Things to do in Vancouver, BC

The mountains definitely help play an integral role in defining this province’s reputation for being beautiful. Not only are theses mountains easy on the eyes, they attract sport enthusiasts all year round. In the winter months, locals and visitors glide down the snow-covered peaks on the North Shore, Whistler and numerous other ski resorts across British Columbia. After the snow has melted, you will find people strapping on their gear and heading for the thrill-inducing mountain biking parks, and scenic trails being used by both leisurely hikers and trail runners. Our mountains really are the best of both worlds and provide us with entertainment for much of the year. Did we mention that the views from the tops of the mountains are equally stunning, if not more, than those from the ground? 

We don’t want to come across as bragging, but Vancouver’s oceanfront setting (in combo with the mountains) makes it one of the most beautiful cities in North America.  And of course, where there’s ocean, there’s beach. Vancouver’s many beaches are summer playgrounds for sun worshippers of all ages.  And depending on what vibe you like your beach to have, chances are there’s one in the city that will tickle...  

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The mountains definitely help play an integral role in defining this province’s reputation for being beautiful. Not only are theses mountains easy on the eyes, they attract sport enthusiasts all year round. In the winter months, locals and visitors glide down the snow-covered peaks on the North Shore, Whistler and numerous other ski resorts across British Columbia. After the snow has melted, you will find people strapping on their gear and heading for the thrill-inducing mountain biking parks, and scenic trails being used by both leisurely hikers and trail runners. Our mountains really are the best of both worlds and provide us with entertainment for much of the year. Did we mention that the views from the tops of the mountains are equally stunning, if not more, than those from the ground? 

We don’t want to come across as bragging, but Vancouver’s oceanfront setting (in combo with the mountains) makes it one of the most beautiful cities in North America.  And of course, where there’s ocean, there’s beach. Vancouver’s many beaches are summer playgrounds for sun worshippers of all ages.  And depending on what vibe you like your beach to have, chances are there’s one in the city that will tickle your fancy.  A city surrounded by ocean also gets some of the freshest seafood around.  Local crab, fish, shellfish and other treats from the sea are easily found citywide.  Try British Columbia’s wild Pacific salmon and there’s no looking back.  If you’re lucky enough to befriend someone with a boat, a sunset cruise up Salmon Arm is one-of-a-kind.

Boasting North America’s second largest Chinatown,Vancouver offers a real cultural treat.  Bordering Gastown - an area of Vancouver that has seen exponential housing growth -Chinatown has been getting more visitors by the day.  Go there to indulge in baked goods, roasted duck, green teas, specialty items and fun home décor. While walking around Chinatown, you’ll forget you’re in Vancouver until you catch a glimpse of those aforementioned mountains.

Those who like to eat and drink will find themselves smitten with Vancouver’s culinary scene.  The Pacific Rim tends to have a heavy influence on West Coast cuisine; enjoy experimenting with the fusion.  Sushi joints are as abundant as New York coffee shops, while street food carts offer everything from fish tacos to tasty poutine. Vancouver loves lavish delights, but if your wallet is in need of a little restraint, there are plenty of spots that will gratify the taste buds without damaging your bank account.  This diverse city may soon have you dreaming about the Indian, Vietnamese, French, Italian,Belgium, Japanese, Latin, or Thai meal that’s left you in a euphoric state. If mixology is your thing,Vancouver will keep you on your toes.  Wine connoisseurs will appreciate the Okanagan’s bounty, found in local liquor stores and restaurants.  You could literally eat your way across the city. 

Mountains surround Vancouver and tucked away on these mountains are plenty of hikes that range from easy to multi-day treks that are only for very seasoned hikers. When going out on a hike, it's best to let people know where you're going, which trail you will be using and bring some snacks and water with you. Another important tool is to bring a GPS or compass with you. The Baden Powell trail on the North Shore is a very popular trail that has a few different off-shoots that will cater to your hiking level. Many of these trails are dog friendly, so don't be surprised if you see some four legged friends taking in a nice hike. The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is a beautiful hike that's relatively moderate. The view of the suspension bridge is a very welcome addition to the already pristine forest. Vancouver does have bears, so be vigilant and brush up on your bear safety knowledge before hitting the forest. Encounters don't happen often, but you should always be prepared.

