Things to Do in Vancouver, Canada

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Sightseeing

Vancouver, Canada, is a city that has something for everyone. So whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors and take in the fresh air, take in some sights, or visit some of the city’s art galleries and museums, there are plenty of things to do.

Let’s take a look at all the sightseeing opportunities that Vancouver, Canada, has to offer:

Visit Stanley Park

Stanley Park is a gorgeous and vibrant public park in Vancouver, BC, renowned for its exquisite and tranquil scenery. Spanning 1,000 acres of undisturbed land, the park offers visitors abundant activities and attractions. Situated mainly along the waterfront, Stanley Park also has lush rainforest to explore.

The park is home to picture-perfect beaches as well as five major attractions:

  • Vancouver Aquarium, which is one of the world’s largest aquariums;
  • Lost Lagoon, which features an enchanting one-mile path;
  • Prospect Point for stunning views of cityscapes and mountains;
  • Seawall Promenade for walking and jogging, rollerblading, or cycling around the perimeter; and
  • Third Beach with its exquisite sunset views.

If that’s not enough, there are numerous pathways and exciting sites to explore within Stanley Park, such as Indian totem poles celebrating First Nations Culture; Beaver Lake, where you can enjoy peaceful birdwatching surrounded by lush vegetation; two children’s playgrounds; and Cherry Tree trees known for their beautiful blossoms in springtime. In addition, public events, including outdoor concerts or festivals, are often held in Stanley Park throughout the year, making it a perfect destination at any time!

Take a Stroll along Granville Island

Granville Island is one of Vancouver, Canada’s most popular tourist destinations. It was home to many industries back in the day, some of which are still there today. But today, it’s a bustling shopping and entertainment area off the city’s False Creek waterfront.

If you’re looking for a leisurely walk through a vibrant part of town, taking a stroll along Granville Island should be your top choice. Begin your journey by crossing Granville Street Bridge or Aquabus and immediately be surrounded by shops selling everything from clothes to home decor items. As you head further down Granville Island, you’ll come across the bustling markets selling artisanal bread and other locally-crafted wares and seafood vendors offering tantalizing dishes cooked to order right then and there.

Besides retail therapy, activities on offer here also include:

  • Boat rides along False Creek
  • Guided kayak tours (vancouverkayakcompany.ca)

End your journey with some excellent eats from one of many gourmet restaurants here – maybe wild smoked salmon chowder at Edible Canada Bistro (ediblecanada.com) or pulled pork sliders at Lumiere (lumiererestaurant.ca).

Explore Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain is one of the best sights Vancouver has to offer. Standing tall at 1,250 meters (4,101 feet) above sea level, Grouse Mountain offers breathtaking views of the entire city and surrounding area. The mountain is easily accessible by taking the aerial tramway to the top and has plenty of activities to entertain visitors.

Grouse Mountain has many thrilling activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, ziplining, and paragliding. However, there are beautiful hikes through snow-covered trails for those interested in a more leisurely venture. With its spectacular winter landscape, Grouse Mountain serves as a major ski resort for people from all around the world. The mountain also has two cozy restaurants for visitors who would like a break from adventures or many shops for shoppers looking for souvenirs or athletic wear.

Aside from its numerous outdoor activities and stunning landscape, Grouse Mountain is known for being home to two resident grizzly bears named Grinder and Coola, who can be seen live at Grizzly Bear Refuge during the summer months. Visitors can also explore Grouse Mountain Wildlife Refuge, which permits visitors to learn more about local wildlife through interactive boards and displays containing information on native species; view animals such as bald eagles; take a guided tour with an expert member of staff; and attend educational programs such as Night Walks – where visitors armed with flashlights can experience nocturnal Vancouver wildlife up close!

In conclusion, Grouse Mountain is a must-see when exploring Vancouver’s stunning sights! From an array of thrilling winter sports to educational wildlife exhibits – this spot offers something sure to please everyone visiting Vancouver!

Shopping

Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, specialty items, or general retail, Vancouver offers plenty of options for the perfect shopping experience. From downtown boutiques to suburban malls, the city boasts a variety of shopping venues with something to suit everyone’s taste and budget.

