Things To Do Near Vancouver

The city of Vancouver is a vibrant and exciting metropolis, situated on the West Coast of Canada. It is the third-largest city in Canada and regularly ranks highly on lists of the most livable cities in the world. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse cultural offerings, and endless activities, Vancouver is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to get the most out of their trip.

Vancouver is a metropolitan city with something to offer everyone. From its bustling downtown core to its picturesque coastline, visitors are sure to find something that appeals to their interests. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or simply want to experience the city’s nightlife, there are plenty of options available.

History of Vancouver

Vancouver is a relatively young city, with its inception as a European settlement in 1867. Before that, the area had been inhabited by indigenous people for thousands of years. The city quickly grew, bolstered by the gold rush of the late 19th century. By 1886 it had become a significant port city and was incorporated as a municipality in 1886.

In the 20th century, Vancouver boomed. It became an important hub for trade and industry, especially after the completion of the Panama Canal in 1914. It was also during this period that the city’s iconic Stanley Park was established in 1888. Today, Vancouver is home to more than 2.5 million people and is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada.

What to See in Vancouver

Vancouver is home to a number of stunning sights and attractions that will take your breath away. If you’re looking to explore the city’s natural beauty, then you should definitely pay a visit to Stanley Park. This iconic park is home to an abundance of flora and fauna as well as stunning coastal views. It’s also home to the renowned Vancouver Aquarium, which houses over 50,000 aquatic creatures from around the world.

Other notable attractions in Vancouver include Granville Island, which is home to a vibrant public market, art galleries, and plenty of shops and restaurants; the world-renowned Capilano Suspension Bridge; and Grouse Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the city and mountains beyond.

What to Do in Vancouver

Vancouver is known for its exciting and diverse range of activities and attractions, from outdoor adventures to cultural outings. There’s something for everyone in this vibrant city, no matter what your interests are.

Outdoor Adventures

Vancouver is situated perfectly for outdoor activities and boasts some of the best hiking trails in Canada. If you’re looking to explore the city’s lush forests and mountains, then you should definitely check out the Grouse Grind or Lynn Canyon Park. The Grouse Grind is a 2.9-kilometer trail up Grouse Mountain that offers stunning views of the city and mountains beyond. Lynn Canyon Park is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike and offers a network of trails as well as breathtaking waterfalls.

If you’re looking for something a bit more thrilling, then you should check out Deep Cove Kayaks. Here you can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore the Indian Arm inlet with amazing views of the surrounding mountains. You can also explore nearby Deep Cove Village with its shops, restaurants, and stunning beachfront views.

Cultural Attractions

Vancouver is also home to numerous culture attractions that will appeal to anyone interested in history or art. The Vancouver Art Gallery is one of the largest art galleries in Canada and houses a number of permanent collections as well as rotating exhibitions from around the world. The Museum of Anthropology at UBC is another must-see attraction with its collection of artifacts from around the world as well as an interactive exhibit about indigenous cultures of Canada.

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is another popular attraction that offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Chinese culture and architecture. This stunning garden features tranquil ponds, pagodas, pavilions, and beautiful greenery that make it feel like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Vancouver’s downtown core.

Experience Vancouver’s Nightlife

Vancouver has an incredible nightlife scene with plenty of bars and clubs for visitors to explore. Gastown is one of the most popular areas for nightlife and offers a variety of bars and clubs to suit every taste, from cozy pubs to high-energy dance clubs. Other popular areas for nightlife include Yaletown, Main Street, and Commercial Drive.

If you’re looking for something more low-key, then you should definitely check out Granville Island Brewing Co., which offers an extensive selection of craft beers as well as delicious pub fare. For those looking for an even more relaxed atmosphere, there are plenty of cozy wine bars throughout the city that offer an intimate atmosphere perfect for a romantic night out.

Popular Tours Near Vancouver

When visiting Vancouver, there are plenty of tours available that will give you a unique experience of this beautiful city. Here are two popular tours that you should consider when planning your trip:

Sea-to-Sky Gondola Tour

The Sea-to-Sky Gondola Tour will take you on an exhilarating journey up 885 meters above sea level to the summit of Mount Habrich where you can experience stunning views of Howe Sound and beyond. This popular tour begins at Basecamp where you can explore interpretive exhibits before taking a 10-minute ride up the gondola where you can take in sweeping panoramic views from the sun deck or take a short hike on one of many trails located at the top of Mount Habrich. The tour also includes access to an observation tower with 360-degree views and an alpine restaurant serving delicious meals that can be enjoyed while admiring the views from the terrace.

Book a Sea-to-Sky Gondola Tour here.

Whale Watching Tour

Explore Vancouver’s stunning coastal wilderness on a whale watching tour! This popular tour takes visitors on a three-hour journey out into the Strait of Georgia where they can catch glimpses of some of the region’s majestic wildlife such as orcas (killer whales), humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, bald eagles, seals, porpoises, sea otters, and more! The tour also provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about local wildlife from experienced naturalists who are onboard throughout the tour.

Book a Whale Watching Tour here.

Conclusion

Vancouver is an incredible destination with endless activities and attractions that will appeal to any traveler looking for an unforgettable experience. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and exciting nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking to explore its stunning natural beauty or take part in some of its many cultural offerings, a visit to Vancouver will be one that you won’t soon forget!