Vancouver is one of the most lively and vibrant cities in Canada. Located in the lower midland region of British Columbia, it is also the most populous city in the province.
Vancouver is one such city that is known for its scenic beauty all over the world and the city attracts a lot of visitors annually. Being one of the most populous cities in the whole country, Vancouver is known for the ethnic and linguistic diversity that the city holds. Due to this very reason, the city of Vancouver is described as a ‘City of Neighborhoods.’
With such different ethnic groups living in harmony in a single city, the city of Vancouver is known for the mix of cultures that have deeply reflected in the cultural aspects of the city like the food available, music, fashion, and whatnot.
This also means that Vancouver offers an experience to its visitors that are not available in any other city. Vancouver is a city that has so much to offer. The interesting food and culture of the place will excite anyone disregarding their age. But the main trick in having a joyful experience is knowing what you want to try out and also where exactly to find it.
In order to assist you with that we have listed some of the most popular activities that you can indulge in while you are in Vancouver. While there are thousands of things that you can try that the city has to offer, we have narrowed it down to the best top 30 things to do in Vancouver for your convenience. So check out the activities and don’t hold back yourself enjoying one of the best cities in the world to its fullest.
30. Boat Tour To Granite Falls
The Granite Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that is located deep in Deep Cove. There are no ways to reach the waterfall by vehicle and the only way to reach the spot is by boat or kayaking.
It is also one of the major reasons why the waterfall is not much more popular among tourists rather than people who know the area well. While the waterfall in itself is very beautiful, that is not only the major part of the visit.
The route that leads to the waterfall is also equally beautiful. The journey on a boat or the kayaking experience will definitely be an unforgettable one. Travelers also get to see another side of Vancouver that is not portrayed enough or associated with the city enough.
29. Day Trip To Bowen Island
While there are many islands near Vancouver, Bowen Island is the closest of all these islands. People who wish to visit the island can use the ferry and reach the island within around 20 minutes, with or without their vehicle. As it is a bit disconnected from the main city, Bowen Island is a perfect getaway location to move away from the chaos of the city and enjoy nature.
There are different activities on the island like hiking to different higher points of the island, kayaking, enjoying the beach time, or visiting Killarney Lake on the island. The island also has a fly-and-dine tour where visitors will be taken on a scenic flight over the island which is completed with a 3-course dinner on the island.
28. Dining At A Waterfront Restaurant
Along with all other different attractions, Vancouver is a city that has plenty of inviting waterfront restaurants. While the food in Vancouver is a separate topic for itself, these waterfront restaurants are some of the best places in the city to have a relaxing meal time.,
Some of the best waterfront restaurants that you should keep on your list if you ever visit the city are Mahony’s Tavern which is located at one of the ferries stops in False Creek, the Sandbar Seafood Restaurant which is known for its delicious seafood, and last but not the least, Cardero’s Restaurant which has a gorgeous view of the marina. While these three are just a suggestion, there are a number of other waterfront restaurants in the city with their own specialty.
27. A Visit To The Science Center
The Science Center which is located in the main city is one of the best spots to spend a few hours at. If you are someone who is fascinated by science or have children traveling with you, you will not regret the decision to visit the Science Center.
The Center features different types of displays which are interesting and some are interactive too. There are also show shows that take place at the Science Center. The entry ticket charge is different for children, adults, and senior citizens.
If you plan to visit the Science World, it is always advisable to book your tickets online beforehand. The Science Center is simply what anyone needs from a busy life and to be wowed by science.
26. A Trip To Richmond Night Market
The Richmond Night Market is, hands down, the best market in the city. It is very busy and vibrant and will give off the sensation that you are in another country. The market is known for selling ingredients that are popular in Asian cuisine.
The street food available near the market also features some of the best Asian street food in the city like sushi tacos, dumplings, deep-fried squid, and so on. Along with the Asian treats, typical Canadian food like smoked meat, beaver tails, and poutines are also found here. The market is not only famous for its food but also for its handicrafts, clothes, and other such items too.
