Things To Do In Vancouver 2023

Vancouver is a vibrant, diverse and bustling city in the Canadian province of British Columbia. With a population of over 2.5 million people and growing, it is one of the most populous cities in Canada and the third largest in the country. It is known for its majestic coastal views and stunning mountain ranges, as well as its thriving arts and culture scene, world-class shopping and dining, and outdoor activities.

Vancouver is an amazing city, with something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a bustling city experience or peaceful nature getaway, Vancouver has it all. From its rich Indigenous history to its modern-day attractions, there is so much to discover in this beautiful city.

A Brief History of Vancouver

Vancouver has a rich history that dates back over 10,000 years. It was first inhabited by the Musqueam people, who lived on the land for centuries before settlers arrived. In 1791, Captain George Vancouver of the Royal Navy named the area after himself, and it was incorporated as the City of Vancouver in 1886.

Since then, Vancouver has grown to become the third largest city in Canada and the most densely populated city in the country. It is home to a wide variety of people, cultures and religions. It is also known for its vibrant art and cultural scene, incredible shopping and dining opportunities, and wide range of outdoor activities available year-round.

Things To Do In Vancouver 2023

Vancouver is an amazing city that is full of activities for visitors to enjoy. From exciting outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, here are some of the best things to do in Vancouver in 2023:

Explore Stanley Park

Stanley Park is Vancouver’s largest public park and one of its most iconic attractions. It is home to incredible views of the water, lush forests and gardens, as well as a wide range of recreational activities such as cycling, swimming, hiking, and more. The park is also home to the world-famous Vancouver Aquarium, where visitors can get up close and personal with marine life such as sharks and sea otters.

Visit Granville Island

Granville Island is a vibrant market and shopping district located on a small peninsula in downtown Vancouver. It is home to a wide range of shops, restaurants, theatre companies, galleries, and more. The Granville Market offers an incredible selection of local produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods and other delicious items. It is also home to the Granville Island Brewing Company, where visitors can sample some of the city’s best beer.

Take a Stroll Along The Seawall

The Seawall is a 22 kilometre long walkway stretching from Stanley Park to Spanish Banks Beach. It offers incredible views of the city skyline and waterfront, as well as peaceful nature trails through Stanley Park. This is an amazing way to explore the city and get some fresh air while taking in the incredible views.

Explore Gastown

Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood and one of its most popular tourist attractions. This historic area is home to cobblestone streets lined with cafes, pubs, galleries and unique shops. There are also a variety of art galleries, museums and heritage sites to explore in Gastown.

Check Out The Vancouver Art Gallery

The Vancouver Art Gallery is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Located in downtown Vancouver, it houses an incredible collection of art from around the world. The gallery also hosts regular exhibitions featuring works from local artists and international talent.

Visit The Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Located just north of downtown Vancouver, this 450 foot long bridge offers incredible views of the Capilano River Canyon below. Visitors can also explore the surrounding rainforest with a variety of trails and activities available year-round.

Take A Bike Ride Around False Creek

False Creek is one of Vancouver’s most popular biking destinations. This waterfront area offers stunning views of downtown Vancouver and the surrounding mountains. There are a variety of bike trails winding their way through False Creek that are perfect for an afternoon ride or longer day trip.

Take A Whale Watching Tour

Vancouver is home to an incredible array of marine wildlife, including whales, dolphins and sea lions. A whale watching tour is an amazing way to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures while taking in the stunning views of Vancouver’s coastline. There are a variety of tour companies offering whale watching tours from Vancouver Harbour or from Victoria on Vancouver Island.

Explore Gastown By Foot

Gastown is one of the best neighbourhoods in Vancouver for exploring by foot. This historic area offers a unique blend of old world charm with modern amenities such as shopping, eateries and entertainment. There are also a variety of cultural sites and attractions to explore in Gastown, such as the iconic Steam Clock that chimes every 15 minutes.

Visit The Museum Of Anthropology At UBC

The Museum of Anthropology at UBC is one of Vancouver’s most popular cultural attractions. Housed in a stunning building on the University of British Columbia campus, this museum houses an impressive collection of historical artifacts from around the world, as well as art from local Indigenous peoples. Visitors can also explore UBC’s stunning gardens and grounds while taking in views of the North Shore Mountains.

Popular Tours To Book In Vancouver 2023

Vancouver City Tour

For those looking to experience all that Vancouver has to offer, a guided tour is a great way to learn more about the city’s history while seeing some of its most iconic sites. The Vancouver City Tour takes visitors on a 4 hour journey through the city’s downtown core, historic Gastown district, Chinatown district and more. Along the way there will be stops at some of the city’s most iconic sites such as Stanley Park, Gastown Steam Clock and Canada Place. The tour also includes admission to several attractions including Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Granville Island Public Market for an unforgettable experience in one of Canada’s most beautiful cities. Book a Vancouver City Tour here.

Grouse Mountain Adventure Tour

For those looking for an outdoor adventure, the Grouse Mountain Adventure Tour is the perfect way to explore one of Vancouver’s most popular outdoor attractions. This 4 hour tour takes visitors to Grouse Mountain where they will get to experience thrilling outdoor activities such as ziplining, hiking, mountain biking and more while taking in views of Vancouver’s stunning skyline and surrounding coastline. The tour also includes admission to Grouse Mountain’s Eye of the Wind turbine where visitors can get an up close look at one of Canada’s largest wind turbines. Book a Grouse Mountain Adventure Tour here.

Vancouver Island Day Trip

For those looking for an unforgettable experience off the mainland, a day trip to Vancouver Island is an amazing way to explore one of British Columbia’s most beautiful islands and its unique culture and wildlife. This full day tour departs from downtown Vancouver and takes visitors to Victoria on Vancouver Island where they will get to explore its historic downtown core, Butchart Gardens and other popular attractions along the way. The tour also includes admission to several attractions including Whale Watching Tours where visitors can observe whales in their natural habitat while taking in stunning views of British Columbia’s coastline. Book a Vancouver Island Day Trip here.

Vancouver is an incredible city with something for everyone. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Vancouver 2023 that will make your visit unforgettable. From exploring Stanley Park to taking a whale watching tour off the coast of Vancouver Island there are plenty of incredible experiences awaiting you in this vibrant city!