Vancouver is packed with incredible experiences, but how do you know which ones are actually worth your time? Whether you’re here for a quick visit or planning a deep dive into the city, this is a great mix of the best things to do in Vancouver from breathtaking nature, food adventures, or iconic sights.
Don’t miss out on the must-dos that makes this city special. Let’s make your trip unforgettable.
Best Things To Do In Vancouver
Although Vancouver is the 3rd largest metropolitan in Canada, you’ve probably heard others saying the best of Vancouver is the outdoors – this is for a very good reason. While the city has its highlights (that I’ll cover later), the landscape is what provides the most memorable experiences.
Explore Stanley Park And The Seawall
You can’t skip Stanley Park when you visit Vancouver – it’s a massive 1,001-acre playground right next to downtown. Locals love biking the Seawall, which is a scenic ~5.5-mile (9km) loop that wraps around the park’s edge. You’ll get amazing views of the mountains, the harbor, and the city skyline along the way.
Grab a rental bike near the park entrance and hit the path. The full loop takes about 2 hours if you’re taking it easy and stopping for photos. Otherwise an hour is certainly possible. Keep an eye out for the Brockton Point Lighthouse and Siwash Rock along the way.
Pro tip: Head out early morning to dodge the crowds, especially in summer. The path can get packed with tourists by mid-day. Plus, the morning light makes for killer photos across the water.
Short on time or enjoy cycling?
You can visit a bunch of city highlights with a bicycle tour. It’s ~5 hours long and covers many spots that I mention below.
Ride To The Top Of Grouse Mountain
Want to get some insane views of Vancouver? One way is to jump on the Skyride gondola at Grouse Mountain. The 8-minute ride takes you up the mountain, with the whole city getting tinier and tinier below you. On clear days, you can even spot Vancouver Island across the water.
There’s tons to do on Grouse Mountain including many family friendly activities. Catch the lumberjack show (so Canadian!) or watch grizzly bears hanging out in their sanctuary.
In winter, the mountain turns into a snowy playground with skiing and snowboarding. Summer opens up other thrilling activities like hiking and zip-lining through the trees. The Grouse Grind, also famously known as Mother Nature’s Staircase (~2800 stairs), is a nice challenge for those wanting jelly legs a quad pump.
The Grouse Mountain is one of the most famous landmarks in Vancouver. If you don’t drive or want a convenient access to this nature paradise, many people join a guided tour that combines this with the other highlights around Vancouver like the Capilano Bridge.
Walk Across Capilano Suspension Bridge
And that takes us to another must-do when visiting Vancouver. The Capilano Suspension Bridge swings 230 feet above the rushing river below. Yeah, it wobbles when you walk, but that’s part of the fun! I don’t think it’s that scary in terms of fear level, but even if you are, the views of the rainforest canyon are worth the jitters.
The park’s got more than just the main bridge as well. The Treetops Adventure lets you bounce between platforms high in the Douglas firs trees, while the Cliffwalk hugs the granite canyon wall and has spots with glass floors.
Show up early when they open if you want to skip the crazy afternoon lines. You can also save a bunch of planning by grabbing a ticket online that includes free shuttle transport between the bridge and downtown Vancouver.
Winter bonus if you visit during the right time (~Nov-Jan), they deck out the whole place in twinkling lights for their Canyon Lights festival.
Special Experiences In Vancouver
Go Whale Spotting Off The Coast
If you are visiting between April to October, one experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss is a whale watching adventure. There is a variety of species in the waters off Vancouver’s coast, and what you see depends on the season (with Orcas and humpback being the more common ones); so this could even be on the cards if you’re revisiting the city at a different time.
It’s both a comfy ride and educational one if you are keen on the marine ecosystem and geology of the area. Otherwise, there’s few things more special than seeing a whale breaching through the water.
The whole trip takes around 5 hours which flies by if you’re having a high sighting day. What’s interesting is the tour offers a whale sightings guarantee, which means you can join another tour for free if you don’t spot any whales (That can come in handy if you’re visiting off the peak whale season).
Hop On A Seaplane For Majestic Bird’s Eye View
I consider this one of the more premium experiences to go for, but can’t imagine it will be anything less than memorable. Certainly a cool option if you are with a loved one, but solo travelers – don’t let me stop you.
