Vancouver is one of the most popular Canadian cities with foreigners. Vancouver is located near the Pacific Ocean in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. The name Vancouver comes from a British sea captain, George Vancouver. He discovered the current Vancouver region at the end of the 18th century, and in 1885, the region received the name “Vancouver” in homage to him.
Vancouver is reputed for being a cosmopolitan town, and more than half of its citizens speak other language skills. The Economist Intelligence Unit often mentions the town as one of the fifth-best cities in the world. This choice criterion depends on the quality of life there. For five consecutive years, Vancouver was selected as one of the ten best cities in the world.
Some archeologic traces of indigenous people were found. These traces suggest indigenous people lived in Vancouver 8,000 to 10,000 years ago. However, the city does not deny those origins and chooses to show and develop them through the incredible Museum of Anthropology.
There are so many things to do in Vancouver. It might be complicated to choose what to do in this beautiful city. So, here are some tips to help you plan your trip to Vancouver!
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Vancouver’s Best Attractions
Vancouver Art Gallery
- Address: 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7, Canada
- Opening hours: 10 AM – 5 PM Saturday to Monday, Wednesday and Thursday | 10 AM – 8 PM on Friday | Closed on Tuesday
- Admission: General Admission 29$ | Free for those under age 18 | Admission is FREE on the first Friday of every month from 4 to 8 PM during Free First Friday Nights presented by BMO.
- Website: www.vanartgallery.bc.ca
This Art gallery is an art museum with 10,000 artwork collections, including 200 internationally reputed creations such as “Path Among” by Emily Carr, 1930; “Untitled #66” by Cindy Sherman, 1980; and “The Pine on the Corner” by Jeff Wall, 1990.
The Art Gallery was opened in 1931 and is “recognized as one of the most respected institutions of North America and an innovative visual arts institution. Vancouver Art Gallery welcomes the public all year in the permanent exhibition, temporary exhibitions, and the Institute of Asian Arts.
Various guided tours are available, especially in English or Chinese languages. For more information, please visit the guided tours page.
How to get there
By bus, line n° 22, 19, get off at the Eastbound W Pender St. Walk 1 min.
Bus, line R5, get off at the Burrard station. Walk 7 min.
Get off at Waterfront station by subway, Canada Line, or Expo Line.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
- Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada
- Open hours: 9:00 – 20:00 daily (change by season; check the website before heading out)
- Website: www.capbridge.com
- Admission: Adults (18 – 64) $71.95 | Youth (13- 17) $42.95 | Students (over 18) $59.95 | Seniors (over 65 )$66.95 | Children (6 -12 ) $24.95 | Children under six years old Free
This is a rope bridge that crosses the Capilano River. Located in a beautiful forest in the North Vancouver district, the bridge is 137 meters long and 70 meters high above the river. At the end of the bridge, take a break on the totem poles to discover the art of Indian sculptors. These artists work according to ancestral methods. Plan the visit to last about two hours.
Capilano Suspension Bridge is just 20 minutes by car from Vancouver’s downtown. A free shuttle is also available from downtown to the site. It departs every 15 minutes from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Return to the downtown from 10:45 am to 5:30 pm. There are three pickup locations in Vancouver: Canada Place (near the info kiosk), Hyatt Hotel (located on the Melville Street Entrance), and Blue Horizon Hotel (located at 1225 Robson St.).
Seawall
- Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Seawall is a stone wall constructed around Stanley Park. This wall was opened in 1980 to prevent erosion of the park.
This is the perfect place for a walk, jogging, or using your bicycle. There are two divided parts: one for walkers and joggers and another one for cyclists.
With 28km longer, the Seawall is the longest uninterrupted waterfront route in the world. This wall extends from the Vancouver Convention Center to the Spanish Banks Park.
You can download the Seawall map here.
Science World
- Address: 1455 Quebec St, Vancouver, BC V6A 3Z7, Canada
- Open hours: 10:00 – 17:00 daily
- Website: www.scienceworld.ca
- Contact: +1 604-443-7440
- Admission: Adult (age 19+) $34.85 | Child (age 3 – 12) $23.65 (Free for children age 2 or under) | Youth (age 13 – 18) $28.1 | Senior (age 65+) $28.1
Science World at Telus World of Science is a scientific place run by a not-for-profit organization. Located in False Creek, the museum presents various permanent and temporary events. Established in 1977, now 650,000 visitors discover the museum every year.
