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Vancouver Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Now, It's Your Turn

Learn these Vancouver travel tips then put them to use by doing some of the things we recommend in our Vancouver travel blog , including the best neighborhoods to explore and stay in , unique restaurants , non-touristy things to do , and true must-dos .

Kim and I grew up here, worked in tourism (Kim in restaurants, me as a hostel owner), and hosted hundreds of Airbnb guests in our second bedroom (…before we were forced to leave ) , so we've helped a lot of people with a lot of questions about Vancouver.

And now it's your turn!

Here are the top Vancouver travel tips.

Vancouver Travel Tips Outline

• Things to Do
• Getting Around

Food and Drink

Cultural tips, our favorites, top 9 vancouver travel tips.

1. Don't worry about the rain

Contrary to its "Raincouver" reputation, from June through September, Vancouver's one of the driest cities in the country.

It does rains frequently during all other months, but almost never so hard that you can't enjoy the outdoors. A good drizzle can even add to the rainforest ambiance.

2. Don't rent a car

Vancouver is tiny, difficult and expensive to park in, and easy to get around by foot, bike, or public transit, so you don't need a car.

3. Look to stay around Burrard and Robson  

The area around Burrard and Robson streets the most convenient location for most visitors.

If you have a bigger budget, just look for the best deal in the area and if you're on a tight budget, look to stay in the West End, near Davie St. somewhere between Burrard and Denman.

Check out our Where to Stay in Vancouver Guide , where we share and score the best neighborhoods in the city, for more info.

4. Know that you're safe everywhere but your stuff isn't

There is no unsafe part of the city, no matter at what point of day or night.

Never leave any personal items unguarded or unlocked in Vancouver, though, because they aren't safe anywhere. There is a large underworld of thieves who prowl the city waiting for the chance to grab anything that's not properly protected.

5. Don't just say "Thank you"

In Vancouver, and across Canada, you're expected to tip for hotel services ($1-2 per bag to the bell boy, $2-5 per night for the maid, $10-20 to a helpful concierge), at restaurants (15-20%), at bars ($0.50-2 per drink), spas and beauticians/barbers (10%), and taxi drivers (10%).

For more guidance on this silly but unavoidable tradition of tipping, check out this TripSavvy post .

6. Go to a dining district

Instead of trying to decide on a restaurant online, head to one of Vancouver's dining districts like Gastown, Main Street, or Alexandra Road and follow your nose (or taste buds) once you get there.

For a list and map of our favorite dining districts, see our Vancouver travel guide , where Kim and I answer the 11 questions everyone needs to know the answer to before visiting.

7. Just wear something

Vancouver is possibly the world's least-stylish city. People often wear whatever they feel like in public. You can fit in by doing the same.

Or go to Wreck Beach, one of Chris' favorite beaches in Vancouver , and wear nothing at all!

8. Plan to explore Can-Asia

Many guests we've hosted thought they'd landed in the wrong continent when they got to the airport because Vancouver is the world's most Asian city outside of Asia . Forty-seven percent of its population is of Asian descent.

This Asian-ness is a huge part of our culture, so plan to explore it (especially the food) as part of your trip.

9. Know that Vancouver is tiny

People who visit Vancouver are always surprised by how compact the city is.

To walk from one extreme corner of downtown to the other only takes forty minutes. And it's mostly flat. So if you're in the middle of downtown (like we recommended in tip #3), nothing is more than an easy twenty-minute walk away.

You definitely shouldn't spend all your time downtown, though, but even then every neighborhood's within biking distance, some are walkable, and they're never more than 40 minutes by bus.

More of our best travel tips (for wherever you go)

You're sure to find at least one idea that will change the way you travel in our list of our best travel tips and tricks . It has everything from advanced, experimental travel tips and tricks to practical but oft-overlooked ones to dumb advice we hear others give too often (and what to do instead).

Tips on Things to Do

✅ take advantage of the free wifi.

Save on roaming fees and enjoy free internet throughout the city by connecting to any of the 550 (and counting) #VanWifi hotspots. 

Here's the map :

❌  Don't miss the grizzlies

 If you're visiting Vancouver in the summer, we highly recommend you go up Grouse Mountain .

And when you do, don't make the same mistake as too many of our guests did and miss the grizzly bears. It is really cool to see them up close (…through the protection of a fence.)

To get to the grizzly enclosure from behind the main building up top, all you have to do is follow the paw prints on the sidewalk.

( Bonus tip: Definitely hike up Grouse if you can, but strongly consider taking a less-busy route like the BCMC instead. Our Vancouver must-dos post has more info on this.)

✅ Avoid the Seawall on peak periods

The Seawall gets insanely busy with people who haven't ridden a bike since they learned how and can be unnecessarily frustrating and slow, so avoid going on weekends (unless you go early) and in the middle of any day when it's nice out.

✅ Check out the other suspension bridge

Capilano Suspension Bridge is cool and all, but it's super expensive ($50!) and insanely busy.

We recommend  Lynn Canyon instead. It's not quite as busy, not as built up, and it's free .

❌  Don't be fooled by  Gastown marketing

Gastown isn't as old as they want you to believe.

The buildings date back to the late 1800s and early 1900 but the famous steam clock only dates back to 1977. It was put there to attract tourists to Gastown after they revitalized the area.

The same goes for the cobbled streets and the old-looking-but-actually-new lamps. And claims that "Blood Alley" is named after butcher shops aren't true ; it was given its name and legend purely to attract more tourists.

✅ Try stand up paddle boarding

You get two birds with one stone by stand-up paddle boarding: exercise and an unforgettable view of the city.

In the summer, go to Kits Beach on Monday for half-priced rentals ($10/hour, the $5 every hour after), two-for-one Tuesdays, or 30% off Wednesdays.

✅ Take the plunge

The ocean water is clean and not even that cold, especially when the tide is out in the summer. Jump in.

