Vancouver is a city in Canada’s gorgeous Pacific Northwest area, and it offers something for everyone. Vancouver truly has it all, from its magnificent natural surroundings to its vibrant arts and entertainment scene to its various neighborhoods and world-class attractions.
There are lots to see and do in Vancouver, whether you are a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or a foodie. In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 things to do in Vancouver Canada so you can make the most of your trip to this amazing city. So without further ado, let’s dive in and explore all that Vancouver has to offer!
What Are The Top 10 Things To Do in Vancouver Canada?
Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a 1,000-acre urban park located in the heart of Vancouver. The park is home to a 5.5-mile seawall path. For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Stanley Park is a must-see. Hiking, biking, and rollerblading along the park’s seawall, swimming and sunbathing at the beaches, and exploring the park’s various gardens and woodlands are just a handful of the recreational activities available.
The park also contains the Vancouver Aquarium, one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Furthermore, Stanley Park is home to the famous 9 o’clock gun, which fires every night at 9:00 p.m., as well as the S.S. Empress of Japan figurehead, which was salvaged from a shipwreck. The park also provides an excellent area for picnics and enjoying a fresh perspective on Vancouver.
Granville Island
Granville Island is a small peninsula located just south of downtown Vancouver. The island is home to a bustling public market, which sells fresh produce, seafood, and other local products, as well as numerous artisan studios and galleries.
The island also has several theaters, including the Granville Island Stage, which is home to the Vancouver International Fringe Festival, and the Kids’ Only Zone, which has a children’s park and several other attractions for kids.
You can reach Granville Island by car, bike, or on foot, or you can take a water taxi from various locations around the city. Water taxies are always a unique experience as long as you are not prone to getting seasick.
Seawall
If you are looking for a great place to exercise then you do not have to look far. The seawall is a 22-kilometer path that stretches around Stanley Park and along the downtown waterfront.
The path is popular for walking, running, and cycling, and offers stunning views of the ocean, the city, and the North Shore Mountains; the views from the seawall are truly breathtaking.
Along the way, you’ll pass by several landmarks, such as the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Olympic Cauldron, and the Vancouver Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the city from a viewing platform.
Vancouver Art Gallery
The Vancouver Art Gallery, located in the heart of the city, includes works by Canadian and international artists, with a focus on contemporary art. The gallery features over 10,000 pieces in its permanent collection, as well as various special exhibits, and if it could not get better there are activities throughout the year.
The gallery also offers a gift store, a café, and a research library in addition to the art displays. A great location to stop for a cup of coffee and talk about the magnificent paintings on display at the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a 137-meter-long bridge that hangs 70 meters above the Capilano River in North Vancouver. The bridge is part of a larger attraction called Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, which includes several nature trails, a cliff walk, and a tree canopy walk.
The park also has a gift shop and a restaurant. If you are not afraid of heights then you need to do this! But if you are we encourage you to face your fears and tackle the suspension bridge; it is an experience you will not forget.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Vancouver is located just a short drive from several ski resorts, including Whistler Blackcomb, which is consistently ranked as one of the top ski resorts in the world. The ski season in Vancouver typically runs from November to April, and the resorts offer a range of activities, such as downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
In addition to the ski resorts, there are several other winter sports destinations in the area, such as the Cypress Mountain ski area and the Mount Seymour ski resort.
Vancouver Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium is located in Stanley Park and houses over 50,000 animals, including whales, dolphins, seals, sea otters, and various fish species. The aquarium has a plethora of exhibits, including those from the Arctic and the Amazon, as well as a 4D cinema and a variety of educational events and tours.
The aquarium is devoted to conservation and research, and it has a number of projects in place to protect marine life and encourage environmentally friendly practices. The aquarium includes a souvenir shop and a café in addition to the exhibits and educational events. This has to be one of the world’s greatest aquariums!
Grouse Mountain
Hiking, mountain biking, and ziplining are all popular activities on Grouse Mountain. The mountain is located in North Vancouver and may be reached by car or by riding the Grouse Mountain Skyride, a cable car that brings you to the mountain’s summit (We recommend the Skyride).
A ski resort, an observatory with magnificent views of the city and neighboring mountains, and a restaurant can be found at the peak. You may also go hiking on the mountain’s several paths throughout the summer months, including the Grouse Grind, a difficult trail popular with locals.
