Are you planning a visit to Vancouver, BC? Well, you’re in for a treat! Vancouver is a stunningly beautiful city that offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. From the bustling downtown area to the stunningly scenic surroundings, there is something for everyone in Vancouver. In this blog post, we’ll share some of the best things to do and see when you visit Vancouver, BC.
1. Visit Granville Island
Visiting Granville Island while in Vancouver, BC is a must-do! Ride the water taxi and stroll through the bustling Public Market. Explore the quaint shops and galleries, take in the incredible views of the city skyline, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the waterfront. With its eclectic mix of art, food, culture, and entertainment, Granville Island is an essential, family-friendly Vancouver destination.
2. Stroll along the Sea Wall
The Vancouver Sea Wall is a stunning stretch of shoreline that has been around for over 100 years. It spans 28 kilometers and is located along the waterfront from Stanley Park to Spanish Banks. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors to take in the views of the ocean and the skyline of the city. The Sea Wall also provides a safe and accessible way to explore the shoreline and is a great place to go for a walk or a bike ride. The Sea Wall is a beautiful (and free!) way to take in the natural beauty of Vancouver and its surrounding areas.
3. Explore Stanley Park and the Vancouver Aquarium
Stanley Park is a much-loved public park in Vancouver, BC. It is over 400 hectares of lush green space, offering incredible views of the North Shore Mountains, the Burrard Inlet, and the city skyline. Located within Stanley Park is the Vancouver Aquarium, which provides visitors with a chance to see a diverse selection of marine life, from dolphins to sea lions to belugas. The aquarium also offers educational and interactive programs for visitors of all ages, making it a great place to explore the wonders of the aquatic world.
4. Ride the Grouse Mountain Gondola
The Grouse Mountain Gondola is a breathtaking and memorable experience. Located in North Vancouver, the gondola is a five-minute cable car ride that takes visitors to the top of Grouse Mountain. As visitors ascend to the summit, they can marvel at the stunning views of the city, the ocean, and the surrounding mountains. They can also experience some of the many activities the mountain has to offer, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and scenic chairlift rides. It’s a great way to take in the beauty of the area from a different perspective – by air!
5. Walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge
A 5-minute drive from Grouse Mountain is the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Spanning 230 feet (70 m) across and 230 feet (70 m) above the Capilano River in North Vancouver, this iconic landmark is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the area, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest and canyon. The bridge, which was originally built in 1889, is made of durable hemp rope, cedar planks, and Douglas fir and is supported by two massive towers on either side. It is an exciting and thrilling experience to cross the bridge and take in the breathtaking beauty of the nature that surrounds it.
6. Immerse yourself in the Museum of Anthropology
If indoor activities are more your thing, the UBC Museum of Anthropology is a fascinating and educational experience located at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC. The museum is home to a wide variety of collections, including First Nations artifacts, archaeological artifacts, ethnographic material, and contemporary art. Visitors to the museum can explore the world-famous Great Hall of the Northwest Coast, which is filled with totem poles, carved masks, and other traditional objects. The museum also houses galleries dedicated to the cultures of Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas, as well as a Multiversity Gallery that explores the relationships between different cultures across the world. The museum also offers interactive exhibits, as well as educational programs, talks, and workshops. The museum is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the rich and diverse cultural history of British Columbia.
7. Vancouver Mural Fest and the Eastside Culture Crawl
If you’re looking to take in some of the vibrant, local art of Vancouver, BC, then plan your trip to fall on one of these major Vancouver, BC art festivals. The Eastside Culture Crawl is an annual event that takes place each November, celebrating the eclectic and creative community of East Vancouver. Explore artist studios, galleries, and public spaces to view the works of local artists.
Vancouver Mural Festival is an annual late summer celebration of public art in the city and features a variety of public artworks from local, national, and international artists, including murals, installations, sculptures, and performances. The festival features over 200 public artworks all over Vancouver. Both events are sure to be exciting and memorable for all who attend, no matter what age!
8. Hit the beach!
Vancouver, BC is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the picturesque Kitsilano Beach, with its stunning views of the downtown skyline, to Spanish Banks, which has a large sandy beach perfect for sunning and swimming, to Jericho Beach, which is a great spot for a picnic or to just relax, you can’t go wrong with visiting one of Vancouver’s beaches. There are also plenty of activities to explore, such as kayaking, paddle-boarding, and beach volleyball, making it the perfect spot for a day of fun in the sun!
9. Sample craft beer
Vancouver, BC’s craft beer industry is an ever-growing and exciting scene. With over 110 breweries located in the Greater Vancouver area, craft beer lovers can find a wide range of unique, locally produced ales, lagers, and IPAs to enjoy. From traditional styles to sour beers and barrel-aged ales, there is something for everyone in Vancouver’s craft beer scene. Notable spots include 33 Acres Brewing Co., Parallel 49 Brewing Co. and Brassneck Brewing.
10. Eat well
The culinary scene in Vancouver, BC is truly something special. With its coastal location, Vancouver is home to some of the freshest seafood in the world. Additionally, Vancouver has a thriving Asian food scene, with many restaurants specializing in cuisine from India, Japan, China, and Korea, as well as a variety of fusion restaurants. There are also plenty of great restaurants serving up comfort and street food from around the world, making it easy to find something for everyone. Vancouver is a great city for food lovers, with its wide variety of culinary options sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Vancouver, BC is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, boasting stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Coastal Mountains, and old-growth forests. The city is home to a diverse range of cultures, activities, and attractions, making it a great destination for a multi-faceted trip that covers many different interests. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s historic sites, take in its natural beauty, or simply enjoy its vibrant culture, Vancouver is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
