Vancouver: A Guide to All the Best Stuff To Do

Vancouver is a vibrant city located on the west coast of Canada in the province of British Columbia. It is the third most populous city in the country and has a population of around 630,000 people. It is known for its natural beauty, stunning skyline, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and snowcapped mountains. It is a popular destination for tourists from all around the world who come to experience its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife.

The city has a long history, beginning with its founding in 1886 as a port city. Since then, it has grown to become one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Canada and is home to a diverse population of people from all walks of life. Vancouver is known for its multiculturalism and is home to over 200 different ethnicities and nationalities. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene and is home to many theatres, galleries, and museums.

Vancouver is also known for its outdoor activities, with many trails and parks that offer breathtaking views of the city and surrounding area. There are also many beaches and waterfront parks along the shoreline to explore. The city also has a lively food scene, with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from.

Vancouver is a great place to get out and explore, whether you’re looking for some outdoor adventure or just want to wander around the city and take in the sights. Here are some of the best things to do in Vancouver:

Explore Stanley Park

Stanley Park is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vancouver and is a must-see for any visitor. The park is an urban oasis located just minutes from downtown. It features lush green spaces, stunning views of the city skyline, and plenty of recreational activities. You can take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the seawall, which stretches for over 8 kilometers, or explore the many trails that wind through the park. There are also several monuments, sculptures, and other attractions throughout the park that are worth checking out.

Visit Granville Island

Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions. Located in False Creek, it is home to a vibrant public market, several restaurants, theatres, and galleries. There are also plenty of shops, cafes, and other attractions to explore. A highlight of Granville Island is the Kids Market, where you can find a wide variety of toys and games for children.

Take an Aquabus Tour

The Aquabus tour is a great way to explore Vancouver’s inner harbor and False Creek area. The tour takes you past some of Vancouver’s most famous landmarks such as Granville Island, Science World, and Yaletown. The tour also offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and you may even spot some wildlife along the way.

Visit Gastown

Gastown is one of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods and is known for its cobblestone streets and unique architecture. This historic district is full of interesting shops, restaurants, galleries, and other attractions. There are also many street performers and live music venues in the area that make Gastown an exciting place to explore.

Ride The Grouse Mountain Skyride

The Grouse Mountain Skyride is one of the most popular attractions in Vancouver. The gondola ride takes you up 1,200 meters to the summit of Grouse Mountain where you can enjoy stunning views of the city below and the surrounding mountains. Once at the top, you can explore the surrounding trails or take part in one of the many activities such as ziplining or paragliding.

Explore Chinatown

Chinatown is one of Vancouver’s most vibrant neighborhoods and is full of interesting shops, restaurants, markets, and other attractions. You can also explore the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden or visit the Chinatown Night Market during the summer months.

Go Whale Watching

Vancouver is a great place for whale watching as it is located on the migratory route of various species of whales including orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales. There are several companies that offer whale watching tours in Vancouver where you can get up close to these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is located just north of downtown Vancouver in North Vancouver. The park features a 450-foot-long suspension bridge that spans across the Capilano River offering stunning views of the canyon below. The park also offers several other attractions such as a treetop adventure, cliff walk, and more.

Hike The Lions

The Lions are two large granite peaks located in North Vancouver that offer spectacular views of both downtown Vancouver and the surrounding mountains. The hike up to these peaks is relatively easy but can be quite strenuous as it is quite steep in some sections. It takes about two hours to reach the top but it is definitely worth it for the stunning views that await you at the summit.

Visit the Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in North America and features a wide variety of aquatic life from around the world. It also features several interactive exhibits such as touch pools where you can get up close with sea creatures such as starfish and sea urchins.

Catch Some Waves at Wreck Beach

Wreck Beach is Vancouver’s most popular beach and is located just west of downtown on Spanish Banks. This beach stretches for over 7 kilometers and offers plenty of sunbathing spots as well as great surfing conditions when there are waves. It is also known for its clothing-optional policy which makes it one of the most unique beaches in Canada.

Take a Tour With Viator

Viator offers several tours in Vancouver which are perfect for those looking to experience all that this beautiful city has to offer. You can take a walking tour to explore some of Vancouver’s most iconic landmarks or go on a guided bike tour to discover hidden gems around town. There’s also a food tour which takes you on a culinary adventure through some of Vancouver’s best restaurants. You can book any one of these tours by visiting Viator’s website.

Take a Tour With GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide also offers some great tours in Vancouver that are perfect for those looking for an exciting way to explore this beautiful city. You can take an evening tour to explore some of downtown’s top attractions or go on a guided kayak tour to discover Vancouver from a different perspective. There’s also a brewery tour which takes you on a craft beer journey through some of Vancouver’s best breweries. You can book any one of these tours by visiting GetYourGuide’s website.

Take A Ride on The Sea To Sky Gondola

The Sea To Sky Gondola is located just outside of Vancouver in Squamish and offers stunning views of Howe Sound and Cheapside Park below. The gondola ride takes about 10 minutes to reach the summit where you can check out several hiking trails, restaurants, and other attractions at the top. You can also take part in one of several activities such as ziplining or mountain biking while at the summit.

Explore Deep Cove

Deep Cove is located just outside of Vancouver in North Vancouver and is known for its stunning views of Indian Arm and nearby mountains. This quaint little village is full of interesting shops, restaurants, cafes, and other attractions that make it worth exploring. It’s also a great spot for kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding as there are several beaches along Indian Arm where you can launch your boat or board from.

Take A Trip To Victoria

Victoria is located just over an hour away from Vancouver by ferry and is one of Canada’s most picturesque cities. It features many historic buildings such as the Empress Hotel which was built in 1908 as well as plenty of parks and gardens to explore. You can also stroll along Inner Harbour to check out some unique shops or visit Butchart Gardens which offers stunning views of Victoria’s waterfront area.

Vancouver has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or just want to explore this beautiful city’s cultural attractions and lively atmosphere. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife, it’s no wonder why so many people come to visit this amazing city every year!