Best 20 things to do in Vancouver, United States

Welcome to Vancouver, where the maple syrup flows like water, and the mountains stand tall like overexcited Canadians! Prepare yourself for a wild adventure as we handpick the top 20 activities in this stunning city. From indulging in some poutine, our national dish made of french fries, gravy, and curd cheese, to embarking on a quest to spot a real-life lumberjack, Vancouver offers experiences that are as Canadian as chirping crickets in a hockey rink. So, grab your toque, stash some extra "loonies" in your pockets, and get ready to explore the quirky charm of this west coast gem!

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1. Kitsilano Beach

4.6 (1050)

Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Welcome to Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver, where urban meets beach bum chic! This vibrant slice of sandy paradise offers more than just a spot for sunbathing and frisbee-throwing - it's a lifestyle. With its eclectic crowd of yoga enthusiasts, rollerbladers, and talented jugglers, this beach is like a never-ending circus show, minus the elephants and creepy clowns (thankfully). Get ready to channel your inner Baywatch lifeguard fantasy, because Kitsilano Beach boasts some seriously good-looking surfers and bronzed beach bums. You won't be able to resist the temptation to join them in their quintessential beach activities, like paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and merrily building sandcastles that no ocean wave can resist demolishing. After you've had your fill of beachside shenanigans, be sure to stroll along the bike-friendly seawall, where you can admire the stunning mountain views, dodge the occasional rogue seagull aiming for your ice cream cone, and engage in some serious people-watching. Kitsilano Beach is like a kaleidoscope of colorful characters - whether it's the impromptu hula-hooper, the sunburnt tourist wearing socks with sandals, or the dog walker with more dogs than sense, there's never a dull moment at this one-of-a-kind urban oasis!

vancouver.ca

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2. UBC Botanical Garden

4.5 (1348)

6804 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada

Nestled within Vancouver's leafy embrace, UBC Botanical Garden proudly stands as the green jewel of the city. With an impressive array of plants from all corners of the Earth, this is the place to lose yourself in nature, or perhaps, lose nature in yourself. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden's meticulously curated pathways, where even the most botanically challenged will feel compelled to whip out their smartphones and pretend to know the Latin names of flora. Just remember to resist the urge to pluck a rare flower to take home as a truly unforgettable souvenir, unless you'd like to receive a stern lecture on horticultural ethics from the earnest garden staff.

botanicalgarden.ubc.ca

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3. Museum of Anthropology

4.6 (4309)

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

Welcome to the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver, where history and culture meet a sassy sense of humor. Step inside this treasure chest of artifacts and prepare to have your mind blown, or at least mildly amused. The museum showcases stunning exhibits from various indigenous cultures, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for ancient art and craving some mouth-watering bannock. Whether you're an aspiring anthropologist or just a curious traveler, this museum will leave you both enlightened and chuckling at the witty signs that truly do put the "fun" in "funny."

moa.ubc.ca

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4. Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

4.7 (595)

612 E Reserve St, Vancouver, WA 98661, USA

Welcome to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, where you can step back in time and experience the delightful combination of history and hilarity. This site boasts a charming reconstruction of a 19th-century fur trading post, complete with dashing costumed interpreters who will regale you with tales of beards, bison, and bizarre fashion choices. Prepare to giggle your way through interactive exhibits, where you can learn the colonial art of bartering and master the art of avoiding those pesky mosquitoes that apparently had an obsession with fur-trading explorers.

www.nps.gov

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5. Vancouver Lookout

4.5 (2712)

555 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6, Canada

Perched high above the bustling city of Vancouver like a nosy neighbor peering over a fence, the Vancouver Lookout boasts panoramic views to satisfy even the most unimpressed tourists. Offering a bird's eye view of the city's skyline, this towering attraction makes sure you never miss a chance to spot fellow humans scurrying like ants below. So grab your binoculars and your sense of humor, because you never know what comical mishaps and epic selfies you might witness from this sky-high observatory!

vancouverlookout.com

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6. Pacific Spirit Regional Park

4.7 (1744)

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

Welcome to Pacific Spirit Regional Park, where the chirping birds provide the soundtrack to your wilderness adventure... or the constant reminder that they, not you, are the true lords of this land! Nestled in the heart of Vancouver, this urban oasis offers endless trails for hiking, biking, or aimlessly wandering in search of the perfect picnic spot. Be prepared to encounter an array of flora and fauna, some of which may decide to join you on your expedition and make you question who's truly the visitor here!

metrovancouver.org

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7. Science World

4.5 (11507)

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

Welcome to Science World, where nerds and non-nerds alike can unite in the marvelous realm of science and, dare I say, fun! This funky geodesic dome perched splendidly on the shores of False Creek is the perfect spot to ignite your curiosity and engage in mind-blowing experiments. From mind-boggling exhibits to electrifying shows, Science World is the ultimate playground for both the intellectually curious and those seeking an unexpected dose of entertainment.

