver Island. You possibly can go to in a day, however it’s greatest explored over a weekend. Highlights embrace:
- Victoria: Charming capital metropolis with English-style gardens and excessive tea
- Butchart Gardens: Probably the most gorgeous floral shows in Canada
- Tofino (when you keep longer): Surf, storm watch, and soak within the wild Pacific Coast
Tour possibility: This Victoria and Butchart Gardens day tour features a scenic ferry journey and guided stops.
Squamish
Typically 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 shocked us. What we anticipated to be a fast cease become a spotlight. Journey a practice 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 the town middle.
- SkyTrain (Canada Line): 25 minutes to downtown, departs each 7 minutes. Price: $9 CAD one-way (or $5 with a transit cross).
- Taxi/Uber: Round half-hour, $25–$30 CAD.
We often hire a automobile, particularly for day journeys to Whistler or Vancouver Island. Examine charges on RentalCars.com to get the very best deal from the airport.
Getting Across the Metropolis
Vancouver is a really walkable metropolis, however you can too 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 worth—stroll to Robson Avenue, Stanley Park, and the town’s greatest eats.
Tip: We now 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 without doubt one of the most walkable cities in North America. You possibly can 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 understood for its dramatic setting between mountains and ocean, its entry to outside journey, and its multicultural vitality. Guests love the combination 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 Seaside or Spanish Banks, or discover the general public artwork in Olympic Village and English Bay. Lots of Vancouver’s prime experiences are fully free.
Summer time (June to September) is right 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 practice are all household favorites. Youngsters 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 all the time 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 all the time on the lookout for new causes to return.
