Canada is the next door neighbor to the United States and a great country to travel to. It is known for small stereotypes like consistent cold weather, characteristically friendly people and a lot of maple syrup. But to no surprise, there is a lot more to the country to experience and enjoy. One of the must-visit cities in Canada is Vancouver in the province of British Columbia.
Vancouver is one of Canada’s biggest cities, as well as one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse cities in Canada. The city is also visually stunning with its surrounding landscapes and very livable with a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, education, infrastructure, relatively low crime rate and more. With all that said, here are 15 things to do in Vancouver, Canada.
Outdoor Activities
Stanley Park
Stanley Park is one of the most popular destinations in Vancouver and tops many lists of things to do in Vancouver Canada. It’s a 1,000-acre park featuring a seawall, beaches, trails and more. The park’s beautiful beaches include Second Beach and Third Beach, where you can relax, swim or enjoy a picnic. Lovers of nature can enjoy wandering through the lush forests on the park’s numerous trails to check out all the beautiful wildlife. The Vancouver Aquarium, located within the park, is home to a wide range of marine life and educational exhibits. For a touch of history and culture, visit the totem poles at Brockton Point or the rose gardens. Additionally, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride to learn more about the park’s history, enjoy a game of tennis or golf, or dine at one of the park’s charming restaurants.
Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is known as the Peak of Vancouver and offers a wide range of activities year-round that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. In the winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice skating. Take a ride on the Skyride, a scenic aerial tramway, year-round for a spectacular 1,100-meter ascent to the mountaintop. In the summer, visitors can tackle the famous Grouse Grind, a challenging hiking trail known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” or explore other hiking and nature trails. The mountain also features the Wildlife Refuge, home to orphaned grizzly bears and other wildlife, and hosts lumberjack shows and bird demonstrations. For thrill-seekers, the mountain offers ziplines as well as the Eye of the Wind, a turbine with an observation deck that provides great views. Dining options at the peak range from casual eateries to fine dining. You could basically spend your whole day here.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions and also often tops the list of best things to do in Vancouver Canada. Spanning 137 meters (450 feet) across and 70 meters (230 feet) above the Capilano River, the bridge provides views of the lush temperate rainforest of British Columbia and a sense of adventure. Beyond the main bridge at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, visitors can explore a series of seven suspension bridges attached to ancient Douglas fir trees at Treetops Adventure. The Cliff Walk is another exhilarating attraction, featuring narrow suspended walkways jutting out from the granite cliff face and sections of glass floor for daring visitors. The park also hosts informative exhibits on the area’s ecology and the history of the First Nations people, whose totem poles are prominently displayed throughout the site. During the winter holiday season, the park transforms with the Canyon Lights display that illuminates the bridges and forest with thousands of sparkling lights. Get everything from beauty, culture and thrills at the must-visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in Vancouver.
Vancouver Seawall
Traveling along the Vancouver Seawall aka the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path is a spectacular way to explore the city’s coastline. Stretching 28 kilometers (17 miles), it begins at Coal Harbour and winds around Stanley Park, through downtown Vancouver, past English Bay, and continues to Kitsilano Beach and beyond to the University of British Columbia. The Seawall is perfect for walking, jogging, cycling and rollerblading, with separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists to ensure safety. Along the route, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains and city skyline, as well as access numerous beaches, parks and attractions. Highlights include Stanley Park’s scenic paths, Granville Island’s lively atmosphere and the beauty of False Creek. The Seawall is dotted with cafes, restaurants and picnic spots, making it an ideal place to relax and take some time to enjoy your surroundings. Head to the Vancouver Seawall for a leisurely stroll, a vigorous workout or simply a beautiful place to unwind.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Queen Elizabeth Park, perched on Little Mountain in Vancouver, is renowned for its meticulously maintained gardens. This includes the Quarry Garden, which features a stunning array of seasonal flowers, exotic plants and beautifully landscaped greenery. The Bloedel Conservatory, an indoor tropical garden and aviary, houses over 100 free-flying exotic birds and a diverse collection of tropical and subtropical plants. The park also has tennis courts, lawn bowling and pitch-and-putt golf for recreational activities. Art enthusiasts can explore outdoor sculptures and public art installations scattered throughout the park. This park is the highest point in Vancouver, so don’t forget a camera for pictures of the city, the North Shore Mountains and beyond.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Museum of Anthropology
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the study and display of world cultures, with a special emphasis on the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. The museum was designed by famed architect Arthur Erickson, and it showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, including totem poles, carvings, pottery, textiles and more. The MOA’s Great Hall features large-scale Indigenous art and monumental sculptures. The museum also emphasizes contemporary Indigenous art and issues to give visitors a deeper understanding of First Nations cultures and their ongoing contributions to society.