Neighborhoods
If you really want to explore Canada then you need to see the variety this beautiful country has to offer. You must visit these unique neighborhoods to really get a feel for life in Canada. Vancouver is a diverse and dynamic city with many areas to explore, each with its own unique personality.
Visit Chinatown, Canada’s oldest Chinatown, which boasts several stores, restaurants, and cultural sites; Gastown, the city’s historic downtown with cobblestone streets, Victorian buildings, and a steam clock; and Yaletown, a fashionable district with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafés.
Victoria
Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and is located on Vancouver Island. It’s a popular day trip from Vancouver and can be reached by ferry or by plane.
Victoria is known for its charming downtown, beautiful gardens, and historic landmarks, such as the Royal BC Museum, which has exhibits on the natural and human history of the region, and the Craigdarroch Castle, a Victorian-era mansion. Victoria also has several beaches, parks, and hiking trails, as well as a vibrant food and drink scene.
Top 10 Things To Do in Vancouver Canada Wrap-up
Vancouver is a city that has a lot to offer, with a range of activities and attractions that cater to a variety of interests. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s beautiful natural surroundings, immersing yourself in its rich arts and culture scene, or trying out some of its delicious food and drinks, there’s something for everyone in Vancouver.
So if you’re planning a trip to this amazing city, be sure to check out our list of the top 10 things to do in Vancouver. From Stanley Park and Granville Island, to the seawall and the Vancouver Art Gallery, to the nearby ski resorts and the Vancouver Aquarium, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant and diverse city. Truly one of the best in the world!
Traveling around Vancouver
Transportation is relatively simple in this magnificent city; Vancouver is a very walkable city with a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, the SkyTrain (light rail), and the SeaBus (ferry). Mobi, the city’s bike-sharing service, is also accessible, as are car rental services. If you need to rent a vehicle while you’re in Canada, we recommend…
The city has a well-designed bike lane, and riding is an enjoyable activity in the city, as well as being extremely scenic, making cycling one of the more popular ways of transportation.
Where to stay in Vancouver?
Vancouver has a broad variety of lodging alternatives to suit all budgets and interests. Visitors have the option of staying in luxury hotels, boutique hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or vacation rentals.
The Fairmont Pacific Rim, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, and the Loden Hotel are all popular choices. If you need to search for somewhere to stay find the best value hotels with our partner. Vacation and short-term rentals are also popular, with many accessible on platforms such as Airbnb.
Vancouver’s history and culture
I know that many travelers are history buffs or just want to learn a little bit about the history of the places they travel to. Vancouver Canada should be no different!
Vancouver has a rich and diverse history, with Indigenous peoples have lived in the area for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. Since its official founding in 1886, the city has evolved into a global center for trade, tourism, and culture.
The Museum of Vancouver, the Vancouver Maritime Museum, and the Roedde House Museum are all excellent places to learn more about the city’s history. There are also many historical sights and landmarks throughout the city, including the Gastown steam clock, the UBC Museum of Anthropology, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Discovering the Vibrant Festivals and Events Scene in Vancouver
The city of Vancouver attracts a large number of visitors because it hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, displaying the city’s unique culture and arts sector. The Vancouver International Film Festival, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, the Celebration of Light fireworks competition, the Cultural Olympiad, and the Vancouver Pride Parade are all popular events.
If you are traveling to the city, you should check to see if any of the festivals or events are taking place during your stay!
Tips and Tricks
It’s always helpful for travelers visiting Vancouver to have some tips and tricks for traveling through the city. Some things to bear in mind are:
- Best time to visit: The months of June to September are the warmest and best for outdoor activities, although the city is gorgeous all year long.
- Pack appropriately: The weather in Vancouver may be unpredictable, so dress in layers and pack an umbrella or rain jacket.
- Currency: Canadian currency is used in Vancouver, as are most major credit cards.
- Tipping: In restaurants, tip 15-20%, and for hotel bellhops and taxi/Uber/Lyft drivers, tip $1-$2 per bag. Most purchases are subject to a 5% GST (Goods and Services Tax) and an extra 7-10% PST (Provincial Sales Tax).
- Smoking is not permitted in any public place, including parks, beaches, and walkways.
- Language: English and French are the official languages, however many locals also speak Chinese and other languages.
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