30 Fun Things to Do in Vancouver | What to Do in BC & More

Heading to the picturesque and bustling city of Vancouver, British Columbia, but unsure what to do? This brilliant place is full of exceptional natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delectable culinary offerings. 

That said, as a new visitor, it may be hard to decide what to see in Vancouver, Canada. Luckily, there are plenty of fun things to do in Vancouver, from exploring Stanley Park and Granville Island to trying some dim sum in Chinatown.

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Next read: Want to make the most out of a trip to Canada? Check out this epic two-week Canadian Rockies itinerary. 

Best Time to Go to Vancouver, Canada

The overall best times to go to Vancouver, BC, are from March until May and from September until November. These are the city’s shoulder seasons of spring and fall, so you’ll encounter fewer crowds and save some money. 

However, if you’re looking for great weather and optimal outdoor Vancouver activities, then visiting between June and August (summer) is the best time for you. 

Lastly, for all the snow sports enthusiasts wanting to ski down Grouse Mountain, visiting Vancouver between December and February is optimal. 

Tours In Vancouver

How Much Time Is Needed in Vancouver

You can accomplish a lot in Vancouver in one or two days. However, if you want to get the most out of a trip to this British Columbia city – spending at least three to four days here is ideal. 

That way, you can see some of the top things to do in Vancouver, including visiting some hidden gems, making a day trip to Whistler, or going whale watching. 

How to Get to Vancouver

A direct flight to Vancouver sees you landing at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), about nine miles from downtown Vancouver. At the airport, you can pick up a rental car, catch the Canada Line train, or order an Uber or Lyft. 

>>>Rent A Car Here<<<

If you’re visiting on a road trip from a nearby US or Canadian city, like Seattle or Calgary, there are various ways to get here. 

Seattle to Vancouver

From Seattle, you’ll take Interstate 5 (I-5) north toward Vancouver. This highway takes you straight to the British Columbia metropolis. Once in Canada, take the British Columbia Highway 99 (BC-99) north for around 30 miles.

Victoria to Vancouver

If you’re coming from Victoria, you’ll take British Columbia Highway 17 (BC-17) to Swartz Bay before hopping on a ferry. After a roughly two-hour ferry ride, you’ll go back on BC-17 in Tsawwassen and then take the ramp to Vancouver via the BC-99 N. 

Where to Stay in Vancouver

After spending your days checking out the best things to do in Vancouver, Canada, you’ll need somewhere to rest. The fantastic news is there are loads of options for every budget, whether you’re looking to splash some cash or save some money. 

Budget | The Sylvia Hotel

Located on Vancouver’s English Bay and near the Stanley Park Seawall, The Sylvia Hotel offers picturesque views and a great starting point for exploring the city. With its classic furnishings, on-site restaurant, and variety of room options, you’ll get brilliant value for money.

You’ll get access to a parking garage, a business center, free Wi-Fi, room service, and rental bicycles. Plus, it’s dog-friendly and has family rooms, so whether you want to bring your fur baby or your baby baby – you’ve got options. >>>View Rates and Availability

Mid-Range | L’Hermitage Hotel

Prefer to be closer to the action and in a more chic hotel? L’Hermitage Hotel is just 800 feet from the Vancouver City Centre metro station and right in downtown Vancouver. 

Amenities on offer here include a 24-hour gym, a heated outdoor pool, and stunning marble bathrooms. So, it’s ideal for a relaxing evening, whether you’re enjoying a soak in the hot tub, lounging on a beach chair, or treating yourself to the afternoon tea service. >>>View Rates and Availability

Luxury | Paradox Hotel

If you’re looking for the ultimate luxurious experience in Vancouver, then you can’t go wrong with Paradox Hotel. From spacious rooms with 65-inch Samsung TVs and heated Italian marble bathroom floors to the on-site Chinese fine-dining restaurant, you won’t want to leave. 

Whether you want to wander around downtown Vancouver, visit the Vancouver Lookout, or check out Queen Elizabeth Park, these great things to see in Vancouver are all close to the hotel. >>>View Rates and Availability 

Map Of Fun Things to Do in Vancouver

I’ve embedded a Google map below with this itinerary! You can download and save it for offline use, but I recommend printing it out, too, so you’re covered if you find yourself without service on the trail.

What to Do in Vancouver, BC | 30 Best Activities and Attractions

This fabulous city is packed full of stunning attractions, culinary experiences, and exhilarating activities. Whether you want to do some soft hiking or enjoy a culinary journey, here are the best things to do in Vancouver, BC. 