If you're in Vancouver over New Years, join 2,500+ others in the annual Polar Bear Swim .

✅ Join in on some free exercise

You'll be impressed by how active Vancouverites are. It will likely motivate you to join and fit in .

For doing so, there are tons of options, many of which are free. Most yoga, spinning, or whatever style of fitness is in style these days studios offer free or steeply discounted first classes.

We like to go to  Vancouver's outdoor calisthenics parks  and do  rock workouts on Sunset Beach.

❌  Don't sleep on Squamish

Squamish is halfway between Vancouver and Whistler (an hour away) and is where all the young outdoorsy people in Vancouver are migrating to.  

If you're an adventure traveler looking to get into the outdoors and meet a bunch of like-minded adventurers, consider spending some time there .

✅ Shop for souvenirs at these places

Roots , Lululemon, and Aritzia are Canadian brands whose clothes make for practical souvenirs.

Kitschy souvenirs are most easily found in Gastown.

Get maple syrup or packaged smoked salmon from a supermarket instead of a souvenir shop to save money.

Geography Tips

✅ Use the north star mountains to guide you

 If you get spun around and forget which way's which, use the mountains to find your bearings. That way's north.

✅ Beware of the Downtown Eastside

The area between Gastown and "Chinatown" , centered on the intersection of Hastings and Main, is called the Downtown Eastside.

It's where all the city's, and really much of Canada's, drug addicts and untreated mentally ill people are concentrated.

If you go, you will see people injecting themselves with drugs in broad daylight and high out of their minds, screaming at everyone and anyone.

❌ Don't be scared of the Downtown Eastside, though

The Downtown Eastside is heavily policed and totally safe.

In fact, we recommend walking through it once to experience the gritty underbelly of beautiful Vancouver.

Bonus fun fact: The term skid row, which now refers to an impoverished urban area, originates from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. In Vancouver's early days, that's where they once skidded (or dragged) logs.

✅ For the real Chinatown, go to Richmond

Chinatown is not Chinatown. Not anymore. The epicenter of the Chinese community has moved south to Richmond (by the airport).

What was once Chinatown now has more hipster cafes and shops than Chinese stores.

❌  Don't do a day trip to Vancouver Island

We're amazed by how many visitors think Vancouver Island and everything on it is super close to Vancouver.

It takes a good five hours to get to Victoria from Vancouver, for example.

One or two visitors we met pulled off a day trip nonetheless, but that's crazy. If you want to go to Victoria or Vancouver Island, go for a few days. Or fly.

P.S: Don't miss our free Vancouver Treasure Map below.

Getting Around Vancouver

✅ Take the SkyTrain into town from the airport

It's sometimes faster than taxis and cheaper (unless you're a group of three or more, in which case a taxi costs about the same).

✅ Use public transit

  Many tourists we've met during our time as Airbnb hosts, Americans especially, tend to disregard public transit as an option because back home it's dirty, unreliable, and inconvenient.

It's the opposite here in Vancouver.

Everyone rides public transit in Vancouver and you should too.

✅ Ask the bus drivers, even if you're not taking the bus

Unlike in many other cities, Vancouver's bus drivers are generally friendly and helpful, so don't be scared to ask them for directions or to let you know when it's your stop.

✅ Move swiftly around Vancouver

For tips on how to zip around the city faster, for less money, and with less stress, head over to our Dos and Don'ts for Getting Around Vancouver .

❌  Don't get your hopes up about "Canadian " food

There isn't such a thing as "Canadian cuisine," especially in Vancouver. Reflecting Vancouver?s immigrant population, the city?s food is just a hodgepodge of cuisines from around the world.

Nevertheless, there are some foods here in Vancouver that you'll have a tough time finding outside of Canada. Among them are  Nanaimo bars ,  Caesars ,  poutine , and Aboriginal cuisine, which our  must-do in Vancouver  post explains in more detail.

✅ Bring ID

No matter how old you are, if you want to drink alcohol or smoke, ensure you carry one piece of picture ID and another with your name on it (like a credit card). Everyone checks. Without ID, you're outta luck.

✅ Experience some one-of-a-kind Vancouver dining

For our recommendations on unique and unforgettable food experiences like subs from the Sandwich Nazi and crazy bubble tea, don't miss our post on only-in-Vancouver dining experiences .

✅ Learn these Vancouver foodie dos and don'ts

Learn what, where, and how to best indulge in all of Vancouver's tastiest treats in our Dos and Don'ts for Foodies Visiting Vancouver .

✅ Be Green

Being so close to nature and the home of David Suzuki  and Greenpeace has made us Vancouverites very environmentally sensitive. You should be too, at the very least while you're here.

If you have empty bottles or glasses, look for a recycling bin to put them in. And only get bags from stores if you really need them.

✅ Please don't use an umbrella

Most Vancouverites wear rain jackets instead of carry umbrellas. Or they don't use any rain protection because, as we said before, it rarely rains that hard.

( Note:  Not all Vancouverites agree with this tip, but some, especially taller ones like Chris, will hate you for threatening their eyeballs with umbrellas.)

✅ Don't worry about standing out as a tourist

Vancouver is such a multicultural city that regardless of your accent, skin color, fashion, or whatever, as long as you don't have a big camera around your neck and an "I ♥ VanCity" hat on, nobody will think you're a tourist.

❌  Don't call them "Indians"

…unless they're actually from India.

Refer to the area's original inhabitants as Aboriginal people or First Nations people instead. Spencer helpfully elaborates in the comments, "Not all of Indigenous people in Vancouver or Canada for that matter identify as First Nations. Inuit people from the north and Metis (mixed Indigenous and French or Scottish ancestry) people also live in Vancouver. More specifically, individual Indigenous nations make up the land that is now called Vancouver. The Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples."

