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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via Google MapsChambar Restaurant
Chic exposed-brick space serving creative Belgian cuisine & sustainable seafood, plus beer & wine.
Coast
Upmarket bi-level eatery serving West Coast seafood, with a huge circular oyster bar & cocktails.
Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House
Vibrant, booth-lined dining room for seafood & steak, with a popular oyster bar & rooftop patio.
CRAFT Beer Market False Creek
Former Olympic village outpost set in the 1930s Salt Building, serving draft brews & pub grub.
Vancouver Convention Centre
Big harbourfront venue with indoor & outdoor space for events ranging from trade shows to concerts.
via Google MapsScotiabank Theatre Vancouver
Modern multiplex cinema chain screening the latest Hollywood films, plus new independent releases.
via Google MapsSOCIAL CORNER YALETOWN
Innovative Italian cuisine & Spanish tapas, plus gelato & craft cocktails in a contemporary setting.
via Google MapsInternational Village Mall
60+ stores, a food court, an arcade & a cinema feature at this modern indoor shopping plaza.
via Google MapsCardero's Restaurant
Seafood, burgers & classic comfort dishes on expansive marina-side patio plus weekend brunch.
via Google MapsThe Sandbar Seafood Restaurant
Seafood hot spot under the Granville Island bridge with sushi made to order & live music nightly.
via Google MapsMiku Vancouver
Sushi & sustainable seafood are served in a sophisticated setting with a patio & water views.
Orpheum
Elegant 1927 theatre that's home to the Vancouver Symphony, plus classical & choral performances.
via Google MapsCafe Medina
Snug spot for coffee, & an eclectic daytime menu including waffles with unique toppings.
via Google MapsItalian Kitchen
hot spot with a long marble bar, serving inventive Italian regional dishes.
Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Stylish theatre that's home to Ballet BC & the Vancouver Opera, plus touring productions.
Museum of Anthropology at UBC
Large Arthur Erickson–designed museum at UBC devoted to cultural artifacts from around the world.
via Google MapsSteamworks Brewpub
Cheery microbrewery serving its house beers with diverse pub grub including steaks, pizza & chili.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Water, plants & rocks are arranged according to Taoist principles to create a serene space.
Totem Poles
Popular site with a collection of nine totem poles sourced from remote areas in British Columbia.
via Google Maps