There’s a clear reason why Vancouver is considered one of the most liveable cities in the world. It’s filled with some many amazing and diverse attractions.
As someone who was born and raised in Vancouver, I know the city and its surroundings very well. I know the local hangouts and tourist hot spots, as well as the hidden gems and the must see places.
So, if you’re planning on visiting, and only have a limited amount of time, these are the best things to do in Vancouver. I’ve curated this ultimate Vancouver checklist so you can plan the perfect vacation.
1. Explore Stanley Park
Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, Stanley Park is a mecca for locals and visitors year-round. This massive green space is nestled next to downtown Vancouver, making it a convenient escape for anyone looking to enjoy nature without having to go too far.
So, what’s there to do at Stanley Park? Well, the three main things include the walking the seawall, sitting on the beaches, and visiting the aquarium.
Pro-tip: Here’s a downloadable map and guide of Stanley Park to see where everything is and help plan out your visit.
Seawall
Well, the main “attraction” at Stanley Park is the seawall, a dedicated 10 km path along the water’s edge. The path encircles the entire park, and is shared between walkers, runners, and bikers.
The Stanley Park seawall gives you unobstructed views of the city, ocean, and mountains. It’s also peppered with unique monuments, statues, indigenous art, gardens, and viewpoints.
There are lots of benches along the route, as well as washroom facilities and food vendors at dedicated rest areas. Parking is also available within the park, however it can be quite difficult to find a spot at peak times so get there early!
Beaches
Along the Western sections of Stanley Park lies two fantastic beaches – Second Beach and Third Beach. They are the perfect places to stop for a picnic, sun-bathe, or to sit on one of the many washed up logs to watch the sunset.
Vancouver Aquarium
Nestled within Stanley Park is the Vancouver Aquarium, the largest of its kind in Canada. Great for young and old, the Vancouver Aquarium includes 30 exhibits and galleries that feature local and exotic marine life – from giant octopus to scurrying penguins!
With so many immersive and interactive experiences, get up-close to nature and see why the Vancouver Aquarium is such a highlight for anyone visiting.
Visit https://www.vanaqua.org to book your tickets!
Getting Around in Stanley Park
It’s definitely possible to drive around the entirety of Stanley Park. The road follows the seawall mostly all the way around. However, there are lots of other options too!
If you’re limited on time, consider renting a bike! You can end up seeing a lot more of Stanley Park in a shorter amount of time. Some reputable bike rental shops include Jo-E Cycles, and Spokes Bicycle Rentals.
For a really unique experience, consider a guided horse-drawn tour of Stanley Park! More information on prices, schedules, and locations can be found here.
2. Visit Vancouver’s Many Beaches
Because Vancouver is situated on the Pacific Ocean, it’s home to some incredible beaches. And in the summer, thousands flock to the sand and water’s edge to sun bathe, relax, and hangout with friends.
The top five beaches in Vancouver include Kitsilano, English Bay (also known as first beach), Jericho, Spanish Banks, and Wreck Beach (clothing optional). Watching the sunset from the beach, followed by the twinkle of the city lights at night is definitely a must!
The water is fairly calm and clean at all the beaches which makes swimming safe and fun. Some beaches have poles for volleyball nets, bathroom facilities, and food vendors nearby. Parking can be a challenge, but all beaches are easily accessible by transit.
Pro-tip: The celebration of light, an annual fireworks festival, occurs over a two-week period during the summer. I would HIGHLY recommend attending and getting a spot along English Bay early. You’re in for a treat…
3. Experience the Local Coast Mountains
The Vancouver skyline predominantly features the peaks of the coast mountain range. Only a short distance away from downtown, Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain, and Seymour Mountain are where locals go to enjoy a variety of recreational activities all year-round.
Winter Sports
During the winter, thousands flock to the local mountain to participate in a variety of winter sports. You can try snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing or snowboarding!
Hiking and Biking Trails
The local mountains have hundreds of trails perfect for hiking and biking. The trails can range from beginner all the way up to advanced.
Personally, I’ve grown up mountain biking the North Shore trails which are filled with cool features that really push your limits. Similarly, I’ve spent countless hours exploring hiking trails in the Seymour demonstration forest and Lynn Valley.
However, no visit to Vancouver is complete without visiting the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park. The main attraction is the suspension bridge suspended high above the Capilano River surrounded by towering trees in the coast forest.
Pro-tip: For a free and less crowded option, head over to Lynn Canyon Park. The park includes includes a suspension bridge, network of hiking trails, and waterfalls. It’s also not as commercialized as Capilano.
For those who want to see their heart rate sore, then there’s no better trail than the infamous “grouse grind”. Also known as nature’s stair-master, the grouse grind is a 3 km hike that features 850 meters of elevation gain. FYI, it’s not for the faint of heart… literally!
4. Explore Downtown Vancouver’s Popular Districts
Although downtown Vancouver is fairly small in comparison to other world-renowned major cities, it’s still packed with unique districts. Some of the most popular Vancouver districts include:
Granville Island
Granville Island is a small peninsula packed with small shops, restaurants, art galleries, street performers, and food market.