If you're interested in indigenous history and culture, go to The Museum of Anthropology , eat at Salmon n' Bannock , and take a tour with Talaysay .

✅ Beware that things cost more than they appear

Listed prices never include tax, which is normally an extra 14%. On top of that is the tip you're expected to pay at restaurants and bars and for other services. (See tip on tipping.)

✅ Favorite sites for more Vancouver travel tips, info, and events

Aside from reading our other posts on The Unconventional Route and asking us questions in the comments , here are some other handy resources for planning your trip:

• Tourism Vancouver's info sheets they share with media are better than anything the media then shares with the public.
• The Daily Hive is a good resource for seeing what events are going on in the city today.

✅ Essential guide

• Everything a first-time visitor should know before coming to Vancouver

✅ Favorite things to do

• Our favorite non-touristy things to do in Vancouver
• 7 things everyone must do in Vancouver in the summer
• A local beach bum's guide to all the beaches in Vancouver , the (sometimes) best beach city in the world

✅ A couple of our favorite hikes

• Going up Grouse Mountain, though not the Grind
• Anvil Island's Leading Peak
• Brandywine Meadows and Mountain

✅ Favorite foods

• 8 only-in-Vancouver dining experience
• General dos and don'ts for doodies visiting Vancouver

Read This Next:

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods, Ranked

11 Essentials for Visiting Our Hometown – A Vancouver Travel Blog

Travel Tips and Tricks: At Least One Will Enhance Your Trip

Vancouver Must-Dos: 7 Things You Honestly Can't Miss Out On

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

17 thoughts on “Vancouver Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go”

Thanks for the guide. I a planning to visit Vancouver next year with my wife.

You're more than welcome. Thanks for the comment. Don't hesitate to reach out to us if you guys have any questions we haven't thought of addressing. And, if not, bon voyage!

You had me at everything is biking distance. I was calculating costs, and renting a vehicle is always so expensive.

Absolutely. Not only is biking cheaper, but it's often faster cuz you don't have to worry about parking and you get a better feel for the city when you're peddling along. And if the weather gets crappy you can easily throw your bike onto a bus.

Thanks for the info! It's a great help for first time visitors like us! We're hoping to head to Vancouver to visit friends their in June, then head out to the mountains and end in Calgary to fly home. Do you have any road trip tips for first time international drivers?!

Apologies, I definitely meant 'there' not 'their'!!

Hey Rosie. Hmm… Well you should know that in Canada it's legal to turn right on a red light, or left of its onto a one way street going that direction. In cities the speed limit is 50km/h unless otherwise indicated. Flashing green lights mean they're pedestrian operated (it will only change if a pedestrian pushes a button). And when lanes merge, like on bridges (especially Lion's Gate) cars from two merging lanes take turns. That's all I can think of of the top of my head. Canadians are pretty good and courteous drivers in general. Enjoy your trip!

Keep writing about Vancouver please, I really enjoy the posts!

Thanks Ann. We feel like unloaded most of our favorite things into these posts already. Please give us some ideas or questions and we'll see what we can do.

We are gong to visita Vancouver in february, do you recommend something different?

Hi Karla, In Feb you won't be able to hike, but still get outside. For example, go for a walk in Lynn Canyon or some other rain forest. They're just as beautiful, and much less busy, in the rain. Just bring a rain jacket and shoes you don't mind getting dirty. Then spend a bit more time eating and drinking (see our Vancouver eating and drinking tips ) and doing cultural city stuff like exploring Vancouver neighborhoods (Commercial, Main St., Kits, see our Vancouver neighborhood guide ) and going to comedy/improv or theatre. Maybe even a hockey game if the dates work and that fits your budget. Also, look for events going on in the city while you're there. Hope that helps. Enjoy our hometown!

Hi! I’ve been reading some of your other posts, and as someone who grew up in Vancouver, I noticed your posts on my home city and wanted to offer some considerations. I think that words matter. Especially to people unfamiliar with a place, in this case, Vancouver.

1. It may not be wise to call The Downtown Eastside (DTES) skid row. Skid row is, as you say, a term used to denote the log skidding area from history. However, people use the term to describe poorer neighbourhoods to further alienate them. The DTES is a vibrant area with real humans, many of which are struggling with mental health, TRAUMA, and substance use issues. It is also not a place to ogle people.

2. Not all of Indigenous people in Vancouver or Canada for that matter identify as First Nations. Inuit people from the north and Métis (mixed Indigenous and French or Scottish ancestry) people also live in Vancouver. More specifically, individual Indigenous nations make up the land that is now called Vancouver. The Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples.

3. You may want to consider editing your section about the Chinese community in Vancouver. Especially considering the rise in anti-Asian hate it’s important to consider how we describe Chinese communities.

I’m open to dialogue if you want to contact me in case I have misinterpreted your thoughts.

Thanks Spencer! I've updated this post on your first two points. On #1, I got changed "Skid Row" to DTES and removed a stupid sentence on buying cheap stuff. I don't think I meant to give the idea to "ogle" people in the DTES any more than to the extent I'd ogle walking down Robson or along Kits Beach. On #2, I added exactly what you wrote to cover up my ignorance. As for #3, if you have suggestions on what to edit and how, I'm open to it. I tried to look at it from a "how could this be perceived as offensive or anti-Asian" and came up dry.

Thanks for sharing these valuable Vancouver travel tips! It's always helpful to have insider knowledge when visiting a new city. One question that comes to mind is about the cultural tips you mentioned. You mentioned not using umbrellas because it rarely rains too hard.

Yep. It mostly drizzles. As I write this, though, it's pouring. I guess mostly it's personal. Umbrellas annoy me.

Hi Guys my wife and I are coming over in June/July this ('24) renting a car and heading east towards Calgary to visit a family member and hopefully some more of Vancouver Island, especially up the north end.

