Canada is a country with alluring landscapes, magnificent mountains, and exquisite beaches. An abundance of nature with waterfalls, lakes, and forests! With year-round activities, it is a true enigma in the northern part of North America. The city that we are going to talk about is a jewel in itself in Canada. Located in the lovely British Columbia province, Vancouver is the central hub or rather the heart of British Columbia. The moment when you are in flight and the pilot announces that you are about to reach Vancouver in 20 minutes and see the peak out of the window, you see the summit of the mountains spread all across and it is a view to relish forever. Finally, you’ve landed in Vancouver and the chill breeze touches your face. You definitely fall for the surreal beauty of this place. Well, you are at the hotel and then you think, “Well, here I am in Vancouver. What next?” To answer your question, check out our list of the best things to do in Vancouver.
1. Take in the views along Vancouver Seawall
Built around Stanley Park to prevent erosion, Vancouver Seawall has since become a major attraction for tourists visiting the city and a great spot for locals and outdoor enthusiasts to relax and hang out. The stone wall spreads over 17 miles (27 kilometers) and is the longest continuous waterfront trail. The path is excellent for a bevy of activities, including biking, walking, jogging, and roller skating; it offers spectacular views of the blue waters along the way. While here, keep an eye out for several landmarks too.
Vancouver Seawall
Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2
Website: Vancouver Seawall
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
2. Check the time at the famous Gastown Steam Clock
Among the city’s most famed tourist attractions, the 1977 Gastown Steam Clock is a must-see when in Vancouver. The clock is situated in Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood of the same name. It blends perfectly with the cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and chic boutiques. This antique-style clock is powered by steam and tells the exact time by whistling.
Gastown Steam Clock
Address: 305 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B9
Website: Gastown Steam Clock
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Tip from tour guide
Gastown Steam Clock in Gastown district in Vancouver downtown is a very popular tourist attraction. This clock is fully or partially powered by a steam engine and was built by Canadian horologist Raymond Saunders for display in urban public spaces. Steam clocks built by Saunders are found in Otaru, Japan; Indianapolis, United States; and the Canadian cities of Vancouver, Whistler, and Port Coquitlam, all in British Columbia. Although they are often styled to appear as 19th-century antiques, steam clocks are a more recent phenomenon inspired by the Gastown steam clock built by Saunders in 1977. One exception is the steam clock built in the 19th century by Birmingham engineer John Inshaw to demonstrate the versatility of steam power.
3. Admire the manicured Queen Elizabeth Quarry Gardens
Not only is Queen Elizabeth Park one of Vancouver’s top spots for wedding photo sessions, but it also has its own Celebration Pavillion for wedding ceremonies. The park boasts dancing water fountains, 360-degree views, a rose garden built to commemorate Canada’s Centennial in 1967, and a wide variety of lush vegetation in the landscaped quarry garden. The park’s most beautiful corners include a quarry garden, with perfectly manicured shrubs, trees, and perennials, and the arboretum that houses spectacular tree species including the park’s 250-year-old Douglas fir tree, ponderosa pine, and coast redwood, the world’s tallest trees.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Address: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1
Website: Queen Elizabeth Park
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
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4. Check out Vancouver's waterfront from Canada Place
Canada Place is one of Vancouver’s iconic landmarks. It is situated in the heart of Vancouver city offering spectacular views of the blue waters to visitors. Both an events venue and a place that offers experiences galore, Canada Place is a popular spot for travelers and locals. When you arrive at Canada Place, the first thing you will see is its five white sails that have become iconic on the Vancouver waterfront. They light up at night, offering the Sails of Light spectacle from sunset to sunrise. Other must-try experiences include exploring the Canadian Trail to discover Canada from north to south and east to west, Dream of Canada Exhibit, and Heritage Horns.
