Do you wish to ski, surf, be taken back in time over 5000 years, stroll through one of the world’s best urban parks, all in one day? Only a few places on Earth might be able to offer this. You will be delighted to know that Vancouver is one such place. When it comes to exploring, the list of things to do in Vancouver is really (like really) long. However, we have shortlisted a few that could prove to be the priorities for you.
Vancouver is nestled right at the edge of nature between lush temperate rainforests, vast valleys, and an unforgiving mountain range. With its urban beaches and mountain backdrop, it has the rightly earned reputation of being one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Although it is a relatively newer Canadian city that made its debut by hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics; it has the attention of the entire world. Being a part of Canada already makes Vancouver alluring to travellers. The vibrant diversity, pristine parks, fantastic shopping, endless culture, and incredible dining attract tourists from all over the world. Let’s check out some of the most amazing things to do in Vancouver.
1. Cycle Around The Stanley Park
What is it: Stanley Park is a lush peninsula of huge trees adjacent to Downtown Vancouver. It is a must-see park that covers a whopping 1000 acres and contains playgrounds, a splash park, a golf course, 17 tennis courts, an aquarium and much more.
Why visit: The crowd has voted in favour, and it has been named World’s Best Park by Trip Advisor beating many other tough competitors from New York and Chicago. You can lounge around the garden or get lost amongst ferns and centuries-old cedars on 40 miles of trails here. Cycling in this park is one of the must-do fun things to do in Vancouver. Spectacular views are a standard throughout the park, either back towards the city or out to the ocean. Families will find plenty of family-friendly activities here including an outdoor water park and a separate heated, outdoor pool. Most of the tourists vouch that exploring the entire park takes more than an entire day. Be mindful of that.
2. Drive Up The Sea-To-Sky Highway
What is it: Classified as one of the most beautiful drives in the world, the Sea-to-Sky corridor takes tourists from the heart of downtown Vancouver to the world-class ski town of Whistler. The entire drive takes around 1.5 hours.
Why visit: The entire journey has waterfalls, amazing vistas, a stunning cultural centre and a suspension bridge. The 100 metres long Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge provides 360-degree views of the entire Squamish region. The Sea-to-Sky Gondola located on Highway 99 may also add to the extraordinary views that you can capture. Vancouver is all about spectacular views and thus, this is at the apex of Vancouver tourist attractions.
3. Hike The Grouse Mountain
What is it: Referred as the Peak of Vancouver, locals and tourists head to this mountain for outdoor activities irrespective of the season.
Why visit: The Grouse Mountain is a year-round destination that offers hiking and ziplining in the summer to snowshoeing and ice skating in the winter. If you seek more adventure then we strongly recommend you to try the Grouse Grind which is a 1.8-mile trail featuring 2,830 stairs that take you 2,800 feet up through the alpine. At the top awaits you a blissful panoramic view of the city. While going down the mountain do try the Grouse Gondola as well.
4. Kayaking in Deep Cove
What is it: Deep Cove is a stunning seaside village in North Vancouver. It’s a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to go on walks and hikes as well as do some water sports.
Why visit: No visit to Vancouver is complete without getting a dose of nature. If getting close and personal with mother nature is your idea of the perfect day out, ocean kayaking is one of the most popular things to do in Vancouver. Deep Cove also happens to be one of the best and safest places to do it in Canada. You can also try paddleboarding and other famous Vancouver activities here.
5. Visit the Museum of Anthropology
What is it: The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) features art by indigenous peoples from Canada and around the world. It is located on the campus of the University of British Columbia.
Why visit: Although everyone finds the geographical splendour of this city to be mesmerising, to properly get acquainted with the city you have to start from the beginning. If you are an international student in Canada, this place will drive you silly because it weaves a story that is rarely told to the visitors of the city. Offering both ancient and contemporary works it has a wide range of ceramics, textiles, totem poles, masks and more. If you really wish to learn more about the city’s roots and dig deep into its history then this is one of the best things to do in Vancouver.
Other noteworthy things to do in Vancouver include but are not limited to:
- Window Shopping in Gastown
- Drooling in awe of the Chinatown
- Hop on an Aquabus to Granville Island
- Visit Richmond Night Market
- Wander in VanDusen Botanical Gardens
Outdoor Activities are a must-do in Vancouver. Amongst all of them, these according to us were the absolute must-do (and thrilling in some cases) best things to do in Vancouver. If you wish to share your experience or add something to this blog then feel free to do so in the comment section below.
Thank you for reading this blog on ‘5 Best Things To Do in Vancouver Right Now’. If you enjoyed this blog then do check out our following travel blogs as well.