Was last over in 2019 when I rode through the city on my motorcycle (had purchased one, had to sell during Covid) from Kamloops after having undertaken a 2 month explore of Alaska and western/Northern Canada, to the airport to pick up (at the time my partner) wife for another 3 weeks easy riding in the Rockies, best trip I have ever had with my 60nyrs on the this awesome rock.

A simple question if I may, we are not riding on this trip and plan on staying in Vancouver for 4 days after we arrive and a couple before we head back home to New Zealand. We are not party animals any more but would like to find a cost effective location to base ourselves from, is West End still your recommendation as it seems you started this blog a few years ago.

We are trying to stretch the budget a bit due to local costs and exchange rate hit but still want to enjoy the city as we didn't look around last trip.

thanks for any advice, and love your blog, its very good and a fine resource.

Hi Mike. Your motorcycle trip sounds like it was epic. For your Vancouver trip, depends on what your definition of "cost effective" is. My top tip for finding value would be to look for places along the SkyTrain line. They run every 3 minutes or so, so even if you're out of town, you can get in efficiently. Explore around your neighbourhood outside the city center and you may find some gems, too.

What do you think? (Leave a Comment.) Cancel reply

Vancouver, Canada   Travel Guide

Courtesy of danbreckwoldt | Getty Images

20 Best Things to Do in Vancouver, Canada

Enveloped by snow-dusted peaks and home to sandy beaches and an abundance of forested trails, Vancouver is meant to be experienced outdoors. Explore the nearly 1,000-acre Stanley Park and stroll along its seawall for picture-perfect views of the

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Stanley Park Stanley Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're walking along the north side of the Stanley Park Seawall, keep your eyes peeled for the Girl in a Wetsuit sculpture that sits on a rock in the water. It's a Vancouver landmark. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

This nearly 1,000-acre park on the tip of Vancouver's "thumb" (just north of the West End) is home to some of the city's favorite, most-visited attractions. In fact, you could easily spend more than a day here and still not see everything this urban oasis has to offer. If you want to experience the park the way the locals do, walk, cycle or jog around the nearly 20-mile seawall that hugs Vancouver's waterfront. The path starts at the Vancouver Convention Centre and ends at Spanish Banks Beach Park . If you're not up for the walk, you'll find several bike rental companies near the park. With your bike, you'll be able to explore the more than 17 miles of forest trails that are much less crowded than the rest of the park. Travelers recommend biking the South Creek Trail, which leads to the lily pad-covered Beaver Lake. If you're not up for all that exercise, you can ride in a horse-drawn carriage or hop on the train for a 15-minute ride through the forest. Recent visitors said the park offers a great escape from the city and has one of the prettiest seawall walks around.

Granville Island Granville Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The food market is the main draw here, but you'll also want to peruse the unique shops in the Net Loft building. – Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

This former industrial site is now one of Vancouver's most beloved neighborhoods. Practically its own mini-city, Granville Island's former factories now house trendy restaurants, galleries and theaters. But the main draw here is the Granville Island Public Market, often described as one of the best markets in North America. Among the seemingly endless aisles of fresh produce and local crafts, you'll find a variety of food stalls selling everything from baked goods to authentic Mexican cuisine. If the weather is nice, try and grab a seat outside by the water. You can watch ferry boats putter back and forth in English Bay while enjoying the performances of the buskers who regularly play for market crowds. After filling up on market eats, head to the perpetually busy Kids Market. This playtopia sells toys and crafts and features an indoor play area. If you don't have kids in tow, visit Canada's first microbrewery –  Granville Island Brewing . You can enjoy a selection of ales and India pale ales.

Queen Elizabeth Park Queen Elizabeth Park free

Queen Elizabeth Park is one of Vancouver's most popular outdoor spaces (second only to  Stanley Park ). Spread out across nearly 130 acres, the park features a rose garden, a meticulously manicured quarry garden, and an arboretum with about 1,500 native and exotic trees. When you're not admiring the park's flora, head inside the Bloedel Conservatory to visit the fauna. The conservatory features more than 100 free-flying exotic birds, not to mention 500 tropical plants and three different climate zones. Step outside the conservatory and you'll spot the Dancing Waters fountain display, along with several sculptures scattered throughout the plaza. Since the park sits at the highest point in Vancouver, it offers spectacular views of the city skyline, mountains and shoreline from the fountain plaza.

If you don't have time to devote an entire day to touring Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, located about 2 miles due south of downtown Vancouver, is a great alternative. Many visitors say it has the best views of the city you can find and the grounds are well maintained.

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Museum of Anthropology at UBC Museum of Anthropology at UBC

The MOA is currently closed for seismic upgrades until June 2024. You can learn more about this closure as well as upcoming events on the museum's website .

While the city itself hasn't celebrated a large amount of birthdays, the area on which Vancouver was founded possesses a rich, cultural past. The Museum of Anthropology (part of the University of British Columbia) houses one of the world's most impressive collections of art and artifacts from the Northwest Coast First Nations. In the Great Hall alone, you'll spot ornately decorated canoes, ritual masks, totem poles and other Native American relics. Other areas of the museum display 15th-century European pottery, priceless jewelry and local art. You can embark on your own self-guided walk-through of the museum, but recent travelers highly suggest following one of the docents. Tours are offered an average of three times per day; consult the MOA website for exact times.

Mount Pleasant Mount Pleasant free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Join in-the-know locals for an intimate night out inside a dimly lit speakeasy. Find classic and elevated cocktails at Key Party , hidden behind an old-school accountant's office on Main Street. – Vivian Chung

Bordered to the north by False Creek, the south by East 16th, the west by Cambie and the east by Clark Drive, Mount Pleasant is a hipster enclave found in East Vancouver. Though a largely residential area boasting modern apartment towers and heritage homes that are more than a hundred years old, the neighborhood's main thoroughfare of Main Street is jampacked with local roasters, vintage boutiques and a bevy of Michelin-starred and Michelin-recommended restaurants that range from SUYO 's modern Peruvian to Anh and Chi 's authentic Vietnamese fare. Plus, the area hosts a collection of well-loved craft breweries and leafy neighborhood parks hidden between the side streets.

