In search of the most effective 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 prime picks so you’ll be able to expertise the perfect of it.
This up to date 2025 Vancouver journey information options the highest points of interest, native favorites, household actions, day journeys, and hidden gems. Whether or not you’re touring solo, as a pair, or with youngsters, we’ve obtained 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
Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, VanDusen Botanical Backyard, Grouse Mountain, Lynn Canyon Park
Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Artwork Gallery, Museum of Vancouver, Science World, Christ Church Cathedral
Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown, Olympic Village, False Creek
Vancouver Lookout, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Sea to Sky Gondola, Sundown Dinner Cruise, English Bay & Kitsilano Seashore
Vancouver Aquarium, Science World, Whale Watching Excursions, Suspension Bridges, False Creek Ferries
Whistler, Squamish, Sea to Sky Freeway, Victoria & Butchart Gardens, Britannia Mine Museum
High 10 Issues to Do in Vancouver
Quick on time? These are the most effective 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 journey 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. Lease a motorbike or be a part of a biking tour to discover the park’s prime points of interest, 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. Trip the Grouse Mountain Skyride in North Vancouver
Hop on the Skyride gondola to achieve Grouse Mountain’s summit. In summer time, you’ll be able to 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 study the neighborhood’s wild backstory.
5. Snap Images 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 lease a kayak to discover this scenic inlet. You’ll cross Science World, Olympic Village, and a number of the greatest views of the Vancouver skyline.
7. Watch a Vancouver Canucks Sport
Even for those who’re not a hockey fan, the power 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 one in every of North America’s oldest and largest. After dim sum, wander by way of natural retailers 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 seashore is the proper spot for a late-day stroll, seashore volleyball, or a picnic with mountain views. When you’re visiting in summer time, catch the Celebration of Mild 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 go away proper from downtown and provide a spectacular take a look at the wild facet of Vancouver.
Discover Vancouver’s Neighborhoods & Native Sights
Among the best issues about Vancouver is how simply you’ll be able to hop from mountain trails to craft breweries to waterfront artwork scenes—multi functional afternoon. These neighborhoods showcase the range and persona that make Vancouver so memorable.
False Creek
This scenic inlet cuts by way of downtown Vancouver and is residence to a number 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 get pleasure from a 90-minute boat tour to see resident seals, sandy seashores, and Lions Gate Bridge.
Olympic Village
As soon as residence to athletes through 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 Foremost 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 retailers, patios, and a buzzing nightlife. It’s additionally an important base for exploring downtown Vancouver. Be part of a guided bike tour by way of Yaletown, Chinatown, and the serene Dr. Solar Yat-Sen Backyard—a straightforward option to hit a number of Vancouver points of interest in a single journey.
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 among the best issues to do as we speak in Vancouver for those who’re quick on time however need a true native vibe.
The place to Keep in These Neighborhoods
Yaletown: Opus Vancouver – A classy boutique resort with walkable entry to retailers, eating places, and the waterfront.
Close to Granville Island: Granville Island Resort – 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 youngsters or simply need to discover the town’s museums and interactive points of interest, Vancouver has loads of hands-on experiences and culture-forward gems.
Science World at Telus World of Science
You may’t miss the enormous geodesic dome on False Creek—it’s residence to one of the vital enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver with youngsters. 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 most important of its sort on this planet.
Vancouver Artwork Gallery
Proper in downtown Vancouver, this main Canadian artwork establishment blends Indigenous and up to date 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 enjoyable 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 beneath 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 vital distinctive cultural actions in Vancouver—and a photographer’s dream.
Christ Church Cathedral
Even for those who’re not non secular, 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 Open air
Outside lovers, that is your playground. One of many prime 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 the most effective 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 time, hit the out of doors pool. In spring, stroll beneath the cherry blossoms. Stanley Park is likely one of 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 complete 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, residence to unique birds and tropical crops beneath a glowing geodesic dome. Bonus: it’s one of many prime sundown spots within the metropolis.
VanDusen Botanical Backyard
For one thing extra tranquil, VanDusen is a 55-acre oasis in the course of Vancouver. With over 7,000 plant species, peaceable strolling paths, and seasonal festivals just like the winter Competition 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 prime 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 slim 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 the most effective mild for photographs.
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 facet.
Nightlife & Seasonal Issues to Do in Vancouver
From concert events to cruises, Vancouver is aware of how one can showcase after darkish—and in each season. Whether or not you’re chasing summer time sunsets or winter ski runs, listed here are a number of the most enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver as we speak (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 power. When you’re questioning what to do in Vancouver at night time, that is it. Test the lineup, you by no means know who could be taking part in.
Richmond Evening Market
Simply 20 minutes south of downtown, this summer time and fall market is a sensory overload in the easiest way. Suppose neon lights, over 200 meals distributors, carnival video games, and cultural performances. Come hungry and convey money, that is the place you’ll discover the most effective road eats within the area.
Take a Sundown Dinner Cruise
When you’re on the lookout for a calming night exercise in Vancouver, hop aboard a sundown cruise. As you sail previous the skyline, West Vancouver mansions, and the North Shore Mountains, get pleasure from a buffet dinner with reside 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 a 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 1000’s of swimmers and tens of 1000’s of cheering spectators. The free occasion runs from 12 PM to 4 PM, with reside music, costume contests, and sizzling chocolate for courageous souls. It’s simply one of the vital distinctive and enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver in winter, even for those who 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 typically do in Vancouver), head inside to find the town’s vibrant historical past, artwork, and structure, from 360° viewpoints to Indigenous tradition and traditional museums.