25. Checking Out Different Food From Main Street
The neighborhood surrounding Main Street in Vancouver is known as Mount Pleasant. It is a must-visit place if you are ever in Vancouver. Being a hipster central neighborhood, the place is very much interesting.
It is a must-go place if you are a person who is interested in craft beer, records, or flannel shirts. But the major reason to recommend this place is the food that the area has to offer.
The area has different stores that serve flavors from all over the world, which will take you on a flavorful journey. We also have a few must-try suggestions from our experience at the place.
The East is East restaurant is known for the Middle Easter and Asian cruise while the Meet on Main is one of the best vegan places in the city. If you are a sweet tooth, then 49th Parallel Coffee & Lucky’s Doughnuts and Earnest Ice creams will definitely impress you.
24. The Vancouver Aquarium
Even though Vancouver is a city located near the sea, it is not always easy to spot the vibrant underwater life in its natural habitat. The Vancouver Aquarium located in the city offers visitors a peek into the colorful underwater world and is a breathtaking experience.
The Vancouver Aquarium is blessed with different species of underwater wildlife which counts around 60,000 aquatic creatures. The aquarium includes different types of fish, turtles, sea lions, sea otters, and so on.
One of the most attractive features of the aquarium is that as it is an initiative of a non-profit organization, there is no entry charge collected at the site and the organization really does care about the animals there, not just there for profit.
23. The View From The Vancouver Lookout
If you want to enjoy the stunning skyline of Vancouver City, then the VancouverLookout is the best place for that. You will have a very beautiful view of the city’s skyline if you are visiting during the sunset or sunrise.
The structure will take you almost 554 ft up into the sky, from where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the city. The elevator tackles visitors to the top within 40 seconds, from where you will get a 360-degree view of the city.
The opening and closing timing of the Vancouver Lookout changes according to the season. So, if you are planning a visit, make sure to check the timing accordingly and plan the rest of your activities in the city.
22. A Day At Alouette Lake
If you are visiting Vancouver in the summer, then Alouette Lake is one of the best locations that you can choose to enjoy the day. Located in the Golden Ears Provincial Park, the lake is only an hour’s drive from the city.
The lake has so many activities to offer in order to make your visit worthwhile. It is an ideal lake for chilling out, swimming, and also fishing., The areas also have some of the easiest and best hiking trails in Vancouver.
The lake can be said as a hidden gem of Vancouver as many outsiders are not aware of it, making it even more perfect for visiting. The lake also has a campsite where you can spend a day or two according to your wish. Alouette Lake is a must-visit spot and a perfect pick for your summer vacation.
21. Day On A Rented Boat From Coal Harbor
Coal Harbor is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful areas in the city and what makes it even more beautiful is the view from the water. Yes. Visitors have the provision to rent out boars and to go out into the water along with their friends and family.
The biggest perk of renting a boat from Coal Harbour is that you don’t need a license to drive one of the boards as the renting company will issue a temporary license for you from there.
The rent of the boat comes according to the duration of the boating., It is worth renting out the boat for almost 2 hours so that you get enough time to explore the water and also the small islands nearby. It is one of the most recommended activities if you are visiting Vancouver in groups.
20. Enjoy The Beauty Of The Butchart Gardens and Victoria
What is it like to enjoy the feeling of visiting a European city here in Vancouver? Then the city that you should not skip is Victoria. It is the capital of British Columbia and is a historic city that will remind you of European cities in many different ways.
The Island also has another major attraction which is the Butchart Gardens. The garden has a total area of 55 acres and has around 900 different plant varieties. You just need to take the ferry to visit the island and the Butchart Gardens are only an hour’s drive after getting on the island. The mesmerizing schemes of the flowers will leave you in awe.
19. Explore Granville Island
Granville Island is a small island that is located very near Vancouver. As it is technically connected to the mainland, you can reach Granville Islands both on boats and in cars. It will be an incomplete trip if you leave Vancouver without visiting Granville Island. The island holds different activities that are really good but the major attraction of the island is the Granville Island public market.
