This western Canadian city sits on the water and is considered one of the top five cities in the world for livability. Vancouver is the most populous city of the British Columbia Province and most densely populated city in Canada. Many different conferences and large events have called Vancouver home, including the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. The city of Vancouver has taken several measures to become a sustainable city, and has been widely recognized for its practices. One of the main sustainability measures put into place is that the electricity used in Vancouver is sourced from sustainable resources, like hydroelectric power. They have also started an initiative to become a zero-waste city. This ethnically and culturally diverse city is one that cant be missed!
Granville Island
This shopping district peninsula is situated in downtown Vancouver and was once an industrial manufacturing area. There are now 50 permanent retailers among over 100 day vendors at the public market, restaurants, boat charters, and so much more! Granville Island also features a splash park, art galleries, and theaters. It is a great place to come wander by the water, window-shop and explore the incredible culture and art that Vancouver has to offer!
Lion's Gate Bridge
The Lions Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge that crosses the Burrard Inlet to connect the city of Vancouver to the cities of North and West Vancouver. The bridge has 3 reversible lanes to accommodate changing traffic patterns and sees over 60,000 vehicles per day. The bridge spans just about 6,000 feet with the main span being 1,500 feet. You can view this historic site from parks on either side of the bridge, as well as many other places nearby.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is just a short drive north of downtown Vancouver, but SO worth it! The Park features several types of bridge walks, cliff walks, and more! The main attraction is the Capilano Suspension Bridge that spans 450 feet across and sits 230 feet above the Capilano River. The Cliffwalk is one of the newest activities available at the park and it takes you alongside the cliff on a variety of walkways, from glass bottom to wooden planks! Another top sight at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is the Treetops Adventure. The web of bridges takes you through centuries old Douglas-firs, giving you a unique and memorable view of the North Western forest.
Coal Harbor
This downtown area is best known for its mountain views in the distance, marina, and luxury living. This picturesque waterfront is a great place to come grab a bite, stroll along the water or shop at the locally-owned shops. Don’t forget to stop by the Olympic Flame from the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games at Jack Poole Plaza!
Stroll Through Stanley Park
Stanley Park is an 1,000 acre city escape on the northern side of downtown Vancouver. The park sits on a peninsula and features beaches, trails, restaurants and more! One of the top features of the park is the Vancouver Seawall. The paved route spans five and a half miles around the park, that follows the sea. Stanley Park has activities for the entire family, including kayak and paddle board rentals at the English Bay Beach. Discover all that the park has to offer on this digital, interactive map!
Queen Elizabeth Park
The Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest point in Vancouver and provides impressive views of the park, city and the mountains in the distance. A centerpiece of the park is the Bloedel Conservatory which houses exotic plants, birds and flowers. Wander on one of the many paths through to park to be captivated by the vast variety of carefully designed foliage.
Vancouver Aquarium
Vancouver Aquarium is a marine life sanctuary situated in Stanley Park. The aquarium is home to over 70,000 animals with over 30 unique exhibits. Their main goals are education, conservation, research and animal care. They have animals and species from all over the world and even have live video cam’s to watch a few different animals!
Visit Victoria Island
One of my favorite things to do while in Vancouver was to take a one (or a few) day trip to Victoria Island. A quick 90 minute ferry can take you from the mainland onto the island in a passenger & vehicle ferry. The main attraction on the island is the Buchart Gardens. The Gardens are filled with a vast array of plants from around the world and breathtaking landscaping. The Sunken Garden and Rose Garden were my favorite areas, even though every inch of the property is beautiful!
Sea to Sky Gondola
A short drive north of Vancouver city is a must see attraction that I regret not visiting when I was in Vancouver! Sea to Sky Gondola has several different attractions on the property. The Gondola itself is a main attraction and takes you up to the summit, with insane views of Shannon Falls and Howe Sound. On site they also have a thrilling suspension bridge experience and different viewing platforms, to easily soak in the jaw-dropping views that surrounds. In addition, they have miles and miles (& miles!) of trails for all levels of hikers!
Visit Gastown
This historic neighborhood is full of a certain charm and quaintness that will leave you wanting more. Victorian architecture covers the streets of Gastown and the flourishing art and fashion scene has filled the storefronts. Old and new intertwine to create an unforgettable neighborhood that can’t be missed! Don’t forget to catch a glimpse (or a picture) of the infamous Gastown Steam Clock!
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