Let’s explore some of the top spots for shopping in Vancouver:

Visit Robson Street

Robson Street is a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining district in the downtown core of Vancouver, Canada. With a mix of retail, restaurants, and businesses, Robson Street offers a dynamic city experience with something to do for everyone who visits.

Robson Street has been home to various stores since its establishment in 1862. It is well known for its flagship stores, such as Nordstrom’s department store, the HMV music store, the Apple Store, and high-end designer retailers. It also boasts local boutiques and independent stores you won’t find elsewhere in Vancouver.

In addition to shopping on Robson Street, there are plenty of other things to do. Visitors can dine at world-class restaurants featuring international cuisine or catch up with friends over coffee at one of the lively cafes that line the street. At night, Robson Street comes alive with crowds out for food or drinks at popular bars and clubs.

Robson Street is located in the heart of Vancouver’s entertainment district, close to theatres and galleries, and public transport links make it easy to get around on foot or by transit. So whether you are looking for unique items from local vendors or just window shopping amongst some of the best retailers around, Robson street should be top on your list when visiting Vancouver!

Explore Gastown

Gastown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Vancouver and showcases some of the city’s most unique and exciting shops. Located in the heart of Downtown Vancouver, Gastown is known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, fashion boutiques, independent stores, and trendy restaurants.

The main street to explore is Water Street which stretches from Cambie Street to Mainland Street. It features a mix of old-world charm and modern style with designer clothes stores, vintage boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and furniture stores. Popular spots include:

  • Oh La La Boutique with its selection of European fashion labels.
  • Ray Antiques & Vintage Clothing, where you’ll find vintage clothing and goods.
  • Star Gifts with its wide selection of souvenirs.
  • Artifact Gourmet & General Store offers specialty goods ranging from bulk foods to artisan jams.
  • Art’s Collectables with its unusual array of antiques.

Beyond shopping opportunities, Gastown also offers a range of dining options that range from quaint cafés to upscale seafood restaurants. Be sure to try:

  • Joey’s Seafood Grill for dishes such as salmon burgers or crab cakes.
  • Catch 122 Café & Bistro for local favorites like oysters or poutine.
  • L’Abattoir Restaurant for classic French fares like duck confit or roasted quail.

Visit Pacific Centre Mall

Pacific Centre Mall, located in the heart of Vancouver’s downtown core, is an ideal shopping destination for those visiting the city. With over 150 stores, it’s no surprise that visitors come from near and far to experience what Pacific Centre has to offer.

Pacific Center’s numerous levels have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for something specific or just browsing. Along with famous fashion brands like Aritzia, Furla, Sephora, and Holt Renfrew, shoppers can also enjoy restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining.

The shopping mall has several entertainment options, such as Century Theatre Cinema, Cineplex Odeon Cinema, and Dave & Buster’s, where you can play electronic games and classic arcade favorites like skeeball. In addition, Pacific Centre Mall offers something special for everyone – fashion, food, or fun!

Food and Drink

Vancouver, Canada, is well known for its eclectic cuisine and fantastic food and drink options. Whether it be fresh seafood, craft beer, or locally-sourced coffee, there is something to satisfy everyone’s palate.

We’ve compiled a list of the top food and drink spots in Vancouver that you have to check out on your next visit:

Sample Local Seafood

Vancouver is known for its abundant seafood offerings, such as wild salmon, prawns, spot prawns, mussels, and oysters. For the best experience, you should sample some local seafood to understand BC’s coastal cuisine.

The Granville Island Public Market is great for starting your local seafood journey. You can find fresh catches from local fishermen and take advantage of the exotic ingredients available in Vancouver’s Chinatown. Local favorites include Clam Chowder, Seafood Rolls, and fresh Halibut or Salmon dishes with all delicious flavoring from local herbs like rosemary or fennel.

If possible, grab lunch at one of Vancouver’s fine restaurants or sit at a street-side bar for an enjoyable afternoon with some tasty treats! Even if you’re an avid chef, there’s something special about experiencing cooked seafood at its freshest.

