11 Things to see and do in Vancouver

Since arriving in Canada in 2016 the excitement and desire to explore my new permanent surroundings was at the forefront of my mind. However, travelling to “rain-couver” in November would have the same outcome as the wet and windy conditions I left behind in the UK. I started planning for the summer and what was feasible in a 5 day stretch, here are my top 11 things to see and do in Vancouver.

Hop on Hop off Bus

Downtown Vancouver is a relatively small area to walk around with the streets easily navigable due to the grid layout deployed in the city similar to downtown Manhattan. Walking between such attractions such as Stanley Park, Canada Place, Granville island and Gastown can all be achieved under an hour from place to place. However, kids being kids they will probably not want to walk tremendous distances around the city. Taking the hop on – hop off will with give you a scenic orientation of the city and allow you to visit as many sites as possible with maximum efficiency. There are two routes that operate in the downtown covering all the city so it’s very easy to plan your day around the stops you want to visit.

Stanley Park

Just outside the downtown area is a vast area of natural greenery and gardens, trails and wildlife known as Stanley Park. This tranquil park can provide an ideal getaway from the downtown hustle and bustle, enjoy a scenic walk around the park and discover highlights such as the Vancouver seawall, lions gate bridge, totem poles and English bay to name a few. Given the vast distances involved I would suggest utilizing the hop on hop off bus as it stops at various viewpoints around the park during the day.

Grouse Mountain

Just North of downtown Vancouver you can enjoy panoramic views as you ascend on the Skyride aerial tram to the top of the mountain. When you arrive at the top you can take part in a wide variety of outdoor adventures, cultural activities and educational experiences. Animal lovers will even have the chance to see several bears in a habitable enclosure. If your feeling adventurous and fit you can test your metal and climb the “Grouse Grind”, this grueling trek is a 2.9 kilometer trail up the face of Grouse Mountain, commonly referred to as “Mother Nature’s Staircase.”

Experience Grouse Mountain and the : Capilano Suspension Bridge

If you are planning on trekking up the mountain I would suggest attempting, it in the morning where it will be less crowded and slightly cooler. In a day you can usually fit in the Capilano Suspension bridge early morning, then take the short drive to Grouse Mountain. Give yourself at least 2hrs with moderate fitness to reach the summit, grabbing a beer with lunch and enjoying the view will feel well earned after a strenuous trek.

Granville Island

In the heart of the city is Granville island, where you will find a huge indoor market selling local produce, artisan confectionary, handicrafts and unique gifts. Outside of the market are several restaurants and spaces to enjoy the views and take in the culture. Reachable by boat you can take a ride on one of the False Creek Ferries from various points along False Creek, the dock from the Aquatic Centre will take you right to Granville island. For a great view of the city take a walk along Granville Bridge from the island.

Vancouver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Whale Watching

A bucket list favorite on anyone’s list and one I happily ticked off in Vancouver, the small town of Steveston provides an excellent destination to view various species of whale and other marine life in the wild. Take a short trip from downtown Vancouver to Steveston where you will catch the boat and head out into the ocean in search of whales. Guided tours are narrated by professional naturalist as you sail through the magnificent scenery. Even in summer the weather can be cool out in the sea so dressing accordingly is strongly advised. For photographers capturing a breaching whale is a once in a lifetime shot, a camera with manual settings and a fast telephoto lens are essential. Return to Steveston after your trip for lunch at one of the many seafront restaurants and enjoy locally caught fresh seafood.

Experience Orca in the Wild with : Whale Watching in Steveston

Vancouver Sea Plane Tour

Get away from the crowds and soar above the city for a bird’s eye view of Vancouver and enjoy the beautiful surrounding mountains from the air on a scenic seaplane tour. 20 Minute flights are available from Harbour Air Seaplane with select timeslots that can be pre-booked in advance.

For More information check out the link : Vancouver Sea Plane Flight

Capilano Suspension Bridge

As mentioned earlier a visit to the Capilano suspension bridge can be done before you reach grouse mountain. Head over to the world-famous foot bridge that spans 446 ft across the Capilano Rive. Upon crossing the bridge discover the forest canopy and walk through the Treetop Adventure walkway high above the canyon and river below. The newest attraction for those thrill seekers is a cliff walk, a series of suspend walkways built out from the granite cliff face to give people access to unexplored territories of the park. To avoid the crowds, try and get in when the park opens at 9 am, you will increase your chances of the perfect photo opportunity on the bridge and enjoy the neighboring treetop attractions.

Experience Grouse Mountain and the : Capilano Suspension Bridge

Victoria

Just a short boat ride from Vancouver is the capital city of British Columbia, Victoria. Located on Vancouver Island it is considered to be one of the top 20 cities in terms of quality of life. Also popularly known as the “Garden city” of British Columbia, Victoria is one of the most beautiful cities and popular tourist destination for many. One of the most famous attractions in the Beacon Hill Park, it lies adjacent to the southern shore of Victoria and consists of exotic species of plants and animals, petting zoo and manicured gardens. Another famous attraction is Butchart Gardens, a sprawling 55-acre green space in Brentwood Bay area that welcomes almost a million visitors every year. There are several interesting events such as harbor tours, whale watching, wine tasting and the galloping goose trail. Food enthusiast will have a pleather of restaurants, bars, coffee shops and pubs to discover and enjoy.

Directions
Ferries can be taken from Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Victoria (Swartz Bay) operating every 1h 30 approximately during the season. For further details please visit the link below:

https://www.bcferries.com/destinations/Victoria-Vancouver-Island/VICTORIA_VANCOUVER_ISLAND

Alternatively, guided tours can be arranged with downtown pick-ups giving you the peace of mind to explore the city accompanied by a local professional – For More information check out the link : Victoria Day Trip

Flyover Canada

Close to Canada place is an exhilarating experience that will give you the feeling of flight. Utilizing state of the art technology you will be suspended, feet dangling before a 20-metre spherical screen while your taken on a journey across the wilderness of Canada. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the rides motion to create an unforgettable experience. Depending on the season the simulation will adapt to different themes such as Chinese New Year or fly over Iceland.

For this immersive experiences please check out : Fly Over Canada

Explore Gastown

Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, Gastown grew from a single tavern founded by John Gassy Jack Deighton back in 1867. Today the district retains its historic charm and independent spirit. A visit to Gastown should include a walk along Water Street, where you’ll find a picture-perfect collection of old buildings, cobblestones, the steam clock, and Vintage lampposts.
Food and Drink – Gastown is home to many of the city’s hottest restaurants, making it a great pick for a special night out. An eclectic blend of cuisines from European through to Asian inspired molecular gastronomy and everything in between.

Explore Gastown by visiting the link : Gastown Walking Tour

Science World

Located close to the Olympic village you will see a large spherical shape that dominates the city skyline. Science World is interactive museum for all ages featuring educational exhibits such as body works, birdly, eureka, living lab, Ken Spencer Science Park, Puzzles and Illusions and many more. Within the building is the largest cinema in western Canada, showcasing educational films and documentaries displayed on the vast screens.

https://www.scienceworld.ca/