1. Go on the Capilano Suspension Bridge 

One of Vancouver’s must-do activities is going on the Capilano Suspension Bridge. The bridge is 230 feet high and 450 feet long, over the Capilano River on Vancouver’s North Shore, so it’s not for the faint of heart. 

Walking across this bridge is both an exhilarating and picturesque experience, with incredible vistas of the West Coast rainforest that get your heart pumping. Don’t worry, though; it’s incredibly safe. The bridge can even hold the weight of a full 747 airplane. 

You can get your Capilano Suspension Bridge Park entrance ticket before you leave, which also includes access to the Story Centre, the Cliff Walk, and the bridge itself. 

2. Visit Granville Island

As a coastal city, Vancouver is famous for its various islands, beaches, and coastlines. One fantastic example of this is Granville Island, an industrial-turned-artsy district that’s full of charm. 

Its main drawing point is the Granville Island Market, which has over 50 stalls and is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Here, there is a smorgasbord of food options, from the freshly baked pastries at Lee’s Donuts to the delectable Montreal-style bagels at Siegel’s Bagels. 

3. Ride up the Sea to Sky Gondola 

Another popular thing to do near Vancouver, Canada, is taking a day trip to Squamish and going up the Sea to Sky Gondola. It sits almost 3,000 feet above sea level and is a stunning way to see the best of British Columbia’s incredible nature. 

Riding up the gondola, you’ll have panoramic views overlooking the Howe Sound and some majestic peaks. To get here, you’ll take the exquisite Sea to Sky Highway, which is just as delightful as the gondola ride itself. Sea to Sky Gondola tickets start at around $48 per person.

4. Bike Around Stanley Island 

For nature lovers, exploring Stanley Park is arguably the best thing to do in Vancouver. However, as it is over 1,000 acres (it’s larger than New York’s Central Park), it can be hard to see a lot of it just on foot. That’s why it’s highly recommended to get a bike and cycle around it. 

Many hotels in Vancouver offer bicycle rental, but you can also rent a bike for around $35 a day. The other option is to take a Stanley Park bicycle tour, where an experienced guide can show you all of this verdant space’s hidden gems. 

Some of the top routes include the Stanley Park Seawall and the Inner Loop trail. Whichever route you go, the must-sees in the park are the Lions Gate Bridge, Lost Lagoon, Beaver Lake, and the Brockton Point Totem Poles.

5. Visit Grouse Mountain

Surrounded by the North Shore Mountains, Vancouver is a terrific place to be for hiking. So, one of the top things to do in Vancouver, Canada, for outdoor enthusiasts is to head to Grouse Mountain. This is one of the city’s most popular ski hills – and with its exceptional views of Vancouver – it’s no surprise why. 

There are two ways to get to the top. The first way is via the Skyride cable car. The second way, which is locally known as the Grouse Grind, a 1.55-mile trek uphill, is one of the toughest hiking trails in Vancouver. 

A great way to enjoy the best of both is by riding up the mountain via cable car and then hiking down via Grouse Grind. 

Read Next: Joffre Lakes Trail | Tips for Hiking This Provincial Park Route

6. Go Whale Watching

Another brilliant thing to do in Vancouver, Canada, is to go whale watching in its surrounding waters. This is a fantastic opportunity to witness some of the spectacular wildlife in the Strait of Georgia and the Salish Sea. 

The easiest way to do this is via a whale-watching tour, as highly experienced guides take you out to the San Juan and Gulf Islands from Granville Island. Tours last from three to five hours and offer you an opportunity to spot orcas, humpbacks, porpoises, and sea lions. 

7. Try Some Dim Sum in Chinatown

Vancouver has a rich cultural history and a diverse population, with Chinese people being the largest ethnic group in the city. So, it wouldn’t be right to leave Chinatown off the Vancouver to-do list. 

There is so much to see in this area, from the world’s narrowest building to the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden (but more on that later). 

The best thing to do in Vancouver, British Columbia’s Chinatown, is to dig into some mouthwatering food. For lip-smacking noodles, go to Fat Mao Noodles. Prefer some elevated Chinese cuisine? Sai Woo is the place for you. 

8. Explore Gastown

Another stunning neighborhood and a Vancouver must-see is Gastown, the city’s original downtown core. 

