Vancouver, Canada: A 2-Day Journey of Adventure and Delight

Discover endless adventures and family fun in beautiful Vancouver, Canada.

19 July 2023

A trip to Vancouver, Canada offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions. Explore the stunning Stanley Park, where kids can enjoy the Aquarium, mini train, and playgrounds. Visit Granville Island for a fun day filled with delicious food, local artisans, and a kids' market. Don't forget to take a scenic gondola ride up Grouse Mountain for breathtaking views and adventure activities like ziplining and wildlife encounters.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Jam Cafe, where the pancakes are fluffy enough to delight even the grumpiest morning person.
  • Walk off those calories with a leisurely stroll through Stanley Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Don't forget to stop and smell the roses (or the cherry blossoms, depending on the season).
  • Embrace your inner child at the Vancouver Aquarium, where you can witness the mesmerizing ballet of beluga whales and the adorable antics of sea otters. It's sure to make you say, "Sea, I'm in love!"
  • Refuel your hungry brood at Granville Island Public Market, an eclectic food haven where culinary wonders from all over the world converge. From exotic spices to artisanal cheeses, let your taste buds embark on a globetrotting adventure.
  • Time travel back to the Wild West at Gastown, the city's oldest neighborhood. Get lost in its cobbled streets and don't miss the iconic steam clock! Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for Harry Potter's doppelgänger; he's been spotted here. Seriously.
Day 2

Nature's Playground

  • Rise and shine, nature fanatics! Head over to Grouse Mountain, where you can hike your way to stunning views. If sweating it out isn't your thing, take a scenic gondola ride instead. The mountains are calling – can you hear them?
  • After conquering the heights, satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Dare your family to cross the swaying bridge, feeling like Indiana Jones in search of lost treasures.
  • Lunchtime means it's time for Japadog! Don't be fooled by the name, these hot dogs are a fusion of Japanese and Canadian flavors that'll blow your taste buds away. Teriyaki mayo on a hot dog? Trust us, it works.
  • Time to get your science on at Science World, a.k.a. the wildest playground for both kids and adults. From interactive exhibits and mind-bending illusions to hands-on experiments, prepare to say "Eureka!" more times than you can count.
  • End your Vancouver adventure with a twilight stroll along English Bay Beach. Watch the sun paint the sky in hues so breathtaking, you'll swear it was done by a celestial artist. Bring a blanket and some marshmallows to roast for the perfect finale. Enjoy!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Vancouver, Canada by plane is to fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which is approximately 12km from downtown Vancouver. There are plenty of major airlines that operate flights to YVR from around the world.

Car

You can drive to Vancouver, Canada by taking Highway 1 from the east or west, or Highway 99 from the south. Vancouver is approximately 240km from Seattle, USA, and 145km from the US-Canada border.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Vancouver, Canada. However, you can take the Amtrak Cascades Train from Seattle, USA to Vancouver which takes around four hours.

Boat

Vancouver has a large port with many international cruise ships stopping there. You can also take a ferry from some parts of British Columbia to Vancouver Island, which is just a short drive from Vancouver.

Bus

Greyhound Canada operates intercity bus services that connect Vancouver, Canada to several major cities in the USA and Canada. The bus station in Vancouver is located downtown at Pacific Central Station.

More travel plans

Vancouver's Best Budget-Friendly Day Trip

For those on a limited budget, Vancouver offers plenty of free outdoor activities, such as hiking in Stanley Park or exploring Granville Island Public Market. Budget-friendly accommodations can be found in hostels or Airbnb rentals. To save money on food, venture outside the tourist areas to find local diners or street food vendors.

The Ultimate 2-Day Adventure in Vancouver

Vancouver is an exciting and diverse city with many affordable experiences to offer budget travelers. From exploring the city's stunning natural beauty on foot or by bike to visiting museums and cultural institutions for free, Vancouver has something for everyone. With plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options and affordable dining choices, a trip to this west coast gem won't break the bank.

5 Days of Adventure in Vancouver, Canada

As a tourist visiting Vancouver, you can explore the city's stunning natural beauty, including Stanley Park and Capilano Suspension Bridge. You can also indulge yourself in Vancouver's world-renowned culinary scene, with plenty of diverse cuisines and local seafood. In addition, you can delve into Vancouver's art and culture, by visiting museums, galleries, and historic sites, such as the Gastown neighborhood.

Escape for Romance: 4-Day Vancouver Getaway

A romantic trip to Vancouver, Canada provides a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty and urban excitement. With a backdrop of majestic mountains and glistening waterways, couples can explore the city's scenic parks and beaches, indulge in delicious seafood cuisine, and discover a vibrant cultural scene. Whether strolling hand in hand through the charming neighborhoods or enjoying a sunset cruise, Vancouver is an idyllic destination for a romantic getaway.