30 Unforgettable Things to Do in Vancouver, BC (A Former Local’s Guide)

A Local’s Guide to The Best of Vancouver

Vancouver is a city that holds a special place in our hearts. It’s not just another stop on our map of 120+ countries visited; for a time, we called it home. We spent years exploring its diverse neighbourhoods, discovering our favourite coffee shops, and learning the best mountain trails to escape to on a Saturday morning.

We’ve been back many times since then, most recently just last year, and each visit reaffirms why we love it so much. When you visit Vancouver, you’re seeing one of the few places on Earth where you can ski in the mountains and relax by the ocean in the same afternoon. The incredible natural beauty is everywhere, and it is what drew us to moving there in the first place.

We know how overwhelming it can be to look at a map of a new city and wonder where to even begin. This guide is our answer to that. It’s not a list of every possible thing to do. It’s a curated guide to the experiences we believe are genuinely worth your time, based on our firsthand knowledge.

So, if you’re looking for a guide that goes beyond the basic tourist checklist, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into the best things to do in Vancouver.

Top 5 Things to Do in Vancouver (If You’re Short on Time)

We know that not everyone has weeks to explore a city. If you’re planning a quick trip or just want to hit the absolute highlights, these are the five experiences we always tell our friends to prioritize. Each of these will be detailed further down in this guide.

Cycle the Stanley Park Seawall: A classic Vancouver activity with incredible views of the city skyline, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. Explore Granville Island Market: A bustling hub of local artisans, fresh food stalls, and fantastic places to eat. It’s a feast for the senses. Ride the Gondola Up Grouse Mountain: For the best panoramic views of the city and surrounding nature, a trip up the “Peak of Vancouver” is essential. Walk Through Historic Gastown: Discover Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood in downtown Vancouver with its Victorian architecture, cobblestone streets, and famous Steam Clock. Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge: A thrilling walk through the treetops of a coastal rainforest, located just minutes from the city.Outdoor Adventures in Vancouver

Outdoor Adventures in Vancouver

Vancouver’s biggest draw is the wild, natural landscape that surrounds it. You are never more than a few minutes away from a dense forest or the saltwater of the Pacific Ocean. This easy access to the outdoors is what truly defines the city. We’ve spent countless hours exploring these trails and waterways, and here are our top picks for getting outside.

Cycle the Stanley Park Seawall

This is the quintessential Vancouver experience. The 10 km paved path loops around Stanley Park, offering views of the city center, the North Shore, and the iconic Lions Gate Bridge. Inside the park, you can also find the Vancouver Aquarium. The seawall path continues past English Bay towards more beautiful beaches. We lived right at the entrance to Stanley Park, and we loved cycling the Seawall.

Our Tip: Rent your bikes from the shops on Denman Street. Go early to avoid crowds, and be sure to ride counter-clockwise.

Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge

A short drive from downtown, the Capilano Suspension Bridge stretches 137 metres across a deep canyon. It’s a popular spot, but the thrill of walking high above the Capilano River is undeniable. The park also includes a Cliffwalk and a Treetops Adventure course that takes you through the upper canopy of the coastal rainforest.

Local’s Alternative: Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. For a less crowded and free alternative, head to Lynn Canyon Park. Its suspension bridge may not be as high or long as Capilano’s, but it’s just as scenic. The park also features great hiking trails and swimming holes. It’s a true local favourite.

Hike the Grouse Grind (The Real Deal)

This is not a casual walk in the woods. Affectionately known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” the Grouse Grind is a gruelling 2.9 km trail that goes straight up the side of Grouse Mountain in North Vancouver. We’ve done the hike, and it’s a serious challenge, but the feeling of accomplishment at the top is worth the burning thighs. You are required to take the Skyride gondola back down.

Local’s Alternative: Quarry Rock. For a much easier hike with a great reward, head to Deep Cove and hike the Quarry Rock trail. It’s a popular choice that only takes a few hours.

Take the Gondola Up Grouse Mountain

If the Grind sounds like a bit much, you can still get the same incredible views by taking the Skyride gondola both ways. At the top, you’ll find panoramic lookout points, a grizzly bear refuge with two resident bears, Grinder and Coola, and a few places to grab a bite or a well-deserved beer. We did the Zip Line the last time we were there, and it was awesome.

Alternative Viewpoint: Cypress Mountain. While Grouse is famous, we often prefer the views from the Cypress Mountain High View Lookout in West Vancouver on the road up to the ski area. It’s free to access by car, offers a sweeping panorama of the city and harbour, and is generally much quieter.

