Affordable Adventure: Vancouver Day Trip Guide

Discover Vancouver's beauty without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Looking to explore Vancouver on a budget? Start by exploring Stanley Park, a 400 hectare park with beaches, trails, and wildlife viewing. Take advantage of free admission to the Museum of Anthropology on Tuesday nights and enjoy a stroll through Granville Island Public Market for local eats and handmade crafts. Opt for budget accommodations in the East Vancouver neighborhood, and take advantage of public transportation or rent a bike to get around the city.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring Vancouver on a Tight Budget

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Elbows On The Table. The French toast and eggs Benedict are a must-try!
  • Visit the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site for a walk around the fort and learn about the history of the fur trade and the Oregon Trail.
  • Head to Esther Short Park for a picnic lunch. Pack a sandwich and enjoy the beautiful fountains and roses.
  • Take a stroll around Downtown Vancouver and visit the Clark County Historical Museum. Their exhibits range from the Native American tribes that originally inhabited the area to the present-day culture of Vancouver.
  • End your day with a dinner at Lapellah. Their happy hour specials include affordable yet delicious plates, such as bruschetta and sliders.
  • Catch a movie at the Kiggins Theater, a historic theater located in downtown Vancouver. They screen both classic and new movies at reasonable prices.

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.

More travel plans

Romantic Getaway: 2 Days in Vancouver, Canada

Escape with your loved one to Vancouver, United States for a romantic getaway where you can enjoy scenic views from the famous Vancouver Lake. Explore the beauty of the city, stroll through the local Farmers Market or indulge in delicious cuisine from waterfront restaurants. Relax and unwind in luxury accommodations, making unforgettable memories together.

Vancouver Vibes: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure

Vancouver in the United States is an ideal destination for a family friendly trip. Explore the vibrant city with its stunning waterfront views, lush parks, and engaging museums. With family-friendly activities like visiting the Vancouver Aquarium, biking along the seawall, and enjoying a day of fun at Science World, Vancouver offers a memorable vacation for the whole family.

Vancouver Vibes: The Ultimate 2-Day Family Adventure!

A family-friendly trip to Vancouver, United States offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the stunning Stanley Park, where you can enjoy bike rides, picnics, and even visit the Vancouver Aquarium. Take a stroll through Granville Island, indulge in delicious food at the Public Market, and let your kids have fun at the outdoor water park. End your trip with a memorable visit to the Museum of Anthropology, which features fascinating exhibits showcasing indigenous cultures.

4-Day Romantic Getaway: Vancouver Love Adventure

Vancouver, located in the Pacific Northwest, is a charming city with a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty and urban sophistication. Experience an unforgettable romantic trip along with your partner, as you stroll through the city's picturesque waterfront, explore its trendy neighborhoods, and indulge in its gourmet food and wine scene. Surrounded by majestic mountains, lush greenery, and glistening waters, Vancouver is an ideal destination for couples seeking a memorable and romantic getaway.