Searching for one of the best issues to do in Vancouver? Whether or not you’re right here for a weekend or planning a full West Coast itinerary, this metropolis blends oceanfront journey, mountain magnificence, and cultural depth like nowhere else in Canada. As former Vancouver residents, we’ve explored each nook of this coastal gem, from biking round Stanley Park to catching sunsets at English Bay, and we’re sharing our high picks so you possibly can expertise the easiest of it.
This up to date 2025 Vancouver journey information options the highest sights, native favorites, household actions, day journeys, and hidden gems. Whether or not you’re touring solo, as a pair, or with children, we’ve bought insider suggestions, maps, and must-sees to make your journey unforgettable.
Able to dive in? Right here’s what to do in Vancouver, Canada.
High Issues to Do in Vancouver, At a Look
| Class | High Sights |
|---|---|
| Nature & Parks | Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, VanDusen Botanical Backyard, Grouse Mountain, Lynn Canyon Park |
| Cultural Sights & Museums | Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Artwork Gallery, Museum of Vancouver, Science World, Christ Church Cathedral |
| Neighborhoods & Native Vibes | Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown, Olympic Village, False Creek |
| Waterfront & Views | Vancouver Lookout, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Sea to Sky Gondola, Sundown Dinner Cruise, English Bay & Kitsilano Seashore |
| Household-Pleasant Actions | Vancouver Aquarium, Science World, Whale Watching Excursions, Suspension Bridges, False Creek Ferries |
| Greatest Day Journeys | Whistler, Squamish, Sea to Sky Freeway, Victoria & Butchart Gardens, Britannia Mine Museum |
High 10 Issues to Do in Vancouver
Quick on time? These are one of the best issues to do in Vancouver, BC, that showcase the town’s pure magnificence, cultural hotspots, and must-see landmarks.
1. Stroll or Cycle the Stanley Park Seawall
Begin your Vancouver journey with a motorbike trip or stroll alongside the Stanley Park Seawall. This iconic 9-kilometre path wraps across the metropolis’s beloved inexperienced house, providing unbeatable views of the skyline, mountains, and ocean. Hire a motorbike or be a part of a biking tour to discover the park’s high sights, together with the totem poles and the Vancouver Aquarium.
2. Go to Granville Island Public Market
A should for meals lovers, Granville Island Public Market is filled with contemporary seafood, baked items, and artisan cheeses. Browse native crafts, snack on the go, and catch a view of False Creek from the dock.
3. Journey the Grouse Mountain Skyride in North Vancouver
Hop on the Skyride gondola to achieve Grouse Mountain’s summit. In summer season, you possibly can hike the Grouse Grind. In winter, the mountain transforms right into a snowy playground with snowboarding, snowshoeing, and twinkling lights, simply quarter-hour from downtown Vancouver.
4. Discover Gastown’s Historic Attraction
Cobblestone streets, Victorian buildings, and the well-known Steam Clock give Gastown its old-world really feel. Store for souvenirs, sip cocktails in heritage bars, and take a guided strolling tour to be taught the neighborhood’s wild backstory.
5. Snap Pictures at Capilano Suspension Bridge
The 137-metre Capilano Suspension Bridge enables you to stroll excessive above the river valley. Arrive early to beat the crowds, then discover the Cliffwalk and treetop trails
6. Cruise Round False Creek
Board a False Creek Ferry from downtown Vancouver or hire a kayak to discover this scenic inlet. You’ll move Science World, Olympic Village, and a few of the greatest views of the Vancouver skyline.
7. Watch a Vancouver Canucks Sport
Even in the event you’re not a hockey fan, the vitality at Rogers Enviornment is infectious. Seize a ticket throughout NHL season and cheer on the Canucks with the locals.
8. Uncover Chinatown
Vancouver’s Chinatown is certainly one of North America’s oldest and largest. After dim sum, wander via natural outlets and go to the peaceable Dr. Solar Yat-Sen Classical Chinese language Backyard—an city oasis impressed by the Ming Dynasty.
9. Sundown at English Bay Seashore
This metropolis seaside is the proper spot for a late-day stroll, seaside volleyball, or a picnic with mountain views. For those who’re visiting in summer season, catch the Celebration of Gentle fireworks present right here.
10. Take a Whale-Watching Tour
From March to October, hop on a ship tour to see orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales off the coast of British Columbia. Excursions depart proper from downtown and provide a spectacular take a look at the wild aspect of Vancouver.
