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Not Without My Passport

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10 Things to Do in Vancouver

April 15, 2014 by Helen

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vancouver british columbia city skyline

Ok, I admit it. With the exception of year-round sunshine, Vancouver really does seem to have it all: A cosmopolitan feel, the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, snow-capped mountains and coastal rainforests — all within a 30-minute reach from the downtown core. I love my hometown of Toronto, but I can’t hide my envy.

I recently spent a week in Vancouver and, while my friends worried they might lose me to the west coast forever (“You will come back, right?”), I begrudgingly returned home.

If you find yourself out there, I hope my list of 10 things to do in Vancouver gives you some suggestions for experiencing the best the city has to offer.

1. Stanley Park

Every city should have a green space – and it should look like Stanley Park. Situated just north of the downtown core and surrounded by the Pacific ocean, this 1,000-acre Canadian National Historic Site is an urban treasure. I walked the seawall past the landmarks and beaches, but you can also ride the paved pathway devoted to cyclists and rollerbladers. Enjoy the scenic views; hike the trails around the lakes amidst the 500,000 cedar, hemlock and fir trees; or admire the Native-themed artwork at Brockton Point.

stanley park seawall in vancouver bc

native totem poles at brockton point in stanley park vancouver

If your preference is to stay indoors, dine in one of the park’s restaurants or visit the Vancouver Aquarium.

2. Granville Island

There’s a lot to love about this cultural enclave of local artists, theatres and unique shops that give Granville Island its distinct, colourful character. The biggest draw though is the public market, where you’ll be tempted by crafts, fresh produce and seafood vendors. Make sure you take your appetite – it’s a perfect location for snacking and a quick lunch.

inside the food market in granville island vancouver

granville island public market in vancouver bc

eating area with tables inside the food market on granville island vancouver

If the market doesn’t appeal to you, at least go to Granville Island for the cocktails or dining. With its floor-to-ceiling windows, the Dockside Restaurant offers gorgeous views of False Creek and, during warmer temperatures, a patio with a heated cabana and outdoor fireplace. It was too cold for the outdoors during my visit, but I enjoyed my dessert and coffee overlooking the water from inside.

3. Vancouver Lookout

To be honest, I didn’t expect much from this 593-foot viewing structure, which is eclipsed in height by Toronto’s 1,815-foot CN Tower – but my assumption was misguided. The observation deck at the Vancouver Lookout offers a splendid, 360º aerial view of Vancouver.

gorgeous view at twilight of the city skyline from the vancouver lookout

night view of vancouver from the vancouver lookout

Bonus: Admission is good for an entire day, so I suggest visiting during daylight, then returning in the evening for a twilight and night-time experience. I must have circled the deck six times as I watched the city fall into darkness.

4. Gastown

If the cobble-stoned streets, heritage buildings and lamp posts of this neighbourhood make you feel like you’re walking through history, that’s because you are. Once filled with merchandisers and saloons, Gastown is the birthplace of Vancouver but, today, it’s the revitalized epicentre for style, dining and nightlife. Just don’t be fooled by the antique appearance of the steam-powered clock, the focal point of the district. Not only does it partially run on electricity, it’s less than 40 years old.

the steam powered clock in gastown vancouver

5. Tour With the Vancouver Trolley Company

Instead of public transit, how about a hop-on, hop-off tour through the city on a classic, San Francisco-style trolley? With 32 stops (six in Stanley Park alone), the Vancouver Trolley tour was a convenient and easy-to-use mode of transportation that allowed me to visit the city’s top attractions at my own pace. Besides, public transit wouldn’t have provided live commentary by informative and entertaining guides. Don’t forget to ask for the coupon book, which includes (among other deals and discounts) a free ride on the False Creek Ferries.

red bus of the vancouver trolley company

6. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Both visitors and locals come here to explore the coastal rainforest with trees over 1,000 years old — and it’s only 10 minutes away from downtown Vancouver.

wooden boardwalk through the rainforest at capilano suspension bridge park vancouver

view of the river from the suspension bridge at capilano suspension bridge park

But the real stars of the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park are, of course, the 450-foot suspension bridge and its newest addition: The Cliffwalk, a narrow walkway that juts out from the cliff face to give those brave enough to walk it panoramic views of the Capilano River Canyon. With my fear of heights, I couldn’t know for sure whether I’d be able to walk across either one but, to my surprise, I made it across both of them – panic-free!

woman walks across the suspension bridge at capilano suspension bridge park vancouver

view of the suspension bridge at capilano suspension bridge park vancouver bc

cliffwalk at capilano suspension bridge park in vancouver british columbia

Tips: Consider using their free shuttle service from Canada Place, and be the first to arrive at the park to avoid the crowds and groups of school children. An alternative to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is the nearby Lynn Canyon Park, with hiking trails, waterfalls and its own smaller suspension bridge. Not only is it free, it’s quieter – but it doesn’t boast anything that resembles Capilano’s Cliffwalk.

