As proud Vancouverites, we’ve spent years exploring every corner of our stunning city and its surrounding areas. Vancouver consistently ranks among the world’s most livable cities, and for good reason—it offers an unparalleled blend of urban excitement and natural beauty that few destinations can match. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for new local adventures, we’re excited to share our insider knowledge of the best attractions in Vancouver and amazing day trips just beyond the city limits.
Stanley Park: Vancouver's Crown Jewel
No Vancouver itinerary is complete without dedicating at least half a day to Stanley Park. This 1,000-acre urban forest is larger than New York’s Central Park and offers something for everyone:
- Seawall: The 8.8 km paved pathway circling the park provides spectacular views of English Bay, the North Shore mountains, and the Vancouver skyline. Rent bikes near the park entrance to cover more ground.
- Totem Poles at Brockton Point: These impressive monuments represent the rich Indigenous heritage of the Pacific Northwest.
- Vancouver Aquarium: Home to over 50,000 creatures, including beluga whales, sea otters, and jellyfish.
- Secret beaches: Third Beach and Second Beach offer perfect spots for summer swimming and sunset watching.
Local Tip: Visit during early morning hours to enjoy the park with fewer crowds, especially during summer months.
Granville Island: A Food Lover's Paradise
Once an industrial area, Granville Island has transformed into one of Vancouver’s most vibrant cultural hubs:
- Public Market: Browse through fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and sample international cuisine from dozens of food stalls.
- Artisan workshops: Watch glassblowers, potters, and other craftspeople at work in their studios.
- Granville Island Brewing: Take a tour and sample craft beers at one of Canada’s pioneering microbreweries.
- False Creek Ferry: Hop on these cute “aquabuses” for a unique perspective of the city from the water.
Local Tip: The market gets extremely busy on weekends; visit on weekday mornings for a more relaxed experience.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: Thrills Above the Treetops
Located in North Vancouver, just a 15-minute drive from downtown, this attraction offers:
- Suspension Bridge: Walk across a 137-meter bridge suspended 70 meters above the Capilano River.
- Cliffwalk: Adventure along a series of narrow walkways built into the granite cliff face.
- Treetops Adventure: Explore seven suspension bridges attached to old-growth Douglas firs.
Local Tip: For a similar experience with fewer tourists and no entrance fee, visit Lynn Canyon Park with its own suspension bridge and beautiful hiking trails.
Gastown and Chinatown: Vancouver's Historic Heart
Explore Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods:
- Gastown Steam Clock: Watch this famous clock release steam every quarter-hour.
- Water Street: Browse unique boutiques, art galleries, and dine at award-winning restaurants.
- Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden: Find tranquility in this authentic Ming Dynasty-style garden.
- Chinatown Night Market: Sample delicious street food and shop for unique souvenirs (summer months only).
Local Tip: Take the guided Forbidden Vancouver walking tour to learn about the area’s fascinating and sometimes scandalous history.
Grouse Mountain: The Peak of Vancouver
Just 15 minutes from downtown, Grouse Mountain offers year-round activities:
- Grouse Grind: Challenge yourself on this famous 2.9 km trail known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster.”
- Skyride: Take North America’s largest aerial tramway for panoramic views.
- Lumberjack Show: Watch a quintessentially Canadian performance during summer months.
- Winter activities: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing from December through April.
Local Tip: Visit during sunset hours for spectacular views of the city lights coming alive below.
Beyond Vancouver: Amazing Nearby Getaways
Home to the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler offers:
- Whistler-Blackcomb: North America’s largest ski resort with over 200 marked runs.
- Peak 2 Peak Gondola: The longest and highest lift of its kind in the world.
- Summer activities: Mountain biking, hiking, zip-lining, and golf.
- Scandinave Spa: Rejuvenate in outdoor thermal baths surrounded by forest.
Local Tip: The Sea to Sky Highway drive is an attraction itself—allow extra time for stops at viewpoints like Shannon Falls and Tantalus Lookout.
A perfect day trip or weekend getaway:
- Butchart Gardens: 55 acres of stunning floral displays and themed gardens.
- Inner Harbour: Watch street performers while admiring the impressive Parliament Buildings.
- Royal BC Museum: Explore British Columbia’s natural and human history.
- Afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel: Experience a century-old tradition at this iconic landmark.
Local Tip: Skip the car and take the passenger ferry from downtown Vancouver for a stress-free journey.
This outdoor recreation hub offers:
- Sea to Sky Gondola: Ride up for incredible views of Howe Sound and surrounding mountains.
- Stawamus Chief: Hike up this massive granite monolith for epic views.
- Whitewater rafting: Experience thrilling rapids on the Elaho and Squamish rivers.
- Eagle viewing: Witness one of North America’s largest congregations of bald eagles (November-February).
Local Tip: Visit Fergie’s Cafe for amazing brunch dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
This resort town offers:
- Harrison Lake: Swim, kayak, or paddleboard on this massive lake.
- Hot springs pools: Soak in mineral-rich waters at the public pool or hotel spa.
- Circle Farm Tour: Visit local farms, cheesemakers, and wineries in the surrounding area.
- Sasquatch Provincial Park: Hike through beautiful forests and along tranquil lakes.
Local Tip: Visit during the Harrison Festival of the Arts in July for live music and cultural performances.
Best Times to Visit Vancouver and Surrounding Areas
- Summer (June-August): Perfect for outdoor activities with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds.
- Fall (September-October): Enjoy beautiful foliage, fewer tourists, and comfortable temperatures.
- Winter (November-February): Experience world-class skiing at nearby mountains. The city itself rarely gets snow but can be rainy.
- Spring (March-May): Watch the city bloom with cherry blossoms and enjoy gradually warming temperatures.
Getting Around Vancouver and Beyond
- Public Transit: Vancouver’s SkyTrain, SeaBus, and bus network make getting around easy. Purchase a Compass Card for convenience.
- Ride Share: Both Uber and Lyft is available making it easy to get to destinations.
- Bicycle: Vancouver is extremely bike-friendly with extensive dedicated lanes.
- Water Taxis: A fun way to travel between downtown, Granville Island, and other False Creek destinations.
- Downtown: Perfect for first-time visitors wanting walking access to major attractions.
- Kitsilano: A beach neighborhood with a laid-back vibe and great restaurants.
- Commercial Drive: Experience Vancouver’s multicultural energy and great food scene.
- North Vancouver: Ideal for nature lovers wanting quick access to mountains and trails.
Final Thoughts: Why Vancouver Should Top Your Travel List
Living in Vancouver has given us a deep appreciation for this city’s perfect balance of urban amenities and natural beauty. Few places in the world offer the opportunity to ski, kayak, hike, and enjoy world-class dining all in the same day. The variety of experiences available within the city and just a short drive away makes Vancouver truly unique.
We hope this guide helps you discover the Vancouver we know and love—a city that continues to surprise and delight us even after years of exploration. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Vancouver’s diverse attractions and stunning surroundings guarantee an unforgettable experience.