If you want to (quite literally) elevate your Vancouver experience, the Vancouver Panorama Classic Seaplane Flight will take you up from the sparkling waters of Coal Harbour for a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful surrounding and land back at the same spot.
You will get an unparalleled view of Vancouver’s iconic landmarks – the lush Stanley Park, the downtown skyline, and the majestic North Shore Mountains as a backdrop.
But fret not if you don’t want to splurge on a seaplane, I’ll cover a few other spots below where you can get great views of Vancouver (they probably don’t rival the seaplane views, but hey, they’re cheaper/free)
Vantage Viewpoints In Vancouver
Head Up to Vancouver Lookout for City Views
The Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre gives you spectacular views from 553 feet (168m) up in the air. The glass elevator takes you to the top in 40 seconds (you might want to pop your eyes on the way up).
At the top, the wraparound windows are awesome for checking out the surroundings, from the North Shore Mountains to Stanley Park and “tiny” boats dotting the harbor.
The observation deck will have less crowd in the morning but if you want to catch both day and night views, come before sunset (only on months when sunset early, the lookout closes at 6pm). The lounge area up top is good for chilling out while you watch the sky change colors over downtown.
Want the best photos? Go on a clear day right after it rains – that’s when the mountains look extra sharp against the blue sky.
Visit Queen Elizabeth Park and Bloedel Conservatory
Queen Elizabeth Park sits on Little Mountain, which is the highest point in Vancouver. So you can definitely expect some nice views of the city and mountains. In addition, you can wander through the quarry gardens where they’ve turned an old rock pit into this gorgeous sunken garden with winding paths and waterfalls.
The Bloedel Conservatory is sort of the park’s main highlight. It’s the giant glass dome packed with tropical plants and colorful birds flying free. You can spent ages watching the macaws show off and trying to spot the tiny finches hiding in the plants. The humid air inside makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a rainforest.
The best time to visit, in my opinion, is during Spring. This is when the cherry blossoms and tulips pop. If you want to avoid the tour crowd, show up early morning and claim a spot on the grass (consider bringing snacks for a picnic, it’s a nice atmosphere). Alternatively, come for the sunset view in the evening.
Another advantage of this spot is that it is less crowded than Stanley Park but just as pretty! If you want to get romantic, you can splurge at the restaurant with a panoramic city and mountain views (hint hint to the honeymoon folks ;)).
Take A Road Trip On The Sea-To-Sky Highway
The Sea-to-Sky Highway (or Highway 99) is rated as one of the most beautiful drives worldwide. This is the connecting road from Vancouver to Whistler, and not one that you wanna sleep on.
The drive takes around 2 hours without stopping. But chances are you will. Because the route has some of the best views of Howe Sound, so definitely factor time for some photos.
If you are not driving and still want to experience the highlights from Vancouver to Whistler, there is a popular round-trip day tour that takes you on the Sea to Sky Gondola as well as the Shannon Falls, in addition to visiting Whistler. None of the hassle, all of the fun.
Vancouver City Highlights
See the Steam Clock In Gastown
Head to Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood to check out the famous Steam Clock on Water Street. This whistling timepiece puts on a show every 15 minutes (the longer show is every hour), shooting steam from its top like a mini locomotive. Ok this is totally touristy and you get plenty people video recording it with their phones, but can’t deny it’s still interesting.
The real charm of Gastown is when you wander its cobblestone streets. The vintage lampposts and brick buildings make it feel like a step back in time. It’s a place where you can wander around aimlessly, just window shopping and hopping into the indie boutiques and art galleries.
But there’s a couple of interesting activities here that will give you a deeper experience of this historic district. Food tours are always a personal favorite to stuff my face explore the culinary scene and the settings fit right in for a spooky tales adventure.
The area looks different after sunset – the evening light hits those old buildings for just the right feel, and the Steam Clock looks extra cool when it’s all lit up.
Explore Science World
You have probably seen the glittering geodesic dome that sticks out on Vancouver’s waterfront like a giant disco ball. This is, quite aptly, the Science World. A museum filled with interactive hands-on exhibits that is even fun for adults. Definitely recommend this if you’re traveling with kids since it would be interesting for both the old and young ones.
There’s many intriguing galleries to explore and also rotating exhibitions that changes time to time. If you are lucky enough to catch an OMNIMAX show, that will likely get the kids super excited. But parts of the place might not operate at tims. So it is definitely good to check what’s going on before you visit.
