Vancouver Uncovered: 20 Must-See Spots

the city of vancouver with mountains in the background
Canva

Nestled between soaring mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver’s urban vibrancy and spectacular natural surroundings make it a city like no other. Offering a blend of rich history, multicultural cuisine, outdoor pursuits, and cultural discoveries, there’s always something to captivate you. Here are the top 20 things to do in this stunning city!

Explore Stanley Park 

Vancover cityscape from Stanley Park
Photo by Massimiliano on Adobe Stock

A 1,000-acre oasis, Stanley Park is a treasure trove of gardens, beaches, trails, and the Vancouver Aquarium. Stroll around Beaver Lake, enjoy the miniature train, or dip in the Second Beach Pool. Walking or cycling around the scenic seawall is a must, offering breathtaking views of the city, mountains, and ocean.

Discover Gastown

Iconic Steam Clock at night, long exposure of the Gastown - Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. One of the most vibrant city in North America.
Photo by Daniel Avram on Adobe Stock

As Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, Gastown enchants visitors with cobblestone streets, the iconic steam clock, and numerous boutiques and eateries. Sample Canadian delicacies in local restaurants, explore the rich history in the Gastown Museum or enjoy the charm of Victorian architecture on this National Historic Site.

Visit Granville Island

Granville Island Market entrance, Vancouver, BC - Canada
Photo by jovannig on Adobe Stock

Known for its bustling public market, Granville Island is a feast for the senses. Visit the artist studios, watch live performances in the streets, or enjoy a boat tour around False Creek. Feast on fresh foods, locally crafted beers, and watch artisans at work.

Climb Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain, Vancouver, Canada
Photo by Sjaak on Adobe Stock

Ride the Skyride gondola or hike the Grouse Grind to the mountain’s peak for panoramic city views. Year-round entertainment includes skiing, lumberjack shows, wildlife encounters, and paragliding. The “Peak of Vancouver” has something for everyone.

Roam Around the Museum of Anthropology

VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA, JUNE 03, 2019: First Nations totem poles in Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia UBC campus in Vancouver
Photo by gadzius on Adobe Stock

Discover the rich history of indigenous peoples through an impressive collection of artifacts, including totem poles and carvings, at this world-class museum. Don’t miss the Haida houses and mortuary bars on the museum’s grounds. The museum offers a deep insight into the cultural diversity of British Columbia.

Sample Asian Cuisine in Richmond

Fresh spotted prawn sold at Steveston fisherman's wharf.  Richmond BC Canada
Photo by haseg77 on Adobe Stock

Known for having the best Asian food in North America, Richmond offers culinary gems from dim sum to sushi. Explore the Golden Village, Richmond’s Asian district, to experience a range of Asian cultures, from Chinese to Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese, all through their exquisite cuisine.

Stroll through Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Classical Chinese Garden

Traditional Chinese buildings at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Photo by Ron Scott/Wirestock Creators on Adobe Stock

This tranquil oasis in Chinatown is an authentic representation of a Ming Dynasty-era garden. Stroll through its courtyards, admire the stunning architecture and beautiful jade-green pond, and enjoy a peaceful tea ceremony in the Tea House.

Hike Lynn Canyon

Hiking Trail Through Forest in Lynn Canyon Park Vancouver BC Canada
Photo by David Gn on Adobe Stock

This park offers scenic trails, waterfalls, and the free Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. You can also visit the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre to learn more about the park’s ecology. Lynn Canyon provides an exceptional combination of nature and education for a refreshing day outdoors.

Go Whale Watching

photo of black whale in ocean during daytime
Photo by Davide Cantelli on Unsplash

On a guided tour, experience the thrill of spotting orcas, humpback whales, seals, and other marine wildlife. The surrounding waters of Vancouver are a haven for diverse marine life. Eco-conscious expeditions ensure your incredible wildlife adventure also supports conservation efforts.

Discover Local Art at Vancouver Art Gallery

Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Square built in Roman style in British Columbia Canada
Photo by SvetlanaSF on Adobe Stock

Explore a vast collection of artworks by famous local artist Emily Carr. The gallery also regularly hosts significant exhibitions featuring renowned artists worldwide. Don’t forget to visit the gallery store for unique souvenirs.

