37 Best Things to Do in Vancouver | 2024 (with Photos)
Welcome to Vancouver, a bustling and beautiful coastal city located in western Canada.
As a top destination for travelers, Vancouver boasts an incredible array of tourist attractions, including vibrant city life, stunning waterfront restaurants, and world-renowned urban parks.
If you're looking for outdoor adventure, Vancouver has plenty to offer, from walking tours that showcase the city's unique architecture and history, to boat tours that allow you to explore the city's waterways and coastal areas.
Most Recommended Thing to Do
Stanley Park
Top Choice Hotel
Fairmont Pacific Rim
Our Top Choice Restaurant
Vij's
Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife
The Roxy
Best Time to Visit
Mild summers, iconic fall colors, avoid heavy winter.
Average Temperature
Mild with temperatures ranging from 5 to 20°C.
Transportation Options
Buses, SkyTrain, SeaBus, bicycles, taxis, rideshare, walking, ferries.
Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)
$$$
My Top Recommendation
Paragraph 1: When I think about Vancouver, Canada, one word comes to mind: breathtaking. This picturesque city, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Coastal Mountains, offers a perfect blend of urban charm and natural beauty. I highly recommend starting your exploration by taking a leisurely stroll along the iconic seawall in Stanley Park. The salty ocean breeze, lush greenery, and stunning views of the city skyline will leave you feeling rejuvenated. Don't forget to visit Granville Island, a vibrant hub of art, culture, and delicious food. Indulge in fresh seafood at the public market or browse the quirky boutiques for unique souvenirs. Vancouver's diverse neighborhoods, such as Gastown and Chinatown, are also worth exploring, each with its own distinct charm and character. End your day by enjoying the vibrant nightlife, hopping from trendy bars to live music venues - a perfect way to experience the warmth and vibrancy of the local scene.
Paragraph 2: If you're seeking an adventure in Vancouver, look no further than Grouse Mountain. Just a short distance from downtown, this mountain paradise offers a plethora of outdoor activities year-round. Strap on your hiking boots and conquer the Grouse Grind, a challenging yet rewarding trail that will test your fitness and reward you with sweeping panoramic views at the summit. In the winter, the mountain transforms into a winter wonderland, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. For the adrenaline junkies, try your hand at ziplining or paragliding for a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscape below. After an exhilarating day, treat yourself to a well-deserved meal at one of the mountain's cozy restaurants, where you can indulge in hearty Canadian cuisine while taking in the breathtaking views of the city below. Grouse Mountain truly offers a slice of the wild while being just a stone's throw away from the city.
What You'll Need to Bring
- Warm clothing and layers
- Rain gear, including umbrella or rain jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Valid passport or ID for international travelers
- Travel adapter for electrical outlets
- Cash and credit cards
- Maps or navigation apps for getting around the city
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Snacks and reusable water bottle
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
What Not to Miss
- Stanley Park
- Seawall
- Totem Poles
- Vancouver Aquarium
- Granville Island
- Public Market
- Artisan Shops
- Emily Carr University
- Gastown
- Steam Clock
- Historic cobblestone streets
- Lively restaurants and bars
- Capilano Suspension Bridge
- Suspension bridge
- Treetop walkways
- Cliffwalk
- Museum of Anthropology
- Indigenous art and artifacts
- Stunning architecture
- Ocean views
- Kitsilano Beach
- Water activities
- Beach volleyball
- Beautiful sunset views
- Vancouver Lookout
- Panoramic city views
- Glass elevator experience
- Science World
- Interactive exhibits
- IMAX theater
- Hands-on experiments
- VanDusen Botanical Garden
- Stunning gardens
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Plant collections from around the world
- Vancouver Art Gallery
- Contemporary and historical art
- Rotating exhibitions
- Events and programs.
What to Avoid
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Overpacking: Vancouver has a mild and moderate climate, so there is no need to overpack. Keep your luggage light and versatile.
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Rush hour traffic: Avoid traveling during rush hours, particularly in the morning and evening, to prevent getting stuck in heavy traffic.
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Visiting during peak tourist season: If possible, try to avoid visiting Vancouver in the summer months when tourist crowds are at their highest.