Of course, the earlier you go, the lesser the people. It’s not just a place for tourists but locals (and schools) as well. Plan for at least 2-3 hours here, longer if you’ve got kids who love pushing every button in sight!
Take A Food Tour In Chinatown
Vancouver’s Chinatown is a feast for your senses and your stomach! This is the biggest Chinatown in Canada and foodie folks – you will enjoy eating their way through this neighborhood.
Wander through the busy streets and pop into the dumpling spots. I recommend following the “nose and crowd” strategy if you want to dive in yourself.
Otherwise, join a food walking tour with a local chef to try all the best spots from an expert’s recommendations, and also learn more about the neighborhood itself.
Note that the best dim sum joints fill up fast, especially on weekends. Pros and cons of visiting during the peak lunch hours: you might need to wait but because the food turnaround is fast, everything’s more fresh and buzzing. And bring cash, some of the hole-in-the-wall spots don’t take cards.
Visit Granville Island Public Market
A favorite spot in Vancouver for many is the Granville Island’s bustling public market. You can easily get there by hopping on the little rainbow-colored Aquabus from downtown – it’s way more fun than driving and gives you nice views of False Creek.
In the market, you’ll find stalls packed with fresh BC seafood, local cheeses, just-baked bread, and colorful produce. If you want to try a bit of everything, the VIP food tour is a great option as they cover around 20 tastings. It is enough to fill you, but you can revisit your favorites after or get some nice takeaways for souvenirs!
There’s also artisan shops around the market where you can things like handmade jewelry and local art. Budget about 2-3 hours to soak it in, and carry some cash as some smaller vendors don’t take cards.
Tip: Weekday mornings are quieter and you can shop in more peace
Discover The Artsy And Culture Side Of Granville Island
Of course, if you are on Granville Island, there’s more than just the public market (although that deserves a special mention).
This waterfront district is like an arts and culture hub that has many unique shops, art galleries and also the Granville Island Theatre. So if you want to skip the big name brands, here’s where you can find and support more independent creatives.
Crafts here isn’t limited to typical artistic products, alcohol brewing is also a craft hey!! For the drinkers, check out Granville Island Brewing, one of Canada’s first microbreweries, for a tasting flight of their signature beers. For something stronger, The Liberty Distillery serves up locally crafted whiskey, gin, and vodka in a cozy speakeasy-style setting.
There’s plenty to enjoy on Granville Island even if you are just strolling along the marina, watching street performers or window shopping.
Adventurous Things To Do In Vancouver
With access to both the mountains and ocean, you can imagine there’s plenty of opportunities for adventure activities in Vancouver.
Adventure On And In The Waters
If you are into water sports, Vancouver is quite an unbeatable location. The stunning coastline, beautiful waters, and abundant marine life means you can get some of the best aquatic experiences with a mix of nature and fauna.
Whether you’re into kayaking, snorkeling, or high-speed boating, there’s options to choose from. Howe Sound is one of the most popular spots for these. The most convenient way to experience it all is to join a guided tour that takes care of the logistics so you can focus on the fun without worrying about safety and planning.
Fun ecotours like this means you get to soak in the scenic nature, get up close to seals, and enjoy the thrill of water sports all within half a day. There are also diving expeditions for those who like to explore deeper into the waters.
Hit The Snowy Slopes
Canadians are no stranger to snow, so you can imagine there’s still plenty things to do in Vancouver during winter. And snow sports definitely falls on the top of that list.
With all the mountains around, there are many options for skiing or snowboarding. Plus, some of them are quick to get to, so you can go from sipping a morning coffee downtown to skiing on fresh powder within an hour. No surprise that many Canadians even come up North to hit the slopes.
Some of the popular locations are Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, Mount Seymour and Whistler Blackcomb. Few of them also have dedicated tubing parks for those who want to enjoy the snow, but maybe at a less intense level.
If you enjoy hiking, Vancouver can be a good place to try out snowshoeing. There are nice trails on some of these surrounding mountains as well.
Hike And Immerse In Nature At Lynn Canyon
If the Capilano Suspension Bridge is not sufficient in satisfying your suspension bridge obsession, you will find another one in Lynn Canyon. Unlike Capilano, it’s completely free and far less crowded. And just 20 minutes drive from downtown Vancouver.