There are many exhibitions for the whole family. The Science World aims to introduce science to all visitors through many interactive exhibits.
The Science World museum proposes 3 Live Shows. Those are available each hour and are 10 minutes in duration:
- Peter Brown Family Centre Stage
- Ken Spencer Science Park Outdoor Stage
- Science Theatre
Granville Island
- Address: Vancouver, BC, Canada (Find on map)
- Website: granvilleisland.com
- Open hours: Public Market 9 AM – 6 PM | Net Loft 10 AM – 6 PM
Granville Island is a Vancouver district located at False Creek, south of the Granville Street Bridge. That bridge relieves downtown to False Creek. Granville is the old name of Vancouver City, and the district has preserved that name. In early 1900, Granville Island was a sawmill and factory town. Nowadays, it is often called the “food lover’s paradise” and is one of the favorite places for tourists and locals. This is the best spot to enjoy your dinner by the waterfront.
How to get there
The best way to get there is to take mini tugboat ferries that cross False Creek.
Queen Elizabeth Park
- Address: 33rd Avenue and Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2K3
- Open hours: 6:00 – 22:00 daily
- Contact: +1 604-873-7000
- Website: vancouver.ca
Queen Elizabeth Park is an urban park located in Vancouver’s geographic center. The 52-hectare park is a horticultural jewel that includes the Bloedel Conservatory, a greenhouse, and diverse recreational places like tennis, lawn bowling, roller hockey, and basketball. Opened in 1902, the park includes man sculptures, some created by reputed international artists such as Henry Moore.
The Arboretum is precious and has an incredible collection of exotic and native trees. The Bloedel Conservatory is a tropical greenhouse with around a hundred bird races and more than 500 plants. There are many things to do in this huge and beautiful park. It is a great spot to leave the city and rejuvenate with nature. You can go there with your picnic or take advantage of the catering offers in the park.
How to get there
Take the Canada Line by subway and get off at King Edward Station. Walk around 15 min.
Museum of Anthropology at UBC
- Address: 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada
- Open hours: 10:00 – 17:00 daily | open until 9 pm on Thursdays
- Contact: +1 604-827-5932
- Website: moa.ubc.ca
- Admission: $25 for adults | $22 for seniors and non-UBC students | free for UBC students, UBC staff, and Indigenous people.
The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia, also known as MOA, is a research and teaching museum of anthropology, archaeology, and conservation.
The Museum of Anthropology promotes awareness and understanding of diverse cultures through partnerships with indigenous and local communities. The immense museum has 539 m2 dedicated to temporary exhibitions. The incredible collection of MOA includes around 50,000 ethnographic objects and 535,000 archaeological objects.
About 40% of this collection is from Asia. Objects came from China (with around 1000 ~ 1500 pieces of Chinese ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, coins, and amulets), Japan (Japanese prints, mask from Noe), India (calendar prints), Sri Lanka (Sunni and Kolam), Korea (Pongsan and Yangju), and more. There is also a large selection of religious objects, such as Buddhist art, Hindu art, or Tibetan robes.
There are also approximately 2,800 articles from African cultures. That includes masks, Makonde figures, weaponry from South Africa, mortuary objects (from Egypt), and others. The MOA collection is really rich and precious. It’s a good place to learn more about civilization!
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
- Address: 578 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K2, Canada
- Open hours: 9:30 – 16:00 Tuesday to Sunday | closed on Monday
- Contact: +1 604-662-3207
- Website: vancouverchinesegarden.com
- Admission: Adult $16 | Student $12 | Senior $13 | Family (2 adults and up to 3 children under 17) $32
This classical Chinese garden was built between 1985 and 1986 in Chinatown in Vancouver. Dr. Sun Yat Sen Garden is the first Chinese garden raised outside China. Its objective is to promote Chinese culture and maintain a bridge of understanding between China and Western cultures.
Find peace and tranquility in this unique garden, built in an authentic representation of the Ming Dynasty. Discover pagodas, unique rock forms, and water ponds throughout your walk.
There is also an annual pass with which you can receive exclusive benefits and discounts, such as Unlimited Garden visits, complimentary tickets to the Garden, discounts for concerts and festivals, and more. Click here for more information on the garden website.
How to get there
By Bus, take lines 19 and 22 from Downtown and get off at Pender Street.
