Looking for the most effective issues to do in Vancouver? Whether you’re right here for a weekend or planning a full West Coast itinerary, this metropolis blends oceanfront journey, mountain magnificence, and cultural depth like nowhere else in Canada. As former Vancouver residents, we’ve explored each nook of this coastal gem, from biking round Stanley Park to catching sunsets at English Bay, and we’re sharing our high picks so you’ll be able to expertise the easiest of it.
This up to date 2025 Vancouver journey information options the highest points of interest, native favorites, household actions, day journeys, and hidden gems. Whether you’re touring solo, as a pair, or with children, we’ve acquired insider ideas, maps, and must-sees to make your journey unforgettable.
Ready to dive in? Here’s what to do in Vancouver, Canada.
Top Things to Do in Vancouver, At a Glance
Category
Top Attractions
Nature & Parks
Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, VanDusen Botanical Garden, Grouse Mountain, Lynn Canyon Park
Cultural Attractions & Museums
Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Art Gallery, Museum of Vancouver, Science World, Christ Church Cathedral
Neighborhoods & Local Vibes
Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown, Olympic Village, False Creek
Waterfront & Views
Vancouver Lookout, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Sea to Sky Gondola, Sunset Dinner Cruise, English Bay & Kitsilano Beach
Family-Friendly Activities
Vancouver Aquarium, Science World, Whale Watching Tours, Suspension Bridges, False Creek Ferries
Best Day Trips
Whistler, Squamish, Sea to Sky Highway, Victoria & Butchart Gardens, Britannia Mine Museum
Top 10 Things to Do in Vancouver
Short on time? These are the most effective issues to do in Vancouver, BC, that showcase town’s pure magnificence, cultural hotspots, and must-see landmarks.
1. Walk or Cycle the Stanley Park Seawall
Start your Vancouver journey with a motorcycle experience or stroll alongside the Stanley Park Seawall. This iconic 9-kilometre path wraps across the metropolis’s beloved inexperienced area, providing unbeatable views of the skyline, mountains, and ocean. Rent a motorcycle or be a part of a biking tour to discover the park’s high points of interest, together with the totem poles and the Vancouver Aquarium.
2. Visit Granville Island Public Market
A should for meals lovers, Granville Island Public Market is filled with contemporary seafood, baked items, and artisan cheeses. Browse native crafts, snack on the go, and catch a view of False Creek from the dock.
3. Ride the Grouse Mountain Skyride in North Vancouver
Hop on the Skyride gondola to achieve Grouse Mountain’s summit. In summer time, you’ll be able to hike the Grouse Grind. In winter, the mountain transforms right into a snowy playground with snowboarding, snowshoeing, and twinkling lights, simply quarter-hour from downtown Vancouver.
4. Explore Gastown’s Historic Charm
Cobblestone streets, Victorian buildings, and the well-known Steam Clock give Gastown its old-world really feel. Shop for souvenirs, sip cocktails in heritage bars, and take a guided strolling tour to study the neighborhood’s wild backstory.
5. Snap Photos at Capilano Suspension Bridge
The 137-metre Capilano Suspension Bridge permits you to stroll excessive above the river valley. Arrive early to beat the crowds, then discover the Cliffwalk and treetop trails
6. Cruise Around False Creek
Board a False Creek Ferry from downtown Vancouver or hire a kayak to discover this scenic inlet. You’ll go Science World, Olympic Village, and a few of the finest views of the Vancouver skyline.
7. Watch a Vancouver Canucks Game
Even if you happen to’re not a hockey fan, the vitality at Rogers Arena is infectious. Grab a ticket throughout NHL season and cheer on the Canucks with the locals.
8. Discover Chinatown
Vancouver’s Chinatown is one in all North America’s oldest and largest. After dim sum, wander by way of natural retailers and go to the peaceable Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden—an city oasis impressed by the Ming Dynasty.
9. Sunset at English Bay Beach
This metropolis seaside is the right spot for a late-day stroll, seaside volleyball, or a picnic with mountain views. If you’re visiting in summer time, catch the Celebration of Light fireworks present right here.
10. Take a Whale-Watching Tour
From March to October, hop on a ship tour to see orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales off the coast of British Columbia. Tours go away proper from downtown and provide a spectacular have a look at the wild facet of Vancouver.
Explore Vancouver’s Neighborhoods & Local Attractions
One of the most effective issues about Vancouver is how simply you’ll be able to hop from mountain trails to craft breweries to waterfront artwork scenes—multi function afternoon. These neighborhoods showcase the range and character that make Vancouver so memorable.