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Not trying local cuisine: Don't miss out on the opportunity to try the delicious local cuisine in Vancouver, such as fresh seafood and authentic Chinese food.
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Ignoring the weather forecast: Vancouver's weather can be unpredictable, so remember to check the forecast and pack accordingly.
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Disrespecting local customs: Be mindful of the local customs and cultural etiquette while exploring Vancouver.
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Skipping public transportation: Vancouver has an efficient public transportation system, so avoid relying solely on taxis or rental cars.
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Not exploring the outdoors: Vancouver is known for its stunning natural beauty, so make sure to spend some time exploring the outdoor activities and beautiful parks the city has to offer.
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Not taking advantage of the city's diverse neighborhoods: Vancouver is a multicultural city with diverse neighborhoods, so make sure to explore different parts of the city to experience its unique charm.
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Not planning enough time for sightseeing: Vancouver has a lot to offer, from Stanley Park to Granville Island and more. Make sure to plan enough time to explore and see all the attractions the city has to offer.
Table of Contents
1. Cross the Bridges in Lynn Canyon Park
Lynn Canyon Park is a popular attraction located in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. A visit to this park is among the best things to do in Vancouver.
The park is known for its breathtaking scenery, including a suspension bridge that spans the canyon and offers stunning views of the surrounding forest.
Lynn Canyon Park is also home to several hiking trails that wind through the forest and lead to picturesque waterfalls, making it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Queen Elizabeth Park
Queen Elizabeth Park is a stunning urban park in Vancouver, Canada, park offers a wide range of activities for visitors.
At Queen Elizabeth Park, you can explore the beautiful gardens or visit the Bloedel Conservatory, a popular attraction within the park.
The Queen Elizabeth Park offers sports facilities, including tennis courts and a pitch-and-putt golf course.
3. Go Whale Watching
Whale watching in Vancouver is a popular activity that allows visitors to observe various species of whales, including humpback and orca whales, in their natural habitat.
Tours are typically led by experienced guides who provide information about the whales and their behavior, making it a memorable and educational experience.
4. Admire the Iconic Gastown Steam Clock
The Gastown Steam Clock is a unique and popular landmark in Vancouver that chimes every quarter hour using steam-powered mechanics.
The clock is not very large, but it is striking and unique and always draws a crowd. The clock is near the waterfront, so you can stop here on the way to dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
5. Granville Island Market on Granville Island
Granville Island, located in the heart of Vancouver, is a lively neighborhood that offers something for everyone.
The Granville Island Public Market is one of the most popular attractions selling fruit and vegetables, seafood, and a great variety of other specialties as well as ready-to-eat items.
The Granville Island Public Market is a must-visit destination, with its colorful displays of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique crafts from local vendors.
The market on Granville Island is a hub of activity, with locals and tourists alike browsing the stalls and sampling the delicious foods.
In addition to the public market, Granville Island is home to many other attractions, including galleries, theaters, and restaurants.
With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings, Granville Island is a must-see destination in Vancouver.
No visit to Vancouver is complete without a visit to the artsy Granville Island.
6. The Sea-to-Sky Highway
The Sea-to-Sky Highway is a breathtakingly scenic drive that stretches from Vancouver to Whistler, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, mountain ranges, and waterfalls along the way.
Vancouver is all about spectacular views, and the 100-meter-long Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge provides 360-degree views of all the Squamish region has to offer.
7. The Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of Vancouver's top tourist attractions and for good reason. The Capilano Suspension Bridge spans 450 feet across the Capilano River, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and canyon.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge itself is a marvel of engineering, with a design that allows it to sway and move with the wind and the weight of the visitors crossing it.
The Capilano River is a major tributary of the Fraser River and flows through the Coast Mountains of British Columbia.
8. Victoria on Vancouver Island
Victoria on Vancouver Island is a charming and picturesque city, known for its beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and stunning ocean views.
As the capital of British Columbia, Victoria also offers a rich cultural scene, with many museums, galleries, and festivals throughout the year.
9. The Museum of Anthropology
The Museum of Anthropology is a world-renowned museum located in Vancouver, Canada, that showcases the culture and heritage of indigenous people from around the world.