Take the Skytrain train by Train and leave at Stadium – Chinatown Station.
Burnaby Village Museum
- Address: 6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby, BC V5G 3T6, Canada
- Contact: +1 604-297-4565
- Website: www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca
- Open hours: open seasonally; check out their website before visit
- Admission free
Burnaby Village is an underrated place visitors forget to visit when visiting Vancouver. What is Burnaby Village? It is a reconstruction of a Canadian village from the 19th century. Most buildings are originally from the 19th century and were just moved to the current location. In the village, there are old houses and old shops that are necessary for daily life. The Burnaby village is a kind of ecomuseum located in a natural space.
There is also a lake in the village called Burnaby Lake. The area is home to an important variety of wildlife; if you are lucky, you might see animals enjoying the pond.
Lighthouse Park
- Address: 4902 Beacon Ln, West Vancouver, BC V7W 1K5, Canada
- Open hours: 7:00 – 22:00 daily
- Contact: +1 604-925-7275
Located in a residential area in West Vancouver, Lighthouse Park is one of the most favorite and popular places for tourists and visitors in Vancouver. This National Historic Site of Canada is the perfect place for reconnecting people to nature with the 75 hectares area.
Lighthouse Park is also one of the most beautiful parks in Vancouver. Here, you can enjoy nature through trekking and hiking. The small elevation gain of the path allows all visitors to walk. Different routes are available for all visitor profiles: reasonable trails take around 2 hours, and short trails take around 20 minutes. The complete trail is around 6 km. There are also many picnic benches in the park for a break.
You can enjoy the place all year because the park is open all four seasons.
How to get there
Take bus #250 from downtown Vancouver. The station for Lighthouse Park is just before the Horseshoe Bay Station. The official website recommends letting the bus driver know that you would like to get off at that stop.
Gastown
- Address: Gastown, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
In 1967, Gastown was originally the site of sawmills. It became a national historic site in downtown Vancouver, northeast of Vancouver. This district is a trendy neighborhood with contemporary and fashionable buildings such as restaurants, shops, and nightclubs. Some authentic old buildings were built in a Victorian style and are still used today. One of the third largest cities in Canada, Gastown is now one of the most important and lively neighborhoods, with many chic apartments, European restaurants, and cocktail lounges.
With flashy boutiques and art galleries, Gastown is an excellent district for enjoying life in Vancouver as a real citizen. The neighborhood mood changes at night, with nightclubs and various lounges opening. The most reputed of them are “The Cambie,” “The Columbia,” “Lamplighter Public House,” and also the “19 Below.”
Stanley Park
- Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
- Open hours: 9:00 – 17:00 daily
- Website: vancouver.ca
- Contact: +1 604-681-6728
As the first largest park in Vancouver, Stanley Park is like the city’s heartbeat. This massive green space (over 1,000 acres!) perfectly blends nature and city life. Here, you can enjoy stunning ocean, mountain, and skyline views. You can also see people jogging, biking, or just taking a peaceful stroll.
Once you’re inside the park, there’s plenty more to discover. Don’t miss the Totem Poles at Brockton Point, one of the most visited spots in British Columbia. They’re a great way to learn about Indigenous culture. If you’re into wildlife, head to Lost Lagoon to spot ducks, swans, and even turtles. For a more relaxed vibe, stop by the Rose Garden in the summer or grab a spot by the water to enjoy a picnic with unbeatable views.
Mount Pleasant
If you’re the type who loves to wander through artsy neighborhoods, Mount Pleasant is where you’ll want to be. This area is known for its vibrant murals, quirky shops, and hipster coffee spots. This laid-back vibe makes it easy to spend a full afternoon exploring.
Start on Main Street, which runs through the heart of the neighborhood. Here, you’ll find everything from local boutiques selling unique clothing and jewelry to record stores and art galleries. Incredible street art is around almost every corner. Bring your camera because you’ll have many great pictures.
Kitsilano Beach
- Address: 1305 Arbutus St., Vancouver, BC V6J 5N2. Canada
- Website: vancouver.ca
Kitsilano Beach (or Kit’s Beach as the locals call it) is one of the most popular beaches in Vancouver. This beach is as relaxed as it gets, with soft sand, volleyball courts, and stunning views of the North Shore Mountains in the distance. You’ll often find locals picnicking, jogging along the shore, or dipping in the ocean.