7. Grouse Mountain

What an adventure centre. While I didn’t participate in any of the winter activities except eating, there really is something for everyone at the most visited attraction in Vancouver. Ears will pop on the way up as you travel 3,700 feet over snow-covered forests on the Skyride, the largest aerial tramway system in North America. At the summit, visitors enjoy spectacular views of the city – but only on a clear day. Otherwise, you may get a white-filled, misty scene that looks something like this (which actually made for some interesting photography):

snowy scene at grouse mountain vancouver

So what’s there to do at Grouse Mountain? In the winter: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, sleigh riding and skating. In the summer: Ziplining, paragliding and the Grouse Grind (a.k.a. “Nature’s Stairmaster”), the popular but challenging hike over steep mountainous terrain.

Year-round, visitors can say hello to the wolves and grizzly bears in the wildlife sanctuary (but when the grizzlies are hibernating, they can only be seen on the bear cam, which can be entertaining in itself).

And, of course, you can always eat in one of the three restaurants, no matter the season. I missed out on the world-class view from The Observatory (Mother Nature had other plans for me that day) but my beef tenderloin didn’t disappoint.

beef dinner at the observatory restaurant at grouse mountain vancouver restaurants

Tip: A meal in The Observatory includes a Skyride ticket.

8. Vancouver Urban Winery

Now here’s a perfect rainy-day activity: Sip glasses of wine, but do it in a 7,700-square-foot heritage building surrounded by wine tanks, oak barrels and wood beams. Located in the heart of historic Railtown, the Vancouver Urban Winery offers tasting flights of B.C. wines and food pairings. And, if you have yet to sample wine on tap, this is the place to do it.

row of wine glasses for a tasting at vancouver urban winery

9. FlyOver Canada

Vancouver’s newest attraction is a flagrant tourist trap, but I wish I could get stuck in it more often. And I’m not ashamed to say it. Sure, the actual flight simulation ride at FlyOver Canada is only eight minutes long so I understand why some guests question the cost of the ticket but… wow. This 4D virtual journey had my seat moving, feet dangling and hands clutched to the arm rests. After you inhale the fresh scent of the forests, feel the mist over Niagara Falls and experience the thrill of soaring over Canada’s most spectacular scenery, I’ll let you be the judge.

10. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

In Chinatown you’ll find this oasis of tranquility designed by Chinese artisans and craftsmen using traditional techniques and materials from China. Based on the four main elements of plant, rock, water and architecture, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a carefully thought out sanctuary of balance and harmony where visitors can reflect amongst winding pathways and jade-green ponds. For the full experience, sip a cup of tea and join one of the free, 45-minute guided tours.

asian garden at dr sun yat-sen classical chinese garden in vancouver

dr sun yat-sen classical chinese garden in vancouver british columbia

What have I missed? I welcome your feedback. Help me and my readers out by leaving your suggestions below.

For hotel suggestions, read this post or check Booking.com for options in Vancouver.

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10 things to do in vancouver british columbia canada

Disclosures: I received complimentary admission to some of the above attractions courtesy of Tourism Vancouver, but all views, as always, are entirely my own. I also earn a small commission from Booking.com if you click on their link and make a reservation through their site – at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

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Comments

  1. virginia says

    April 15, 2014 at 1:12 pm

    Always interesting to read what tourists like about our city.
    While there’s nothing wrong with Vancouver Trolley, I would encourage visitors to try public transit.
    It is less than $10 for a day pass which will get you anywhere in Metro Vancouver and suburbs.
    If you have a smartphone, trip planning is easy!

    • Helen Suk says

      April 16, 2014 at 12:51 am

      Thanks, Virginia. I did actually use public transit as well. Now why don’t all cities have the SkyTrain?

  2. Wendy Greene says

    April 15, 2014 at 1:39 pm

    Thank you for this, I have visited Vancouver for business a few times, but was never able to do any of these fun things. I would really like to go back with my daughter – your post gives me some ideas of things to see and do!

    • Helen Suk says

      April 16, 2014 at 12:54 am

      I’m so glad, Wendy! I had a whole week in Vancouver to experience all of it but there’s so much more to see. I could have easily spent another week there.

  3. mirjana says

    April 16, 2014 at 12:47 pm

    Great cover of Vancouver. Thank you for including Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. I wish you included a photo of the Garden not a public park connected to the Garden. Maybe on your next trip?