Experience the Vibrant Nightlife

Lights at Lafarge Lake
Photo by Ishfaq Ahmed on Unsplash

Vancouver’s nightlife is diverse and vibrant, from cocktail lounges in Yaletown to clubs on Granville Street. Enjoy a rooftop cocktail at Reflections, dance the night away at Celebrities Nightclub, or go bar-hop in the trendy neighborhood of Gastown. Vancouver is a city that truly comes alive after dark.

Catch a Canucks Game

Rogers Center
Photo by rabbit75_fot on Adobe Stock

Experience the local hockey culture by catching a game at Rogers Arena. Feel the exhilarating atmosphere as you cheer on the Canucks alongside the locals. Hockey is an integral part of Canadian culture, and a game here is a truly authentic experience.

Visit Science World

Projecting The Future
Photo by James Thew on Adobe Stock

A fun-filled learning experience for all ages, Science World offers interactive exhibits and impressive OMNIMAX films. Get hands-on with science, enjoy live demonstrations, and explore innovative exhibitions. Don’t miss the Science Theatre for an entertaining dose of scientific knowledge.

Relax at Kitsilano Beach

Sports at Vanier Park near Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver, Canada
Photo by lucasinacio.com on Adobe Stock

Also known as “Kits” Beach, it’s perfect for relaxation, swimming, and beach volleyball. Enjoy stunning views of the city and mountains, swim in the heated salt-water pool, or visit the nearby Kitsilano Showboat for free live community entertainment.

Journey on the Sea-to-Sky Highway

Photographer Shadow reflected while snowshoeing Skyline Ridge above Sea to Sky Gondola near Squamish, British Columbia
Photo by Autumn Sky on Adobe Stock

One of the world’s most scenic drives, it stretches from Vancouver to Whistler, offering spectacular ocean and mountain views. Visit the Sea-to-Sky Gondola for breathtaking panoramic views, walk across the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, and explore the local hiking trails.

Marvel at Capilano Suspension Bridge

Vancouver, Canada - August 11, 2017: People at Capilano Bridge. It is a Suspension bridge crossing the Capilano River, 140 metres long and 70 metres above the river.
Photo by jovannig on Adobe Stock

This towering suspension bridge offers a thrilling experience and captivating treetop adventures. Explore the canopy walkways, cross the heart-stopping cliff walk, and learn about the area’s ecology at the Living Forest exhibit. An adventure at Capilano offers a unique blend of nature, history, and thrill.

Explore Vancouver’s Food Truck Scene

Fusion cuisine on a plate
Photo by Kristina Paukshtite on Pexels

Vancouver’s innovative food trucks serve everything from fusion tacos to Japanese-style hot dogs. Catch the food truck festivals during summer, or track your favorite trucks online. The food truck scene is a delicious way to explore Vancouver’s culinary diversity.

Unwind at a Local Brewery

Stainless steel beer dispenser
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels

Craft beer lovers will appreciate the city’s thriving craft beer scene. Don’t miss local favorites like Granville Island Brewing or Brassneck Brewery. Join a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process, sample various beers, and discover why Vancouver is hailed as Canada’s craft beer capital.

Shop on Robson Street

Vancouver BC Cityscape at Dusk
Photo by jpldesigns on Adobe Stock

This bustling shopping street in the heart of downtown offers a mix of high-end brands and local boutiques. Explore the numerous shops, eat at diverse food spots, or enjoy the lively ambiance. The perfect place for a shopping spree, Robson Street encapsulates the city’s cosmopolitan flair.

Spend a Day at UBC Campus

Vancouver, BC, Canada - April 5 2021 : University of British Columbia (UBC) campus. Cherry blossom flowers in full bloom.
Photo by Shawn.ccf on Adobe Stock

The University of British Columbia’s campus has several attractions, including the UBC Botanical Garden, the Beaty Biodiversity Museum, and the Pacific Museum of Earth. Wander through the beautiful campus grounds, explore the Rose Garden, and enjoy a coffee overlooking the stunning vistas of the mountains and sea.

the city of vancouver with mountains in the background
Canva

In Vancouver, urban attractions meet nature’s splendor at every turn. Each experience, from the taste of global cuisines to the thrill of crossing a suspension bridge, contributes to the city’s unique allure. Whether visiting for a few days or staying longer, this guide ensures you will not miss any of the quintessential Vancouver experiences. Uncover the Pacific Gem at your own pace.

More from Travel Reveal:

Scroll to Top