Discover Vancouver’s Neighborhoods & Native Sights
Probably the greatest issues about Vancouver is how simply you possibly can hop from mountain trails to craft breweries to waterfront artwork scenes—multi functional afternoon. These neighborhoods showcase the variety and character that make Vancouver so memorable.
False Creek
This scenic inlet cuts via downtown Vancouver and is dwelling to a few of the metropolis’s most enjoyable actions. Stroll or cycle alongside the Seawall, take a False Creek Ferry between Granville Island and Science World, or take pleasure in a 90-minute boat tour to see resident seals, sandy seashores, and Lions Gate Bridge.
Olympic Village
As soon as dwelling to athletes in the course of the 2010 Winter Olympics, this sustainable neighborhood is now an area favourite. You’ll discover top-rated eating places like The Flying Pig and breweries like Brassneck and Fundamental Road Brewing. Don’t miss the general public artwork installations and beautiful metropolis views alongside the water.
Yaletown
Stylish and upscale, Yaletown is filled with boutique outlets, patios, and a buzzing nightlife. It’s additionally an awesome base for exploring downtown Vancouver. Be part of a guided bike tour via Yaletown, Chinatown, and the serene Dr. Solar Yat-Sen Backyard—a straightforward solution to hit a number of Vancouver sights in a single trip.
Granville Island (Sure, Once more!)
This vibrant arts district deserves one other point out, as a result of there’s extra than simply the market. Catch a present at one of many native theatres, browse the artisan galleries, or seize a pint at Granville Island Brewing. It’s the most effective issues to do immediately in Vancouver in the event you’re brief on time however need a true native vibe.
The place to Keep in These Neighborhoods
- Yaletown: Opus Vancouver – A trendy boutique lodge with walkable entry to outlets, eating places, and the waterfront.
- Close to Granville Island: Granville Island Lodge – Tucked proper on the water with views of False Creek.
- Downtown Core: Fairmont Pacific Rim – Excessive-tech luxurious with rooftop views steps from Canada Place.
Household-Pleasant & Cultural Issues to Do in Vancouver
Whether or not you’re touring with children or simply wish to discover the town’s museums and interactive sights, Vancouver has loads of hands-on experiences and culture-forward gems.
Science World at Telus World of Science
You’ll be able to’t miss the large geodesic dome on False Creek—it’s dwelling to one of the crucial enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver with children. Inside, Science World options over a dozen interactive displays on movement, biology, water, and innovation. Cap it off with a movie on the five-story OMNIMAX Theatre—the biggest of its sort on the planet.
Vancouver Artwork Gallery
Proper in downtown Vancouver, this main Canadian artwork establishment blends Indigenous and modern exhibitions with immersive occasions. Take a guided tour to dive deeper into the tales behind the work, or simply soak all of it in earlier than stress-free on the bistro patio subsequent to Robson Sq..
Vancouver Maritime Museum
Overlooking English Bay, this museum shares tales of seafaring life, Arctic exploration, and West Coast maritime historical past. A standout is the St. Roch, the primary vessel to circumnavigate North America. Hop aboard and picture navigating the Northwest Passage below sail.
Museum of Vancouver
Devoted to the town’s evolving story, the Museum of Vancouver covers all the pieces from Coast Salish traditions to Sixties counterculture. Situated in Vanier Park, it’s good to pair with a cease at Kitsilano Seashore or a stroll alongside the seawall.
Dr. Solar Yat-Sen Classical Chinese language Backyard
A peaceable retreat within the coronary heart of Chinatown, this genuine Ming Dynasty-style backyard options ponds, pathways, and sculpted rock. It’s one of the crucial distinctive cultural actions in Vancouver—and a photographer’s dream.
Christ Church Cathedral
Even in the event you’re not spiritual, this downtown landmark is price a go to. In-built 1889, it’s a mixture of Gothic Revival and Romanesque structure, with hovering bell towers and sensible stained-glass home windows. Quiet and exquisite, it’s a fast detour into Vancouver’s historic roots.
Nature & Parks: Vancouver’s Nice Outside
Outside lovers, that is your playground. One of many high causes to go to Vancouver is its pure setting, the place ocean, forest, and mountain meet. From peaceable metropolis gardens to heart-pumping hikes, these are one of the best out of doors issues to do in Vancouver.
Stanley Park
This 1,000-acre city forest is greater than only a park—it’s the inexperienced coronary heart of the town. Stroll or bike the Stanley Park Seawall, go to the totem poles, or pop into the Vancouver Aquarium. In summer season, hit the out of doors pool. In spring, stroll beneath the cherry blossoms. Stanley Park is among the greatest free issues to do in Vancouver BC, and it’s simply minutes from downtown.
