Things to Do in Vancouver
Plan your days in Vancouver, your way
Sleep in, then wander Gastown's cobblestones without a map, letting the steam clock surprise you. Coffee at Nelson the Seagull, sourdough toast thick enough to matter. The Seawall calls, and you answer — part of it, turning back when the view feels complete. Lunch somewhere on Granville Island, whatever smells best, eaten watching the ferries. Afternoon drifts through the Vancouver Art Gallery or doesn't, depending on the line and your mood. Dinner at Bao Bei if you planned ahead, something on Main Street if you didn't — both work. You end with a night walk through Yaletown, the converted warehouses lit and alive, the city feeling discovered without being conquered. This is the trip you will describe as nice, and mean something warmer.
Top attractions and places to eat in Vancouver
Stanley Park
A large urban park bordering downtown Vancouver, known for its seawall, forest trails, beaches, and totem poles. A signature destination for walking, cycling, and nature amid the city.
park · 4.8 rating
Canada Place
An iconic waterfront landmark in downtown Vancouver with sail-like white roofs, housing a convention center, cruise terminal, and promenade with harbor and mountain views. Travelers go for the architecture and seaside walk.
attraction · 4.6 rating
Gastown Steam Clock
An iconic steam-powered clock on the corner of a Gastown street, famous for its whistle and rising steam. A popular photo stop for visitors to the historic district.
attraction · 4.5 rating
Granville Island Public Market
A bustling indoor market on Granville Island filled with food vendors, produce, artisans, and crafts. A must-visit for travelers seeking local food and shopping.
attraction · 4.6 rating
Grouse Mountain
A prominent North Shore mountain offering hiking, skiing, gondola rides, and sweeping views of Vancouver. A year-round outdoor destination for nature and adventure seekers.
attraction · 4.6 rating · C$86
Lions Gate Bridge
An iconic suspension bridge spanning Burrard Inlet, connecting Vancouver to the North Shore. Travelers admire its landmark silhouette and views of the harbor and mountains.
attraction · 4.6 rating
Yaletown
Historic district blending heritage warehouses with a modern seawall, trendy patios, and boutiques.
neighborhood
Bloedel Conservatory
A domed tropical garden atop Queen Elizabeth Park housing exotic plants and free-flying birds. Travelers come to experience a lush indoor rainforest environment year-round.
attraction
Nitobe Memorial Garden
Japanese tea and stroll garden consistently ranked among the top Japanese gardens in North America.
garden
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
A public art gallery dedicated to contemporary Indigenous Northwest Coast art, named for renowned Haida artist Bill Reid. Travelers come to see carvings, sculptures, and jewelry celebrating First Nations culture.
gallery · C$13
Museum of Anthropology at UBC
A renowned museum on the University of British Columbia campus, celebrated for its collection of Northwest Coast First Nations art and totem poles. A major cultural destination for those interested in Indigenous heritage and world cultures.
attraction · C$26
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
A popular park in North Vancouver featuring a long suspension bridge over a river canyon, treetop walkways, and a cliffwalk through temperate rainforest. Travelers go for the thrilling walks and forest scenery.
park · C$75
Yolks
A popular breakfast and brunch spot known for its egg dishes, sandwiches, and coffee. Travelers visit for its well-regarded morning fare.
restaurant
Vancouver Art Gallery
The largest art museum in Western Canada, housed in a former courthouse downtown, with historical and contemporary collections. Travelers go for major exhibitions including Emily Carr works.
gallery · C$35
Blue Seas Gallery
An art gallery in Vancouver showcasing paintings and works for sale, appealing to visitors interested in local and contemporary art.
gallery