Take an aqua bus from downtown and head over to Granville Island to enjoy hours of fun, food, and festivities! My recommendation, make sure to have dinner at The Sandbar, which serves up some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever have!
Granville Street
Granville Street is considered Vancouver’s entertainment district featuring bars, restaurants, music venues, and nightclubs. For those looking to party and having a good time, day or night, Granville Street needs to be on your list.
Robson Street
Robson Street is considered Vancouver’s shopping district featuring popular and brand-name designer stores. The sidewalks are usually packed with people darting in and out of stores, or just window shoppers eyeing the latest trends in fashion and design.
Robson Street is also dotted with incredible restaurants including Banana Leaf, Dinesty Dumpling House, Salam Bombay, and Cactus Club Cafe, which are my personal favourites!
Gastown
Gastown is a historic area of Vancouver lined with boutique stores, art galleries, cobblestone streets, and vintage Victorian architecture.
Any visit to Gastown is not complete without a stroll down Water Street and seeing the infamous steam clock which whistles every 15 minutes!
Chinatown
Chinatown is an area rich in history and culture, showcasing Vancouver’s diverse Asian influence. Filled with specialty stores, jewellers, and restaurants, Chinatown is always bustling.
For a truly calming and centering experience, consider stepping into the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden.
Pro-tip: You may want to avoid portions of the downtown Eastside, specifically a two-block radius around Main Street and Hastings Street. This area is occupied by a large population of homeless people, as well as hosts extreme drug-use.
5. Explore the Waters of Vancouver
Situated on the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver’s west coast is the perfect spot to enjoy a plethora of water related activities.
Whale Watching Tours
Burrard inlet, and the Georgia Straight are bodies of water teaming with sea life. Taking one of the many tour boats, you’re bound to see a variety of marine birds and mammals including humpback whales, otters, sea lions, and eagles.
The waters off the coast of Vancouver are also the home to pods of killer whales, also known as orcas. Seeing these intelligent and apex predators hunt and thrive in their natural habitat is such an incredible experience.
Sea Kayaking in Deep Cove
Tucked away in North Vancouver is Deep Cove, a secluded area flanked by the coast mountains. However, Deep Cove is also home to some of the best sea kayaking you can do.
You can rent single or double kayaks and paddle out into Indian Arm to explore one of the main islands and secluded beaches. The water is fairly calm, so it’s great for beginner paddlers!
Check out Deep Cove Kayak for rentals, tours, and lessons.
Pro-tip: If you’re already in the deep cove area, consider doing the Quarry Rock Hike. It’s fairly easy and short, with a great lookout at the end of the trail!
Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Stand up paddleboarding is very popular these days. If you’re so inclined, much of Vancouver’s waterfront is fairly calm on regular days. So, it’s perfect to give stand up paddleboarding at try.
A lot of people paddle into False Creek, paddle along one of the many popular beaches, and even try night paddleboarding!
6. Visit Museums and Science Centres
Vancouver is home to many museums and science centers dedicated to art, culture, history, technology, and exploration.
Museum of Anthropology
Located in West Vancouver and within the endowment lands of the University of British Columbia is the Museum of Anthropology. This space is dedicated to art and culture with a significant emphasis on indigenous, First Nations people.
Stroll through the exhibits and marvel at the one-of-a-kind carvings, paintings, statues, and relics from ancient and contemporary peoples.
Vancouver Art Gallery
Located in the heart of downtown, the Vancouver Art Gallery showcases art from around the world, and Canada.
Depending on the time of year, you can enjoy galleries from local artists, activities, pioneers, and world-renowned artists.
Science World
For those curious about the world around us, Science World is the ultimate stop for discovery and knowledge.
The iconic sphere located on the edge of False Creek features year-round interactive exhibits and displays ranging from dinosaurs, human anatomy, natural biology, physics, and much more!
H.R. MacMillan Space Center
For those in love with space and exploration, there’s no better place to learn about our planet and the vast universe around us than the H.R. MacMillan Space Center.
From black holes to white dwarfs, and rocket power to meteor showers, find out how it all works from experts who are eager to share their knowledge.
Personally, the planetarium is the highlight of the center. Just sit back and watch the spectale that is our universe play-out in front of your eyes.
7. Enjoy Amusement Parks and Night Markets
Throughout the summer, thousands of people flock to a few specialty parks and markets that open up for a limited time.
PNE & Playland
The Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) is a two-week summer fair that includes a variety of family friendly entertainment.
From Super Dogs to monster trucks, lumberjacks to live music, there’s something for everyone at the PNE! The PNE also includes Playland, an amusement park, that features thrill rides and mid-way games.
Unfortunately, PNE is only open for 15 days leading up to the September Labour Day weekend. But hopefully you get to enjoy this summer-time staple.
Richmond Night Market
Only a short distance away from downtown Vancouver, the Richmond Night Market is teaming with Asian-inspired food, arts and crafts, and retail vendors, as well as martial arts, dance and musical performances.
The Richmond night market is open on weekends, running from the end of April to mid October. It’s also very reasonably priced so it’s perfect for individuals, families, and groups.
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