The market is known for its fresh sea produce and also for different kinds of souvenirs. It is also one of the best places to have a very tasty meal. There are different stores that offer tasty seafood along with other delicacies.There is also a popular kids’ market and a few breweries on the island that you should definitely visit.
18. Visit Grouse Mountain
Can you imagine leaving a Canadian city without skiing? The Grouse Mountains are one of the most popular skiing sites in the city during winter. Along with being known as one of the best skiing resorts in the city, Grouse Mountains are also known for their scenic beauty and also the breathtaking view that the mountains offer of the city.
Along with skiing, there are different activities that people can participate in there. Some of the popular activities at Grouse Mountains include the LumberJack show, rope course, zip-lining, and best of all – visiting wildlife refuges where there are animals like Grizzly bears. Not only in winter but tourists can ride the Skyride, which is a cable car service, to the top of the mountains.
17. Ride On The Sea To Sky Gondola
The Sea to Sky Gondola is located along the Sea to Sky Highway that connects Vancouver and Squamish. It takes 45 minutes to reach the site from Vancouver. The route to the Sea to Sky Gondola is very beautiful and the driver itself is a nice experience in itself.
The Sea to Sky Gondola is known for the breathtaking view the ride offers from the top. What attracts different tourists to this place is the fact that the charges for the rise are affordable and the ride tales people all the high onto the mountain.
These activities do not end once you reach the top. Visitors are allowed to explore the area and there is also a popular hanging bridge at the top site that you can explore.
16. Explore The Olympic Village
The Olympic Village was originally built for the 2010 Winter Olympics when the city was the host of the event. Currently, it is one of the fun areas in the city where you are free to roam around, explore, have a drink, or even grab a bite to eat.
It is a free space that people use, which is kind of similar to a park. The area also features beer gardens and is also a very good spot to enjoy the views of the harbor.
The Olympic Village has different restaurants that you can choose from depending on your preferences. There are places that offer great bars, places that have waterfront patios, or ones that serve amazing pastries and coffee. It is easy to get to the Olympic Village as there are bus, train, and ferry services to the area.
15. Kayaking Through False Creek
There is a narrow inlet in the center of the city which is known by the name False Creek. One of the most attractive features of the city is going kayaking through False Creek.
This is also one of the best ways to explore the city in a different way. There are many spots along the creek from where you can rent a kayak and continue on with your exploring.
The false creek has a variety of different aquatic life in it and if you are lucky enough you will be able to spot seals that sometimes come up to kayaks. The calm waters of False Creek offer a different view of the city along with a variety of fish and bird populations making the journey extra beautiful.
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14. Try Out One Of The Best Bars In North America
Being one of the most popular cities in the country, Vancouver is home to some of the best bars in the nation. Among them, the Keefer Bar located in China Town is probably one of the best in the country or dare I say the whole of North America. The bar is known for the 25 unique cocktails that they serve and they are liked by almost everyone who visits the bar.
The Keefer Bar gained even more popularity after it was voted one of the best 50 bars in North America and also one of the 5 best bars in Canada. It is always advisable to make our reservation beforehand as it can get quite busy. Along with great food, the bar also sees some amazing food too.
13. Be Part Of A Food Tour
Being a city that is known for the different cultures it holds, Vancouver is also a place in the country where you will find a lot of different tasty cruises from all over the world. The food in Vancouver is one of the best experiences but what is the use if you don’t know where to get the best bites? That problem can be easily solved if you become a part of a food tour.
Usually, such tours are led by local guides who are familiar with the place and the delicacies available at each spot. There are different types of food tours available in the city and there are plans that will only cost you around $12- CAD but are worth the time and money. So if you are a food lover, then joining a food tour is one of the best ways to enjoy the different tasty cuisines of Vancouver.