    • Helen Suk says

      April 16, 2014 at 7:18 pm

      Hmmm, I felt like I was in the garden the whole time? I’ve added another photo, which I trust is part of the garden. In any case, both are beautiful 🙂

  4. Best Western Plus Chateau Granville Hotel & Suites & Conference Centre says

    April 17, 2014 at 1:38 pm

    Great list! You managed to visit the amazing spots around Vancouver! If you are interested in Vancouver architecture we have a nice list on our blog for your next visit! Hope to see you back soon!

    • Helen Suk says

      April 17, 2014 at 3:16 pm

      Thanks for stopping by and, yes, I do hope to return 🙂

  5. Robyn says

    April 17, 2014 at 1:51 pm

    I love that you exposed the steam clock for what it is. 😉 Most visitors, I’d argue, think it’s really an ancient piece of Vancouver history, and I think it’s funny that it’s become such a Vancouver icon, despite that it’s not at all what it appears to be.

    Another lesser known piece of information (amongst visitors *and* locals) is that the totem poles in Stanley Park aren’t representative of the city’s original inhabitants, although it’s easy to think so! The Coast Salish people typically didn’t build free standing totem poles, but built house posts (totem pole-like structures into the long houses). The totem poles you see at Stanley Park represent other parts of coastal BC, but don’t actually represent Vancouver’s indigenous culture. Coast Salish art, is however, represented at the Vancouver Airport: http://www.yvr.ca/en/about/art-architecture/musqueam-weavings-.aspx.

    • Helen Suk says

      April 17, 2014 at 3:15 pm

      Thanks for the clarification, Robyn. I’ve slightly changed the wording about the artwork in Stanley Park based on your feedback. Cheers!

  6. Tonya says

    April 21, 2014 at 10:46 pm

    If visitors want to see a better representation of west coast indigenous culture, I’d encourage them to visit the Museum of Anthropology at UBC. It’s not on the typical tourist list of things but a drive out will also give you a chance to see the beautiful area of UBC and Pacific Spirit Park.

    • Helen Suk says

      April 22, 2014 at 8:10 pm

      Hi Tonya! I place a lot of value on a local’s perspective so I appreciate this tip very much. Thank you! And it seems like you’re on a pretty incredible adventure yourself so safe travels and all the best 🙂

  7. Nutmeg says

    April 23, 2014 at 7:07 pm

    Hi Helen: we love Vancouver thanks for writing this post to remind us how much! 🙂

    • Helen Suk says

      April 23, 2014 at 8:24 pm

      I’m glad it brought back fond memories for you 🙂

  8. Vanessa says

    January 28, 2015 at 9:00 am

    I am now dying to go to Vancouver. The suspension bridge looks amazing – and well done for getting across so smoothly!

    • Helen Suk says

      January 28, 2015 at 4:59 pm

      Thanks, Vanessa. I was rather proud of myself. 🙂

  9. Leigh McAdam (@hikebiketravel) says

    January 28, 2015 at 10:53 am

    I’d also recommend driving part way up Cypress Mountain for a free (as opposed to Grouse Mountain) view of downtown and even Mt. Baker on a clear day.

    • Helen Suk says

      January 28, 2015 at 4:52 pm

      Thanks for the tip, Leigh. I almost went there but ran out of time. I’ve been told the view from Cypress Mountain is stunning.

  10. Mary Calculated Traveller says

    January 28, 2015 at 12:43 pm

    It’s been about 20 years since I’ve been to Vancouver! This has brought back a lot of memories but also has shown me that I have to get my ass back there to make some new ones!

    • Helen Suk says

      January 28, 2015 at 4:53 pm

      It was a pleasure taking you down memory lane, Mary. 🙂

  11. Jody Robbins says

    February 3, 2015 at 1:41 pm

    Great tips! I’ve never spent much time in Vancouver and I’m itching to go!

    • Helen Suk says

      February 4, 2015 at 4:11 am

      Hi Jody! I’m glad you find them useful.

  12. tila says

    January 9, 2016 at 5:35 am

    If you’re already in Vancouver YOU MUST make a drive to whistler as well!!

    • Helen Suk says

      January 9, 2016 at 7:58 am

      Thanks, Tila. I missed Whistler but it’s something to see on my next trip to Vancouver!

  13. Piotr Kulczycki says

    June 3, 2016 at 8:59 am

    I’ve just come back from Canada and I really loved it! Your country is so beautiful 🙂 Cheers!

    • Helen says

      June 6, 2016 at 2:52 am

      I’m glad you enjoyed it, Piotr!

About Helen

Helen Suk

Travel writer. Photographer. Always curious. I search the world for beauty and inspiration while sharing valuable tips to help you plan your next trip.

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