15 Things to Do in Vancouver This Week

Situated on the coast of British Columbia, the bustling city of Vancouver is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. With its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural vibes, and endless activities, Vancouver has something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, there are plenty of things to do in Vancouver this week. From scenic hikes and breathtaking views to delicious food and fun activities, here are 15 things to do in Vancouver this week.

Explore the City

Vancouver is a great city to explore on foot or by bike. With its vibrant downtown core, beautiful parks, and stunning views of the North Shore Mountains, Vancouver has plenty to offer its visitors. Start your exploration in Gastown, the oldest part of the city that features cobblestone streets, antique shops, and a charming atmosphere. Visit the iconic steam clock that chimes every 15 minutes, then head to Chinese Garden, located in the heart of Chinatown. This tranquil garden features traditional Chinese architecture and breathtaking views of the downtown skyline.

Visit Stanley Park

No visit to Vancouver is complete without a visit to Stanley Park. As one of the largest urban parks in North America, Stanley Park has something for everyone. Stroll along the seawall and take in the stunning views of English Bay and the North Shore Mountains. Visit the Stanley Park Pavilion for an afternoon of art, culture, and food. Take a break from exploring and relax at one of the many beaches located along the shoreline. For those looking for a more active experience, explore the trails that lead through the lush forest and along the shoreline.

Take a Hike

Vancouver is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in North America. From easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day treks, Vancouver has something for everyone. Head to Lynn Canyon Park for an easy hike through the lush rainforest. Take in the stunning views of the canyon and surrounding mountains before heading to Quarry Rock for a picnic lunch. For those looking for something more challenging, explore the Grouse Grind trail, which climbs steeply up Grouse Mountain with spectacular views of Vancouver.

Experience Granville Island

Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions. Located on False Creek, Granville Island has something for everyone. Take a stroll through the vibrant marketplace and check out the unique shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visit one of the many local breweries for a refreshing beer or cider. Check out the Public Market for locally-made crafts and fresh produce, then take a leisurely boat ride around False Creek.

Visit the Museum of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology is an architectural gem located on the University of British Columbia campus. Explore the museum’s impressive collection of Northwest Coast First Nations art and artifacts, then take a walk through the outdoor galleries and learn about the history and culture of the region’s First Nations people. For a unique experience, check out one of the museum’s interactive exhibits or take a guided tour of UBC’s campus.

Go Shopping

Vancouver is home to some of Canada’s best shopping. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or designer brands, you’ll find it all in Vancouver. Start your shopping spree in Gastown’s cobblestone streets where you’ll find trendy boutiques and independent stores selling everything from vintage finds to designer labels. Head to Robson Street for high-end stores and popular chains like Zara and H&M. For a truly unique experience, explore one of Vancouver’s many flea markets or explore Chinatown’s bustling markets and shops.

Take a Brewery Tour

Vancouver is home to an ever-growing craft beer scene with over two dozen breweries in the city alone. Take a brewery tour and discover why Vancouver is quickly becoming one of Canada’s top craft beer destinations. Visit several local breweries, learn about the brewing process, sample craft beers, and enjoy delicious food pairings with your beer flight.

Visit Queen Elizabeth Park

Queen Elizabeth Park is one of Vancouver’s most iconic parks located at the highest point in the city. Spanning 130 acres, Queen Elizabeth Park is home to stunning gardens, walking trails, and spectacular views of downtown Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains. Visit Bloedel Conservatory for an exotic display of plants and birds from around the world, then take a stroll through VanDusen Garden’s lush gardens and explore its outdoor sculptures.

Enjoy Nightlife

Vancouver has something for everyone when it comes to nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a lively bar scene or a relaxed evening out with friends, there are plenty of options in Vancouver. Head to Gastown or Main Street for trendy bars and pubs with live music and DJs playing all night long. Explore Yaletown’s rooftop bars for spectacular views of the city skyline or take in a show at one of Vancouver’s many live music venues or theatres.

Dine Out

Vancouver is renowned for its incredible culinary scene with world-class restaurants offering everything from upscale fine dining to street food snacks. Start your evening with dinner at one of Vancouver’s many seafood restaurants serving up fresh local delicacies like Dungeness crab and spot prawns. Enjoy a casual meal at one of Vancouver’s many Asian restaurants serving up everything from sushi rolls to dim sum. For dessert, head to one of Vancouver’s trendy ice cream parlors or bakeries for delicious treats like macarons and cupcakes.

Go Sightseeing

Vancouver has plenty of sights to see for those looking to explore the city’s history and culture. Start your sightseeing adventure at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park for breathtaking views of the canyon below and a thrilling suspension bridge experience. Head to Hastings Park for an afternoon exploring historic buildings and gardens before stopping by Stanley Park’s Totem Poles to learn about local First Nations culture. For something different, explore Chinatown or Granville Island Public Market for unique souvenirs and artisanal products.

Visit Science World

Science World at TELUS World of Science is a great place to visit with family or friends. Explore interactive exhibits that cover everything from biology and physics to robotics and engineering. Experience an IMAX movie with stunning visuals or take part in hands-on activities like designing robots or launching rockets into orbit!

Take a Boat Tour

Vancouver is home to some spectacular views from both land and sea. Explore False Creek on a leisurely boat tour that takes you past Granville Island and under some of Vancouver’s iconic bridges before reaching English Bay where you can take in stunning views of the city skyline from offshore. For something more adventurous, take an afternoon kayak tour around Burrard Inlet where you can explore some of Vancouver’s hidden beaches and coves.

Experience Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain is one of Vancouver’s top attractions located just north of downtown Vancouver. Take a gondola up to Grouse Mountain where you can explore hiking trails through beautiful forests or take part in some thrilling adventure activities like ziplining or mountain biking! At nightfall, take in spectacular views over downtown Vancouver from Grouse Mountain’s observation deck before heading back down on the gondola.

Popular Tours

In addition to these 15 things to do in Vancouver this week, visitors can also explore some popular tours that are great options for those looking to get out and experience what this city has to offer:

Granville Island Food Tour

Discover some of Granville Island’s best culinary offerings on this 3-hour walking tour led by passionate local guides who will take you to some of their favorite eateries on this vibrant island. On this tour you will sample delicious items such as locally-made cheese, artisanal chocolates, smoked salmon, handcrafted beers, and much more! Get an insider look at Granville Island while learning about its history, culture, and cuisine along the way. Book this tour here.

Vancouver Coastal Cruise

Take a 4-hour cruise around Vancouver’s spectacular coastline on this popular tour! Relax onboard as you pass under iconic bridges such as Lions Gate Bridge and Burrard Inlet Bridge while taking in stunning views of Stanley Park, English Bay, False Creek, Granville Island, Coal Harbour Marina, and more! Learn about local history from knowledgeable guides as you cruise past some of Vancouver’s most iconic landmarks before returning back ashore after an unforgettable day at sea.Book this tour here.