Best 20 things to do in Vancouver, Canada

Welcome to Vancouver, the city where rain is both a friend and a foe! While you may be tempted to just huddle under an umbrella, take heart, for this city is bursting with activities to keep you entertained. From exploring Stanley Park's lush forests to indulging in the best poutine money can buy, get ready to embark on a whirlwind adventure that will have you saying "eh" in no time!

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1. Granville Island Public Market

4.6 (19540)

Public Market, 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada

Welcome to the Granville Island Public Market, where culinary wonders and quirky characters collide! Prepare to feast your eyes and taste buds, as this bustling marketplace dazzles even the most sophisticated foodies. From the freshest fruits and veggies that practically do a samba on your plate to artisanal cheeses that whisper sweet nothings to your palate, this food extravaganza is paradise for your stomach and street theater for your entertainment. As you navigate the labyrinthine lanes of the market, be prepared to stumble upon eccentric vendors who could easily moonlight as comedians. Encountering a flamboyant fishmonger charming customers with his outrageous fish tales is as likely as spotting a cunning bread baker, who skillfully juggles bread like a maestro in a bakery symphony. But fret not, dear traveler, for these vibrant personalities only add to the kaleidoscope of flavors and laughter that awaits you at every turn. As you leave Granville Island Public Market, reluctantly bidding adieu to the food-filled fantasyland, take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary experience you just had. And, if you can manage to save some delectable treats for later, you'll have a tangible memento of this foodie adventure, reminding you that laughter, delectable delights, and quirky vendors are not far from reach in this treasure trove of a market.

granvilleisland.com

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2. Bloedel Conservatory

4.6 (6438)

4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Y 2M4, Canada

Tucked away atop the stunning Queen Elizabeth Park, the Bloedel Conservatory in Vancouver is the perfect spot for both avid botany enthusiasts and those who simply want to pretend they know anything about plants. Step into this lush oasis and be prepared to get lost (figuratively, of course), amid the vibrant colors and exotic foliage, wondering if you've stumbled into the Amazon rainforest or just the daydream of a plant-obsessed architect. And fear not, fellow travelers, for the Conservatory's iconic triodetic dome not only shields you from the elements but also gives you an excellent opportunity to reenact scenes from "Biodome" (yes, the one with Pauly Shore).

vancouver.ca

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3. Grouse Mountain

4.8 (176)

North Vancouver, BC V7K 1X8, Canada

Welcome to Grouse Mountain, Vancouver's beloved playground for both humans and mountain goats alike! Brace yourselves for an adrenaline-fueled escapade as you ascend this towering wilderness wonderland on the Skyride gondola, where breathtaking views await to make your hair stand on end (or maybe it’s just the wind, we can’t say for sure!). Once you reach the top, channel your inner Yeti and conquer the slopes, or simply cozy up in a rustic cabin and sip hot cocoa until all your worries slide down the mountain faster than first-time skiers.

www.grousemountain.com

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4. English Bay

4.7 (360)

English Bay, Metro Vancouver, BC, Canada

Welcome to English Bay, Vancouver's sunny and sandy playground! This lively beach boasts stunning views of majestic mountains, fluffy clouds, and, of course, an army of perfectly tanned locals strutting their stuff. Feel free to dip your toes in the refreshing Pacific Ocean and join the ever-present seagulls in their quest for stolen snacks – just remember, they're professional thieves with wings! Plus, don't miss the nightly sunset spectacle that transforms this hotspot into a romantic paradise, ideal for gazing longingly into someone's eyes or pondering the meaning of life as you devour an ice cream cone.

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5. Chinatown

Chinatown, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Welcome to Vancouver's Chinatown, where East meets West in a delightful collision of culture and confusion. Step into the vibrant maze of streets, where you'll encounter a breathtaking mishmash of herbal medicine shops, succulent dim sum restaurants, and a mind-boggling array of kitschy souvenirs that promise to make you the ultimate Asian cuisine connoisseur. Explore the bustling streets, but beware of the Chinese Zodiac maze - a mysterious labyrinth that has trapped more lost tourists than a malfunctioning GPS system.