False Creek
This scenic inlet cuts by way of downtown Vancouver and is residence to a few of the metropolis’s most enjoyable actions. Stroll or cycle alongside the Seawall, take a False Creek Ferry between Granville Island and Science World, or take pleasure in a 90-minute boat tour to see resident seals, sandy seashores, and Lions Gate Bridge.
Olympic Village
Once residence to athletes through the 2010 Winter Olympics, this sustainable neighborhood is now a neighborhood favourite. You’ll discover top-rated eating places like The Flying Pig and breweries like Brassneck and Main Street Brewing. Don’t miss the general public artwork installations and beautiful metropolis views alongside the water.
Yaletown
Trendy and upscale, Yaletown is filled with boutique retailers, patios, and a buzzing nightlife. It’s additionally an excellent base for exploring downtown Vancouver. Join a guided bike tour by way of Yaletown, Chinatown, and the serene Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden—a simple solution to hit a number of Vancouver points of interest in a single experience.
Granville Island (Yes, Again!)
This vibrant arts district deserves one other point out, as a result of there’s extra than simply the market. Catch a present at one of many native theatres, browse the artisan galleries, or seize a pint at Granville Island Brewing. It’s probably the greatest issues to do in the present day in Vancouver if you happen to’re brief on time however desire a true native vibe.
Where to Stay in These Neighborhoods
Yaletown: Opus Vancouver – A classy boutique lodge with walkable entry to retailers, eating places, and the waterfront.
Near Granville Island: Granville Island Hotel – Tucked proper on the water with views of False Creek.
Downtown Core: Fairmont Pacific Rim – High-tech luxurious with rooftop views steps from Canada Place.
Family-Friendly & Cultural Things to Do in Vancouver
Whether you’re touring with children or simply need to discover town’s museums and interactive points of interest, Vancouver has loads of hands-on experiences and culture-forward gems.
Science World at Telus World of Science
You can’t miss the large geodesic dome on False Creek—it’s residence to one of the vital enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver with children. Inside, Science World options over a dozen interactive reveals on movement, biology, water, and innovation. Cap it off with a movie on the five-story OMNIMAX Theatre—the most important of its form on the planet.
Vancouver Art Gallery
Right in downtown Vancouver, this main Canadian artwork establishment blends Indigenous and modern exhibitions with immersive occasions. Take a guided tour to dive deeper into the tales behind the work, or simply soak all of it in earlier than enjoyable on the bistro patio subsequent to Robson Square.
Vancouver Maritime Museum
Overlooking English Bay, this museum shares tales of seafaring life, Arctic exploration, and West Coast maritime historical past. A standout is the St. Roch, the primary vessel to circumnavigate North America. Hop aboard and picture navigating the Northwest Passage below sail.
Museum of Vancouver
Dedicated to town’s evolving story, the Museum of Vancouver covers every thing from Coast Salish traditions to Sixties counterculture. Located in Vanier Park, it’s good to pair with a cease at Kitsilano Beach or a stroll alongside the seawall.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
A peaceable retreat within the coronary heart of Chinatown, this genuine Ming Dynasty-style backyard options ponds, pathways, and sculpted rock. It’s one of the vital distinctive cultural actions in Vancouver—and a photographer’s dream.
Christ Church Cathedral
Even if you happen to’re not spiritual, this downtown landmark is price a go to. Built in 1889, it’s a mixture of Gothic Revival and Romanesque structure, with hovering bell towers and sensible stained-glass home windows. Quiet and delightful, it’s a fast detour into Vancouver’s historic roots.
Nature & Parks: Vancouver’s Great Outdoors
Outdoor lovers, that is your playground. One of the highest causes to go to Vancouver is its pure setting, the place ocean, forest, and mountain meet. From peaceable metropolis gardens to heart-pumping hikes, these are the most effective out of doors issues to do in Vancouver.
Stanley Park
This 1,000-acre city forest is greater than only a park—it’s the inexperienced coronary heart of town. Walk or bike the Stanley Park Seawall, go to the totem poles, or pop into the Vancouver Aquarium. In summer time, hit the out of doors pool. In spring, stroll beneath the cherry blossoms. Stanley Park is likely one of the finest free issues to do in Vancouver BC, and it’s simply minutes from downtown.