Canada Place
Address: 999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3T4
Website: Canada Place
Vancouver Tour Guide
Nazila Najafi
I have over ten years of experience in the Tourism and Hospitality industry. My professional/volunteer background as a researcher, remote travel columnist, travel agent, travel consultant, and walking/step-on guide has helped me provide my VIP (private/group) tours with a memorable experience. As a professional Canadian Tour Guide Association of British Columbia member, I have been actively run... Read more
5. Watch Bloedel Conservatory light up
Seeing Bloedel Conservatory light up doesn’t happen every day, but it’s definitely worth watching if you visit Vancouver on Canada Day or other significant events. On any other day, the conservatory is a spectacular home to colorful exotic birds and a healing garden that will engage all your senses. There are over 120 free-flying birds at Bloedel Conservatory, including African parrots, Chinese pheasants, and dwarf Macaws. As you explore the botanical garden, you will discover tropical plants galore, from the delicate Amazon lily to banana trees. Flame of the woods, the lollipop plant, and strangler figs are worth looking for too.
Bloedel Conservatory
Address: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Y 2M4
Website: Bloedel Conservatory
Opening hours: 10am - 3:45pm (daily)
6. Take a selfie at Olympic Cauldron @ Jack Poole Plaza
Built in honor of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Olympic Cauldron @ Jack Poole Plaza is a massive structure that depicts a modern Olympic torch. Since its inauguration, the construction has become a permanent tourist attraction and is occasionally lit for special events. Make sure you take a selfie next to the imposing structure, with either mountains or some of Vancouver’s skyscrapers as a backdrop.
Olympic Cauldron @ Jack Poole Plaza
Address: 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
7. Browse through various exhibits at Museum of Vancouver
The Museum of Vancouver is one of the city’s staple museums, dating back to 1894 when it was originally founded. Although it suffered multiple changes throughout the years to get to the shape and form it is today, it remains Canada’s largest civic museum. Inside, you will find permanent collections with historical, archaeological, cultural, and ethnographic exhibits as well as temporary exhibitions. The museum also hosts various events and workshops so make sure you check them out too. Ticket prices range from 9 to 19 USD.
Museum of Vancouver
Address: 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3J9
Website: Museum of Vancouver
Opening hours: Thu - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
Price: 8 CAD (6 USD)
8. Find your way out of the maze at VanDusen Botanical Garden
VanDusen Botanical Garden is one of British Columbia’s gems and a natural oasis in the heart of the city. This garden is home to over 7,500 of the most spectacular plant species from around the world. Take a walk through Vandusen Botanical Garden and discover its lush vegetation, veggie garden, beautiful sculptures, tranquil lakes, and a spectacular waterfall. One of the highlights of VanDusen Botanical Garden is the Elizabethan hedge maze created from over 3,000 cedars. We dare you to try and make your way out of the hedge maze as fast as you can!
Vandusen Botanical Garden
Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1
Website: Vandusen Botanical Garden
Opening hours: 10am - 3pm (daily)
9. Photograph the unique sculptures at Vanier Park
Situated in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighborhood, Vanier Park boasts a beautiful waterfront and stunning views of downtown. It even has a small sandy beach that is a great spot for outdoor activities such as flying a kite and admiring the unique sculptures sprinkled here and there. There’s plenty to do around the park as well since the Museum of Vancouver and Vancouver Maritime Museum are just a three-minute walk away.
Vanier Park
Address: 1000 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3J9
Website: Vanier Park
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
10. Explore the architectural details of the Museum of Anthropology at UBC
The first thing you will notice when visiting the Museum of Anthropology at UBC is its interesting modern architecture. Once you step inside, feast your eyes on the renowned art collections. The museum constantly hosts new installations and displays. It is also home to permanent exhibitions, including the sculptures, bentwood boxes, and canoes displayed in the Great Hall, the Multidiversity Galleries, and Bill Reid Rotunda with its famous sculpture called The Raven and the First Men.
Museum of Anthropology at UBC
Address: 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Website: Museum of Anthropology at UBC
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Tip from tour guide
I was simply lucky to visit museum of anthropology (MOA). I highly recommend you to visit this precious museum exhibiting a comprehensive range of artifacts either handmade by indigenous people or some famous contemporary artists such as Bill Reid, and Judy Chartrand. You may find even small section devoted to the Persian artifacts. Estimated time to visit this museum's multiple rich galleries is about almost whole day! For it is worth.