The Pacific Ocean surrounds Vancouver and has gifted the city with many beautiful beaches. Downtown Vancouver has a number of sandy spots that are ideal for soaking up the sun and enjoying a little picnic. English Bay, Sunset Beach and Second Beach are all around the West End. They're clean, family friendly and the waters are safe to swim in. Across the bridge, you will find some larger beaches, as well as Vancouver's nude beach. Wreck Beach is the city's only nude beach and is well hidden away from the general public. It involves going down quite a lot of stairs and is not accessible for those with mobility issues. Kits Beach is always busy and full of people enjoying some sports like volleyball, football and frisbee. If you like being in the thick of the action, that beach is for you. Jericho, Lacarno and Spanish Banks are a little bit more subdued and are the perfect escape from the busy city on a hot summer day.

Sparkling glass windows wink from urban high-rise buildings, reflecting the spectacular natural beauty that surrounds this man-made cosmopolitan center. Vancouver is a city on the edge, literally, poised as it is on the Pacific Rim, and also figuratively as home to an ethnically diverse population and variety of businesses. Combine that with temperate climate, an array of cultural activities, fine dining and a host of recreational opportunities and you have a terrific package! The quality of life is so good here, it's no wonder Vancouver is consistently voted as one of the world's best places to live.

Originally populated by First Nations people who found a wealth of shellfish and salmon in the surrounding waters, British Columbia was visited by Spanish explorers, and then charted for England by Captain George Vancouver in 1793. Ports were established for trading furs, and gold was found in the interior, but the riches of the region were eventually found in the timber supply. The first sawmill in 1863 paved the way for development and the migration of Europeans, Asians and Americans who profited from local industry. When the railroad came in the late 19th century, Vancouver's future as a prosperous hub of trade was...  Read more »

Sparkling glass windows wink from urban high-rise buildings, reflecting the spectacular natural beauty that surrounds this man-made cosmopolitan center. Vancouver is a city on the edge, literally, poised as it is on the Pacific Rim, and also figuratively as home to an ethnically diverse population and variety of businesses. Combine that with temperate climate, an array of cultural activities, fine dining and a host of recreational opportunities and you have a terrific package! The quality of life is so good here, it's no wonder Vancouver is consistently voted as one of the world's best places to live.

Originally populated by First Nations people who found a wealth of shellfish and salmon in the surrounding waters, British Columbia was visited by Spanish explorers, and then charted for England by Captain George Vancouver in 1793. Ports were established for trading furs, and gold was found in the interior, but the riches of the region were eventually found in the timber supply. The first sawmill in 1863 paved the way for development and the migration of Europeans, Asians and Americans who profited from local industry. When the railroad came in the late 19th century, Vancouver's future as a prosperous hub of trade was set.

The economy continues to thrive in Canada's bustling Pacific hub. The tourist trade brings millions of visitors here each year while the film industry has discovered it as a prime destination as well, taking advantage of the mild climate, and using the bodies of water on three sides and the mountains of the Coast Range as locations that stand-in for a variety of places all over the world.

The weather also accounts for a long growing season, and local farmers produce everything from vegetables and fruit, to eggs, artisanal cheeses and wines that are offered in the region's restaurants. The cuisine is reflective of the local ethnic blend of residents. On any given day you can sample Thai, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Spanish, Italian, German, Scandinavian and Pacific Northwestern appetizers, entrees and desserts. Restaurant choices are plentiful downtown, but also abound in all parts of the city. Coffee shops have sprouted everywhere, so there is always someplace to grab a cup of joe, a paper and an Internet connection.

Vancouver is as easy on the feet as it is on the eyes and palate. Walking the grid system of streets takes you easily from urban center to public park, to beach, attractions and back again. Each of the city's neighborhoods (Gastown, West End, Chinatown, Kitsilano, Yaletown and others) has its own distinct flair and can be explored in-depth on foot. Vancouver takes pride in public spaces such as Stanley Park, whose seawall and suspension bridge should not be missed. Botanical gardens are many, and each is sumptuously adorned with flowers, trees, shrubs and grasses.

With mountains, rivers and the ocean so close, you'll never run out of places to explore. Beachcombers delight in the groomed sands of English Bay and Kit's, while the more adventurous can scuba dive or set sail in the harbor. Paddle your own canoe (or kayak) in the rivers; ski, hike or bike the mountain trails. The winter sports scene is so great in fact, that the city played host to the 2010 Olympic Games.

Cultural expression is encouraged in Vancouver, and you'll find symphony, dance, drama and opera playing to packed houses at the Orpheum, the Arts Club, the Stanley, the Queen Elizabeth and many other venues. Art galleries showcase established and emerging artists, museums preserve the past, and there are festivals and parades every month of the year.

In this friendly city, with hospitable residents eager to accommodate a visitor and show them all they need to know to enjoy their stay, the only challenge will be whether or not you have enough time to do it all. And if you don't, there is always next time!