Don’t Miss: Totem Poles Viewpoint, the Rose Garden, Beaver Lake Trail, and a motorcycle rental to circle the whole seawall.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Vancouver’s highest level delivers panoramic views of town and North Shore Mountains. This 130-acre park is thought for its lush Quarry Garden, arboretum, and the tropical Bloedel Conservatory, residence to unique birds and tropical vegetation beneath a glowing geodesic dome. Bonus: it’s one of many high sundown spots within the metropolis.
VanDusen Botanical Garden
For one thing extra tranquil, VanDusen is a 55-acre oasis in the midst of Vancouver. With over 7,000 plant species, peaceable strolling paths, and seasonal festivals just like the winter Festival of Lights, it’s a favourite for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Grouse Mountain
Just quarter-hour from downtown, Grouse Mountain is your go-to for year-round journey. In hotter months, problem your self on the Grouse Grind or take the Skyride gondola for scenic views. In winter, there’s snowboarding, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and visits with rescued grizzly bears. It’s one of many high issues to do close to Vancouver, BC.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Vancouver’s most well-known bridge isn’t only a bucket checklist photograph; it’s a whole rainforest expertise. The Capilano Suspension Bridge stretches 137 meters (450 toes) throughout and hovers 70 meters (230 toes) above the Capilano River.
But there’s extra: discover the Cliffwalk, a sequence of slender bridges clinging to the canyon wall, and the Treetops Adventure, a community of platforms excessive within the cover. Open year-round with free shuttles from downtown, this iconic attraction delivers the right mixture of thrill and tranquility.
Travel Tip: Arrive early or late within the day to keep away from the height crowds and catch the most effective mild for pictures.
Lynn Canyon Park
Want a quieter various to Capilano? Head to Lynn Canyon for a free suspension bridge, forest trails, waterfalls, and swimming holes. It’s a neighborhood favourite, good for a half-day escape into Vancouver’s wild facet.
Nightlife & Seasonal Things to Do in Vancouver
From concert events to cruises, Vancouver is aware of easy methods to exhibit after darkish—and in each season. Whether you’re chasing summer time sunsets or winter ski runs, listed below are a few of the most enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver in the present day (or tonight).
Catch a Concert on the Commodore Ballroom
A staple on Granville Street, the Commodore Ballroom has hosted everybody from David Bowie to Nirvana. The venue is intimate, historic, and alive with vitality. If you’re questioning what to do in Vancouver at evening, that is it. Check the lineup, you by no means know who could be taking part in.
Richmond Night Market
Just 20 minutes south of downtown, this summer time and fall market is a sensory overload in the easiest way. Think neon lights, over 200 meals distributors, carnival video games, and cultural performances. Come hungry and convey money, that is the place you’ll discover the most effective road eats within the area.
Take a Sunset Dinner Cruise
If you’re searching for a calming night exercise in Vancouver, hop aboard a sundown cruise. As you sail previous the skyline, West Vancouver mansions, and the North Shore Mountains, take pleasure in a buffet dinner with reside music. Golden hour views don’t get higher than this.
Book it: This sundown cruise affords a full dinner, music, and panoramic views from the water.
English Bay Polar Bear Swim
Mark your calendar: January 1, 2025, would be the a hundred and fifth annual Polar Bear Swim at English Bay, and sure, it’s nonetheless completely bonkers.
The predominant plunge occurs at 2:30 PM, with hundreds of swimmers and tens of hundreds of cheering spectators. The free occasion runs from 12 PM to 4 PM, with reside music, costume contests, and scorching chocolate for courageous souls. It’s simply one of the vital distinctive and enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver in winter, even if you happen to keep dry.
? Local Tip: Register on-line to get your official swim tag and bragging rights. Or simply present up and cheer from the seawall.
Indoor Attractions, Museums & City Views
When the skies open up (as they typically do in Vancouver), head inside to find town’s vibrant historical past, artwork, and structure, from 360° viewpoints to Indigenous tradition and basic museums.
Vancouver Lookout
Want to see all of Vancouver in a single view? Head to the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre. This 360-degree remark deck stands 168 meters (553 toes) tall and is accessible by way of a glossy glass elevator.
From right here, you’ll spot Stanley Park, English Bay, the North Shore Mountains, and past. It’s an excellent orientation cease firstly of your journey, or a sundown vacation spot to wrap up your Vancouver journey in model.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair-friendly, with huge doorways and accessible washrooms on website.