But really, the whole nature park landscape here is the highlight. For many hikers, this is a must-visit hidden gem. The beautiful trails and the waterfalls that you get to see within this lush temperate rainforest are actually no less more epic than other spots around Vancouver. The Baden-Powell Trail is one to go for if you are up for a full day challenge.
Local Popular Things To Do In Vancouver
Catch A Hockey Game
Everyone knows that Canada loves hockey, so easily one of the most exciting things you can do in Vancouver to feel the passionate local energy. If you visit between October and April, you can easily catch a Canuck game and watch them compete.
Keep in mind that such games are popular, so it is good to get your ticket beforehand if you want the best seats.
Enjoy A Meal Or Coffee On The Drive
If you want to experience Vancouver beyond the tourist hotspots, Commercial Drive (or “The Drive” as locals call it) is the place to be. Known for its bohemian vibe, multicultural influences, and some of the best food in the city, this East Vancouver favorite is where artists, musicians, and free spirits come together.
Once the heart of Vancouver’s Italian community, The Drive has evolved into a diverse, artsy, and unapologetically local neighborhood. Here you will find Portuguese bakeries, Edwardian houses, Italian pasta and pizza places, Brazilian coffee houses, all sorts of international stuff.
Come for a great cup of coffee, do some vintage shopping, or even just people watch, this is one place to check out.
Sing To The Best Tunes At The Commodore
The Commodore Ballroom is one of the most beloved and oldest venues in Vancouver for live music. It originated during the 1920s, and ever since then, it has hosted many famous artists. These include Lady Gaga, Tina Turner, U2, and much more.
That is why it is one of the most popular things to do in Vancouver if you love live music and enjoy concerts. The best part is that the prices are affordable, and the place’s ambiance is casual. That is why you will not have to worry about much when you get tickets.
Wander Through The Richmond Night Market
Nearby in Richmond, the Richmond Night Market is held during the summer season and is one of the annual highlight events in the area. They claim to be the largest night market in North America, which I definitely think is possible.
The whole market is like a showcase of Asian culture (also because it is founded by You will find a bunch of fantastic food, stalls of endless trinkets, and beautiful art demonstrations. It is a highlight of Asian culture!
Catch A Beautiful Sunset At English Bay
If you are looking for the best sunset spot in Vancouver, it doesn’t get better than the English Bay. You can find some great eateries here for food and cocktails. Once you are done indulging in amazing food, you can find a bench and watch one of the most beautiful sunsets you will ever experience in your life.
At English Bay, you can also find one of the best beaches in Vancouver.
Attend A Local Event In The Georgia Strait
There is nothing better than attending a local event in the Georgia Strait if you are wondering what to do in Vancouver. They have excellent ballets, movie shows, local community center talent shows, jazz at local clubs, comedy shows on Granville Island, etc. The list is endless, so you will find something local to do in no time.
Hit A Yoga Studio
Did you know that Vancouver is the city that launched Lululemon, a brand for yoga apparel and active wear? This is why your trip will be incomplete if you don’t attend a session at one of the yoga studios. The best part is that many places offer a reasonable rate and enjoyable experience.
You can relax with others while fulfilling your exercise needs. If you visit a community center, you can attend the class for as low as $5. The activity will relieve stress from your muscles because of moving around every day. After all, trips can be exhausting because of covering long distances or staying in a vehicle for an extended period.
Relaxing Places To Visit In Vancouver
Take a Harbor Cruise
Despite all the different angles and ways to soak in the surroundings, the view of Vancouver’s skyline from the water is nothing to scoff at! This is also one of the most relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Hopping on a harbor cruise from Coal Harbour, you get amazing views of the mountains, large green parks, and if you are lucky, you might even spot some seals without having to go too far.
There are many sightseeing cruises to choose from, some even including meals like lunch or dinner. The sunset time is undoubtedly the most popular, so it’s better to book that in advance if you want to enjoy the golden hour on the waters. And bring an extra layer to be outdoors, it gets chilly on the water, even on warm days.
Zen Mode At The Chinese Gardens In Chinatown
While you are in Chinatown, you must visit the Chinese Gardens that will help you connect with your inner Zen monk. The best part about these gardens is the construction. That is because the entire gardens are constructed by hand, and it mimics complex gardens that you will find on the Mainland.
All these gardens keep up with the Buddhist and Confucian traditions. So, if you want to enjoy an evening of relaxation and peace, be sure to visit these gardens.
