25 top attractions and activities in Vancouver

Are you searching for ideas on things to see and do in Vancouver? You're in the right place! This beautiful city in Canada has so much to offer that you'll find activities for every type of traveler. From breathtaking parks to vibrant neighborhoods, your adventure starts here.

Nestled on the West Coast, far from the hustle and bustle of Toronto and the French charm of Quebec, Vancouver feels like a hidden gem. Its distance from other major cities adds to its allure, making it a perfect getaway. It frequently ranks among the best cities to live in, and for a good reason.

Vancouver offers a myriad of possibilities, perfect for every type of traveler. Whether you're into mountains, the sea, museums, or gastronomy, this city has it all. And the best part? It’s a cosmopolitan city that is open and tolerant. While visiting, we were excited to catch up with our friends Silvia and Carles from uncambiodeaires.com. But even if you don't know anyone there, don’t worry; we’ve compiled a list of 25 things to see and do in Vancouver that will make your visit unforgettable. Spoiler alert: it’s an incredible city!

And remember, at the end of this article, we will provide a wealth of useful information to help you plan your trip to Vancouver independently!

Exploring the Historic Charm of Gastown

Start your adventure in Gastown, the historic district of Vancouver and one of the city's most iconic neighborhoods. Here, you'll find cobblestone streets lined with unique shops and eateries. Don't miss the chance to see the Steam Clock, a fascinating clock that releases steam every 15 minutes – it’s a mechanical marvel!

Consider joining a free tour to explore the city with an expert guide. Book it online here

Note: Vancouver is facing some challenges, and reports suggest that drug addiction and insecurity have increased in certain areas of the city, including Gastown and Chinatown, particularly on Hastings Street. Exercise caution when exploring these neighborhoods.

Marvel at Canada Place

Canada Place is a must-see landmark, originally built for the 86 Expo. Today, it serves as a cruise terminal for voyages to Alaska. Its distinctive white sail-like roof is a striking feature that many compare to the Sydney Opera House.

Fun Fact: On the roof of the Pan Pacific Hotel, you can find The Heritage Horns, which play the first four notes of the Canadian Anthem at noon, signaling lunchtime!

Stanley Park: A Natural Haven

As the largest urban park in Canada, Stanley Park offers stunning views and a plethora of activities. With lakes, trails, and ideal picnic spots, it’s perfect for a day of outdoor fun. Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops nearby and ride along the Seawall Path (remember to go counterclockwise for the best experience).

• Tip: Pack some food and enjoy a picnic, but note that alcohol consumption is prohibited in public spaces (though you can smoke marijuana!). For bike rentals, check out EzeeRiders at the corner of Robson and Denman St, where rates start at $5 per hour.

Grandville Island: A Culinary Delight

Visit Grandville Island, home to the famous market filled with fresh produce, bakeries, and local artisanal products. This area was once industrial but has now been transformed into a vibrant community hotspot.

You have three options to reach it from downtown: walk across the Granville Bridge (which offers breathtaking views), take a bus, or hop on a ferry. We chose the ferry, which costs $3.50 and is a fun way to cross False Creek.

Experience the Richmond Night Market

For a truly unique experience, visit the Richmond Night Market, which operates only during the warmer months (May to October). Entry costs $4.75, and once inside, you'll be immersed in an array of food stalls and food trucks offering a smorgasbord of delicious options. More info here.

Relax at Kitsilano Beach

If you're looking for a sunny escape, Kitsilano Beach is the place to be – many consider it the best beach in Vancouver. We enjoyed a stunning sunset here with Silvia and Carles, making it a highlight of our trip. Wreck Beach, known for its clothing-optional policy, is also nearby.

English Bay: The Local Favorite

Another popular beach is English Bay, frequented by locals for sports and relaxation. Here, you'll find two interesting landmarks: the Inukshuk – a symbol of the Inuit peoples – and the A-maze-ing Laughter, a whimsical sculpture featuring laughing giant figures.

Discover Chinatown

Chinatown is one of North America's largest Asian communities, so be sure to indulge in some delicious dumplings while you're there. Don't forget to pass through the Millennium Gate and visit the famous Chinese Garden. It’s a peaceful retreat that will leave you feeling zen (entry is $14).

Update: Please note that some recent reports suggest that Chinatown may not be as safe as it once was.

Queen Elizabeth Park: A Serene Escape

Queen Elizabeth Park is a peaceful oasis in the city. If you need a break from the urban rush, this park offers beautiful gardens and stunning views of the city skyline. The Botanical Garden is also nearby ($8 in low season and $11.25 in high season).

Craft Beer Market: A Local Favorite

While you can’t take alcohol into the parks, you can visit the Craft Beer Market, known for its extensive selection of craft beers. The venue, located in a historic building, is a celebration of local breweries. Check out their daily food and drink specials. More info here.