Vancouver Lookout
Wish to see all of Vancouver in a single view? Head to the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre. This 360-degree commentary deck stands 168 meters (553 toes) tall and is accessible by way of a smooth glass elevator.
From right here, you’ll spot Stanley Park, English Bay, the North Shore Mountains, and past. It’s an important orientation cease firstly of your journey, or a sundown vacation spot to wrap up your Vancouver journey in type.
Accessibility: Absolutely wheelchair-friendly, with large doorways and accessible washrooms on website.
Museum of Anthropology (UBC)
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) reopened in June 2024 after an in depth seismic improve, and it’s much more spectacular than earlier than. Situated at UBC, this cultural landmark stays one of the vital 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 encompassing grounds and rose gardens nonetheless provide panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains, making this a prime choose rain or shine.
Tip: Pair your go to with a stroll by way of UBC’s botanical gardens or right 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 by way of 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 number of the greatest issues to do in Vancouver as we speak, 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 seashore. Locals come right here to rollerblade, picnic, or simply loosen up beneath large bushes with a view of the mountains. In July, it’s the principle stage for the Celebration of Mild 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 observe: We used to reside close by and known 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 stuffed with power. You’ll discover volleyball courts, an enormous out of doors pool (heated and proper on the water), and close by cafés for a beachy brunch. It’s a prime choose for enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver BC throughout summer time.
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 seashore close to UBC will not be for the shy, but it surely’s obtained severe chill vibes. With steep stairs main down and nil commercialization, it’s one of the vital pure stretches of shoreline close to Vancouver. Anticipate drum circles, physique positivity, and jaw-dropping sunsets.
? Enjoyable truth: Wreck Seashore typically hosts artwork exhibits, seashore cleanups, and even reside music. It’s an entire scene.
Finest Day Journeys from Vancouver
Among the best elements about visiting Vancouver? You’re only a quick 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 straightforward, unforgettable, and effectively price the additional time.
Sea to Sky Freeway
When you’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 likely one of the most lovely highway 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 develop into a real journey city.
Whistler
A world-class ski resort in winter and a mountain climbing, biking, and patio paradise in summer time, Whistler is simply two hours from downtown Vancouver. Trip the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, zipline by way of the bushes, or take a look at the Olympic Village.
Fast journey? Sure, it’s doable in a day—however for those who can, keep in a single day.
Vancouver Island & Victoria
Hop on a ferry or seaplane and escape to Vancouver Island. You may go to in a day, but it surely’s greatest explored over a weekend. Highlights embody:
Victoria: Charming capital metropolis with English-style gardens and excessive tea
Butchart Gardens: One of the vital gorgeous floral shows in Canada
Tofino (for those who 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 journey 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 became a spotlight. Trip a prepare 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 simple—and so is discovering a spot to remain that matches your type.
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. Price: $9 CAD one-way (or $5 with a transit cross).
Taxi/Uber: Round half-hour, $25–$30 CAD.
We normally lease a automotive, particularly for day journeys to Whistler or Vancouver Island. Examine charges on RentalCars.com to get the most effective deal from the airport.
Getting Across the Metropolis
Vancouver is a really walkable metropolis, however you can even 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 inexpensive.
Bike leases: A prime choose for exploring the seawall and downtown parks.
The place to Keep in Vancouver
To get probably the most out of your journey, we suggest staying in Downtown Vancouver. You’ll be near main points of interest like Stanley Park, Gastown, and English Bay.
Luxurious
Mid-Vary
Price range
Samesun Vancouver: Finest location for the value—stroll to Robson Road, Stanley Park, and the town’s greatest eats.
Tip: We now 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
1. What are the most effective issues to do in Vancouver for first-time guests?
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 showcase Vancouver’s pure magnificence, native tradition, and iconic views—all inside straightforward attain of downtown.
2. Is Vancouver walkable for vacationers?
Sure! Vancouver is likely one of the most walkable cities in North America. You may discover neighborhoods like Yaletown, Gastown, and the West Finish solely on foot. The Seawall path additionally connects main points of interest like English Bay, Stanley Park, and Granville Island.
3. What’s Vancouver greatest recognized for?
Vancouver is understood for its dramatic setting between mountains and ocean, its entry to out of doors journey, and its multicultural power. Guests love the combo of nature and metropolis life—from whale watching and mountain hikes to sushi spots, markets, and artwork galleries.
4. What are some free issues to do in Vancouver?
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. Lots of Vancouver’s prime experiences are utterly free.
5. What’s the most effective time to go to Vancouver?
Summer season (June to September) is good for mountain 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.
6. Are there good day journeys from Vancouver?
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 prime day journey choices. Every provides a special slice of British Columbia’s wild magnificence.
7. What are the most effective issues to do in Vancouver with youngsters?
Science World, the Vancouver Aquarium, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Stanley Park’s playgrounds and miniature prepare are all household favorites. Youngsters additionally love the False Creek Ferries and seashore time at English Bay or Kitsilano.
Whether or not you’re planning a metropolis break, coastal highway journey, or prolonged West Coast journey, Vancouver at all times delivers. With mountain trails, neighborhood markets, artwork galleries, and sundown seashores all inside straightforward attain, this can be a place that evolves with you.
We spent years residing in Vancouver, and we return typically. 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 at all times on the lookout for new causes to return.