Don’t Miss: Totem Poles Viewpoint, the Rose Backyard, Beaver Lake Path, and a motorbike rental to circle your entire seawall.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Vancouver’s highest level delivers panoramic views of the town and North Shore Mountains. This 130-acre park is understood for its lush Quarry Backyard, arboretum, and the tropical Bloedel Conservatory, dwelling to unique birds and tropical crops beneath a glowing geodesic dome. Bonus: it’s one of many high sundown spots within the metropolis.
VanDusen Botanical Backyard
For one thing extra tranquil, VanDusen is a 55-acre oasis in the midst of Vancouver. With over 7,000 plant species, peaceable strolling paths, and seasonal festivals just like the winter Pageant of Lights, it’s a favourite for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Grouse Mountain
Simply quarter-hour from downtown, Grouse Mountain is your go-to for year-round journey. In hotter months, problem your self on the Grouse Grind or take the Skyride gondola for scenic views. In winter, there’s snowboarding, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and visits with rescued grizzly bears. It’s one of many high issues to do close to Vancouver, BC.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Vancouver’s most well-known bridge isn’t only a bucket checklist picture; it’s a complete rainforest expertise. The Capilano Suspension Bridge stretches 137 meters (450 toes) throughout and hovers 70 meters (230 toes) above the Capilano River.
However there’s extra: discover the Cliffwalk, a collection of slender bridges clinging to the canyon wall, and the Treetops Journey, a community of platforms excessive within the cover. Open year-round with free shuttles from downtown, this iconic attraction delivers the proper mixture of thrill and tranquility.
Journey Tip: Arrive early or late within the day to keep away from the height crowds and catch one of the best gentle for pictures.
Lynn Canyon Park
Need a quieter different to Capilano? Head to Lynn Canyon for a free suspension bridge, forest trails, waterfalls, and swimming holes. It’s an area favourite, good for a half-day escape into Vancouver’s wild aspect.
Nightlife & Seasonal Issues to Do in Vancouver
From live shows to cruises, Vancouver is aware of the best way to exhibit after darkish—and in each season. Whether or not you’re chasing summer season sunsets or winter ski runs, listed here are a few of the most enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver immediately (or tonight).
Catch a Live performance on the Commodore Ballroom
A staple on Granville Road, the Commodore Ballroom has hosted everybody from David Bowie to Nirvana. The venue is intimate, historic, and alive with vitality. For those who’re questioning what to do in Vancouver at night time, that is it. Examine the lineup, you by no means know who could be enjoying.
Richmond Evening Market
Simply 20 minutes south of downtown, this summer season and fall market is a sensory overload in one of the simplest ways. Assume neon lights, over 200 meals distributors, carnival video games, and cultural performances. Come hungry and produce money, that is the place you’ll discover one of the best avenue eats within the area.
Take a Sundown Dinner Cruise
For those who’re in search of a soothing night exercise in Vancouver, hop aboard a sundown cruise. As you sail previous the skyline, West Vancouver mansions, and the North Shore Mountains, take pleasure in a buffet dinner with dwell music. Golden hour views don’t get higher than this.
Ebook it: This sundown cruise provides a full dinner, music, and panoramic views from the water.
English Bay Polar Bear Swim
Mark your calendar: January 1, 2025, would be the one hundred and fifth annual Polar Bear Swim at English Bay, and sure, it’s nonetheless completely bonkers.
The principle plunge occurs at 2:30 PM, with hundreds of swimmers and tens of hundreds of cheering spectators. The free occasion runs from 12 PM to 4 PM, with dwell music, costume contests, and scorching chocolate for courageous souls. It’s simply one of the crucial distinctive and enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver in winter, even in the event you keep dry.
? Native Tip: Register on-line to get your official swim tag and bragging rights. Or simply present up and cheer from the seawall.
Indoor Sights, Museums & Metropolis Views
When the skies open up (as they usually do in Vancouver), head inside to find the town’s vibrant historical past, artwork, and structure, from 360° viewpoints to Indigenous tradition and basic museums.
Vancouver Lookout
Wish to see all of Vancouver in a single view? Head to the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre. This 360-degree remark deck stands 168 meters (553 toes) tall and is accessible by way of a glossy glass elevator.
From right here, you’ll spot Stanley Park, English Bay, the North Shore Mountains, and past. It’s an awesome orientation cease in the beginning of your journey, or a sundown vacation spot to wrap up your Vancouver journey in fashion.