Museums to Visit in Vancouver

If the weather is rainy or you’re a culture buff, Vancouver boasts some fascinating museums. Here are four highlights:

• Science World – An interactive museum perfect for all ages.
• Museum of Anthropology – A must-see for those interested in Canada's diverse ethnic history.
• HR MacMillan Space Centre – Ideal for space enthusiasts.
• Vancouver Art Gallery – Showcasing a variety of art styles.

One of the most unique museums is the Vancouver Police Museum, located in the old autopsy building. Here, you can see confiscated firearms, counterfeit currency, and exhibits on Vancouver's most notorious crimes.

Experience the Vibrant Atmosphere of Davie Village

We stayed in the HI hostel in Davie Village, known for its LGBTQ+ community. A notable landmark is the Rainbow Crosswalks, the first permanent rainbow crosswalk in Canada, showcasing the city’s inclusive spirit.

Yaletown: A Trendy Neighborhood

Another charming area is Yaletown, which has transitioned from an industrial hub to a trendy hotspot filled with hip bars and restaurants. Its architecture is a beautiful mix of old warehouses and modern lofts. Don’t forget to check out the 374 Engine Pavilion, home to the first passenger locomotive that arrived in Vancouver in 1887 – entry is free!

Get a Bird’s Eye View at Vancouver Lookout

For panoramic views of the city, visit the Vancouver Lookout, located at Harbour Centre. Entry is $18, and you can book your ticket online here. Alternatively, you can enjoy views from the Public Library’s terrace or consider taking a scenic flight tour over the city for breathtaking sights.

Catch a Hockey Game

If you're in town during hockey season, don’t miss the chance to watch a Vancouver Canucks game at the Rogers Arena. Their season runs from October to late April. Check out their schedule here.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try ice skating at Robson Square, where they set up a free skating rink from December to February!

Excursions from Vancouver: Exploring the Surroundings

Have more time? Great! There are plenty of excursions you can take from Vancouver. Here are some popular options:

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

A highly recommended excursion is to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Here, you can cross a massive suspension bridge and stroll through treetop walkways, surrounded by pristine nature. Try to go early or on weekdays to avoid the crowds.

If you need transportation, consider booking a transport package here, as the park also offers a free shuttle service.

Lynn Canyon Park

If you're looking for a less crowded alternative, head to Lynn Canyon Park, which features another suspension bridge, albeit smaller, and is free to enter!

Grouse Mountain Adventures

For hiking enthusiasts, take on the Grouse Grind Hike, a challenging 2.8 km trail leading to the summit of Grouse Mountain. The views from the top are stunning, making the effort worthwhile! In winter, this mountain is a popular skiing destination, just a short drive from the city.

Road Trip to Whistler

If you have several days, consider renting a car and driving the spectacular Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler. This route is often ranked among the world's best road trips for its breathtaking scenery. If you prefer not to drive, you can book a tour to Whistler that includes transportation and a guide.

Vancouver Island Excursion

For the adventurous, a trip to Vancouver Island is a great option. You can easily take a ferry there. Once on the island, consider going on a responsible whale-watching tour!

More Things to See and Do in Vancouver

• Did you know that Vancouver is one of the top cities for film production? Check out this page to see what movies and series are currently being filmed; you might even spot a celebrity!
• Nearby, you can also go whale-watching and see orcas!
• If you love plants and trees, make sure to visit the VanDusen Botanical Garden.

Map of Things to See and Do in Vancouver

Below, you'll find a map indicating all the locations and attractions we've recommended in this post:

Travel Tips for Vancouver

Here are some recommendations we hope will be helpful when planning your trip to Vancouver:

Where to Stay in Vancouver

We spent three nights at HI Vancouver Downtown, located in the lively Davie Village. This hostel is part of the HI Hostels chain, and offers both dormitory and private rooms. It’s close to English Bay, perfect for enjoying the beach. Plus, breakfast is included!

How to Get to Vancouver from the Airport

The Canada Line train connects the airport to downtown Vancouver. The fare to the city center is $4.20, plus a $5 supplement. If you take the train after 6:30 PM or on weekends, only the supplement applies, totaling $7.95. Check the stops here.

Getting Around Vancouver

We primarily walked everywhere, except for the ferry to Grandville Island. Public transport in Vancouver is managed by TransLink, which includes buses, SkyTrain, and the SeaBus. To use public transport, you must purchase a Compass Ticket (single-use) at train stations or authorized vendors, or pay cash on buses (only coins; no change provided). The fare is $2.95 (one zone), allowing for 90 minutes of transfers. There is also a daily pass for $10.25.

Where to Eat in Vancouver

Check out this list of 5 restaurants to eat well and affordably in Vancouver.

As you can see, the bucket list for Vancouver is almost endless. What other things to see and do in Vancouver do you recommend? Share your thoughts in the comments; we can’t wait to visit again!

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