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 in Vancouver, where nature's playground awaits! Feel the exhilarating rush as you traverse the fabled suspension bridge, suspended high above the picturesque canyon below. Be prepared to channel your inner Tarzan and swing through the tree canopies on the park's daring and delightfully wild adventure courses. Soak in the serenity of the lush rainforest and keep your eyes peeled for hidden trolls who may or may not grant you passage to secret waterfalls.

lynncanyon.ca

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9. Grouse Mountain

4.5 (481)

Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver, BC V7R, Canada

Hidden within the bosom of Vancouver, lies the glorious Grouse Mountain - a veritable playground for adrenaline seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Brace yourself for a heart-stomping adventure, as you ascend this gargantuan mound aboard the Skyride, a magical cable car designed to test your endurance against gravity's jealous hands. Once you reach the summit, prepare to be awe-struck by the jaw-dropping vistas, the kind that would have even the most seasoned photographers blush and beg for a lesson in humility.

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10. Granville Island

Granville Island, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Welcome to Granville Island, the quirky gem of Vancouver! Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape, this vibrant hotspot promises a delightful concoction of art, food, and captivating chaos. Grab a map and let's dive into this labyrinth of peculiarities! Prepare yourself for a sensory swirl as you explore the island's famous Public Market. This cornucopia of delights offers an overwhelming assortment of local and exotic goodies, where you can satisfy any craving, be it for passionately pungent cheeses or rainbow-colored donuts that may or may not enhance your happiness quotient. Time to channel your inner Picasso as you take a leisurely stroll amongst Granville Island's artistic maze. Marvel at whimsical sculptures and daring avant-garde installations that will either leave you pondering the meaning of life or questioning your choice of vacation destination. Don't forget to strike a bizarre pose in front of the "Rubber Chicken Elvis" masterpiece – your Instagram followers will never see that one coming! So, dear traveler, whether you're a foodie, art enthusiast, or simply in dire need of a laugh-inducing adventure, Granville Island will undoubtedly satisfy your craving for the unusual. Embrace the eccentricity, lose yourself in the maze, and remember, photos or it didn't happen!

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11. Vancouver Art Gallery

4.3 (6789)

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

Welcome to the Vancouver Art Gallery, where you can immerse yourself in the delightful hodgepodge of creative masterpieces this city has on offer. Nestled amidst towering skyscrapers, this gallery is like a rebellious art student who decided to showcase everything from mind-boggling contemporary installations to classic works that would make even Mona Lisa raise an eyebrow. Prepare to have your senses tingling as you wander through the eclectic exhibitions, trying to decipher whether that abstract painting is a genius stroke or just a result of someone's colorful tantrum.

www.vanartgallery.bc.ca

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12. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

4.2 (4542)

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

Nestled in the charming heart of Vancouver, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden awaits your curious footsteps, eager to transport you back in time to ancient China. Get ready to channel your inner wanderer and explore this architectural marvel that elicits both serenity and slight FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) on centuries you missed. From ornate pavilions that practically whisper secrets of the past, to delicate lotus ponds that make every Instagrammer's heart flutter, this garden is so captivating that even your camera lens will raise an eyebrow in awe.

