• Checking out the spectacular views along the Seawall: On a sunny day, everyone heads to the Seawall, a 22km (13.5-mile) paved pathway that starts at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Coal Harbour, then snakes around Stanley Park and continues along English Bay and False Creek all the way to Kitsilano Beach. It’s the place to stroll, run, cycle, skate, walk the dog, and check out the action.
  • Ordering the omakase at Tojo’s: Vancouver has sushi joints like the rest of Canada has doughnut shops, with one on practically every corner. The very best of them is where you will find the legendary master chef Hidekazu Tojo and his fresher-than-fresh seafood. Put yourself in his hands and order the chef’s sampler known as omakase for an unforgettable dining experience.
  • Swimming at Kitsilano Pool: This huge saltwater pool can be found on Vancouver's trendiest beach, and is the perfect way to while away a sunny afternoon.
  • Buying fabulous footwear in Gastown: Shoe designer John Fluevog is one of Vancouver’s most famous hometown heroes, and his shop is a must-visit when you explore the historic neighborhood of Gastown. Join famous Fluevogers, including Madonna, Woody Harrelson, and Scarlett Johansson, and slip your feet into one of his eccentrically designed but remarkably comfortable city boots or Mary Janes.
  • Taking tea in Chinatown: Vancouver’s historic Chinatown is going through an exciting period of revitalization, with new restaurants, bars, shops, and condo projects popping up like shiitake mushrooms. One of the most memorable experiences is still a visit to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, where, if you time it just right, you may be able to take part in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony.
  • Paddling around English Bay: Rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard and explore this calm bay at the heart of the city by paddle power.
  • Savoring the sunset from the perfect patio: When the weather is nice, and sometimes even when it’s not, Vancouverites hit the city’s patios to eat, drink, and catch up on the latest gossip.  Enjoy a meal and a glass of local wine after a tough day of browsing through the Granville Island Public Market.
  • Sharing your fish and chips with the seagulls at Spanish Banks Beach: Vancouver is surrounded by beaches, and there’s one for every taste, from the hard bodies at Kits Beach to the naked ones at Wreck Beach. But one of the most popular beaches is this family-friendly one, with its casual vibe and endless sandy expanse. Don’t even try resisting the deep-fried goodies at the concession stand; just watch out for the hungry gulls.
  • Climbing the Grouse Grind: Cross the swooping span known as the Lions Gate Bridge and you will find yourself in the North Shore Mountains, with their dark forests, jagged peaks, and the brutal hike called the Grouse Grind. Also known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” this trail is only 2.9km (1.8 miles) long, but it goes straight up Grouse Mountain, with an elevation gain of 853m (2,800 ft.). Luckily, there’s a beer waiting for you at the top. (Note: There’s also a gondola for those who’d rather spare themselves the agony.)
  • Taking a selfie at the Olympic Cauldron: In many ways, the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games were Vancouver’s coming-out party. One of the most memorable legacies of the Games is the striking cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza next to the Vancouver Convention Centre. It’s become a popular meeting place and social hangout, and offers one of the city’s most impressive views of the North Shore Mountains. It’s a perfect backdrop for that photo you want to post on Instagram.

 

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.