Vancouver Art Gallery
The gallery is housed in a historic courthouse building and features an impressive collection of over 12,000 artworks. The works include significant pieces by Canadian and Indigenous artists, as well as international works. In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery hosts rotating exhibitions, public programs, and educational workshops, making it a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of the city.
Gastown
Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood known for its historic charm and lively atmosphere. The town combines the old and the new with cobblestone streets, vintage street lamps and beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. It’s home to an eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, trendy restaurants and bars. One of its most famous landmarks is the Gastown Steam Clock with its steam-powered chimes.
Chinatown
Explore one of North America’s largest Chinatowns, visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, and enjoy authentic cuisine. Vancouver’s Chinatown is one of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in North America. There are plenty of things to do in Vancouver, Canada when you visit Chinatown with its lively streets, colorful markets and historic buildings. Check out the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, a serene and authentic representation of a Ming Dynasty garden. The neighborhood is also famed for its diverse array of Asian restaurants, herbal medicine shops and specialty stores.
Unique Experiences
Granville Island
Granville Island in Vancouver is a hub of culture, food and art. At its heart is the Granville Island Public Market, where you can browse a diverse selection of fresh produce, artisanal foods and handmade crafts. The island is also home to art galleries, studios and theaters, including the renowned Arts Club Theatre and Granville Island Stage, that you can visit for performances and exhibitions. Restaurants at Granville Island range from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants that often feature locally sourced ingredients. Granville Island Brewery offers craft beer tastings and tours, while the island’s waterfront location provides opportunities for kayaking, boating and strolls along the docks.
Science World
Science World in Vancouver is a science museum located in the iconic geodesic dome at the end of False Creek. Find a range of interactive science and technology exhibits and hands-on activities designed for visitors of all ages. The museum features permanent galleries on topics such as physics, biology and sustainability, as well as rotating temporary exhibitions on various scientific themes. One of its highlights is the OMNIMAX Theatre, which screens educational films on a massive dome screen for an immersive viewing experience. Science World has the best things to do in Vancouver, Canada for fellow nerds.
FlyOver Canada
Experience a virtual flight ride that takes you across Canada’s stunning landscapes with FlyOver Canada located at Canada Place. The attraction uses state-of-the-art technology to create the sensation of flying over some of the country’s most stunning and iconic scenery. Guests are seated in a suspended chair with their feet dangling, while the spherical screen wraps around them, providing a 360-degree view. The ride features special effects such as wind, mist and scents to make it feel as though you are actually soaring over mountains, forests, prairies and urban landscapes. The pre-show area gives a good introduction to Canada’s culture and geography.
Beaches and Waterfronts
English Bay Beach
English Bay Beach, located in downtown Vancouver along the city’s West End, is one of Vancouver’s most popular urban beaches. It’s home to a wide, sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing, swimming and beach volleyball. The beach features convenient amenities such as washrooms, concessions and kayak rentals. Next to the beach is the English Bay area, with a variety of restaurants, cafes and shops. English Bay Beach is also the focal point of major events to look out for, such as the annual Celebration of Light fireworks competition.
Kitsilano Beach
Kitsilano Beach, aka “Kits Beach,” is one of Vancouver’s most beloved urban beaches, located in the Kitsilano neighborhood. It’s another great beach with a wide shoreline ideal for sunbathing, swimming and volleyball, plus its excellent views of the city skyline and North Shore Mountains. It is also home to the Kitsilano Pool, Canada’s longest outdoor saltwater pool. The surrounding park has grassy areas for picnics, tennis courts and a playground. Nearby, you can also find a variety of cafes, restaurants and shops along West 4th Avenue and Yew Street.
Jericho Beach
Find things to do in Vancouver, Canada that allow you to escape the city at Jericho Beach, situated in the West Point Grey neighborhood along the city’s waterfront. Enjoy all the beach activities here and take in the views of the North Shore Mountains and English Bay. This beach is also popular for water sports such as windsurfing, sailing and kayaking, with rental facilities available nearby. Jericho Beach Park has grassy areas, picnic tables and barbecue pits that make a great spot for family outings and gatherings. The beach is also adjacent to the Jericho Sailing Centre, and features walking and cycling paths along the waterfront.