Adjacent to the beach is the Kitsilano Pool, the longest saltwater pool in Canada. It’s a great spot for a swim, and the views from the pool deck are simply fantastic.
VanDusen Botanical Garden
- Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada
- Open hours: 9:00 – 17:00 daily
- Website: vandusengarden.org
- Contact: +1 604-257-8463
- Admission: $4.9 – $13.8 vary on season ( check out their website for more details)
Spanning 55 acres, this garden is home to over 7,500 different plant species from around the world. It’s the perfect place to slow down and just soak in the beauty of nature. You can stroll through the Japanese Garden for a moment of zen or visit the Rose Garden when it’s in full bloom.
What’s fun about VanDusen is that it changes with the seasons. In spring, you’ll see cherry blossoms and tulips, while in autumn, the trees put on a fiery show of red, orange, and yellow leaves. If you’re visiting in the winter, don’t miss the Festival of Lights—it’s a magical holiday event where the entire garden is illuminated with sparkling lights. There’s even a hedge maze if you’re up for a fun challenge!
Yaletown
- Location on map: Here
Once an industrial district filled with warehouses, Yaletown has completely transformed into one of Vancouver’s trendiest neighborhoods. This is the place to be if you’re into chic boutiques, trendy restaurants, and cool cocktail bars. Start your visit by walking along the Yaletown Seawall, enjoying views of False Creek and the marina filled with yachts.
The area has great spots to eat, drink, and people-watch. You’ll find everything from upscale dining to casual patio bars where you can sip a cocktail and enjoy the vibe. Yaletown comes alive in the evenings when the string lights hanging across the streets give it a cozy, almost European feel.
English Bay
- Address: Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6C 3C1, Canada
This lively beach area is the perfect spot to relax, take in the sun, or go for a swim. It’s especially popular in the summer, where you’ll find locals and tourists lounging on the sand, playing volleyball, or renting paddle boards.
English Bay is also home to one of Vancouver’s biggest summer events – the Celebration of Light, an annual fireworks competition that lights up the sky above the bay. When you’re not on the beach, you can stroll along the Seawall or grab a bite at one of the many beachfront cafes.
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
- Address: 639 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G3, Canada
- Open hours: 10:00 – 17:00 daily
- Website: www.billreidgallery.ca
- Admission: Adults $13 | Seniors $10 | Students (with valid ID) $8 | Youth (13 to 17) $6 | Children under 12 Free | Families $30
Named after renowned Haida artist Bill Reid, this gallery showcases Northwest Coast Indigenous art. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of jewelry, carvings, and sculptures that reflect the deep cultural traditions of the Haida, Tlingit, and other Indigenous peoples.
The gallery is small but packed with intricate pieces that tell powerful stories. Reid’s iconic works, including famous sculptures like The Raven and the First Men, are true masterpieces. This gallery is a must-visit to learn more about Indigenous art and culture.
Robson Street
- Address: Robson St., Vancouver, BC, Canada
If you’re in the mood for serious shopping, head to Robson Street. This bustling street is Vancouver’s shopping hub, filled with everything from high-end fashion boutiques to well-known international brands. Whether looking for the latest fashion trends or browsing, Robson Street has something for everyone.
There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can take a break. Grab a latte, people-watch from a sidewalk café, or treat yourself to some gourmet eats. The energy on Robson is electric, making it a fun place to spend an afternoon.
Vancouver Food Specialties
JapaDog
This is a hotdog with Japanese inspirations. It is a mix of different tastes, such as salty, sweet, and spicy. You can also choose various Asian sauces, such as teriyaki sauce, miso, wasabi, or kimchi.
Salmon Candy
Smoked salmon glazed with maple syrup or local honey is a salty and sweet snack with the real taste of salmon. You should absolutely try these sticks. But be careful: When you start, it is impossible to stop eating. They can also be a good present for your friends or family when you come back home.
Seafood
Vancouver is a Pacific coastal city. Like all Pacific coastal cities, Vancouver is proud of its fresh seafood, which can be freshly and easily caught. During your trip to Vancouver, you can try to order West Coast Oysters or Spot Prawns.
Indigenous Cuisine
Vancouver has indigenous origins. So, you can find some indigenous cuisine in the town made with native food originally found on the Vancouver territory. For example, you can discover some meals cooked with salmon, fiddleheads, or elk.
We hope this post will help you plan your future journey in Vancouver!