Kitsilano Beach Kitsilano Beach free

When the weather's nice, follow Vancouverites down to the shores of English Bay to Kitsilano "Kits" Beach. Often compared to L.A. 's  Venice Beach , this shoreline along the northern edge of Kitsilano is the city's most popular swim spot, especially for the city's 20-something crowd. Kits is an accessible beach with a beach mat on-site and free water wheelchairs are available to borrow (on a first-come, first-served basis and you must make reservations in advance). When you're not relaxing on the sand or admiring the skyline views, you'll find areas for in-line skating and volleyball, along with tennis courts and a playground. Visitors do warn that the beach can get quite busy in summer, but it is clean and always has "good vibes." If you're in the mood for swim but the bay water is just a little too chilly for your liking, try the area's heated, saltwater Kitsilano Pool (open May to mid-September). Fido will be happy here, too, as there's dog parks and off-leash areas. You can also visit the nearby Vancouver Maritime Museum, which offers an educational respite from the summer sun. When you need to grab a refreshment, you'll find several concession stands as well as a more formal dining room at The Boathouse Restaurant.

You don't have to pay to access the beach, but you will have to pay for parking. Parking from April 1 to Sept. 30 will cost you CA$4 (about $3) hourly and CA$17 (about $13) daily. From Oct. 1 to March 31 hourly parking rates decrease to CA$3 (about $2.25); daily rates decrease to CA$9 (about $7). If you're traveling via public transportation, the No. 2 bus offers service between downtown and Kits Beach. Entrance to the pool will also cost you. Single-day admission for adults costs about CA$7 (about $5.25); youths ages 13 to 18 years old get in for around CA$5 (about $3.75) and children ages 5 to 12 enter for about CA$3 (about $2.25). Check out the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation  website  for more information on Kits Beach.

Gastown Gastown free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Book a stay at the Skwachàys Lodge on West Pender, Canada's first Indigenous arts hotel. Aside from its 18 guestrooms and art gallery, the hotel also provides on-site housing and studio space for a vibrant community of 24 Indigenous artists. – Vivian Chung

Paved with cobblestone and studded with antique lampposts, the streets of Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood and original downtown core oozes historic charm. A humble tavern founded by English riverboat captain and saloon keeper John "Gassy Jack" Deighton in 1867 laid the foundation for Gastown, from which the community expanded. Now boasting a thriving fashion scene and trendy wine bars alongside kitschy souvenir shops, Gastown is an eclectic neighbourhood to explore on foot. Stroll along Water Street to the part steam-powered and part electric motor-powered steam clock, which whistles every 15 minutes and its five whistles chime in unison every hour. Along the way, pass by well-preserved Victorian-era buildings and peruse galleries dedicated to Indigenous art.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip: Around the corner from the garden in the historic Wing Sang building on East Pender Street is the Chinese Canadian Museum . Complete your afternoon in Chinatown by learning about the efforts of the Chinese-Canadian community that shaped this Vancouver neighborhood. – Vivian Chung

A tranquil oasis nestled at the edge of Chinatown, the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden is the first Ming Dynasty-style garden built outside of China. Guided by the Taoist principles of yin and yang and feng shui, the garden was brought to life over the course of 13 months by 53 master craftsmen from Suzhou, including architects, masons, tilers and painters. Plus, the materials, including stone pebbles, hand-made tiles, Ginkgo wood and limestone rocks, were also sourced from China. A guided tour of the garden reveals not only the legacy of the Chinese philosopher and politician, Dr. Sun Yat Sen, to whom this garden pays homage, but also the fascinating symbolism woven into the design of the garden. The zigzag pattern of the walkways, the deliberate placement of rocks and flora and the green waters of the pond all beckon visitors to dive into Chinese culture and philosophy.

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Often described by travelers as a hidden gem, the VanDusen Botanical Garden is spread across 55 acres in the center of Vancouver. Recent visitors called the garden very peaceful. The garden features several sections, including a stone garden and a hedge maze – a favorite among past visitors. One popular feature is the Laburnum Walk. The path is made memorable by the yellow, chain-like blooms that hang from the Laburnum branches. Peak bloom for these plants occurs in mid-May, but if you're not in Vancouver during their prime blooming period, check out what will be in season during your visit with this bloom calendar  here .

You can explore all of the garden's meandering paths with a self-guided tour – themed tours are developed by volunteers and can be accessed online . Docent-led tours are subject to volunteer availability from April through early October. Contact the garden ahead of your visit to see if a tour will be available. If all that walking makes you hungry, refuel at the two eateries located on-site, the Shaughnessy Restaurant and the Truffles Cafe.

Yaletown Yaletown free

Vancouver's definitive late night hot spot, Yaletown has steadily increased in popularity since it transformed from a warehouse district to the trendy area it is today. Often compared to  New York City 's SoHo neighborhood, Yaletown features chic boutiques, restaurants and hotels (including one of the city's top properties , OPUS Vancouver). Even if you don't plan to hang your hat at OPUS, you should still plan to check out the hotel's cocktail lounge, The Spritz. Other top nightlife spots include  Yaletown Brewing Co. , Pierre's Lounge and  Bar None .

Recent visitors said there is something for everyone in Yaletown, with a wide range of dining and drinking options in a variety of prices. For a little help navigating the neighborhood, consider signing up for one of the best Vancouver tours .