This makes it one of the best areas to explore for history buffs or anyone really. With the charming cobblestone streets, cute cafés, and art galleries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. 

9. Head to Prospect Point Lookout

• Elevation Gain: 354 feet
• Mileage: 4.2 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Even though this is part of Stanley Park, it needs to feature on its own. Why? Prospect Point is known as one of Vancouver’s best viewpoints – boasting scenic vistas of the North Shore Mountains, West Vancouver, North Vancouver, and ships on the Burrard Inlet. 

It also has a café, an ice cream counter, and a gift shop.  

10. Visit the Stanley Park Rose Garden

• Elevation Gain: 78 feet
• Mileage: 2 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Gain: Link

Another cool thing to do in Vancouver is to check out the beautiful gardens in Stanley Park. There are four gardens, including the Ted and Mary Greig Rhododendron Garden, the Shakespeare Garden, the Stanley Park Rock Garden, and lastly – the Stanley Park Rose Garden. 

This garden is home to over 3,500 rose bushes across 988 acres, which are full of color and lovely aromas. It’s easy to spend a few hours here as you meander past the flowerbeds.

11. Be Enthralled at the Museum of Anthropology

One of the best things to do in Vancouver for young adults who love learning is visiting the Museum of Anthropology (MOA). This grand building is full of collections that focus on the indigenous people of Canada, as well as thousands of objects from all over the world.

12. Delight Your Senses at the Richmond Night Market 

Another must-do in Vancouver is visiting the Richmond Night Market, North America’s largest outdoor market. This is a brilliant opportunity to enjoy some great food and live music. 

There are over 110 food vendors to try, with cuisines that range from Indonesia to Mexico. So, if you’re looking for a fun afternoon in the summer months, definitely check it out. 

13. Visit the Vancouver Aquarium 

If you’re a lover of all things sea life, then the Vancouver Aquarium is the best thing to see in Vancouver, Canada. There are over 65,000 animals here, including sea lions, penguins, and otters. 

And the best part is the level of care these animals get. The Vancouver Aquarium has various environmental certifications and is Canada’s only Marine Mammal Rescue Center.

14. Relax at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a terrific must-see in Vancouver. Plus, entry to the park is free – so this makes it a great way to spend a few hours in Chinatown. 

For access to the gardens, you’ll need to pay an admission of $12 per person. However, this is definitely worth it with the addition of walking tours, tea ceremonies, and yoga classes.

15. Check Out the Vancouver Art Gallery

For one of the best things to do in downtown Vancouver, checking out the Vancouver Art Gallery is a must. It’s over 165,000 square feet and has over 11,600 pieces of art. This includes a wide range of Canadian and international art, as well as a vast photo collection.

You can get a Vancouver Art Gallery entry ticket before visiting, but if you go on the first Friday evening of the month, it’s free. 

16. Meander Through the Queen Elizabeth Park

• Elevation Gain: 170 feet
• Mileage: 1.4 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Gain: Link

Queen Elizabeth Park is an exquisite horticultural delight of Vancouver and is also the city’s highest point. So, if you’re looking for something relaxing to do in Vancouver, coming here is a great option.

Whether that’s to enjoy some stunning sunsets over Vancouver’s North Shore or to check out the Bloedel Conservatory’s exotic plant collection, it’s a beautiful place to be. 

17. Go to FlyOver Canada

Situated at Canada Place and right in downtown Vancouver is FlyOver Canada, an exciting way to experience all Canada has to offer. This attraction showcases some of the nation’s most awe-inspiring sights, cultures, and wildlife. 

You’ll sit suspended before a 65-foot screen and enjoy a simulated flight experience for around 25 minutes.

18. Get Panoramic Views From the Vancouver Lookout

If you’d prefer to have some actual sights of Canada’s sights, the Vancouver Lookout is a brilliant way to witness them. This 553-foot tower includes 360º vistas over Stanley Park, the bustling downtown core, and the North Shore Mountains. 

To get to the observation deck, you’ll ride up in a glass elevator. Get your Vancouver Lookout  entry tickets ahead of time.

19. Visit One of Vancouver’s Beaches

One of the top outdoor activities in Vancouver is going to the beach. Luckily for you, this metropolis has several sandy spots in and around it. 

One of the best places to visit in Vancouver, Canada, is Kitsilano Beach – a neighborhood full of cute cafés, shops, and bars. Some other fantastic options are English Bay Beach and Wreck Beach. 