Sample Craft Beers

Vancouver is known for its vibrant craft beer scene. This “coastal city” has a craft brewery to satisfy any taste, whether an IPA, a stout or something in between. With so many breweries, pubs, and restaurants that carry local craft beers on tap, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. Here are some of the most popular craft beers to check out when you visit Vancouver:

  • Parallel 49: Parallel 49 is one of Vancouver’s most popular breweries, and their Tricycle Radler is one of the most sought-after beers in town. It’s a bright, tart beer with citrus notes and a tangy grapefruit flavor.
  • Four Winds: Four Winds’ Juxtapose IPA offers a unique blend of herbal and citrus aromas with subtle bitterness throughout; this clear copper-colored brew is surprisingly well-balanced for an IPA fan.
  • Steamworks: Steamworks produces unique brews like their Flagship IPA Centennial hops — a powerful floral nose with hints of pine needles lends well to crisp hop character and a dry finish. Those who Drink Fearlessly will love this option!
  • Granville Island: Granville Island Brewing’s Lions Winter Ale is a classic dark stout with notes of coffee, chocolate, vanilla, and spices that make it perfect for sipping during cold days in Vancouver’s winter season.
  • The Uncommon Cider Co.: This unique brewery serves up some cold hard cider blended from fresh apples and seasonal and classic flavors like ‘Pearfection’ — lightly sparkling pear cider made with pears from BC orchards.

Visit Chinatown

Vancouver’s Chinatown is one of the oldest and largest in North America, and it’s well worth a visit for an unforgettable experience. With its bright red lanterns, ornamental archways, and bustling open-air markets, Chinatown is a great place to taste true Chinese culture. So whether you’re looking for authentic food, unique Asian trinkets, or an interest in architecture, Chinatown is the place to go.

When it comes to food, there are plenty of Cantonese cafes and restaurants serving up traditional dishes such as dim sum, congee, and noodle soups. For casual dining, you can pick up snacks from one of the many street vendors offering everything from bubble tea to fresh fruit. Of course, larger restaurants also have full menus catering to locals and tourists alike.

Drinking options range from local bars with many exotic beers on tap, teahouses offering traditional Chinese teas like jasmine oolong, or even high-end cocktail bars with modern interpretations of classic Chinese drinks. No matter your preference, there is something for everyone in Chinatown!

Entertainment

Vancouver, Canada, is a vibrant city filled with various entertainment options. Whether you’re looking to explore the local music scene, watch a live show, or try out an immersive experience, there’s something for everyone.

In this section, we’ll explore some of the best entertainment options in Vancouver and why you should check them out:

Visit the Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium is located in Stanley Park, allowing visitors to get close to marine life worldwide. The Aquarium features over 50,000 creatures and over 100 exhibits, including Steller Bay’s magnificent rays, polar liners, jellyfish sea otters, and harbor porpoises.

Visitors can also explore the Aviary with native Pacific Northwest birds and a rotating schedule of feature exhibits and films at the Cinema Room. It will be an entertaining way to learn more about local and global marine life while visiting this city in beautiful British Columbia.

Take in a Show at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre

The Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver, Canada, is a perfect destination for taking in a show. It opened in 1959 and has hosted many famous events, from the symphony orchestra and city theatre to modern pop concerts. In terms of size, it holds more than 2,500 people with two gallery levels and two balconies featuring a stunning chandelier imported from England.

The Queen Elizabeth Theatre stages both ticketed and open-access performances at reasonable prices. Plays organized by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra feature exquisite compositions, while comedies like The Rocky Horror Show give you an evening to laugh. Local groups also take to the stage here. Many come raving about the live performances at this comfortably cozy venue!

Take advantage of the theatre’s many different event options, ensuring something entertaining for everyone traveling through Vancouver!

Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery

The Vancouver Art Gallery is one of Vancouver’s most renowned attractions in the heart of downtown. This iconic cultural space showcases an impressive array of artwork, special exhibitions, and public programs that provide valuable insight into various artistic practices. From contemporary works to classic pieces, the gallery offers a talented mix of international and local artists that inspires visitors worldwide.