12. Explore Deep Cove And Quarry Rock
The area of Deep Cove is located in North Vancouver and it is an area of the city that does not explore by visitors to an extent that it should be. The area offers some of the best views in Vancouver and is very much close to nature.
The area of Deep Cove is not very far from the city and it can be easily reached by public transport or by driving. Deep Cove is all set to receive visitors with art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and even waterfront parks, making it one of the best places to spend a day in Vancouver.
Near the Deep Cove area is the Quarry Rock hiking trail. It is a short but beautiful hiking trail that is around 4.2 kilometers out and back. Even though it is a small hike, the endpoint will offer a magnificent view of the water body, forest, and also the city of Vancouver. So make sure you set a day in Vancouver aside for Deep Cove and Quarry Rock.
11. An Unforgettable Sea Plane Ride
We all might have seen seaplanes in images and videos but have you ever ridden on one? If not Vancouver provides the opportunity to enjoy a seaplane ride. It is a common scene here in the harbor and with a great seat in the plane, you will be able to enjoy an aerial view of the city, sea, and forest and will be able to take off and land in water for the first time.
There are different companies that offer the service in the city and the fact that it is affordable makes it even more attractive. The amount actually depends on the company that you choose and also the time duration of the flight too. Whichever company you choose, there is no doubt in saying that it is one of the most exciting activities in Vancouver.
10. A Walk Around Gastown
Probably one of the oldest areas in the city, Gastown is a remarkable and unique area too. The streets of Gastown are a strong reminder of the European influence in the history of the area.
The streets of Gastown are one of the most unique stores in the city and it has different types of stores that highly resemble the European style. The streets of Gastown have different boutiques, shops, cafes, and bars that offer a really satisfying experience if you are into art and culture, and history.
If shopping is your thing, Gastown is also one of the best locations for that. The area has different boutiques and souvenir shops too. Also, if you visit Gastown, make sure to check out the landmark of the city, the historic Steam Clock.
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9. Trip to Lynn Canyon
There is no place in Vancouver like Lynn Canyon if you are planning to escape the chaos and noise of the city and connect with nature. The Lynn Canyon is one of the most beautiful spots around Vancouver and it has different activities that can take your mind off the hectic city life. One of the major attractions of the site is the suspension bridge that is located there.
It is another worldly experience to just stand on the epic bridge and easily become a part of the nature surrounding you. It should also be noted there is no entry pass or fees required at Lynn Canyon.
There is also a hiking trail that stretches over 12 km near the area and people are free to check out the trail. One thing that should be kept in mind while planning to visit Lynn Canyon is that it can get extremely busy and crowded sometimes.
8. Whale Watching
If you are fascinated by aquatic life, then whale watching is one of the best activities that you can take up in Vancouver. Spotting the gentle giants of the sea is nothing short of goosebumps.
If you are lucky enough, you will be able to see different types of whales like humpback whales, Orcas, and so on. The whale-watching tour will take you over the beautiful locations of the Gulf and the San Juan Islands.
Spotting whales is almost guaranteed during these cruises, but some cruises offer to take you out for free again if you have not spotted any whales the first time you went out in the water. Also, keep in mind that the best time to go whale watching in Vancouver is between May and October.
7. Connect With Nature Through A Hike
The city of Vancouver is closely connected with nature and has a number of different hiking trails in almost every part other than the city. It is also the major coyote in the country when it comes to nature hikes. There are different areas near the city like Grouse Mountains, Mount Seymore, and Cypress Mountains that offer some exciting and scenic hiking experiences.
Along with these three main areas, there are a number of other small hiking trails that can be taken up by anyone who wishes to get lost in nature. The difficulty of the hikes can be chosen according to the visitor. As the city is known for its large number of hiking trails, it is sure that anyone can find the spot trail if they look closely enough.
6. Explore Kitsilano
Better known among the locals as Kits Beach, Kitsilano is regarded as one of the best beaches in Vancouver. The beach has everything to offer that makes it a popular destination among visitors.