Museum of Anthropology (UBC)
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) reopened in June 2024 after an intensive seismic improve, and it’s much more spectacular than earlier than. Located at UBC, this cultural landmark stays one of the vital significant issues to do in Vancouver for these in search of perception into Indigenous artwork and heritage.
Step into the dramatically redesigned Great Hall to view towering totem poles, carvings, and ceremonial objects from the Northwest Coast First Nations. The surrounding grounds and rose gardens nonetheless provide panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains, making this a high choose rain or shine.
Tip: Pair your go to with a stroll by way of UBC’s botanical gardens or right down to Wreck Beach for a full day on campus.
Museum of Vancouver
Located in Vanier Park close to Kitsilano, this museum takes you from town’s Indigenous roots by way of its countercultural previous and into modern-day Vancouver. The reveals are quirky, immersive, and uniquely native. Great combo with the Vancouver Maritime Museum and H.R. MacMillan Space Centre close by.
Vancouver Beaches & Waterfront Escapes
Vancouver’s city seashores are as iconic as its mountains. Whether you’re sunbathing, biking the seawall, or catching sundown over the Pacific, these waterfront spots provide a few of the finest issues to do in Vancouver in the present day, particularly when the solar’s out.
English Bay Beach
Right on the fringe of downtown and the West End, English Bay is Vancouver’s most accessible seaside. Locals come right here to rollerblade, picnic, or simply calm down below large bushes with a view of the mountains. In July, it’s the principle stage for the Celebration of Light fireworks competition. Brave sufficient? Or take our recommendation from above and be a part of the Polar Bear Swim right here each New Year’s Day.
Personal word: We used to reside close by and referred to as it “First Beach.” This was our go-to sundown spot.
Kitsilano Beach
Just throughout the water from downtown, Kits Beach is laid-back and stuffed with vitality. You’ll discover volleyball courts, a large out of doors pool (heated and proper on the water), and close by cafés for a beachy brunch. It’s a high choose for enjoyable issues to do in Vancouver BC throughout summer time.
Spanish Banks
Further west alongside the waterfront, Spanish Banks is quieter and extra unfold out. Great for beachcombing at low tide, flying a kite, or strolling your canine within the off-leash areas. On clear days, you’ll see all the best way throughout to Vancouver Island.
Wreck Beach
This famously clothing-optional seaside close to UBC will not be for the shy, however it’s acquired severe chill vibes. With steep stairs main down and 0 commercialization, it’s one of the vital pure stretches of shoreline close to Vancouver. Expect drum circles, physique positivity, and jaw-dropping sunsets.
? Fun truth: Wreck Beach typically hosts artwork reveals, seaside cleanups, and even reside music. It’s a complete scene.
Best Day Trips from Vancouver
One of the most effective elements about visiting Vancouver? You’re only a brief drive or ferry away from mountain adventures, ocean escapes, and a few of British Columbia’s most iconic surroundings. These day journeys from Vancouver are simple, unforgettable, and properly price the additional time.
Sea to Sky Highway
If you’re questioning what to do close to Vancouver that may utterly blow your thoughts, that is it. The Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) runs from Vancouver to Whistler and is likely one of the most lovely highway journeys in Canada. Stop at waterfalls, lookouts, and Indigenous heritage websites alongside the best way.
Must-see stops:
Shannon Falls
Britannia Mine Museum
Sea to Sky Gondola
Squamish (whats up, rock climbers!)
? Tip: Try to spend an evening in Squamish. It’s develop into a real journey city.
Whistler
A world-class ski resort in winter and a mountaineering, biking, and patio paradise in summer time, Whistler is simply two hours from downtown Vancouver. Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, zipline by way of the bushes, or take a look at the Olympic Village.
Quick journey? Yes, it’s doable in a day—however if you happen to can, keep in a single day.
Vancouver Island & Victoria
Hop on a ferry or seaplane and escape to Vancouver Island. You can go to in a day, however it’s finest explored over a weekend. Highlights embody:
Victoria: Charming capital metropolis with English-style gardens and excessive tea
Butchart Gardens: One of essentially the most gorgeous floral shows in Canada
Tofino (if you happen to keep longer): Surf, storm watch, and soak within the wild Pacific Coast
Tour possibility: This Victoria and Butchart Gardens day tour features a scenic ferry experience and guided stops.
Squamish
Often overshadowed by Whistler, Squamish is a gem in its personal proper. Hike the Stawamus Chief, strive whitewater rafting, or take the Sea to Sky Gondola to the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. There’s even a brewery scene for post-hike pints.
