Things to do in Vancouver
Vancouver is a city where you can spend a morning at the beach, an afternoon in a museum, and an evening at a live show.
Neighborhoods
Vancouver is a city where you can spend a morning at the beach, an afternoon in a museum, and an evening at a live show. The options are broad, from big-ticket attractions like Science World and Stanley Park to smaller neighborhood spots. Food and drink dominate the scene, with hundreds of restaurants, markets, and bars to explore. Here's a practical look at what to do in Vancouver, BC.
For outdoor time, Stanley Park has beaches, trails, and a seawall, while Queen Elizabeth Park features gardens and a conservatory. Families have plenty of options, including the Granville Island Water Park and the Kids Market, both on Granville Island. For a rainy day, Science World's interactive exhibits are a hit. The city's cultural side shines at the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Orpheum, home to the Vancouver Symphony. Sports fans can catch a game at BC Place or Rogers Arena.
Frequently asked questions about Vancouver
What are the best outdoor activities in Vancouver?▾
Stanley Park is the go-to for a full outdoor day, with its seawall, beaches, and trails. Queen Elizabeth Park has manicured gardens and a conservatory, and it's dog-friendly. For a smaller, relaxed spot, David Lam Park has playgrounds and grassy areas with skyline views.
What can families with kids do in Vancouver?▾
Science World is a top pick for interactive exhibits that appeal to toddlers through early teens. On Granville Island, the Kids Market is a kid-centric shopping mall with a play area and arcade, and the Granville Island Water Park has a splash pad and slide. Playland Amusement Park offers seasonal rides.
Where can I experience arts and culture in Vancouver?▾
The Vancouver Art Gallery showcases touring exhibits and local artists like Emily Carr. For performing arts, the Orpheum is a beautiful 1927 theatre home to the Vancouver Symphony, while the Queen Elizabeth Theatre hosts Ballet BC and the opera. The Rio Theatre mixes first-run films with cult classics and live entertainment.
What are some good places to eat and drink in Vancouver?▾
With over 180 food and drink listings, the choice is huge. Granville Island Public Market has gourmet food stalls and cafes. For a nicer meal, Black+Blue is a steakhouse with dry-aged cuts, and Miku Vancouver serves sushi with water views. CRAFT Beer Market False Creek has a large draft list in a historic building.
What are some unique attractions to see in Vancouver?▾
The Gastown Steam Clock, built in 1977, is a popular photo stop. The Totem Poles at Stanley Park are a collection of nine poles from around BC. Canada Place, designed to look like a ship, houses a convention centre and ferry terminal. The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden offers a serene space in Chinatown.
Things to do in Vancouver
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Vancouver Aquarium
Popular kid-friendly attraction showcases local & exotic aquatic life with a focus on conservation.
Stanley Park
Vancouver's largest urban park has beaches, trails & family attractions, plus a picturesque seawall.
Gastown Steam Clock
Built in 1977, this well-known, antique-style clock is powered by steam & whistles to tell the time.
Bloedel Conservatory
Lush, glass-domed aviary with 200+ exotic birds & 500+ unique plants set high above the park.
Rogers Arena
Spacious venue that hosts the Vancouver Canucks & concerts by big-name touring acts.
Sunset Beach Park
Popular park on the bay offering a sandy beach & open lawn, in addition to scenic sunset views.
Glowbal
Global fare & lots of cocktails served in a glitzy, sprawling space with a long, sleek bar.
BC Place
Stadium with a retractable roof & over 50,000 seats for events plus Major League Soccer & football.
Black+Blue Vancouver
Bustling 3-level steakhouse with luxe decor, rare cuts of beef & a custom meat locker for dry-aging.
Canada Place
Built to look like a ship, this iconic complex houses a convention centre, hotel & ferry terminal.
Vancouver Art Gallery
Gallery known for its touring exhibits, work by local artists (like Emily Carr) & photo collection.
via Google MapsEarls Kitchen + Bar
Sleek, upscale chain serving gourmet burgers, global comfort food, cocktails, wines & beers.
Playland Amusement Park
Amusement park with traditional rides open seasonally, plus haunted/terror rides in October.
VanDusen Botanical Garden
Space with ever-changing greenery, flowers & art installations plus fine dining & a casual cafe.
CF Pacific Centre
Upscale mall since 1971 with premium retailers, designer brands, a food court & underground parking.
Granville Island Public Market
Popular indoor market with restaurants, bars & cafes, plus gourmet food stalls & artisan boutiques.
JOEY Burrard
Snazzy chain outpost known for frozen cocktails offering an eclectic menu from sushi to steak.
Science World
Interactive science displays & films for kids from toddlers to early teens, inside a geodesic dome.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Urban landmark on a hill featuring manicured gardens, a conservatory, sculptures & sports courts.