Visitors can explore work from established and emerging artists in the 20th and 21st centuries within this historic building. The gallery features seven galleries, with collections and exhibitions that explore everything from regional talent to multiculturalism and changing social issues. In addition to its diverse range of artwork, art classes, symposiums, and creative workshops for all ages are all offered throughout the year.

The Vancouver Art Gallery also features a café with on-site light bites for visitors to enjoy while taking in the unmistakable atmosphere of culture throughout this premier attraction. So whether you spend an afternoon or a whole day at the Vancouver Art Gallery, you won’t regret visiting to explore this remarkable cultural haven!

Outdoor Activities

If you’re visiting Vancouver, Canada, you won’t be disappointed by the outdoor activities available. From mountain biking to kayaking, there’s something for everyone.

This section will cover the different outdoor activities you can do in Vancouver. From its stunning lakes and beaches to its many parks and hiking trails, Vancouver truly has something for everyone:

  • Mountain biking
  • Kayaking
  • Exploring lakes and beaches
  • Visiting parks
  • Hiking trails

Go Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore Vancouver and its surrounding areas. In the waters around Vancouver, you can paddle your kayak, canoe, or paddle board through stunning seaside scenery on the Georgia Strait or explore peaceful wetlands in the local parks. You can even book guided tours, rent gear from local shops, or join organized multi-day trips that explore remote parts of the Pacific Northwest Coast.

Kayaking gives you access to secluded areas that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to reach in a larger boat; it’s also an affordable and eco-friendly way to discover Vancouver’s marine parks and hidden coves and its abundant wildlife, including seals and sea lions. Whatever direction you choose to explore, your kayaking adventure will surely be an unforgettable experience!

Hike the North Shore Mountains

Vancouver, Canada, is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Hikers from all over the world come to experience the fantastic trails of the North Shore Mountains, which offer spectacular views of both the ocean and downtown Vancouver. So whether you’re looking for a peaceful day hike with friends or an intense backcountry challenge, there’s something for everyone in these beautiful mountains.

The best place to start your hike is at one of two trailheads: Fromme Mountain or Grouse Mountain. Fromme is closest to downtown Vancouver, so it’s an excellent choice for those exploring Vancouver’s spectacular cityscape as they hike. Grouse Mountain, on the other hand, is perfect for more experienced hikers as it has a variety of rugged terrain and technical climbs to explore.

After you choose your starting point, it’s time to hit the trails! Regardless of your preferred trailhead, you can be sure that each trail will take you through unique ecosystems like old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and deep creeks. Some of the most popular hikes include:

  • Quarry Rock in Deep Cove (via Baden Powell)
  • The Lions at Seymour Creek
  • Lynn Loop in Lynn Canyon Park

You can also find challenging backcountry hikes perfect for overnight treks, like BCMC Trail in Cypress Mountain and Diez Vistas Trail at Buntzen Lake Regional Park.

So pack your hiking boots and head out into the North Shore Mountains! There are countless miles of trails waiting to be explored by outdoor adventure seekers looking to discover more about this natural wonderland nestled in Canada’s west coast region.

Take a Whale-watching Tour

Vancouver, Canada, is an ideal destination for a whale-watching tour. The Pacific Ocean and nearby waterways are filled with whales and other majestic animals, making it a popular activity for locals and international travelers. However, choosing which tour suits you can be challenging with many options.

Embark on a 3-4 hour whale watching tour aboard one of the many ships that navigate the local waters. Not only will you be able to admire the magnificent creatures from close quarters, but you may also experience wildlife interaction such as seal mating, orca (or killer whale) visits, and sightings of grey whales, humpback whales, and minke whales. It’s like taking a short trip to the Antarctic!

Onboard some tours, and you’ll have access to additional amenities such as food, drinks, and live narration from an experienced guide or marine biologist who will identify various species of birds and marine mammals along the way. In addition, tours can sometimes include bonus activities such as beach visits or kayaking expeditions when there is plenty of time between sightings.

Whether you take a shorter cruise that focuses on wildlife viewing or embarks on an all-day adventure that includes additional activities along with your whale-watching experience, Vancouver has something for everyone who would like to observe these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.