English Bay English Bay free

Also known as First Beach, English Bay Beach draws visitors and locals alike in droves. It's an accessible beach thanks to Mobi-Mat paths and water wheelchairs (available from May through September). Water fun includes kayaking and slides, while land-based activities include volleyball courts and walking, biking or jogging along the Stanley Park Seawall, which runs alongside the sands. You'll also find the A-maze-ing Laughter sculpture on the beach's northeast side. And when hunger strikes, the Cactus Club Cafe dishes out a variety of meals like poke bowls, sandwiches and burgers with a heaping side of ocean views.

If the beach itself doesn't draw you, perhaps its events will. Vancouver's annual Polar Bear Swim takes place on English Bay each New Year's Day. The event features music and food trucks, as well as the star event: a plunge into the chilly waters of English Bay. If that's too cold, stop by in late July for the Honda Celebration of Light, an annual fireworks festival.

Grouse Mountain Grouse Mountain

Towering over North Vancouver, Grouse Mountain has been a popular outdoor getaway for years, especially since the views from the summit span the entire city on a clear day. Originally used only for skiing, Grouse now offers year-round activities, including the Grouse Grind, a nearly 2-mile trail often referred to by residents as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster" (there are a total of 2,830 stairs along the trail).

During a winter visit to the mountain – a favorite time for locals – you'll have a bevy of activities to occupy your time. Grouse Mountain's slopes boast 33 ski and snowboard runs, four chairlifts and six terrain parks, not to mention four snowshoeing trails. There's also a zip line, a skating pond, sledding, a high-definition cinema, a wildlife refuge and several eateries, including a Starbucks and Fondue Experience at The Observatory, a formal dining room with 360-degree mountaintop views. Many past visitors raved about the excellent (albeit pricey) food at the top.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Capilano Suspension Bridge

U.S. News Insider Tip: Set aside at least two to three hours to experience all of the park's attractions. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

Overcome your vertigo and experience Vancouver the way the birds do. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is the oldest tourist attraction in the city (it dates back to 1889), and the 450-foot-long, 230-foot-high bridge offers spectacular views of the Capilano River below. Visitors call it thrilling, exciting and an overall great experience. The fun doesn't end once you reach the other side of the canyon; more suspension bridges and daredevil activities await at the Treetops Adventure. With this canopy walk – set among the park's 250-year-old Douglas fir trees – you'll have the chance to walk 110 feet above the forest floor, from viewing platform to viewing platform. Continue to tempt fate along the Cliffwalk, a set of cantilevered and suspended walkways that meander along the canyon's edge.

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Spanish Banks Beach Spanish Banks Beach free

Spanish Banks boasts a few features that set it apart from the city's other beloved shorelines. Thanks to its location about 5 miles southwest of downtown Vancouver, Spanish Banks is the least crowded and most quiet. It's also the best place to try your hand at skimboarding – a cross between surfing and skateboarding – due to the low tidal conditions (at low tide the water is more than half a mile off shore). If the ocean water is too chilly, there are plenty of volleyball courts available for pick-up games.

Recent visitors called the beach beautiful and say exploring at low tide can be lots of fun, especially for kids.

Museum of Vancouver Museum of Vancouver

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Museum of Vancouver (MOV) shares the same entrance as the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, making it easy to check off two popular Vancouver attractions in one visit. – Vivian Chung

As Vancouver's oldest museum and Canada's largest civic museum, there's no better place to dive into the history of the city than at the Museum of Vancouver. Founded in 1894, the institution's more than 70,000 black and white photographs, interactive and audiovisual displays and historic fashion and household items document Vancouver's transformation from a relatively small city into a multicultural and dynamic metropolis with modern infrastructure. The stories and objects of the History Galleries also highlight the population growth, economic transformation and cultural and social changes in Vancouver between 1900 and 1970. Recount the economic hardship faced by Vancouverites during the Great Depression in the 1930s and immerse yourself in the iconic hippie movement of the 1960s, where Kitsilano stood as the epicenter of Canada's flower-power revolution. 

Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art

Bill Reid was a Haida artist who blended modern aesthetics with Indigenous arts through goldsmithing, jewelry making, writing and more. Throughout his career, he researched Indigenous art (especially Haida art) and it became a large influence in his work. Following Reid's death in 1998, the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art opened in 2008 to honor Reid and the incomparable art created by Northwest Coast peoples.

Today, museumgoers can tour several galleries and a series of rotating exhibits. Themes have included song, beadwork, Indigenous queer identity, watercolor painting and more. Additionally, there are a variety of events, such as artist talks and art workshops, throughout the year.

Steveston Village Steveston Village

U.S. News Insider Tip: Its location at the mouth of the Fraser River makes Steveston the ideal jumping-off point for an up-close look at the region's marine life. Join Vancouver Whale Watch on a tour for the opportunity to spot orcas, humpback whales, dolphins and seals. – Vivian Chung

Seen in popular TV shows like "Supernatural" and "Once Upon a Time" as the fictional town of Storybrooke, Steveston Village in Richmond is a historic neighborhood with a rich fishing heritage. Join the locals at 75-acre waterfront Garry Point Park and soak up uninterrupted views of the South Arm of the Fraser River and the Gulf Islands, stroll along the wooden boardwalks while gorging on frozen yogurt and dive into the area's maritime past with a visit to the more than 4,000-square-foot restored Gulf of Georgia Cannery, which was BC's largest until 1902. As an active fishing port, visitors can shop freshly caught seafood at Fisherman's Wharf, depending on the season, or savor fresh catches at local restaurants, where they're skillfully featured across a range of dishes, like sushi, pizza, pasta and more.

Lynn Canyon Park Lynn Canyon Park free

Sitting less than 10 miles northeast of downtown Vancouver, Lynn Canyon Park offers all the benefits of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , but without the hordes of tourists, according to recent visitors. The park spans nearly 620 acres and is full of winding trails, a swimming hole, waterfalls and its own suspension bridge.