Go Whale Watching in the Salish Sea

Seeing orcas and humpback whales in their natural habitat is an experience that stays with you. Several tour companies operate out of Granville Island and Steveston, offering half-day trips into the Strait of Georgia. We always recommend choosing an operator that is committed to ethical wildlife viewing practices.

Kayak or Paddleboard in False Creek or Deep Cove

Paddling offers a completely different perspective of the city. For great urban views, you can rent a kayak and explore the calm waters of False Creek, paddling past Granville Island and Science World. For a more serene experience, make the trip to Deep Cove and kayak surrounded by lush forests and mountains.

Relax on Kitsilano Beach

Known locally as “Kits Beach,” this is one of Vancouver’s most popular spots to unwind. On a warm day, the beach is full of locals playing volleyball and swimming in the massive outdoor saltwater pool. It’s a great place to people-watch and enjoy the view of the downtown skyline across the water.

Nearby, you’ll also find Jericho Beach and Sunset Beach, which are also great spots to relax.

Vancouver’s Top Attractions and Neighbourhoods

Beyond the stunning natural landscapes, Vancouver is a city of distinct neighbourhoods and world-class attractions. It’s worth spending time exploring the urban side of the city to get a real feel for its culture and history. We’ve spent years wandering these streets, and these are the places we always find ourselves returning to.

Eat Your Way Through Granville Island Market

Granville Island isn’t just a market; it’s a bustling hub of activity. Housed in old industrial buildings under the Granville Bridge, this is where you’ll find an incredible array of fresh produce, local seafood, and artisanal food stalls. The entire island is also home to theatres, craft studios, and breweries. Some call it a tourist trap, but we say it is a tourist attraction for a reason.

Our Tip: While the whole market is a feast, we never leave without getting a fresh, warm doughnut from Lee’s Donuts. It’s a Vancouver institution. We also recommend checking out Granville Island Brewing for a local pint.

Explore Historic Gastown

As Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, Gastown has a character all its own. Walk the cobblestone streets past the iconic Gastown Steam Clock. It’s easily accessible from the main transit hub at Waterfront Station. We loved taking our time to admire the Victorian architecture, and browse the many independent boutiques and art galleries. It’s a great place to find a unique souvenir.

While everyone gathers to watch the Gastown Steam Clock whistle on the hour, the real appeal for us is the atmosphere and the fantastic restaurant scene that comes alive at night.

Wander Through Canada Place

With its iconic white sails, Canada Place is one of the most recognizable buildings on Vancouver’s skyline. It serves as the city’s main cruise ship terminal and convention centre. It’s also a great starting point for a walk along the waterfront, offering fantastic views of the harbour and the North Shore mountains. The FlyOver Canada attraction, a simulated flight across the country, is also located here.

See Canadian Art at the Vancouver Art Gallery

Located just off Robson Street, the Vancouver Art Gallery is housed in a former courthouse and is the largest art gallery in Western Canada. Its collection focuses on BC artists, including Emily Carr. This is a perfect place to check out on a rainy day.

Check out the Shops on Robson Street

If you’re looking for the city’s main shopping hub, Robson Street is it. Stretching through the heart of downtown, this is where you’ll find a mix of major international brands, flagship stores, and local boutiques. It’s the best area for people-watching and soaking up the energetic downtown vibe. We used to do this all the time when we lived just off of Robson St.

Discover the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Tucked away in Chinatown, this garden is an oasis of tranquility. It was the first full-scale classical Chinese garden ever built outside of China, and every element is designed with harmony and balance in mind. It’s a truly peaceful place to spend an hour, especially if the downtown hustle starts to feel a bit much.

Visit the Museum of Anthropology

Located on the beautiful campus of the University of British Columbia (UBC), the Museum of Anthropology is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of this part of the world. It houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the globe, with a special emphasis on British Columbia’s First Nations. The magnificent building itself, designed by Arthur Erickson, is worth the visit alone.

Quirky & Unique Things to Do in Vancouver

Once you’ve checked off the main sights, it’s time to explore the experiences that give Vancouver its unique character. These are the places and activities we’ve discovered over the years that offer a different perspective on the city, far from the typical tourist crowds.

Hunt for Street Art in Mount Pleasant

The neighbourhood of Mount Pleasant is like a massive outdoor art gallery. Thanks to the annual Vancouver Mural Festival, the walls and alleyways around Main Street are covered in incredible, large-scale murals by local and international artists. The best way to see them is to simply wander on foot and let yourself get a little lost.