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6. Pacific Spirit Regional Park

4.7 (1744)

5495 Chancellor Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1E4, Canada

Nestled amidst the urban sprawl of Vancouver lies the magnificent Pacific Spirit Regional Park, offering a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle. Picture this: 763 hectares of pristine forest, where majestic trees sway gracefully to music only they can hear (or maybe the wind, who knows really?). Get ready to channel your inner Jane or Tarzan as you swing from one enchanting trail to another, navigating through luscious greenery while pretending you're on a grand adventure to find the world's most elusive coffee shop.

metrovancouver.org

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7. Science World

4.5 (11507)

1455 Quebec St, Vancouver, BC V6A 3Z7, Canada

Welcome to Science World in Vancouver, where curiosity thrives, minds are blown, and lab coats are always in style! Step into a world of awe-inspiring exhibits and prepare for an out-of-this-world adventure. From exploring colossal dinosaur skeletons to getting lost in mind-bending optical illusions, you'll learn more about science here than from your childhood science teacher who always fell asleep during class (we won't name names). So gear up, fellow adventurers, and let Science World take you on a journey that will make you feel like the Einstein of amusement parks!

scienceworld.ca

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8. Lynn Canyon Park

4.8 (6877)

3663 Park Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7J 3K2, Canada

Welcome to Lynn Canyon Park, Vancouver's hidden gem where the majestic trees stand like green giants and the suspension bridge bounces under the weight of curious tourists and overly enthusiastic chipmunks. Step into a world where nature reigns supreme and your fear of heights takes a coffee break (along with your dignity) as you inch across the swinging bridge, praying it was built for more than just hearty laughs. Take a dive into the sparkling emerald waters below, following the tradition of locals who are determined to prove that numbness is the new sensation.

lynncanyon.ca

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9. Kitsilano Beach

4.6 (1050)

Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Welcome to Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver's quirky coastal oasis! One step onto this sandy slice of paradise, and you'll find yourself wondering, "Am I in California or Canada?" With its palm-tree studded shoreline and endless games of beach volleyball, Kitsilano Beach is a delightful blend of sun-soaked bliss and Canucks' laid-back charm. Don't be surprised if you spot a local bronzing up on their beach towel while sipping a latte and discussing the meaning of life - it's just another day in the wonderfully wacky world of Kits Beach!

vancouver.ca

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10. Queen Elizabeth Park

4.7 (13356)

4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1, Canada

Welcome to Queen Elizabeth Park, where you can escape the chaos of the city and embrace nature without ever leaving Vancouver! Prepare to be mesmerized by the vibrant explosion of colors in the stunningly manicured gardens, giving you the perfect backdrop for your Instagram selfies. And if you're wondering why it's called "Queen Elizabeth" Park, well, it's not because Her Majesty sneaks in for a quick game of frisbee golf – it's just named after her, sadly no royal sightings have been reported.

vancouver.ca

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11. VanDusen Botanical Garden

4.7 (9203)

5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada

Welcome to VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver's leafy paradise where plants have perfected the art of relaxation. Sprawling over 55 acres, this garden is a delightful maze designed to confuse not only the visitors but also the plants themselves – it’s like a botanical game of hide and seek. Stroll through the lush pathways and discover an astonishing array of flora, from majestic trees trying their best to impersonate skyscrapers to flowers showing off their beauty like they're about to audition for a reality TV show.

vancouver.ca

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12. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

4.2 (4542)

578 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K2, Canada

Tucked away amidst the urban jungle of Vancouver lies the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, a tranquil oasis for those seeking a break from the chaos of city life. As you step into this enchanting terrain, the serenity hits you like a sudden realization that you forgot to feed your neighbor's goldfish for the past three months. Immerse yourself in the perfectly manicured gardens and traditional Chinese architecture, and you'll find yourself wondering if you accidentally wandered into a hidden level of a video game where relaxation is the ultimate boss battle.

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13. Museum of Anthropology

4.6 (4309)

6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Vancouver, the Museum of Anthropology is like a treasure trove of fascinating artifacts. Step inside and prepare to have your mind blown as you delve into the rich tapestry of cultures from around the world. From towering totems that make you feel like a shrinking Alice in Wonderland to an impressive collection of masks that will have you questioning if you accidentally stumbled into a masquerade party, this museum is an anthropological adventure like no other.

moa.ubc.ca

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14. Sea to Sky Highway

BC-99, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Welcome to the Sea to Sky Highway in Vancouver, where driving feels like floating on a fluffy cloud, except with pavement and a few more honking seagulls. This scenic stretch of road magically transports you from the bustling city to breathtaking mountain vistas faster than you can say "I hope my camera is ready!" The journey is so picturesque that even the notorious traffic jams here seem almost charming; just remember to keep a snack handy for those inevitable highway snack stand-offs with the seagulls.

