Everything You Need to Know for the Best Things to Do in Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada’s gorgeous west coast seaport city and third-largest in the nation, untroubled with an abundance of recreation, entertainment, and leisure activities, has something for everyone. The vibrant metropolis is alive with bustling cafes and restaurants, a mosaic of cultures, and plenty of scenic outdoor locations perfect for exploring or simply enjoying some time away from the hustle and bustle. To help you have the best vacation possible and make the most of your stay, here’s a guide to the best things to do in Vancouver, Canada.
Things to Do In Vancouver
Exploring the City
Vancouver is blessed with a stunning landscape of mountains, glittering seas and cityscapes, made for exploration. Stroll, bike or take a tour around the city and enjoy the array of revelry and attractions found in the neighborhood and areas of the city such as Chinatown, Gastown, Cathedral Square and Robson Street.
Visit the Beaches
Vancouver is renowned for its stunning beaches, made for soaking up the sun. There’s a variety of beaches throughout the city including Jericho, Wreck and Sunset beaches, all offering a different type of atmosphere from family-friendly to lively, perfect for planning a beach day with your pals.
Go Shopping
For the ultimate shopping experience why not visit some of the most famous shopping attractions located right in the heart of Vancouver. Enjoy a pleasant walk and explore the local boutiques, street vendors, cafes and stores located in Granville Island Market and Robson Street. Plus there’s even more shopping to be found in upmarket areas such as Pacific Centre, Metrotown and Marine Centre Mall.
Foodie Paradise
Vancouver has a renowned and well-respected dining scene with a wide array of memorable food experiences to be discovered. Grab your appetite and perhaps join a local food tour. Sample global dishes from every corner of the world as well as savoring the local West Coast seafood.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Vancouver is an exciting city, but if you’re looking for more relaxing pursuits, why not take a leisurely stroll though one of the city’s many environmentally friendly parks. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking to partake in or simply wander around the pristine natural stunning environments.
Staying Around
Before getting to the best things to do in Vancouver, you need a place to stay. Enjoy wide variety of accommodation options including the chic downtown neighbourhood and gracious suites by the bay in the Burrard Inlet, to the more traditional hotels and motels located out of the city centre.
Outdoor Museums
Vancouver is home to many unique and fascinating outdoor museums. Experience a day of adventure at the Museum of Anthropology near the University of British Columbia, where you can explore ancient artifacts, totem poles, and Native American sculptures. Also at the Stanley Park, check out the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, offering a tranquil escape from city life.
Take a Ferry
Take a ferry tour or chartered boat around Vancouver’s spectacular waterways, or perhaps a getaway cruise to Victoria or Nanaimo. Or take a walk on the wild side and experience a whale-watching adventure or a deep-sea fishing excursion.
Sports Events
Sports fanatics will love Vancouver with its professional Sports teams including the Vancouver Canucks, Whitecaps FC and the BC Lions found at BC Place located in Downtown Vancouver.
Nightlife
As evening falls and the vibrant energy radiates within the city experience a vast array of nightlife entertainment and activities all around the city. Famous areas such as Yaletown, Granville Street, and Chinatown all present numerous ways to spend your evening out.
Day Trips
As well as Vancouver, why not explore some of the nearby regions. Escape to areas of breath-taking beauty like the Okanagan Valley, the Gulf Islands, and the Sunshine Coast, or explore the Whistler Ski and Snowboarding Resort, located just a two-hour drive away.
Festivals and Events
Vancouver is bursting with colour and culture as well as playing host to some of the most impressive and unique festivals and events throughout the year. Enjoy the spectacle at events such as the annual Vancouver International Film Festival, the Dragon Boat Festival in False Creek, the Granville Island Canada Day Celebrations and the Vancouver Jazz Festival.
These are just a few of the many great things to do in Vancouver, Canada. From shopping and dining to outdoor exploration and sports events, there are many ways to make the most of your stay and create lasting memories. Let your Vancouver adventure commence as soon as you arrive!