Weekdays visiting hour is 10am-4:30, Mondays 10:30-2:30pm
11. Gaze at the Vancouver skyline from Harbour Centre
One of the best ways to enjoy skyline views of Vancouver and a sure way to fall in love with the city is from the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre. Harbour Centre is one of the city’s tallest buildings and is a hotspot for business, history, and tourism. However, the best part about it is the Vancouver Lookout observation deck that can be accessed by riding a glass elevator. Once at the top, the 360-degree views of the city will take your breath away.
Harbour Centre
Address: 555 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6
Website: Harbour Centre
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
Tip from tour guide
Since 1977, the Vancouver Lookout has been one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
Glass elevators whisk visitors 168m skyward from street level to the Vancouver Lookout within 40 seconds.
Up there, on the deck, visitors will enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view of Metro Vancouver.
Hours: whole week 9:00am - 9:00pm.
12. Check out the unique Granville Giants Murals by OSGEMEOS
Located on a worksite on Granville Island, Granville Giants Murals by OSGEMEOS is a unique work of art spray-painted on six giant concrete silos. The artist wanted to create art on a three-dimensional surface, so finding the right spot was quite challenging yet the result has quickly gained popularity. Giants is actually an ongoing project, with multiple locations including Brazill, the United States, several countries in Europe, and Vancouver in Canada.
Granville Giants Murals by Os Gemeos
Address: Granville Island
13. Learn about Chinese culture at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
If you’re fond of parks and gardens, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a must-visit. Located in Vancouver’s Chinatown, it is the first Chinese garden built outside China. With a public park and a garden accessible with a fee, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden hosts various cultural and educational programs and events as well as festivals and concerts. The garden is an excellent place to visit with the entire family, and it can be an exciting experience for all ages.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Address: 578 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K2
Tip from tour guide
Right in the heart of Vancouver’s Chinatown, the Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and adjacent Sun Yat-Sen Park are the perfect urban oasis.
The stunning Garden is an authentic representation of Ming Dynasty-era tradition and the first of its kind outside China. Be enchanted by the Garden's winding paths, rocks, plants, and beautiful vistas. In the park alongside the Garden, find peace and tranquility in the unique rock forms, water lily-covered pond, pagoda, and lush plants.
Entry is free to the Sun Yat-Sen Park, but there is an admission fee to enter the Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.
The garden is named in honour of Dr Sun Yat-Sen, a nationalist leader who is considered the "father of modern China."
14. Be part of the brewing process at Brassneck Brewery
Apart from Granville Island Brewing, Vancouver also offers another must-visit brewery. This property will not only make you feel like you’re part of their brewing process but also get to taste their selection available on tap. Situated on Main Street, Brassneck Brewery features a brewhouse, a cellar, a tasting room, and a shop where you can purchase their branded merchandise or beer to take home. Their tasting room has a limited 50-person capacity, which makes the experience even more authentic. There’s always a food truck and food vendor available outside where you can order delicious treats and bring them inside, so you have a snack to go with your brew.
Brassneck Brewery
Address: 2148 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C5
Website: Brassneck Brewery
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 2pm - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 10pm
15. Enjoy a barbecue dinner at Reflections: The Garden Terrace
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Rosewood Hotel Georgia is one of Vancouver’s top hotels featuring deluxe rooms and suites, fine dining, and a wellness center. Still, one of its most notable attractions has to be the rooftop restaurant, Reflections: The Garden Terrace. Nestled between skyscrapers, the terrace offers a spectacular view. It serves a selection of tapas that are perfectly paired with sophisticated cocktails. At night, they serve a barbecue dinner cooked by a chef.
Reflections: The Garden Terrace
Address: 801 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1P7
Website: Reflections: The Garden Terrace
16. Experience the Capilano Suspension Bridge:
Capilano Suspension Bridge is 137 meters (450 feet) across and 70 meters (230 feet) above the Capilano River. It was built in the year 1889 but since then many attractions have been added to the park. There are seven suspension bridges throughout. A definite breathtaking experience is to do cliff walking in here. Moving across natural rainforest vegetation on suspension walkways will surely run chills down your spine. The moment you look down through the glass of Capilano Suspension Bridge and see the river beneath will give terrific sensations.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
17. Take a plunge in the largest outdoor pool
Want to experience the largest outdoor pool in Vancouver? Kitsilano Beach was a hippie capital during olden times but now it gives a Venice beach vibe right in the middle of Vancouver. If you miss Venice Beach, then get in at this exotic beach. Playing volleyball and enjoying the largest outdoor pool is an experience to cherish forever.