“Rest In Peace” At The Van Dusen Botanical Gardens
The VanDusen Botanical Garden is one of the more relaxing places to visit in Vancouver. It covers 55 arces and has several themed gardens, each relaxing but also special. You can spend hours just wandering around and soaking in the nature, or getting lost in the hedge maze :p
The garden changes with every season so it’s always worth revisiting. Spring brings tulips and cherry blossoms, summer explodes with roses, and autumn sets the trees on blaze with orangey colors. The meditation garden in particular is a nice getaway from the city buzz.
Show up right when they open in the morning to catch the gardens at their most peaceful. The little garden shop also sells some cool local plants and garden-inspired gifts that’s a good variation from typical tourist stuff.
Relax At Kitsilano Beach
Kitsilano is one of the most popular beaches in Vancouver, which is not surprising with its sweet mountain views and spacious sandy areas.
The beach sits in one of Vancouver’s coolest neighborhoods, and the water’s actually warm enough for swimming in summer (though don’t expect Hawaiian temps!).
You will see many people engaging in sports activities here. Frisbee and volleyball are some common favorites. But there’s even basketball hoops and awesome playgrounds for kids.
And you won’t miss the massive heated outdoor pool right next to the beach. It’s the longest in Canada at 137 meters. Even when the weather’s iffy, you can still splash around with those killer mountain views. But obviously, Kitsilano beach is best when the weather is good, and it is also a nice sunset spot.
Take A Stroll In The Pacific Spirit Park
If there is one thing that the people of Vancouver love, it is spending their time outdoors in nature to connect with themselves and the surroundings. That is exactly what they do in the Pacific Spirit Park, which is why it is one of the best things to do in Vancouver so you can enjoy like the locals. The park is on 874 hectares of lush forest with many manicured trails for you to explore.
The park is also pet-friendly, which is why you can also take your furry companion for a walk here. You can hike the trails or stroll around the park. Whenever you get tired, you can always find a spot where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful sounds of the forest that will calm you completely from the inside.
Go On Wine Tasting Tours
If you’re more wine than beer or hard liquor, fret not! Just a short drive from the city, the Fraser Valley has a variety of wineries that reflects the region’s unique terroir and commitment to quality. Some of the renowned ones here are Glass House Estate, Backyard and Township 7.
You can get yourself there with a driver, but a much simpler way will be hop on a wine tour that visits multiple wineries. No worries on navigation and logistics, just get ready to sample a bunch of local produces.
Many of them will even give you insights into the winemaking process, with a look at the barrel rooms and bottling lines.
Free Things To Do In Vancouver
Vancouver isn’t the cheapest destination but this doesn’t mean you can’t visit on a budget. Here are some free things to do in Vancouver.
Do Some Reading At The Rooftop Garden Of Vancouver Public Library
The Vancouver Public Library is a temple for readers because of the extensive collection. You can find plenty of great books and informative materials at this library. The best part is that the location also provides a rooftop garden with a scenic view overlooking the city’s tall buildings.
A great thing about the library and rooftop garden is that they are free to visit. You can borrow a book and go to the garden to get some quiet reading done. The best rooftop has tables and chairs, so you don’t have to worry about discomfort. You are sure to learn some interesting facts about Canada at the library.
Attend Free Local Events
The best part about Vancouver is that many free events are held throughout the city at different times. For instance, CBC hosts a series of free music concerts during the summer to celebrate its anniversary. Besides that, you may also encounter free salsa lessons at Robson Square.
Kitsilano Showboat is also a series of free events that take place in the summer. A huge crowd of locals and tourists attend the beach on the relevant days to learn more about the tradition. Stanley Park also hosts free outdoor movie nights during summers and winters.
Discovering Things To Do In Vancouver, Canada
Some places have a checklist—you come, you tick off the sights, you leave. Vancouver isn’t one of them. Here, it’s about how you experience it. Maybe you spend the day getting lost in nature. Maybe you hop from café to café, watching the city move around you. Whatever kind of traveler you are, Vancouver meets you there. So take your time, do it your way, and if you need more ideas, we’ve got plenty more.
These are the top places to visit in Vancouver. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Vancouver, and this list just scratches the surface!
Whether you’re looking for a fun date idea or something to keep you busy on a rainy day, Vancouver has something for everyone. The best part is that many of them are free while others come at a reasonable price.
If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city, be sure to add some of these activities to your itinerary!
