Vancouver is one of the most fun cities in Canada with its mountainous backdrop and urban beaches, Vancouver has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Downtown Vancouver is picturesquely situated on a peninsula in the Strait of Georgia, with the often snow-capped ranges of the Coast Mountains rising behind. The environment is one of the main attractions of the city.
With its sprawling parks and a pleasant climate that keeps temperatures mild year-round, outdoor activities are high on the list of things to do in Vancouver. But it also has a bustling cultural life, fantastic shops and incredible restaurants.
What to do and what to see in Vancouver? There are many things, but these are the must-sees of this city that I can tell you will like and keep you busy.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Overcome your fear of heights in style with the help of the 450-foot Capilano Suspension Bridge, which hangs 250 feet above the mighty Capilano River. Once you have conquered the big bridge, the Cliffwalk.
And after those two experiences, Treetops Adventure, seven bridges suspended by 250-year-old Douglas fir trees 34 meters above the forest floor. They give you the picture. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is packed with adrenaline-pumping rides that immerse you in the beautiful outdoors.
It’s worth it? Yes! I think it is one of my favorite places, although although the ticket is somewhat expensive, the fun is guaranteed and at Christmas time there are lights in the forest.
Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is only 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, but offers everything you could want from a mountain. In winter, hit the slopes for a few hours before enjoying an après-ski on top of the mountain. In the summer, hike or ride a gondola, watch a lumberjack show, and say hello to Grinder and Coola, the two rescued orphaned brown bears who live in a fenced-in wildlife reserve.
Parque Stanley
The 1,000-acre park offers a green escape from the urban environment and is packed with activities you can do all year long. Walk along the famous boardwalk for unparalleled views of Burrard Inlet, or head inland and marvel at the giant trees that still live in this preserved forest.
Stand by the impressive totem poles and learn about the First Nations that lived on this land. Or grab lunch at one of the park’s restaurants, then head to the aquarium for the day. Stanley Park has been a star attraction for over 125 years.
Pier
At 22 kilometres, the Seawall is part of the longest uninterrupted coastal path in the world. The boardwalk is a very popular recreational route for walkers, runners, and cyclists, and it’s not hard to see why.
Along the way you’ll get beautiful views of English Bay and the mountain ranges beyond Vancouver. You’ll tour the exterior of beautiful Stanley Park, perhaps stopping to take photos of curious sea otters and harbor seals or beautiful Siwash Rock. You can go off-road at one of the few beaches along the route for a picnic or swim, or visit a restaurant for a dining experience with a view. If the sun is in the sky and you want to enjoy the outdoors, the boardwalk is hard to beat.
Isla Granville
Under a major bridge near downtown Vancouver, you’ll find a hot spot for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Granville Island is a bustling community filled with artisans creating unique gifts, passionate foodies sharing the fruits of their labor, and aspiring musicians honing their craft.
You can stop in for a beer or spend the whole day browsing the shops, delighting your senses in the Public Market and enjoying the entertainment. Whatever you do, just don’t skip it.