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13. VanDusen Botanical Garden

4.7 (9203)

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

Welcome to VanDusen Botanical Garden in Vancouver, where flowers bloom with such fervor that even Albert Einstein's theory of relativity seems relatively simple in comparison. This stunning oasis boasts an abundance of greenery that could give the Amazon rainforest a run for its money, leaving visitors yearning for a spontaneous game of hide-and-seek with their newfound botanical friends. Be prepared to have your senses tickled like never before as you wander through a floral wonderland that's been known to melt even the coldest of hearts – so make sure your emotions are equipped with a "Caution: Fragile" sign.

vancouver.ca

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14. Gastown

Gastown, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Tucked away in the heart of Vancouver, Gastown is a delightful blend of hipster hangouts, historic charm, and more beard oil stores than you can shake a waxed mustache at. Stroll along its cobblestone streets, where trendy boutiques and bohemian coffee shops are as abundant as the baristas sporting suspenders. Don't forget to snap a selfie with the famous steam-powered clock, because nothing screams "I heart Vancouver" like a timepiece that manages to look both ancient and futuristic at the same time.

www.gastown.org

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15. Queen Elizabeth Park

4.7 (13356)

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

Welcome to Queen Elizabeth Park, the unofficial "elevated oasis" in the heart of Vancouver! Prepare to be mesmerized by stunning panoramic views of the city, where you can daydream about what life would be like with a mountain as your neighbor—don't worry, it won't borrow your lawnmower. Stroll through beautifully manicured gardens fit for a royal, where even the tulips practice their curtsies before blooming. Whether you're a flower aficionado or just in need of a solid selfie backdrop, Queen Elizabeth Park has got you covered.

vancouver.ca

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16. Stanley Park

4.8 (41617)

Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada

Step into the magical realm of Stanley Park, where nature and hijinks collide! This urban oasis in Vancouver brings together majestic cedars, serene trails, and hoodwinking raccoons. Lose yourself amidst the towering trees as you stumble upon secret picnic spots and, if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of squirrels plotting their next prank. This is not your average park; it's a whimsical wonderland where laughter echoes under the watchful eyes of the park's resident geese gang—who are known for their hilarious honking competitions!

vancouver.ca

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17. Vancouver Aquarium

4.5 (8803)

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

Welcome to the Vancouver Aquarium in beautiful Vancouver, where you can experience the underwater wonders without getting your hair wet or your toes nibbled by fish! This is not your average aquarium; it's a marine paradise that transports you to a world where humans are simply visitors and aquatic creatures reign supreme - like Simba in The Lion King, but with way more gills! Get ready to witness breathtaking exhibits and come face-to-fin with adorable sea otters who will make you question your own cuteness levels.

www.vanaqua.org

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18. Commercial Drive

3.4 (5)

1726 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A3, Canada

Welcome to Commercial Drive in Vancouver, where hipsters and hippies harmoniously coexist in a delightfully quirky fashion. Prepare yourself for a visual feast as you stroll down the Drive, marveling at the kaleidoscope of vintage shops, independent cafés, and an eclectic mix of colorful characters. Indulge in the bohemian atmosphere as you soak up the distinctive aroma of freshly roasted fair-trade coffee blending with the scent of medicinal herbs wafting from a neighboring holistic store.

www.thedrive.ca

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19. English Bay Beach

4.7 (14078)

Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6C 3C1, Canada

Welcome to English Bay Beach, the sun-soaked gem of Vancouver where sandy shores meet unsuspecting tourists. Prepare yourself for a beach experience like no other, where the weather is as unpredictable as deciding what to wear. While strolling along this coastal treasure, be ready to spot the locals showcasing their puzzling fashion choices, from hipster speedos to octogenarian Hawaiian shirts – a spectacularly bizarre sight to behold!

vancouver.ca

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20. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

4.6 (25933)

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

Welcome to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where thrill-seekers and tree-huggers unite in a glorious battle of adrenaline and appreciation for nature! Step gingerly onto the wobbly suspension bridge, as if you're auditioning for a reality TV show aptly named "Fear Factor: Vancouver Edition." Don't worry, the shaky journey will reward you with stunning treetop views that rival the best artwork found in your granny's attic.

www.capbridge.com

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Vancouver, United States by plane is to fly into Portland International Airport (PDX) and then take a 20-minute drive north on I-5 to reach Vancouver.

Car

Driving to Vancouver, United States is relatively straightforward. Simply take I-5 North from Seattle or Portland and you will enter Vancouver. However, be prepared for heavy traffic during peak periods.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no train services that directly travel to Vancouver, United States. However, you could take an Amtrak Train to Portland Union Station and then take a taxi or car rental service to Vancouver.

Boat

Travelling by boat to Vancouver, United States is not possible as there are no available channels or ports that directly connect to this city.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound bus from Seattle to Vancouver is one of the best ways to get there. The bus stops at Vancouver Transit Center which is located in downtown Vancouver.

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