Brave the Clothing-Optional Wreck Beach

Located near the UBC campus, Wreck Beach is one of North America’s most famous clothing-optional beaches. To get there, you have to descend a long flight of stairs (Trail 6) through a beautiful forested ravine. The atmosphere is famously laid-back and welcoming. It’s a unique Vancouver experience, but be prepared for the steep climb back up the stairs.

See Totem Poles Being Carved

While Stanley Park has its famous collection of totem poles, you can have a different kind of cultural experience on Granville Island. Inside the First Nations Market, you’ll often find carvers from the Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh nations at work in their studio. It’s a chance to see a living tradition in action, not just a finished product on display.

What to Do in Vancouver by Season

Vancouver has a reputation for being rainy, but its mild climate means there’s always something to do outdoors, year-round. We’ve experienced the city in every season, from crisp fall days to long summer evenings, and each one offers a completely different vibe. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.

Winter in Vancouver (December – February)

Winter in Vancouver is mild and wet in the city, but gloriously snowy on the nearby mountains. The city is alive with festive lights, and it’s the perfect time for cozy indoor activities or hitting the slopes.

Go Skiing or Snowboarding: You have three excellent ski hills (Cypress, Grouse, and Seymour) just a short drive from downtown. We’ll never forget the feeling of doing a night run on Cypress, looking down at the blanket of city lights twinkling below. Browse the Vancouver Christmas Market: We spent a memorable evening here a few years back, sipping mulled wine and browsing the traditional stalls. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit. See the Festival of Lights: The VanDusen Botanical Garden puts on an incredible display, transforming its grounds into a magical winter wonderland with over a million lights.

Spring in Vancouver (March – May)

Spring is when Vancouver bursts into colour. The rain starts to ease up, and the city’s many parks and gardens come to life. It’s a beautiful, refreshing time to visit.

Hunt for Cherry Blossoms: Vancouver has over 40,000 cherry trees, and they are a spectacular sight. I remember one April we were driving through a neighbourhood in Kitsilano and had to pull over, completely amazed because the street was a perfect canopy of pink blossoms. Explore Stanley Park’s Gardens: The famous Rhododendron Garden and the Rose Garden in Stanley Park begin to bloom, making a walk or cycle through the park even more scenic.

Summer in Vancouver (June – August)

Summer is, without a doubt, Vancouver’s peak season. The days are long, warm, and generally sunny. The entire city moves outdoors to the beaches, patios, and parks.

Have a Beach Day: One of our favourite simple summer pleasures is to grab some takeout and have dinner on Kits Beach while watching the sunset. It’s a classic Vancouver evening that doesn’t cost a thing. Enjoy Bard on the Beach: This annual Shakespeare festival takes place in huge tents in Vanier Park. The best part is the open-backed stage, which uses the mountains and ocean as a natural backdrop for the plays. Eat at the Richmond Night Market: Just a short Canada Line ride away, this massive market is a whirlwind of incredible Asian street food, entertainment, and shopping.

Fall in Vancouver (September – November)

The air gets crisp, the leaves start to change colour, and the cozy season begins. The summer crowds have thinned out, making it a wonderful time to explore the city.

Witness the Salmon Run: We once went to the Capilano River Hatchery in October and were completely captivated by the sight of salmon fighting their way upstream to spawn. It’s a powerful display of nature right on the city’s edge. Walk Through Fall Colours: Parks like Queen Elizabeth Park and Stanley Park offer beautiful displays of autumn foliage against the evergreen backdrop. Get Lost in a Corn Maze: The farms in nearby Richmond and Langley offer the classic fall experience, with corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and hayrides.

Day Trips from Vancouver

One of the best things about using Vancouver as a base is how easy it is to explore the surrounding region. The city’s doorstep is packed with incredible mountains, islands, and scenic drives. We’ve taken countless trips out of the city, and these are a few of our favourite day trips that we recommend to everyone.

Take the Ferry to Victoria

A trip to British Columbia’s capital city feels like a mini-vacation in itself. The journey begins with a scenic 90-minute ferry ride from the Tsawwassen terminal. We always grab a coffee and head straight for the outer decks to watch for whales and dolphins—we’ve been lucky enough to spot orcas more than once. Once you arrive in Victoria, you can explore the charming Inner Harbour, admire the grand Parliament Buildings, and walk through the colourful houseboats at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler

The drive from Vancouver to Whistler along Highway 99 is an attraction in its own right. We think it’s one of the most beautiful drives in all of Canada. The highway hugs the coastline of Howe Sound, and every curve in the road reveals another incredible view of the ocean and mountains. There are plenty of places to stop, including the Sea to Sky Gondola just before Squamish, which offers breathtaking views from its suspension bridge and viewing platforms. While Whistler itself deserves a longer trip, a day trip gives you a great taste of the world-famous, pedestrian-only mountain village.

