Things to Do in Vancouver

Vancouver is a year-round playground, with endless activities on offer. Because of its unique setting, with the city flanked by both the waterfront and the mountains, it is the city where you can go skiing in the morning and sailing in the afternoon – on the same day!

The natural beauty of Vancouver and the West Coast is what draws tourists from around the world to this spectacular city. It also provides a beautiful natural backdrop that can be enjoyed while taking part in the many activities that Vancouver has to offer. There are many things to see and to do, whether you are just passing through or staying a while.

The West End and Yaletown from the deck of Bridges on Granville Island

Sports

Visitors from around the world come to take part in the many outdoor and indoor sports like skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, and sailing and hiking in the summer. Golfing in Vancouver is a favourite year-round past time for many, as are kayaking, rowing and yoga.

City Tours

To get acquainted with the city, try taking a city tour for a half or full day. There are tour operators whose skilled and professional guides will show you the highlights and answer your questions. Special interest tours are also available. Or, you can go on your own walking tour, and explore the city on your own.

Shopping

For boutique shoppers and mall shoppers alike, Vancouver has it all. From charming shops run by local artists in the various neighbourhoods, to name brand and big box stores, you can find anything you need.

The Arts

Vancouver has many theatres, concert halls, museums – see a play at the Arts Club Theatre on Granville Island or at the Stanley Theatre, a concert at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, or a special display at the Vancouver Art Gallery on the popular Robson Street.

Seasonal Events

The city of Vancouver is host to many perennial festivals. Bard on the Beach, PNE – Pacific National Exhibition, Symphony of Fire, Molson Indy, Dragon Boat Festival, Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival, Christmas Concerts at St. Paul’s Cathedral, World Ski Cup at Whistler/Blackcomb, Carol Ships.

For the Gourmet

Wine tastings, cooking classes, gourmet shops, beer-making – Vancouver is a treat for all tastebuds.

Dining

With its proximity to Asia, Vancouver’s signature West Coast cuisine celebrates the art of fusion cooking. This is, of course, in addition to the thousands of eateries with delicious ethnic foods from around the world. Fast food to haute cuisine.

The Coffee Scene

How can you spot Vancouverites? They are the ones who know 20 different ways to order coffee! Coffee-mania has swept through Vancouver, and cafés, bistros, local and chain coffee shops are plentiful – enjoy a cup of java at a friendly neighbourhood coffee shop while on your walking tour.

Study in Vancouver

And how about studying in Vancouver? Vancouver boasts over 200 language schools, excellent continuing education programs, and great universities, community colleges and vocational schools. UBC and SFU are top universities, and the many community colleges feed into them with their transfer credit systems.

Houses of Worship

Nightlife

Ecotourism

For Kids – Science World

Weekend Trips

Transportation