Accessibility: Totally wheelchair-friendly, with vast doorways and accessible washrooms on web site.
Museum of Anthropology (UBC)
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) reopened in June 2024 after an intensive seismic improve, and it’s much more spectacular than earlier than. Situated at UBC, this cultural landmark stays one of the crucial significant issues to do in Vancouver for these in search of perception into Indigenous artwork and heritage.
Step into the dramatically redesigned Nice Corridor to view towering totem poles, carvings, and ceremonial objects from the Northwest Coast First Nations. The encircling grounds and rose gardens nonetheless provide panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains, making this a high choose rain or shine.
Tip: Pair your go to with a stroll via UBC’s botanical gardens or all the way down to Wreck Seashore for a full day on campus.
Museum of Vancouver
Situated in Vanier Park close to Kitsilano, this museum takes you from the town’s Indigenous roots via its countercultural previous and into modern-day Vancouver. The displays are quirky, immersive, and uniquely native. Nice combo with the Vancouver Maritime Museum and H.R. MacMillan Area Centre close by.
Vancouver Seashores & Waterfront Escapes
Vancouver’s city seashores are as iconic as its mountains. Whether or not you’re sunbathing, biking the seawall, or catching sundown over the Pacific, these waterfront spots provide a few of the greatest issues to do in Vancouver immediately, particularly when the solar’s out.
English Bay Seashore
Proper on the fringe of downtown and the West Finish, English Bay is Vancouver’s most accessible seaside. Locals come right here to rollerblade, picnic, or simply chill out below big timber with a view of the mountains. In July, it’s the principle stage for the Celebration of Gentle fireworks pageant. Courageous sufficient? Or take our recommendation from above and be a part of the Polar Bear Swim right here each New 12 months’s Day.
Private word: We used to dwell close by and referred to as it “First Seashore.” This was our go-to sundown spot.
Kitsilano Seashore
Simply throughout the water from downtown, Kits Seashore is laid-back and filled with vitality. You’ll discover volleyball courts, a large out of doors pool (heated and proper on the water), and close by cafés for a beachy brunch. It’s a high choose for enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver BC throughout summer season.
Spanish Banks
Additional west alongside the waterfront, Spanish Banks is quieter and extra unfold out. Nice for beachcombing at low tide, flying a kite, or strolling your canine within the off-leash areas. On clear days, you’ll see all the best way throughout to Vancouver Island.
Wreck Seashore
This famously clothing-optional seaside close to UBC just isn’t for the shy, nevertheless it’s bought critical chill vibes. With steep stairs main down and 0 commercialization, it’s one of the crucial pure stretches of shoreline close to Vancouver. Count on drum circles, physique positivity, and jaw-dropping sunsets.
? Enjoyable truth: Wreck Seashore usually hosts artwork reveals, seaside cleanups, and even dwell music. It’s an entire scene.
Greatest Day Journeys from Vancouver
Probably the greatest components about visiting Vancouver? You’re only a brief drive or ferry away from mountain adventures, ocean escapes, and a few of British Columbia’s most iconic surroundings. These day journeys from Vancouver are simple, unforgettable, and effectively price the additional time.
Sea to Sky Freeway
For those who’re questioning what to do close to Vancouver that can utterly blow your thoughts, that is it. The Sea to Sky Freeway (Freeway 99) runs from Vancouver to Whistler and is among the most lovely street journeys in Canada. Cease at waterfalls, lookouts, and Indigenous heritage websites alongside the best way.
Should-see stops:
- Shannon Falls
- Britannia Mine Museum
- Sea to Sky Gondola
- Squamish (hi there, rock climbers!)
? Tip: Attempt to spend an evening in Squamish. It’s turn into a real journey city.
Whistler
A world-class ski resort in winter and a climbing, biking, and patio paradise in summer season, Whistler is simply two hours from downtown Vancouver. Journey the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, zipline via the timber, or try the Olympic Village.
Fast journey? Sure, it’s doable in a day—however in the event you can, keep in a single day.
Vancouver Island & Victoria
Hop on a ferry or seaplane and escape to Vancouver Island. You’ll be able to go to in a day, nevertheless it’s greatest explored over a weekend. Highlights embody:
- Victoria: Charming capital metropolis with English-style gardens and excessive tea
- Butchart Gardens: One of the crucial beautiful floral shows in Canada
- Tofino (in the event you keep longer): Surf, storm watch, and soak within the wild Pacific Coast
Tour choice: This Victoria and Butchart Gardens day tour features a scenic ferry trip and guided stops.