While all the activities related to each are available at Kits, the beach also offers even more. Rather than being known for a good beach, the area is also known for the beautiful bars, the iconic drinks served, the tasty food, and the electric atmosphere of the place.
The beach is a popular location during the summer months and the sunsets on the beach are magical, and you will never forget. The restaurants on the beach are affordable and do not have over price as it is a popular spot for tourists.
5. Brunch At A local Cafe
Yes. It is true that Vancouver is one of the best cities in Canada to enjoy nature and be outdoors but how can someone get past the amazing varieties of food that is available in the city? Being such a culturally diverse city, almost all major cuisines in the world are available in Vancouver and the local cafes in the city are known for their tasty food and beverages.
If you are ever in Vancouver, you will never regret taking a day off from all other activities just to taste the local food available from different restaurants. Some of the most popular cafes that should be put on your list to try out are the Yolks if you are an egg lover, Jam Cafe for their popular over-the-top breakfast meals, and finally, Cafe Medina for their signature waffles. It is also good to make a reservation before visiting to ensure a seat for you as these places can get quite busy sometimes.
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4. The Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is probably one of the most famous suspension bridges in the country. The bridge is located amidst a beautiful forest and the visitors have the chance to explore the unexplored forest and also take on the forest trail for hiking too. The overall area around the bridge is also known as the Capilano Suspension Bridge and it is just a 20-minute drive from the city center.
There are different hanging bridges in the area and another cool attraction is the bridge that features a glass floor lookout. There is an entrance fee charged at the site and it is around $70 CAD. There is a limit on the number of people who can enter the area at a time so it is best to book your entrance ticket in advance.
3. Sunset Dinner Cruise
Just picture yourself enjoying the amazing sunset on a beautiful cruise all with different types of drinks and tasty food to go with. It does sound really great right? If you think so, then you should never miss the sunset dinner cruises in Vancouver.
Cruises are really fun and enjoyable while they are at the shore itself, so imagine going into the water to enjoy the sunset if you are traveling with a friend or your partner, this will also be one of the most memorable experiences of your Vancouver trip.
There are different cruises that offer the service and the price of almost all these cruises are affordable too. The cruises also come with live music on the deck to make the experiment even better. It would be better to have a booking beforehand so that you will definitely get to experience the trip.
2. Many Craft Breweries To Check Out
Canada is famous for the craft beer industry that is having steady growth in the nation and Vancouver is no opposition to this trend. There are different craft beer breweries in and around Vancouver that are famous for their craft beer.
Almost all these breweries offer tours and tastings for visitors. People can see the process that takes place behind the making of their favorite drink while enjoying the drink.
The tours of these breweries are comparative;y cheap and it is one of the best ways to spend your day if you are a beer lover. There are different popular breweries in Vancouver that are known for their beers like the Granville Island Brewing, Steamworks Brewpub, Faculty Brewing Co., and so on. After, what is a vacation without a few beers?
1. Bike The Seawall In Stanley Park
While a simple bike ride seems too simple to be in the top position on the list of top 30 best things to do in Vancouver, what should be understood is that the activity is one of the most iconic things to do in Vancouver. Stanley Park is conveniently located in the heart of the city and even if you are in Vancouver for one day, Stanley Park is a location that you should not be missing out on.
The park spreads over a large area and the Seawall covers the outer edge of the park along the water body. There are different bicycle shops at the entrance of the park and cycling around the 12-kilometer path will be one of the most iconic things that you will do in Vancouver. Also, if you are no9t a big fan of cycling, you can enjoy a simple walk through the park and blend into the normal life of Vancouver.
Conclusion
With a mix of very different cultures, Vancouver is a city that has a lot to offer in almost every aspect of its culture like food, music, and day-to-day life It is one of the best cities to have a vacation in and the memories and the experience gathered from the city will definitely stay with you for a very long time as it is as magical and heartwarming it can get. So, if you are ever planning a visit to Vancouver, make sure that you check out the maximum number of activities listed on our top 30 things to do in Vancouver.
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