Britannia Mine Museum
This one stunned us. What we anticipated to be a fast cease was a spotlight. Ride a practice into the historic copper mine, pan for gold, and take a look at the BOOM! Multimedia present—it’s far more thrilling than it sounds.
Whether you’re right here for a weekend or a full West Coast journey, navigating Vancouver is simple—and so is discovering a spot to remain that matches your model.
Getting to Downtown Vancouver
Most guests arrive at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), simply 9 miles from town middle.
SkyPractice (Canada Line): 25 minutes to downtown, departs each 7 minutes. Cost: $9 CAD one-way (or $5 with a transit go).
Taxi/Uber: Around half-hour, $25–$30 CAD.
We normally hire a automotive, particularly for day journeys to Whistler or Vancouver Island. Compare charges on RentalCars.com to get the most effective deal from the airport.
Getting Around the City
Vancouver is a really walkable metropolis, however you too can use:
Seabus: Great for scenic rides throughout Burrard Inlet to North Vancouver.
False Creek Ferries: Hop between Granville Island, Science World, and Yaletown.
Public Transit: Clean, environment friendly, and reasonably priced.
Bike leases: A high choose for exploring the seawall and downtown parks.
Where to Stay in Vancouver
To get essentially the most out of your journey, we advocate staying in Downtown Vancouver. You’ll be near main points of interest like Stanley Park, Gastown, and English Bay.
Luxury
Mid-Range
Budget
Samesun Vancouver: Best location for the value—stroll to Robson Street, Stanley Park, and town’s finest eats.
Tip: We have a full breakdown on the place to remain in Vancouver in order for you extra choices by neighborhood.
Things To Know Before You Visit Vancouver, BC
1. What are the most effective issues to do in Vancouver for first-time guests?
Start with biking the Stanley Park Seawall, exploring Granville Island Market, visiting Gastown’s Steam Clock, and strolling throughout the Capilano Suspension Bridge. These spots exhibit Vancouver’s pure magnificence, native tradition, and iconic views—all inside simple attain of downtown.
2. Is Vancouver walkable for vacationers?
Yes! Vancouver is likely one of the most walkable cities in North America. You can discover neighborhoods like Yaletown, Gastown, and the West End totally on foot. The Seawall path additionally connects main points of interest like English Bay, Stanley Park, and Granville Island.
3. What is Vancouver finest identified for?
Vancouver is thought for its dramatic setting between mountains and ocean, its entry to out of doors journey, and its multicultural vitality. Visitors love the combination of nature and metropolis life—from whale watching and mountain hikes to sushi spots, markets, and artwork galleries.
4. What are some free issues to do in Vancouver?
Walk or bike the Stanley Park Seawall, go to Lynn Canyon’s suspension bridge and forest trails, hang around at Kits Beach or Spanish Banks, or discover the general public artwork in Olympic Village and English Bay. Many of Vancouver’s high experiences are utterly free.
5. What’s the most effective time to go to Vancouver?
Summer (June to September) is right for mountaineering, biking, seashores, and festivals—with lengthy sunny days and minimal rain. Spring and fall are nice for fewer crowds and cherry blossoms or fall colours. Winter is ideal if you wish to ski Grouse, Cypress, or close by Whistler.
6. Are there good day journeys from Vancouver?
Absolutely. The Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler, ferry journeys to Victoria and Vancouver Island, or a scenic drive to Squamish and the Sea to Sky Gondola are all high day journey choices. Each affords a distinct slice of British Columbia’s wild magnificence.
7. What are the most effective issues to do in Vancouver with children?
Science World, the Vancouver Aquarium, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Stanley Park’s playgrounds and miniature practice are all household favorites. Kids additionally love the False Creek Ferries and seaside time at English Bay or Kitsilano.
Whether you’re planning a metropolis break, coastal highway journey, or prolonged West Coast journey, Vancouver all the time delivers. With mountain trails, neighborhood markets, artwork galleries, and sundown seashores all inside simple attain, it is a place that evolves with you.
We spent years dwelling in Vancouver, and we return typically. It’s not only a scenic cease on the map; it’s a metropolis that invitations you again. So whether or not you’re whale watching off the coast or grabbing a craft beer in Yaletown, we hope this information helps you propose the right journey.
Let us know your favourite issues to do in Vancouver within the feedback; we’re all the time searching for new causes to return.