Explore the Waterfalls at Shannon Falls Provincial Park

Located just off the Sea-to-Sky Highway before you reach Squamish, Shannon Falls is an impressive sight. The waterfall cascades 335 metres down a series of granite cliffs, and it’s particularly powerful after a good rain. It’s an easy trip that delivers a huge reward. We love stopping here on our way to or from Whistler to stretch our legs. The walk from the parking lot to the viewing platform is short and easy, making it a perfect, quick immersion in nature.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Vancouver Trip

A little bit of planning goes a long way. Here is our advice on where to stay, the best ways to get around, and our favourite spots to eat and drink, all based on our years of experience living in and travelling back to the city.

Where to Stay in Vancouver (By Neighbourhood)

Choosing the right neighbourhood makes a huge difference. Downtown Vancouver is convenient, but areas like the West End and Kitsilano offer a more local feel. Vancouver’s districts have very different personalities.

Downtown: If it’s your first visit and you want to be in the centre of it all, this is your best bet. You’ll be within walking distance of Canada Place, Robson Street, and many other attractions. West End: This was our old neighbourhood when we lived in the city. It’s a quieter, more residential area nestled between downtown and Stanley Park. We loved that we could walk to the seawall in just a few minutes. Yaletown: A trendy, upscale area known for its converted warehouses, chic boutiques, and excellent restaurant scene. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for good nightlife. Kitsilano: If you want a more laid-back, beach-town vibe, “Kits” is a great choice. It’s a bit further from the downtown core but has a fantastic beach, a huge outdoor pool, and lots of healthy cafes.

How to Get Around Vancouver

Vancouver is a relatively easy city to navigate, and you have several good options.

On Foot: The downtown core is compact, safe, and very walkable. It’s our preferred way to explore the city’s central neighbourhoods. Public Transit: TransLink runs an excellent and integrated system of buses, the SkyTrain (light rail), and the SeaBus ferry. We’ve always found the SkyTrain to be the most efficient way to get from the airport (YVR) directly into downtown. Biking: Vancouver is one of Canada’s most bike-friendly cities, with a network of separated bike lanes. Using the Mobi bike-share system is a great way to cover more ground than walking. By Car: We’d advise against renting a car if you’re only staying in the city. Traffic can be heavy, and parking is expensive and difficult to find. However, a car is very useful for doing some of the day trips we mentioned.

The Best Time of Year to Visit

While there’s no bad time to visit, the weather can play a big role in your experience.

Summer (June – August): This is when you’ll get the best weather—long, sunny, and warm days. It’s perfect for beach days and hiking, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive time of year. Shoulder Seasons (May, September, & October): Personally, we think September is the ideal month to visit. The weather is often still beautiful and summer-like, but the summer crowds have gone home. Winter (November – February): This is the rainiest season, but it’s the best time for deals on flights and hotels. Plus, if you’re a skier or snowboarder, the local mountains are covered in snow.

Our Favourite Places to Eat and Drink

Vancouver is a fantastic food city. You could spend weeks eating your way through it, but here are a few of our go-to spots.

For Seafood: For something fresh and casual, you can’t beat the fish and chips from Go Fish, located near Granville Island. For a more classic sit-down meal, Blue Water Cafe in Yaletown is an institution. For Casual Eats: Vancouver’s food trucks are excellent and diverse. You can find them scattered around the city, especially near the Vancouver Art Gallery. For Sushi: The city is famous for its incredible sushi. We’ve had many great meals at Tojo’s Restaurant, which is known for creating the California Roll. For Craft Beer: The neighbourhoods of Mount Pleasant and East Vancouver (nicknamed “Yeast Van”) are packed with amazing craft breweries. We love exploring this area and trying flights at places like 33 Acres Brewing Company.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vancouver

Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we get about travelling to Vancouver.

Our Take on Vancouver

Vancouver is one of those rare cities that truly has something for every type of traveller. You can spend your morning hiking a mountain trail and your afternoon discovering a new neighbourhood, all before sitting down to a world-class dinner. It’s a place that holds a lot of great memories for us, and we hope this guide helps you go out and make some of your own.