Where the blue ocean waters meet the majestic mountains is where Vancouver, one of the world’s most spectacular cities lies. The combination of urban sophistication and natural beauty enables visitors a fantastic range of exciting activities combined with beautiful backdrops.
When planning things to do in Vancouver one of the best attractions of this diverse city is Granville Island. Step out from your Vancouver hotel to the island that encompasses many of the things to do in Vancouver including fresh foods at the well-known market, many quaint shops to browse in, artist’s workshops and restaurants to name a few and is found underneath the south end of Granville Street Bridge on False Creek.
Less than a mile away from downtown visitors will find
Stanley Park, the oldest park in Vancouver history, which
offers a wealth of things to do in Vancouver. Stanley
Park has 1000 acres of green space with abundant flora
and fauna amongst beautiful settings and offers lots of
things to do in Vancouver. There are of events
and holidays hosted in the park all year, especially
in spring and summer so be sure to check the calendar
of events. Take a one mile walk to the unforgettable Capilano
Suspension Bridge just through the park and over Lions
Gate Bridge.
Neighborhood Tours
When in Vancouver things to do include exploring the
different districts and neighborhoods which is the best
way to see the city. City transport includes SkyTrain,
SeaBus, West Coast Express, B-Line, and Community Shuttle
services which makes taking advantage of Vancouver’s
great neighborhoods fun and easy. Take a walk through
Little India or Chinatown, a Shanghai-like district. Tour
the trendy beachfront area of Kitsilano which overlooks
Stanley Park and provides breathtaking views of the North
Shore Mountains. When in the downtown area don’t
miss the Vancouver
Aquarium.
Shopping
If you’ve got the shopping
bug or are looking for a special souvenir in Vancouver
things to do for retail therapy would be to head to a
Vancouver shopping district. Head to Robson Street and
take a look through some of its trendy shops and designer
boutiques. Yaletown is an exceptionally modern urban neighborhood
where old buildings have been renovated into unique galleries
and storefronts and ethnic restaurants, bakeries, coffeehouse
and nightclubs abound.
Historic Gastown
The historic district of Gastown is where the true origins of Vancouver can be found along cobblestone streets. Some of the city’s finest hotels and restaurants can be found here as well as more funky venues such as cafes, tapas bars, art galleries, antique stores and jazz halls. Gastown, Vancouver things to do are plenty and a day and evening spent in Gastown can be really fun. Downtown’s West End English Bay is one of Vancouver’s most diverse neighborhoods. Gift shops, bookstores, and clothiers along with other specialty and trendy shops can be found here among many eclectic eateries and great restaurants, many with fantastic views.
Outdoor Activities
Things to do in Vancouver along the shores of the ocean can be happily executed at Jericho Beach found between the North Walls and Discovery Street. Natural sandy beaches combined with numerous activities makes this beach a great place to spend the day. If winter sports are your thing than definitely visit one of the mountains located just outside of Vancouver for an unbeatable skiing experience. Try out Cypress Mountain found just 20 minutes outside of the city, or Grouse Mountain a mere 15 minutes from downtown! Or take a trip to Whistler and experience some of the best conditions in Canada.
Vancouver Festivals
Festivals are some of the most fun things to do in Vancouver
and include the International Children’s Festival,
Shakespeare Festival, Jazz Festival, Caribbean Days Festival
and the Film Festival. Check the city’s calendar
of events for things to do in Vancouver BC and for specific
event dates. Things to do in Vancouver run the gamut from
year round outdoor activities to shopping, dining and
sightseeing and define Vancouver as one of the most exciting
cities in Canada.
