Vancouver is an exciting city, filled with an array of things to see and do. Vancouver is a unique city, filled with iconic landmarks, art galleries, museums, and theaters. The city is a popular filming location and has featured in multiple blockbuster movies! When sightseeing in Vancouver you will also be walking where famous Hollywood stars have been. This city is sure to keep you entertained. Its also a place to visit for nature lovers, Vancouver has many stunning natural landmarks, trails, mountains, and lakes that tourists can explore.
We have compiled a list of the very best things to see and do whilst you are visiting. Be sure to read below and discover the very best that Vancouver has to offer:
Stanley Park
Spanning across a whopping 1,000 acres, the park contains more than you would think, with beaches, lakes, forestry, playgrounds for children, and an aquarium! There is so much on offer here. You won’t be left scratching your head for things to do. There is even a tennis course, golf course, and 40 miles of walking trails. Whether you’re a hiker, golfer, or fancy canoeing on the lakes, you can! Look out for those that habitat here, raccoons, beavers, bald eagles, and great blue herons.
Vancouver -Museum of Anthropology
This is one of Canada’s largest teaching museums, the museum of anthropology features a large collection of ethnographic artifacts. There is also a notably large collection of art, textiles, totem poles, masks, and ceramics. The museum is located within the University of British Columbia and draws over 180,000 visitors per year.
English Bay Beach
This picturesque beach is located in the west end of Vancouver city. The beach draws many visitors and the reason is obvious when you visit. It’s hard not to love this beach. There are a plethora of shops and restaurants for you to experience when you visit. There’s nothing better than a trip to the beach and a delicious dinner after. The beach is a hotspot for tourists and definitely a must-see. Take a stroll through the stunning scenery of English Bay Beach and watch the sunset.
Grouse Mountain
Spend a day in the serene beauty of Grouse Mountain. It is known as Vancouver peak and is plagued by tourists and visitors all year round. There is so much to do here, other than walking or hiking. Grouse Mountains allows its visitors to partake in exciting activities such as ziplining in the summer months and snowboarding in winter. If you’re feeling extra adventurous why not brave the challenge of the Grouse Grind? Climb the stairs of over 2,800 feet and 2,830 steps to get you there. Feeling brave?
Pacific Arts Gallery
The perfect place to find and bring home a unique souvenir. The 2,500 feet gallery space allows independent vendors from all over Vancouver and British Columbia to congregate and sell their handmade items. At the Pacific Arts Gallery, you will explore galleries of crafts, artworks, jewelry, wood carvings, and handmade home goods, such as candles and even tea! The artist’s works rotate so this is something you can do each time you visit and is guaranteed to be different each time.
Gastown
This was the original downtown of Vancouver city, Gastown is now a well-regarded neighborhood, filled with shops, restaurants, art galleries, entertainment and so much more. Gastown is the perfect place to spend an evening, enjoy the busy nightlife, and maybe enjoy a meal or a drink with friends and family. You will also spot the Gastown Steam Clock, the famous clock is only one of a few left in the world. The clock gives off steam every half hour and on the hour generates a tooting sound to resemble that of a steam train.
VanDusen Botanical Garden
Over 7,500 species of plants can be seen in this stunning botanical garden. The VanDusen Botanical Garden is a must-see and do, during your visit to Vancouver. The garden spans 55 acres. There are towering trees, plants, and a hedge maze made of 3,000 cedars. The plants and trees here have been flown in from all over the world. The botanical garden is the perfect place to snap photos of all the colors and natural beauty. You may find yourself feeling relaxed in the tranquility that the garden brings.
Sky Gondola
Ten minutes of tranquility. The short ride in this gondola will ensure you see Shannon Falls in all its stunning natural beauty. Soar up to 2,800 feet and take in the views of Howe Sound and the mountainsides. After this ride, you can choose to hike the trails, or if you’re feeling up for a bit more adventure, cross the suspension bridge.
Dr. Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden
This garden is located on the edge of Chinatown and this garden is the first garden, known as a ‘scholar’s garden’ built outside of China. This garden was built to resemble and be inspired by the Ming dynasty era. The garden was designed and built by specialists from Suzhou. This Chinese garden is an oasis of tranquility. With its stunning natural beauty, trees, and rocks. Enjoy the gardens in all their beauty and enjoy a day unwinding.
Vancouver Whale Watching
Vancouver is not only home to the people that reside there but has a large marine life population. Enjoy whale watching, and learn all about the biology and migration of these creatures. You may spot other animals such as dolphins and seals. There are multiple species of whales, this is a unique and truly exciting experience for anyone who decides to venture out to the waters.
Pam Rocks
This is a colony of seals, Pam Rocks are popular for swimming, kayaking, and snorkelers. Explore the rocks and the views that this location offers. Spend the day on the water, enjoy sightseeing, and spotting marine life. You will learn all there is to know and you might even spot other forms of wildlife there too. A bald eagle or two may also be in view.