Squamish
Usually overshadowed by Whistler, Squamish is a gem in its personal proper. Hike the Stawamus Chief, strive whitewater rafting, or take the Sea to Sky Gondola to the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. There’s even a brewery scene for post-hike pints.
Britannia Mine Museum
This one stunned us. What we anticipated to be a fast cease was a spotlight. Journey a practice into the historic copper mine, pan for gold, and take a look at the BOOM! Multimedia present—it’s far more thrilling than it sounds.
Whether or not you’re right here for a weekend or a full West Coast journey, navigating Vancouver is straightforward—and so is discovering a spot to remain that matches your fashion.
Attending to Downtown Vancouver
Most guests arrive at Vancouver Worldwide Airport (YVR), simply 9 miles from the town middle.
- SkyTrain (Canada Line): 25 minutes to downtown, departs each 7 minutes. Value: $9 CAD one-way (or $5 with a transit move).
- Taxi/Uber: Round half-hour, $25–$30 CAD.
We often hire a automotive, particularly for day journeys to Whistler or Vancouver Island. Evaluate charges on RentalCars.com to get one of the best deal from the airport.
Getting Across the Metropolis
Vancouver is a really walkable metropolis, however you can too use:
- Seabus: Nice for scenic rides throughout Burrard Inlet to North Vancouver.
- False Creek Ferries: Hop between Granville Island, Science World, and Yaletown.
- Public Transit: Clear, environment friendly, and reasonably priced.
- Bike leases: A high choose for exploring the seawall and downtown parks.
The place to Keep in Vancouver
To get essentially the most out of your journey, we advocate staying in Downtown Vancouver. You’ll be near main sights like Stanley Park, Gastown, and English Bay.
Luxurious
Mid-Vary
Price range
- Samesun Vancouver: Greatest location for the value—stroll to Robson Road, Stanley Park, and the town’s greatest eats.
Tip: Now we have a full breakdown on the place to remain in Vancouver if you need extra choices by neighborhood.
Issues To Know Earlier than You Go to Vancouver, BC
Begin with biking the Stanley Park Seawall, exploring Granville Island Market, visiting Gastown’s Steam Clock, and strolling throughout the Capilano Suspension Bridge. These spots exhibit Vancouver’s pure magnificence, native tradition, and iconic views—all inside simple attain of downtown.
Sure! Vancouver is among the most walkable cities in North America. You’ll be able to discover neighborhoods like Yaletown, Gastown, and the West Finish solely on foot. The Seawall path additionally connects main sights like English Bay, Stanley Park, and Granville Island.
Vancouver is understood for its dramatic setting between mountains and ocean, its entry to out of doors journey, and its multicultural vitality. Guests love the combo of nature and metropolis life—from whale watching and mountain hikes to sushi spots, markets, and artwork galleries.
Stroll or bike the Stanley Park Seawall, go to Lynn Canyon’s suspension bridge and forest trails, hang around at Kits Seashore or Spanish Banks, or discover the general public artwork in Olympic Village and English Bay. A lot of Vancouver’s high experiences are utterly free.
Summer season (June to September) is good for climbing, biking, seashores, and festivals—with lengthy sunny days and minimal rain. Spring and fall are nice for fewer crowds and cherry blossoms or fall colours. Winter is ideal if you wish to ski Grouse, Cypress, or close by Whistler.
Completely. The Sea to Sky Freeway to Whistler, ferry journeys to Victoria and Vancouver Island, or a scenic drive to Squamish and the Sea to Sky Gondola are all high day journey choices. Every provides a special slice of British Columbia’s wild magnificence.
Science World, the Vancouver Aquarium, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Stanley Park’s playgrounds and miniature practice are all household favorites. Children additionally love the False Creek Ferries and seaside time at English Bay or Kitsilano.
Whether or not you’re planning a metropolis break, coastal street journey, or prolonged West Coast journey, Vancouver all the time delivers. With mountain trails, neighborhood markets, artwork galleries, and sundown seashores all inside simple attain, it is a place that evolves with you.
We spent years dwelling in Vancouver, and we return usually. It’s not only a scenic cease on the map; it’s a metropolis that invitations you again. So whether or not you’re whale watching off the coast or grabbing a craft beer in Yaletown, we hope this information helps you intend the proper journey.
Tell us your favourite issues to do in Vancouver within the feedback; we’re all the time in search of new causes to return.
