This coastal city in the Pacific Northwest offers a variety of recreational activities, world-class food and a dynamic art scene boasting over 300 murals coloring the city’s streets.
Consistently ranked one of the world’s most livable places, Vancouver also boasts the fourth largest cruise ship terminal in the world. Its popular ports of call include Alaska and Hawaii. Vancouver was officially incorporated as a city in 1886 through a deal with the Canadian Pacific Railway.
A fun fact about both Vancouver, British Columbia, and Vancouver, Washington, is that both cities are named after the same man. British sea captain and explorer George Vancouver was honored by both cities, although Canada’s Vancouver has seemingly won the popularity contest and is more well-known.
While 60 years younger, British Columbia’s Vancouver still offers lots of history and culture. One such example is Gastown’s famous Steam Clock. It is one of the few remaining working steam clocks in the world. Gastown’s Steam Clock blows steam every 15 minutes and whistles every 30. This popular tourist attraction draws crowds year-round.
Host city to the 2010 Winter Olympics, Vancouver has no shortage of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re into craft beer, hiking, ghost-hunting or simply strolling along the picturesque seawall, here are the top 10 activities any visitor to the bustling city of Vancouver should see and do.
1. Visit Stanley Park
Believe it or not, Stanley
Park is larger than Central Park in New York City. Stanley Park is home to totem poles, an aquarium, an outdoor swimming pool, mini golf, tennis courts, restaurants and so much more. For a unique experience, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride.
2. Walk, bike or scoot along the seawall
Vancouver’s seawall is the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path and a definite must-see. This 17.5-mile paved pathway stretches from Spanish Banks Beach through Olympic Village and False Creek as it winds its way around Stanley Park, ending in Coal Harbour where the cruise ships dock. This is also where you’ll find the Olympic cauldron and a digital orca statue, along with several restaurants overlooking the water.
3. Join a ghost tour
For those looking for something different, join an after-dark tour of Chinatown and Gastown, Vancouver’s seedy and notoriously haunted areas. Hunt for apparitions lurking on cobblestone streets while learning about the city’s macabre past.
4. Go to the beach
Vancouver is home to numerous beaches, including one nude beach. Clothing-optional Wreck Beach can be found at the bottom of 490 stairs, at the University of British Columbia. Not into climbing that many stairs? Not to worry, most of Vancouver’s beaches are conveniently located along the seawall and have grassy areas where you can enjoy a picnic.
5. Take a hike
If you’re active, try the hike that locals love to hate, the Grouse Grind. While strenuous, the views at the top are unparalleled. If you’re not a hiker, you’re in luck because there’s also a gondola. For a less challenging stroll through the woods, visit Capilano Suspension Bridge and its picturesque Treetops Adventure and thrilling Cliffwalk.
6. Tour a few breweries
Boasting 77 breweries, Metro Vancouver has the most breweries of any Canadian city. Cheekily named ‘Yeast’ Vancouver, you can go on a self-guided brewery tour in East Vancouver. No need to join a group, these breweries are all located close enough that you can walk or ride a bike. Just please don’t drive.
7. Stroll through
VanDusen Botanical Garden
No matter what season you’re visiting, the gardens are stunning; however, if you visit in the spring, you’ll be treated to the gorgeous pink cherry blossom trees. After strolling the 55 acres of plants and flowers, pop over to the Bloedel Conservatory to visit exotic birds and plants inside a temperature-controlled dome.
8. Enjoy a mural tour
No need to plan your visit during the annual Vancouver Mural Festival; the murals are displayed year-round on buildings all across the city. Simply download a map from the city website and start walking. Without looking too hard, you’re guaranteed to spot dozens of colorful murals during your walkabout.
9. Indulge in the culinary scene
From food trucks to Michelin-starred eateries, Vancouver has it all. If you’re an adventurous foodie, be sure to check out the Richmond Night Market. If you’re looking for a meal with incredible views, The Observatory at the top of Grouse Mountain can’t be beat. With reservations, the gondola ride is included and you can say hello to their resident grizzly bears before dinner.
10. Ride a water taxi over to Granville Island
A favorite activity among locals and visitors alike is to hop on a water taxi and enjoy a scenic ride over to Granville Island. Here you can shop at the market for local, handmade souvenirs. The water taxis have several stops, so you can cruise around to different spots, enjoying the city from multiple viewpoints.
And there you have it, the top 10 activities you shouldn’t miss during your visit to the stunning coastal city of Vancouver, British Columbia.
1 comment
Makes me want to visit Vancouver!