Vancouver is a vibrant city surrounded by nature and beautiful scenery, with friendly people and diverse cultural influences. The North Shore Mountains make for a stunning backdrop to this city in British Columbia. Green and lush Vancouver may get plenty of rainy days, but it’s also known for its seafood and laid-back vibes. Since there is so much you’ll want to do, we’ve prepared a list of some of the must-see attractions in and around Vancouver that you won’t want to miss.
While the city is equipped with a complete public transportation network, getting a car rental in Vancouver is the best way to explore the city and surrounding region. Choose an SUV with all-wheel drive to explore in the mountains, or an economy car if you’re planning on driving mostly in the city and want to save on gas.
- 1. Stanley Park
- 2. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
- 3. Granville Island
- 4. Vancouver Art Gallery
- 5. Vancouver Aquarium
- 6. VanDusen Botanical Garden
- 7. Museum of Anthropology
- 8. Grouse Mountain
- 9. Butchart Gardens
- 10. Whistler Blackcomb
- Best Places to Eat & Drink in Vancouver
Must-see attractions in Vancouver
1. Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a sprawling urban park north of downtown Vancouver. It’s known for its picturesque sea wall walk. Enjoy a stroll or a bike ride at this green park on a sunny day, along with offering panoramic views of the Vancouver skyline. Park your car and enjoy the fresh air!
Address: Stanley Park Dr., Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2
Entry fees: The park is free of charge, but you will likely have to pay for parking.
Hours: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx
Time required to see the attraction: You can spend as much or as little time as you want here. It takes about 2-3 hours to walk through the whole park.
2. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Tucked in the rainforest, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is not something you’ll want to miss. Once here, you can walk across this unique suspension bridge, along with the other viewing platforms and cliff walks. At 70 meters over the Capilano River, the pedestrian suspension bridge is a top Vancouver attraction and a unique experience. The park also lights up the canyon in November.
Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: Varies depending on the time of year
Time required to see the attraction: Expect to spend 2-3 hours at the park
3. Granville Island
Granville Island, located on a peninsula, is one of the most popular shopping districts in Vancouver. The area is bustling with vendors and restaurants and is a great place to grab a bite to eat from the market and people-watch. Granville Island has now become an artistic hub and hotspot for visitors and entertainment.
Address: Johnston St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9
Entry fees: Free
Hours: The island is open all the time, but the hours for stores and restaurants vary.
Time required to see the attraction: At least 1 hour
4. Vancouver Art Gallery
Those who enjoy art will not want to miss the Vancouver Art Gallery. This museum displays work from local artists in British Columbia and from afar. It is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver and has seasonal exhibitions along with special events, a permanent photo collection and work from local artists.
Address: 750 Hornby St., Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: Depends on the day
Time required to see the attraction: Expect to spend about 2 hours here
5. Vancouver Aquarium
Stopping at the Vancouver Aquarium while exploring Stanley Park is a fun plan for all, especially those traveling with children. It’s an engaging display of a variety of ocean creatures such as sea otters, penguins, and jellyfish. The aquarium is also a research center and a marine animal rehabilitation center.
Address: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: Generally 10 am to 5 pm, but check before visiting
Time required to see the attraction: 1-2 hours
6. VanDusen Botanical Garden
This oasis in the middle of Vancouver is an amazing place to visit, especially on a sunny day. The garden has a variety of species from all over the world, as well as an Elizabethan hedge maze and a beautiful light display during the winter season, transforming the gardens into a winter wonderland.
Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: Varies depending on the time of year
Time required to see the attraction: You can expect to spend about 2 hours here
7. Museum of Anthropology
The Museum of Anthropology is located on the University of British Columbia campus. It’s renowned for its displays of both contemporary and traditional artwork from cultures all over the world, and in particular the First Nations. The museum is both a research and teaching center on anthropology and archaeology for the university.
Address: 6393 NW Marine Dr., Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: Hours depend on the day of the week and time of year
Time required to see the attraction: About 2-3 hours
8. Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is known as the peak of Vancouver. It’s open all year, whether for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, or camping, ziplining and hiking in the summer. You’ll find the trailhead and Skyride to the summit just a short drive out of the city center of Vancouver.
Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9
Entry fees: Prices depend on whether it’s winter or summer
Hours: Depends on the day and activity.
Time required to see the attraction: This is an all-day activity
9. The Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens can be a great place to visit, and are just a ferry ride away from Vancouver, on Vancouver Island. The gardens have something to offer in all months since they have different flowers blooming year-round. In December, enjoy the gardens lit up for the holidays or an exciting display of fireworks for special events.
Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: Hours depend on the time of year
Time required to see the attraction: Expect to spend 3-4 hours here
10. Whistler Blackcomb
Taking a trip to Whistler Blackcomb is a popular experience in the winter for avid skiers or snowboarders. It’s a famed ski resort in the Coast Mountains. If you’re visiting Vancouver in the summer, there are also other activities and events at Whistler Blackcomb, like mountain biking, bear viewing and hiking.
Address: 4545 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC V0N 1B4
Entry fees: Depends on the time of year and activity
Hours: Depends on the time of year and activity
Time required to see the attraction: This is an all-day activity
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Vancouver
Vancouver, being a diverse cultural hub, is also known for its variety of dishes and cuisines. The city happens to be the capital of sushi in North America and has great seafood. Try a Japadog while you’re in town, along with butter chicken pizza and plenty of unique desserts.
Kingyo Izakaya: This Japanese restaurant is a great place to eat after exploring Stanley Park and the sea walk. Try the tuna tataki or Kobe beef.
The Downlow Chicken Shack: If you’re looking to have a good time, this is where you want to go. It has a lively atmosphere and delicious fried chicken.
St. Lawrence Restaurant: This spot is perfect for a date night or enjoying a glass of wine with a traditional Québécois meal.
Electric Bicycle Brewery: When you’re looking for somewhere to grab a drink in Vancouver, a local brewery is always a good choice. This funky and colorful spot is where you can enjoy an array of local IPAs.
