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

BarPhoto of Guilt & Co — Barvia Google Maps

Guilt & Co

Dark, intimate space for cocktails, nibbles & a stage for live performances.

Vancouver, BC|5
ParkPhoto of Hastings Park — Parkvia Google Maps

Hastings Park

Major park with a skateboarding area, amusement rides, sports facilities & bike trails

Vancouver, BC|4
Persian RestaurantPhoto of Cazba Restaurant — Persian Restaurantvia Google Maps

Cazba Restaurant

Vancouver, BC|4
RestaurantPhoto of Malone's Taphouse — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Malone's Taphouse

Pub with an upstairs lounge featuring a broad selection of craft beers plus screens for the games.

Vancouver, BC|4
RestaurantPhoto of Rio Brazilian Steakhouse — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Rio Brazilian Steakhouse

Relaxed eatery featuring all-you-can-eat Brazilian BBQ, a hot buffet & a salad bar.

Vancouver, BC|4
Mediterranean RestaurantPhoto of Provence Marinaside — Mediterranean Restaurantvia Google Maps

Provence Marinaside

Waterfront spot with a patio, offering seafood dishes prepared with French style & a popular brunch.

Vancouver, BC|4
Tour AgencyPhoto of Prince of Whales - Whale & Marine Wildlife Adventures Vancouver — Tour Agency

Prince of Whales - Whale & Marine Wildlife Adventures Vancouver

Vancouver, BC|5
Seafood RestaurantPhoto of The Fish Counter Main Street — Seafood Restaurantvia Google Maps

The Fish Counter Main Street

Counter-serve eatery & market with a local focus serving casual fare like fish 'n' chips & chowder.

Vancouver, BC|5
Movie TheaterPhoto of Cineplex Odeon International Village Cinemas — Movie Theatervia Google Maps

Cineplex Odeon International Village Cinemas

Modern multiplex cinema chain screening the latest Hollywood films, plus new independent releases.

Vancouver, BC|4
ArenaPhoto of PNE Forum — Arena

PNE Forum

Established in 1910, this exhibition space presents events such as trade shows & concerts.

Vancouver, BC|4
Shopping MallPhoto of Kingsgate Mall — Shopping Mallvia Google Maps

Kingsgate Mall

Simple, 2-story shopping centre with stores & neighbourhood services like a post office & pharmacy.

Vancouver, BC|4
RestaurantPhoto of The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Granville Island — Restaurantvia Google Maps

The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Granville Island

Classic steak & seafood dishes are the mainstays at this stylish yet casual chain restaurant.

Vancouver, BC|4
Sporting Goods StorePhoto of MEC Vancouver — Sporting Goods Storevia Google Maps

MEC Vancouver

Consumers' cooperative that sells outdoor recreation gear & clothing exclusively to its members.

Vancouver, BC|4
Spanish RestaurantPhoto of Bodega on Main — Spanish Restaurantvia Google Maps

Bodega on Main

Buzzy, intimate locale with leather banquettes & high ceilings serving Spanish tapas, wine & sherry.

Vancouver, BC|4
Irish PubPhoto of Blarney Stone — Irish Pubvia Google Maps

Blarney Stone

Sizable alehouse with a patio, Irish eats & TV sports, plus a pool table & live music.

Vancouver, BC|4
Steak HousePhoto of The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Alberni — Steak Housevia Google Maps

The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Alberni

Classic steak & seafood dishes are the mainstays at this stylish yet casual chain restaurant.

Vancouver, BC|4
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of La Mezcaleria — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

La Mezcaleria

Stylish, buzzy spot for elevated Mexican fare including breakfast, with mezcal, tequila & cocktails.

Vancouver, BC|4
ParkPhoto of Harbour Green Park — Park

Harbour Green Park

This peaceful park along the harbour features lawns & strolling path, plus a seasonal splash pad.

Vancouver, BC|5
Tour AgencyPhoto of Wild Whales Vancouver — Tour Agencyvia Google Maps

Wild Whales Vancouver

Vancouver, BC|5
Fish & Chips RestaurantPhoto of Go Fish — Fish & Chips Restaurantvia Google Maps

Go Fish

Popular takeaway joint offers simple menu of sustainable seafood from fish 'n' chips to tacos.

Vancouver, BC|4