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 MapsElisa
Contemporary steakhouse offering modern takes on meats plus seafood, sides, wines & cocktails.
via Google MapsBlue Water Cafe
Destination in a heritage warehouse space offering sustainable seafood with innovative touches.
Granville Island
Charming cultural & artistic mainstay famous for a daily public market with 50+ food vendors.
Nightingale
Chef David Hawksworth's informal restaurant/bar serving modern Canadian fare & classic cocktails.
via Google MapsThe Pint Public House
Boisterous sports pub serving beer pitchers & classic bar bites, plus wings in 40 different sauces.
via Google MapsTap & Barrel • Olympic Village
Contemporary pub offering Pacific Northwest fare, craft brews & a sprawling patio with scenic views.
via Google MapsStanley Park Brewing Restaurant & Brewpub
Rustic option with a patio serving global eats such as burgers, sandwiches & bowls, plus craft beer.
Burrard Landing
Upbeat shopping & dining complex with a seaplane terminal & promenade offering harbor views.
Vancouver Lookout
Sightseers ascend this tower in a glass elevator to an observation deck with 360° views of the city.
Top Of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant
An upscale revolving restaurant with Continental cuisine & sweeping views of mountains & ocean.
Commodore Ballroom
Storied venue for live music, with a sprung dance floor & an iconic list of past performers.
via Google MapsHavana Vancouver
Hangout serving modern Latin fare & Caribbean drinks plus theatre for poetry readings & music.
via Google MapsFanny Bay Oyster Bar & Shellfish Market
Shellfish market & contemporary seafood eatery featuring a raw bar, sandwiches, fried fare & more.
via Google MapsOsteria Savio Volpe
Housemade charcuterie & wood-fired Italian fare served in an industrial-chic restaurant/bar.
Seasons in the Park
Elevated Pacific Northwest dishes served in a park setting, with panoramic views of the city.
Tap & Barrel • Bridges
Riley's Vancouver
via Google MapsDavid Lam Park
Relaxed park with sport courts, playgrounds & a spacious grassy area, plus skyline & water views.
via Google MapsThe Lunch Lady
Casual eatery offering Vietnamese staples such as pho, noodles & meat plates, plus unique cocktails.
via Google MapsThe Cambie Bar & Grill
Long-standing alehouse with drinks specials, pub grub & a laid-back hostel upstairs.