The suspension bridge, which the park calls its main attraction, sits 164 feet in the air and spans Lynn Canyon. Views from the bridge are breathtaking, but walking the bridge isn't for the faint of heart: it sways as you move and is narrow, which makes it tricky for two-way foot traffic. Afterward, take a hike to Twin Falls or trek the Baden Powell Trail, which challenges hikers of all abilities. Also on-site is the 30-Foot Pool. Weather permitting, you can take a dip to cool off during your time outdoors. But be warned: the water is cold at all times of year. Before your adventure, stop by the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre to view its nature museum and get information about Lynn Canyon Park. (Suggested donation to visit the center is CA$2 per person, or about $1.50).

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Robson Street Robson Street free

Since the 1940s, Robson Street has been a hub for shops and markets. Though you may not find the classic markets and quintessential candy stores of the mid-20th century, Robson Street is the place to be for shopaholics. Stores range from well-known brands like Steve Madden and Nike to shops selling everything from high-end beauty products to eyewear to fine jewelry. You'll also find the street lined with eateries. Casual bakeries sit next to Korean restaurants. Japanese restaurants are next door to health food establishments, while a few doors down sits a gelato parlor. Needless to say, there's a wide variety to fit all tastes on Robson Street.

Travelers generally enjoy a stroll down the thoroughfare, encouraging others to save time for a meal at one of the restaurants lining the street. Some suggest that if shopping and dining aren't for you, then you may want to skip this street.

Vancouver Aquarium Vancouver Aquarium

Those in the know say the Vancouver Aquarium is definitely worth exploring, whether you're traveling with kids or just looking for a little extra marine knowledge. As the home of more than 50,000 different animals across more than 30 exhibits, this is a great place to become acquainted with local animals as well as exotic creatures. But don't come here expecting SeaWorld: Past visitors say the aquarium's focus is more on interactive exhibits and education and less on choreographed animal performances. Different exhibits mimic various habitats, from the icy tanks of the Canada's Arctic exhibit to the colorful clownfish and intimidating black-tip reef sharks sheltered in the Tropics. Don't miss the Graham Amazon Gallery, a giant atrium where three-toed sloths and caimans take shelter from the hourly simulated rainstorms.

While some recent visitors comment on the steep cost of admission, they also say that if you schedule enough time, it's worth the price. 

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20 Best Things to Do in Vancouver — From Stunning Hikes to Incredible Cultural Experiences

Here are 20 of the top things to do in Vancouver.

Naimul Alam/Travel + Leisure

Vancouver’s beauty is notable, with its majestic mountains, stunning skyline, and sparkling sea luring visitors from around the world. But the city is more than just good looks — it has personality too. Culture and cuisine shine here, the people are friendly, and it’s a safe and welcoming city. Whether you take a trek through the trees, meander through the metropolitan streets, cycle the seawall, or stroll through the shops, one thing’s for certain: you’re sure to get in your steps in this city. Good thing Vancouver boasts a variety of luxurious accommodations to relax in after a long day of exploring. With the help of Candace Campo (ancestral name Xets’emits’a, Shíshálh Nation), artist and owner/operator of Talaysay Tours ; Rodolfo Parra, chief concierge of JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and the Douglas Autograph Collection Hotel ; and Alex Chen, executive chef, Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar , we’re sharing the best things to do in Vancouver.

Related: T+L’s Guide to Vancouver

Take an Indigenous-led Talking Totems tour.

Courtesy of Talaysay Tours

The best way to start a visit to Vancouver is to learn about the area’s beginnings. Located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, the city that is now known as Vancouver has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Towering totem poles have stood erect in Stanley Park since 1920, and the Talking Totems tour offered by Talaysay Tours provides an eye-opening journey from past to present through the stories shared by an engaging Indigenous guide.

Grab goodies at the Granville Island Public Market.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Vancouver’s most celebrated chefs shop at the Granville Island Public Market , like Chef Chen, who picks up fresh sausages from Oyama Sausage Co and warm loaves of bread from Terra Breads when he wants to make a standout charcuterie on his days off. Campo loves it here too, sharing, “My dad and I ate everything here, from Chinese and Greek to Ukrainian and West Coast seafood. Then we’d explore the art studios, walk the boardwalk, and listen to live music.”

Take a tranquil stroll through the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

vkyryl/Getty Images

The first Chinese “scholar’s garden” to be built outside of Asia, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is one of the city’s most ornamental green spaces — and it’s right in the heart of clamorous Chinatown. A mirror-calm pond houses colorful carp, and twisted trees and quiet covered walkways provide a tranquil space to stroll. Make time for a free guided tour, and be sure to conclude your visit with a complimentary cup of traditional Chinese tea.

Shop the Lonsdale Quay.

Leopoldine Bauer/Travel + Leisure

“The Seabus ferry ride to the Lonsdale Quay from downtown Vancouver is a fun must-do experience on its own,” shares Parra. “Once you’re there, walk through the local artisan shops, explore the pier that overlooks a picturesque view of the Vancouver skyline, and then grab a table at Tap & Barrel Shipyards and enjoy the views.”

Admire art at the Vancouver Art Gallery.

As Western Canada’s largest public art museum, the Vancouver Art Gallery is a top attraction for art enthusiasts. Browse the works of Emily Carr, British Columbia’s beloved painter, and explore the blockbuster international shows and contemporary collections found throughout the three-story historic space. 

Related: The Best Times to Visit Vancouver for Lower Prices, Beautiful Weather, and Outdoor Adventures

Take a day trip to Bowen Island.

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“I highly recommend taking a day trip to Bowen Island , located in the middle of Howe Sound, just a short flight or ferry ride away. While there, experience the purest form of the West Coast. Explore the local farmers market, hike up to Dorman Point Lookout, or kayak along the shoreline and experience the stunning beauty BC has to offer,” shares Parra of his top-recommended day trip from the city.