It houses over 50,000 artifacts and objects, including sculptures, masks, and textiles, and features exhibits on topics such as First Nations art, Pacific Northwest Coast cultures, and global textiles and clothing
10. The Vancouver Aquarium
Vancouver Aquarium is a beloved attraction in Stanley Park, Vancouver, where visitors can explore a wide range of marine life exhibits and learn about ocean conservation.
The Vancouver Aquarium is home to thousands of creatures, from sea otters and dolphins to sea lions and sharks.
For those looking for a unique and educational experience, the Vancouver Aquarium is a must-visit destination in Vancouver.
In addition to its impressive collection of marine life, the Vancouver Aquarium also offers interactive programs and behind-the-scenes tours for visitors of all ages.
11. English Bay Beach
English Bay Beach is a popular public beach located in Vancouver, Canada. English Bay Beach is known for its stunning views of the city skyline and the North Shore Mountains.
The English Bay features soft sand, clear water, and a range of amenities such as beach volleyball courts, concession stands, and nearby restaurants.
Visitors can enjoy English Bay by swimming, sunbathing, or watching the sunset over the water.
English Bay Beach is a great destination for anyone looking to soak up some sun and enjoy the beauty of Vancouver's waterfront.
12. Join a Food Tour
A food tour in Vancouver is a delicious and immersive way to experience the city's vibrant culinary scene, with expert guides taking visitors to some of the best restaurants and foodie hotspots.
This is also a great way to get a feel for the city center and make some friends along the way.
13. The Gulf Islands
The Gulf Islands are a group of over 200 islands located in the Strait of Georgia, between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia, Canada.
Known for their natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle, the islands are a popular destination for boating, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
14. Robson Street Shopping
Robson Street is a vibrant and bustling shopping and dining district located in Downtown Vancouver, Canada. Robson Street is known for its trendy boutiques, upscale restaurants, and diverse cultural offerings.
Visitors can explore a wide variety of shops, from high-end fashion retailers to unique specialty stores, and sample cuisine from around the world in the area's many restaurants and cafes at Robson Street.
15. Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens is a stunning botanical garden located near Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. It features over 55 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, including a renowned rose garden with more than 250 varieties of roses.
The rose garden is a highlight of the gardens, and visitors can enjoy the sights and scents of the blooms from late June through early September.
16. A ‘Forbidden' Walking Tour
The "Forbidden" walking tour is a unique and thrilling way to explore the history and culture of Vancouver, Canada.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes visitors on a journey through the city's lesser-known back alleys and hidden walking trails, revealing the hidden stories and secrets of Vancouver's past.
17. The Vancouver Art Gallery
The Vancouver Art Gallery is a premier art museum located in downtown Vancouver, Canada, and is home to a vast collection of over 12,000 works of local art.
The Vancouver art gallery showcases a wide range of contemporary and historical art, including works by local artists and international masters.
Visitors can explore art galleries and exhibitions, participate in educational programs and workshops, and attend special events and exhibitions throughout the year.
18. Vancouver Harbour
Vancouver Harbour is a stunning natural harbor located in the heart of Downtown Vancouver, Canada. It is a bustling port that serves as a hub for shipping and transportation, as well as a popular destination for tourism and recreation.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities on the harbor, from taking a scenic boat tour to kayaking or viewing Vancouver's skyline at night.
The harbor is also home to several popular attractions, including the Vancouver Convention Centre, the historic Gastown district, and the world-famous Stanley Park.
19. Pacific Spirit Regional Park
Pacific Spirit Regional Park is a stunning natural park located in Vancouver, Canada, that covers over 750 hectares of forest and coastline.
The park features over 50 km of hiking trails, including trails through old-growth forests, along the coastline, and through wetlands and meadows.
20. The Vancouver Seawall
The Stanley Park Seawall is a section of the Vancouver Seawall that runs through Stanley Park, a 405-hectare public park in Vancouver, British Columbia.
It is a popular destination for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers, and offers breathtaking views of the park, the city skyline, and the North Shore Mountains.
21. Go Wine Tasting in Fraser Valley
Fraser Valley is a region in southwestern British Columbia, Canada, known for its lush farmland, stunning mountain scenery, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
It includes cities like Abbotsford and Chilliwack and is a popular destination for activities such as hiking, fishing, skiing, and exploring local wineries and farmers' markets.