Cycling tour across Kitsilano Beach:
Address: Vancouver Cycle tour
Website:
18. Dive into the mind-boggling demonstrations at Science World
The Telus World of Science is a wonder of science that will spark up your mind with new information. Experience extensive and wide visual arena at OMNIMAX Theatre. The exhibition space is a must-see attraction in beautiful Vancouver. A true inspiration for future generations which will surely be a great source for science lovers and technology enthusiasts.
19. Explore Vancouver through a harbour sightseeing cruise (from USD 52.0)
If you wish to have a dining, event, and extreme sightseeing experience on a cruise then you need not look more! Harbour Cruising offers incredible views, making it one of the most popular cruise services in Vancouver.
Vancouver Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
Duration: 1 hour
20. Look for unique souvenirs on Granville Island
Granville Island is not exactly an island but it is an actual sandpit! With a variety of food stalls, it offers a wide array of tasty treats and drinks here. A bevy of activities is also available, such as shopping or collecting souvenirs, watching a show in the theater, or visiting the public market to buy fresh produce. Granville Island has everything for everyone!
Granville Island Tour
Website:
21. Learn more about ancient culture at Brockton Totem Pole (from USD 78.0)
If you are a lover or admirer of ancient culture then Brockton Totem Pole is for you! Visit and explore the artistic and cultural hub of Vancouver. There are a large number of totem poles spread across Stanley Park. It is a 20-minute walk from the Harbour entrance to Stanley Park.
Stanley Park Small-Group Bike Tour with E-Bike Option
Duration: 3 hours
22. Relax and unwind at Stanley Park (from USD 57.0)
Have you seen the movie 50/50 where Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Seth Rogen are walking in the park and having a conversation? Well, that’s Stanley Park! One of the most famous attractions of Vancouver which has around 7 million visitors each year. Miles and miles of paved and dirt trails, beautiful beaches, parks, and miniature railways give a unique impression amidst the city of Vancouver. A great way to escape the city yet situated quite close to the downtown core, Stanley Park will give you lovely views of downtown buildings.
Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tour
Duration: 1 hour
23. Flying Over Canada experience (from USD 22.0)
Whether it is dipping into deep valleys or flying from the top of a mountain in Canada. Experience the unique scenic visions of the country with FlyOver Canada. But wait while your imagination flies away! All this you will be experiencing with marvelous special effects, including wind, mist, and scents, combined with the ride’s motion and state-of-art technology at FlyOver Canada.
Vancouver FlyOver Canada Simulated Flight Ride Admission
Duration: 35 minutes
24. Check out several marine animal displays at Vancouver Aquarium (from USD 32.0)
Home to more than 70,000 animals in Canada’s largest Aquarium, it has more than a million visitors all around the year. You can visit the marine animal displays, touch and feel the dolphins and turtles, and experience the 4D aquarium and numerous educational events and shows all around the year. The Vancouver Aquarium is a great escape from the city and a major marine science center in Vancouver. Ticket prices range from 26 to 42 USD.
Vancouver Aquarium Skip-the-Line Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 to 8 hours
25. Take in stunning city views from the famous Grouse Mountain Summit: (from USD 134.0)
You are in downtown Vancouver and you want to spend the rest of the day at a unique place! Well, you do have stunning choices available. Visit Grouse Mountain Summit and experience the marvelous vista of Vancouver, 20 minutes away from the buildings in downtown. The aerial tramway at Grouse Mountain’s entrance will take you on a scenic ride 1,130 meters (3,700) feet above sea level to Alpine Station. If you are a skier or snowboarder, then there are around 14 runs open for you. Even if you plan to do nothing, at the top you can enjoy 360-degree views of the entire Vancouver city. There are plenty of options for food and drinks too.
Grouse Mountain 5-Zipline Peak Adventure with Chairlift
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Experience Vancouver today
This bustling west coast seaport in British Columbia has everything to offer for everyone. Natural parks, mountains, oceans, nightlife, food, and scenic rides, whatever you wish to do or experience, Vancouver will truly satisfy you and give you memorable moments to cherish forever!
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