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15. Canada Place

Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C, Canada

Nestled amidst the stunning cityscape of Vancouver, Canada Place is a true gem for travelers seeking a perfect blend of jaw-dropping architecture and an ode to our beloved maple leaf. With a design that seems to scream "I'm a gigantic sail on steroids," this iconic venue proudly showcases the irresistible Canadian charms. Be prepared to embrace your inner nautical enthusiast as you stroll along the waterfront promenade, breathe in the fresh sea breeze, and wave at passing ships as if you, too, are the captain of the Port of Vancouver.

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16. Stanley Park

Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G, Canada

Welcome to Stanley Park, the green oasis in the heart of Vancouver where nature lovers and Canadian geese coexist. Take a stroll along the Seawall, but don't forget your fitness tracker - you'll need it to measure the distance you've walked just to get to the next lookout point. Don't worry if you're not a fan of birds, the park's trees are incredibly talented and can provide enough shade to block out even the most persistent seagull squawks.

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17. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

4.6 (25933)

3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada

Welcome to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where gravity goes on vacation and nerves of steel are put to the test! Get ready to hang onto your hats (and maybe your lunch) as you traverse the swaying masterpiece of engineering that is the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Not limited to heart-stopping thrills, this park treats you to lush greenery, charming treetop walkways, and the not-so-subtle reminder that humans are both exhilarated and terrified in the presence of Mother Nature.

www.capbridge.com

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18. Gastown

Gastown, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Nestled in the lively heart of Vancouver, Gastown is a quirky neighborhood bursting with character, just like that eccentric neighbor who insists on giving you impromptu violin concerts. Stroll through cobblestone streets that seem to have a secret pact with time, refusing to let go of their Victorian charm. Don't be surprised if you stumble upon a steam-powered clock, a whimsical contraption tickling commuters with blasts of steam and chimes, reminding them that it's time to scout for the nearest hipster coffee joint.

www.gastown.org

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19. Vancouver Art Gallery

4.3 (6789)

750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7, Canada

Welcome to the Vancouver Art Gallery, a cultural oasis disguised as a giant shoebox in the heart of the city. Marvel at the architectural masterpiece that screams, "I contain artistic wonders, not footwear!" Once inside, prepare to be dazzled by an impressive collection of thought-provoking art, guaranteed to make you question your life choices and consider taking up finger painting. Don't worry, they won't judge. Maybe.

www.vanartgallery.bc.ca

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20. Vancouver Aquarium

4.5 (8803)

845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada

Welcome to the Vancouver Aquarium, where you can dive into a world that's wetter than your uncle's bad jokes! Check out their collection of underwater critters, from slimy eels to sassy sea turtles. And don't miss the mesmerizing jellyfish exhibit, it's like a psychedelic disco where the party never stops (unless they turn off the lights, of course)!

www.vanaqua.org

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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.

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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.

Vancouver Adventures: 4 Days of Family Fun on a Budget

A family-friendly trip to Vancouver, Canada offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant city life. Explore Stanley Park and its impressive aquarium, rent bikes and ride along the seawall, or take a scenic stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens. For some added adventure, head to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and experience the thrill of walking across a suspension bridge amidst lush rainforest settings.

Vibrant Vancouver: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

A family friendly trip to Vancouver, Canada, offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and entertainment. Explore the stunning Stanley Park with its lush greenery, scenic trails, and the Vancouver Aquarium for up-close encounters with marine life. Embrace the city's vibrant downtown, filled with kid-friendly museums, markets, and diverse dining options, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

A Romantic Long-Weekend in Vancouver, Canada

A romantic trip to Vancouver, Canada offers stunning natural scenery, delectable cuisine, and endless opportunities for adventure. From strolling through Stanley Park hand-in-hand to indulging in a candlelit dinner overlooking the harbor, couples are sure to savor every moment of their time in this enchanting city. The vibrant culture, friendly locals, and cozy accommodations make Vancouver the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.