22. Tour Canada Place
Canada Place is a multi-use facility in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, that serves as a tourist attraction, convention center, and cruise ship terminal.
The iconic Canada Place building features distinctive white sails that have become a symbol of Vancouver's waterfront.
Canada Place hosts events and exhibits throughout the year, including the popular FlyOver Canada attraction, which offers a simulated flight experience over Canada's stunning landscapes.
23. Vancouver Public Library
Vancouver Public Library is a central library system serving the city of Vancouver, British Columbia.
The library comprises 21 branches throughout the city and houses a vast collection of books, periodicals, and multimedia resources.
24. The Bloedel Conservatory
The Bloedel Conservatory is a domed conservatory located in Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver, British Columbia.
It is a popular attraction that houses a lush tropical garden and more than 120 exotic birds from around the world.
Visitors can walk through three different climate zones and experience the sights and sounds of the rainforest, desert, and subtropical regions.
25. Hike to Shannon Falls
Shannon Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Shannon Falls Provincial Park in British Columbia, Canada.
The waterfall is the third highest in the province, with a height of 335 meters (1,099 feet), and is a popular destination for hiking and sightseeing.
26. Olympic Village
Olympic Village is a waterfront neighborhood in Vancouver, British Columbia, known for its stunning views of the city skyline and mountains.
The area features a range of amenities, including cobblestone streets, local art installations, and a park that offers a range of outdoor activities.
Visitors can enjoy a boat tour of False Creek, which passes through the Olympic Village, and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding area.
The neighborhood is also located near popular beaches such as Spanish Banks. Some tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off services for visitors who wish to explore the area.
27. Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a 405-hectare public park located in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia. Stanley Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America and features stunning natural beauty, including old-growth forests, scenic seawalls, and a variety of wildlife.
Stanley Park also offers a range of recreational opportunities, such as walking, cycling, swimming, and boating, as well as cultural attractions like the Vancouver Aquarium, the Totem Poles, and the Lost Lagoon.
28. Downtown Vancouver
Downtown Vancouver is the central business district of the city and is located on a peninsula bordered by the Burrard Inlet to the north, False Creek to the south, and Stanley Park to the west.
The downtown core is home to many iconic landmarks and attractions, including the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Robson Street shopping district, the Granville Island Public Market, and the Canada Place cruise ship terminal.
29. The Vancouver Canucks
The Vancouver Canucks are a professional ice hockey team based in Vancouver, British Columbia, and play in the Pacific Division of the National Hockey League (NHL).
The Canucks have a loyal and passionate fan base in Vancouver and have been an important part of the city's sports culture since the team's inception in 1970.
Rogers Arena is the team's home arena, and it's located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, near popular attractions such as the Vancouver Lookout.
30. Visit Richmond Night Market
The Richmond Night Market is a popular summer event held in Richmond, British Columbia, featuring food, entertainment, and shopping.
The Richmond night market showcases a variety of international cuisines, including Asian, European, and Latin American, and offers a range of products, from clothing and accessories to electronics and home goods.
31. Grouse Mountain and Grouse Grindcenter
Grouse Mountain is a popular tourist destination located in North Vancouver, British Columbia.
Grouse Mountain is known for its stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains, as well as its year-round recreational activities.
Grouse Mountain offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter months and hiking, zip-lining, and other outdoor activities in the summer.
The Grouse Grind is a challenging hiking trail that climbs up the face of Grouse Mountain and is a popular destination for fitness enthusiasts.
The Grouse Grind trail is approximately 2.9 kilometers long and gains 853 meters in elevation, offering stunning views of the city and Grouse Mountain and the surrounding landscape at the top.
32. Vancouver Convention Centre
The Vancouver Convention Centre ****is a modern, state-of-the-art facility located in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia.
The Vancouver Convention Centre hosts a variety of events and conferences throughout the year, including business conventions, trade shows, and cultural events.
33. Vandusen Botanical Garden
The VanDusen Botanical Garden is a 55-acre public garden located in Vancouver, British Columbia, featuring a diverse collection of plants and flowers from around the world.