20. Entertain Yourself at Science World

Found on the end of False Creek, Science World is a fun-filled geodesic dome that’s fun for all ages, from toddlers to young adults. This makes it one of the best Vancouver, BC activities for kids. 

From the quiet Sara Stern Gallery to the BodyWorks, Puzzles, and Illusions exhibits, there are plenty of cool things to explore. Tickets cost $24 per adult and $16 per child.

21. Spend Some Time at Lynn Canyon Park

If you’d prefer to venture out on hiking trails, then check out Lynn Canyon Park. It’s easy to spend a few hours or even a day here, especially if you come early. And the best part? It’s completely free and has a suspension bridge. 

22. Enjoy Some Beer

Vancouver’s craft beer scene is huge, so it’s a must-try. One of the best spots is Granville Island Brewing Company, which offers a guided tour of their brewery (which also includes a tasting flight of beer).

Other notable breweries include Steamworks Brewpub and Faculty Brewing Co.

23. See Vancouver’s Skyline From a Seaplane

One of the most unique things to do in Vancouver is taking a seaplane tour over the city. It’s not the cheapest activity, but it’s exhilarating as you take off from Coal Harbour. 

You’ll get to see all of the city’s iconic landmarks, like Stanley Park and the surrounding mountains, before landing near the Vancouver Convention Centre. This classic Vancouver panorama tour lasts around 20 minutes.

24. Join a Food Tour

As you’ve seen by now, Vancouver is incredibly culturally diverse. So, if you want a delectable way to experience this, taking a food tour is your chance. 

This Gastown walking food tour explores six brilliant eateries in this historic district, with bites ranging from Japanese fried chicken to Canadian poutine. 

25. Go on a Boat Tour in False Creek

False Creek is a stunning part of Vancouver, and there’s no better way to explore this than by taking a boat tour. This Vancouver boat tour starts off in Granville Island before heading to English Bay, the Seal Colony, Lighthouse Park, and False Creek. 

26. Walk Around the Olympic Village

Another terrific thing to do near False Creek is spending some time in the Olympic Village, a fun area in Vancouver. It was built for the 2010 Winter Olympics but is now a vibrant hub of beer gardens, lovely views, and great dining opportunities. 

For an ice-cold beverage, head to the Craft Beer Market. Prefer a warm coffee? Head to Terra Breads.

27. Visit Vancouver Island

If you’re wanting another day trip option, heading to Vancouver Island is a great plan. It takes around 90 minutes to two hours to get there via ferry, and you’ll get off at Victoria, BC’s capital. 

The best things to do on the island include visiting the Butchart Gardens and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, which both have terrific walking trails.

28. Catch the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena

Moving onto the best thing to do in Vancouver’s downtown for sports lovers – watch an ice hockey game at Rogers Arena. Home to the Vancouver Canucks and the Vancouver Warriors, it’s an action-packed arena.

29. Explore Commercial Drive and East Vancouver

Commercial Drive is an eclectic neighborhood with vintage boutiques, old bookstores, and organic markets – which makes it a totally trendy part of Vancouver to visit. Also known as Little Italy, it has some brilliant pizzerias, so if wood-fired pizza and handmade pasta are your faves, check it out. 

30. Saint Mark’s Summit

Saint Marks Summit hike in Cypress Provincial Park offers stunning views of Howe Sound and a rewarding trek. Covering 11 km, it’s a moderate hike perfect for a day out. The summit greets you with panoramic vistas—definitely a must-hike for stunning photos!

FAQs About the Top Things to Do in Vancouver

Even though you know what is there to do in Vancouver, you may still have some lingering queries, so here are some answers to frequently asked questions. 

Is Vancouver a Walkable City?

Yes, Vancouver is one of Canada’s most walkable cities.

What Is Vancouver Famous for?

Vancouver is known for several things, whether that’s because it has the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path, its incredible natural beauty, or for being a premier filming location.

Is Vancouver Cheap to Visit?

No, Vancouver is not one of Canada’s cheapest destinations. Planning ahead and booking experiences in advance is the best way to save money if you want to visit this metropolis.

Vancouver Things to Do | Wrapped Up

Vancouver has so many exceptional activities and attractions that it’s definitely worth a visit. After reading this, you’re now prepared for a trip to this lovely city.

All you need to do is book your tickets and pack your bags for a fantastic vacation in this metropolis.

Next read: Wanting to visit more Canadian delights? Check out this list of the best things to do in Jasper National Park for some inspiration.  

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