See sea creatures at the Vancouver Aquarium.

Set in Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium is Canada’s largest. Get up-close (and in some cases, hands-on) with the over 65,000 aquatic animals that are housed here, including charming sea otters and swimming sea lions (one weighing in at nearly 1,900 pounds). Not only is this a top tourist spot, but the site is also a center for marine research, ocean literacy, and climate activism.

Walk around the Capilano River Hatchery.

L. Toshio Kishiyama/Getty Images

Built to save the declining salmon stocks in the area, the Capilano River Hatchery is a popular place for a hike. “We like to take our dogs for a walk around the hatchery,” shares Chen. “We hike around the canyon and see schools of salmon spawning there, then have a late picnic lunch by the water, with treats from nearby Thomas Haas .”

Meander through the Vancouver Mural Festival.

A self-guided walking tour of the Vancouver Mural Festival (Aug. 4-13 this year) will give you a great perspective of the city through an artistic lens. Over 300 murals and public art displays can be spotted in neighborhoods throughout Vancouver, featuring the works of both local and international artists.

Visit Olympic Village by boat.

Naimul Alam/Travel + Leisure

First created as a housing hub for athletes during the 2010 Winter Olympics, Olympic Village has now become a popular spot for pub hops and patio dining. “Take the Aquabus — just steps from the Douglas — to Olympic Village where you can explore the local microbreweries such as 33 Acres Brewing and enjoy a day of brewery hopping, a big part of Vancouver culture. While you’re there, enjoy a bite to eat at Argo Café , a hidden gem located in Olympic Village,” shares Parra on how to enjoy the experience.

Browse the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art.

Located up the street from the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art honors hailed Haida artist Bill Reid, who was known for building bridges between Indigenous and settler people through his work as an artist, broadcaster, and community activist. The space showcases some of his artwork, as well as works of art by contemporary Indigenous artists.

Entertain the family at Science World.

Vancouver’s oceanfront orb is a sight to see, but inside the geodesic dome is a multi-level space for science exploration that the kids (and parents!) are sure to enjoy. At Science World , you can get hands-on with learning galleries, watch engaging science showcases, and catch a show on the largest domed screen on the planet, the Omnimax Theatre, which puts you in the center of the action.

Eat seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf in Steveston.

pilesasmiles/Getty Images

Chef Chen lives in Steveston — a 30-minute drive from Vancouver — and enjoys riding his bike around the dyke towards Gary Point Park with his family. “I would ride down to the dock to check out the catch of the day. I love the side stripe prawns, and will often pick up a fresh Dungeness crab for dinner,” he shares of the city’s seafood capital. Don’t feel like cooking it yourself? The area is full of seaside seafood spots serving everything from casual fish and chips to upscale fine dining.

Dine around the world at the Richmond Night Market.

Andrew Chin/Getty Images

During the summer months, a visit to Richmond Night Market — the largest outdoor market of its kind in North America — is a must for foodies. There are over 110 food stalls here, serving 600+ dishes and drinks from all around the world. You’ll find Pan-Asian snacks, along with food offerings from Indonesia, Turkey, Mexico, and other parts of the world. Live entertainment and endless snacking make for a fun-filled evening here.

Snowshoe the Howe Sound Crest Trail.

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Found 30 minutes by car from Vancouver, the Howe Sound Crest Trail in West Vancouver is a quiet alternative to the more popular local mountains, and it’s a preferred spot by Campo for winter snowshoeing. “While snowshoeing is something I often do for winter work, I love when I can bring friends and family on an adventure to check out the Howe Sound Crest Trail, overlooking Átl'ka7tsem (Howe Sound). Our peoples have traveled these mountains for generations and I like to think I am a part of this legacy and tradition,” shares Campo of her personal connection to the experience.

Find alpine adventures on Grouse Mountain.

See Howe Sound from a bird’s-eye view with a ride in an enclosed gondola up to the peak of Grouse Mountain . At the top, hike around weaving trails, and meet Coola and Grinder, a pair of orphaned grizzly bears who call the mountaintop habitat home. Kids can climb their way through the Kids Tree Canopy Adventure, and thrill-seekers can try the zipline.

Visit the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.

Vancouver has a rich Chinese-Canadian history, with one of the oldest Chinatowns in the country. The Chinatown Storytelling Centre is a new addition to the area and the first exhibit of its kind in Canada. Inside, you’ll find a showcase of the stories and people who have shaped the city’s past, present, and future through interactive exhibits.

SUP the Salish Sea.

edb3_16/Getty Images

Campo loves stand-up paddleboarding on the water, especially on Vancouver’s North Shore in the early hours of the morning. “I have on many occasions sat in my car and waited for daylight to launch my paddleboard and paddle from Ch’tl’am (Ambleside) to Dundarave,” she shares. Once she’s far from shore, Campo sings traditional Salish songs and watches as cormorants, loons, harbor seals, and even salmon swim past her board. “They don't see you as a threat and on occasion will swim right up to you,” she explains of one of her favorite pastimes.

Teeter across the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Since 1883, the Capilano Suspension Bridge has been a top tourist spot. Visit to teeter across the bridge that hangs 230 feet above the forest floor and reaches a distance of 450 feet long. While you’re there, creep along the Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway that dangles over the canyon, and take a trek through Treetop Adventures, a series of seven smaller suspension bridges connected to treehouses and towering viewing platforms.

Play at Creekside Park.

Adjacent to Science World, Creekside Park is home to Vancouver’s largest playground (which cost nearly $1 million to build), featuring nature-inspired climbing structures, a massive tube slide, and a zippy zipline. Water and sand play areas keep little ones busy, and a rubberized surface makes the playground more accessible for people with mobility challenges. Water views of False Creek and tree-shaded sitting areas make for the perfect picnic spot.

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