The Vandusen Botanical Garden is known for its stunning displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, and magnolias in the spring, as well as its lush foliage and impressive tree specimens throughout the year.
The garden also features a range of attractions, including a Korean Pavilion, a maze, and a stone garden, as well as a variety of educational programs and events.
34. False Creek
False Creek is a short inlet located in the heart of Vancouver, British Columbia, separating downtown Vancouver from the rest of the city.
False Creek was once a busy industrial area but has since been transformed into a popular residential and recreational district.
The False Creek area is known for its picturesque waterfront, pedestrian, and cycling paths, public parks, and marinas. False Creek is also home to a number of popular cultural attractions, such as the Science World Museum and the Granville Island Public Market.
35. Kitsilano Beach
Kitsilano Beach is one of Vancouver's most popular urban beaches, located in the Kitsilano neighborhood of the city.
It offers stunning views of the city skyline and the North Shore mountains and features a range of amenities, including a heated saltwater pool, basketball courts, and beach volleyball courts.
Kitsilano Beach is also a popular spot for water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
It is situated near other popular beaches in Vancouver, such as English Bay and Wreck Beach, and is easily accessible by public transit.
36. Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral located in Downtown Vancouver, British Columbia.
It is a historic and iconic building in the city, known for its Gothic Revival architecture and stunning stained-glass windows.
The Christ Church cathedral is the seat of the Anglican Diocese of New Westminster and is a popular destination for visitors and worshipers alike.
37. Lions Gate Bridge
The Lions Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge located in Vancouver, British Columbia, connecting the city's downtown core to the North Shore.
It is an iconic landmark in the city and is known for its stunning views of the harbor, mountains, and skyline.
The bridge is a popular route for commuters and visitors alike, providing access to popular destinations such as the Olympic Village and Rogers Arena.
It is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with many locals referring to it as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster" due to the steep incline of the pedestrian and cycling paths.
FAQs Regarding Things to Do in Vancouver
Let's look at the most frequently asked questions relating to things to do in Vancouver.
Can you do Vancouver in 3 days?
Yes, it is possible to do Vancouver in 3 days. During the 3 days, visitors can explore popular attractions such as Grouse Mountain, Granville Island, the city center, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, English Bay, and the Sea to Sky Highway.
Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as ice skating or touring Vancouver's North Shore. Although it may be a tight schedule, it's definitely possible to experience some of the best that Vancouver has to offer in just three days.
What is Vancouver best known for?
Vancouver is best known for its scenic natural beauty, including the West End and Spanish Banks beaches, Grouse Grind hike, forest trails in parks such as Stanley Park and Cypress Mountain in West Vancouver, and offering sunset cruises.
The city is also known for its bustling downtown area, which boasts over a million square feet of shopping, dining, sunset cruise, and entertainment options. These several attractions offer a variety of exciting things to do in Vancouver for tourists.
What should we visit in Vancouver?
Visitors to Vancouver should not miss out on experiencing the natural beauty of parks such as Stanley Park and the stunning views of the Sea to Sky Highway. The challenging Grouse Grind hike and relaxing beaches like English Bay and the West End English Bay are also must-visit destinations. Science World is a great family-friendly attraction that offers interactive exhibits and educational activities.
How many days do you need in Vancouver?
To experience the best of Vancouver, visitors should plan to spend at least 3-4 days exploring the city. This will allow time to visit popular attractions such as English Bay and Science World, explore the city center, and take a scenic drive on the Sea to Sky Highway. If you spend a few days in Vancouver, you'll miss out on the several fun things to do in Vancouver for visitors.
Summing Up: Best Things to Do in Vancouver
Vancouver offers an array of exciting and memorable experiences for visitors and locals alike.
From exploring the breathtaking Sea to Sky Highway to immersing yourself in the vibrant city center, there is never a shortage of things to do in Vancouver.
Families can enjoy the educational and interactive exhibits at Science World, while tourists can indulge in the captivating beauty of this Canadian gem.
Whether it's embracing nature's wonders, enjoying family-friendly attractions, or exploring the rich cultural heritage, there are several things to do in Vancouver because it is a top tourist destination.
