Things To Do Outside Vancouver

Vancouver is a beautiful city located on the western coast of Canada and is the third largest metropolitan area in the country. It is home to over 2.5 million people and is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Vancouver is known for its iconic skyline, stunning natural beauty, and diverse culture. From a vibrant downtown to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in Vancouver.

Vancouver has a long and interesting history that dates back to 1791 when it was first discovered by Captain George Vancouver. Since then, it has grown into a thriving city with a vibrant arts and music scene, bustling markets, and world-renowned attractions. It’s also home to some of the most stunning views in the world, making it a popular destination for tourists.

The city of Vancouver is renowned for its natural beauty, with the majestic mountains, lush forests, and miles of coastline. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Vancouver, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and skiing. The city also boasts some of the best beaches in Canada, with Stanley Park being one of the most popular spots to visit.

For those who love exploring the city, Vancouver has plenty of interesting attractions to explore. You can visit historic sites such as Gastown or Chinatown, or explore the unique art galleries and museums throughout the city. There are also numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year, including the popular Vancouver International Film Festival.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, Vancouver also offers some great tours and activities. From whale watching tours to guided hikes and food tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Vancouver. Keep reading for our guide on the best things to do outside Vancouver.

Hiking

Vancouver is an ideal destination for those who love hiking. With numerous trails to explore, ranging from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day treks, there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular trails include the Grouse Grind, Black Tusk Trail, Lynn Canyon Trail, and Garibaldi Lake Trail. For those looking for a more leisurely hike, there are plenty of easy trails that wind through the city’s parks and gardens.

Whale Watching

Vancouver is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. On any given day, you can spot orcas, humpbacks, gray whales, and other marine mammals in their natural habitat. There are plenty of companies that offer whale watching tours from Vancouver, such as Prince of Whales Whale Watching or Wild Whales Vancouver. These tours typically last between two and four hours and offer an up-close look at these majestic creatures.

Cycling

Cycling is a great way to explore Vancouver’s sights and sounds. With over 600 kilometres of dedicated bikeways and trails, there is something for every level of cyclist in Vancouver. Some of the most popular bike routes include the Seawall around Stanley Park and False Creek, the quiet roads of Kitsilano and UBC, and the scenic Burrard Inlet Trail. There are also plenty of bike rental companies in Vancouver where you can hire a bike for your ride.

Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to experience Vancouver from a new perspective. With both calm waters and rolling waves in close proximity to the city centre, kayaking can be enjoyed by all skill levels. There are plenty of companies that offer kayak rentals and guided tours around False Creek and English Bay.

Skiing

Vancouver offers some of the best skiing in Canada. There are several ski resorts within easy reach of downtown Vancouver, including Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, Mount Seymour, and Whistler Blackcomb. Each resort offers a wide variety of runs for all skill levels and plenty of après-ski activities in the evenings.

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is Vancouver’s most iconic attraction and one of its most beautiful spaces. This 400-hectare park is home to lush gardens and forests, spectacular lookouts, and plenty of things to do. You can explore the park’s numerous walking trails or take a leisurely stroll along its seawall. Other popular activities include biking along the park’s scenic roads or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through its wooded paths.

Gastown

Gastown is one of Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhoods and one of its most vibrant areas. This historic district is home to cobbled streets lined with trendy restaurants and unique boutiques. It’s also home to the iconic steam clock—a popular meeting spot among locals and visitors alike—and the gastronomic hub of Granville Island.

Chinatown

Vancouver’s Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in North America and one of its most fascinating neighbourhoods. Here you will find traditional Chinese restaurants and shops selling everything from exotic ingredients to souvenirs. Be sure to visit Dr Sun Yat-Sen Park and the Chinese Garden while you’re here—both are tranquil oases in this bustling part of town.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions and one not to be missed. Spanning 137 metres across a dramatic canyon, this suspension bridge offers stunning views of North Vancouver’s lush forests and rivers below. After crossing the bridge, you can explore the park’s numerous nature trails, or take a guided tour through its treetop walkways and totem poles.

Granville Island

Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions and one not to be missed. This charming neighbourhood is home to an eclectic mix of shops, art galleries, restaurants, and entertainment venues—all located within easy walking distance of each other. Be sure to explore the island’s thriving food market or take part in one of its popular theatrical performances while you’re here.

Popular Tours Outside Vancouver

Victoria Day Tour

The Victoria Day Tour is one of the most popular ways to explore Vancouver’s stunning scenery outside the city limits. During this full-day tour you will explore Victoria’s beautiful Inner Harbour, take a stroll along its historic streets lined with colourful Victorian buildings, visit historic sites such as Parliament Buildings or Craigdarroch Castle, and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the city’s renowned restaurants before returning to Vancouver via ferry cruise across the Strait of Georgia. Book your Victoria Day Tour here.

Whale Watching Tour

Vancouver’s Whale Watching Tour takes you out on an adventure into the Salish Sea in search of majestic marine life such as orcas, humpbacks, gray whales, sea lions, porpoises and more. You will be taken on an expertly guided tour with experienced naturalists who will teach you about these incredible creatures as you witness them up close in their natural habitat. The tour lasts approximately three hours and includes an optional stop at scenic points along the way for breathtaking views. Book your Whale Watching Tour here.

Grouse Mountain Skyride

The Grouse Mountain Skyride takes you on an unforgettable journey up North America’s highest aerial tramway for incredible views over downtown Vancouver and the surrounding mountains. The Skyride ascends almost 1 ½ kilometres up Grouse Mountain where you can explore its many attractions such as its ski slopes or wildlife refuge before returning back down again via cable car or chairlift. Book your Grouse Mountain Skyride here.

Vancouver offers plenty of incredible experiences outside its city limits from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions that will keep you entertained for days on end. Whether you are looking for outdoor activities such as hiking or kayaking or cultural tours such as whale watching or visiting historic sites like Gastown or Chinatown, there is something for everyone to enjoy outside Vancouver.