The city of Vancouver is one of North America’s greatest gems. A cosmopolitan city with a diverse population and an incredible food scene, it’s no wonder people flock here in droves on an annual basis. It may not have the cachet of a Los Angeles or New York. However, the city is gorgeous — often highlighted in film and television. Production companies have been filming extensively in Vancouver for years. As the city becomes more well-known globally, one can understand why the appeal exists to visit as a tourist.
Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a must-see attraction here. For one, it’s truly stunning and picturesque. The wooded atmosphere makes you feel as if you’re in nature and not in the midst of a major city. You’ll see waterfalls, and — due to its location on the water — you’ll have the option of lounging on the beach (p.s. it’s great for a picnic!). Of course, you also have the option to bike, walk, scooter, and move around at your leisure. An iconic lighthouse sits on the eastern part of the park. Duly, there’s also the Vancouver Aquarium to enjoy.
Whistler
Roughly an hour and a half north of Vancouver is the idyllic resort town of Whistler. During the winter, people from across the globe come here to ski and snowboard. The downtown village is charming — with restaurants and shops to enjoy. In the summer, all of the outdoor activities you could think of are present. Even if making a day trip to check Whistler out, it’s worth it for the views alone.
Granville Island
Granville Island is a fun spot for everyone — especially families. It’s loaded with shops, restaurants, bars, and fun activities to enjoy while being out on the water. There’s also an indoor market chock-full of homemade goodies and delicious treats. There’s nothing like sitting out on the water — gazing out at the Vancouver skyline — while enjoying a lobster roll or a hearty bowl of soup. Regardless of the season, we suggest checking out Granville at least once during your trip. The odds are you’ll be revisiting it more than once.
Gastown
This downtown neighborhood is a trendy spot for a night out. If you’re looking for a nice bistro, or a fun bar to enjoy a couple of libations, Gastown will have it. It’s a younger crowd — though there are shopping options and other locations for all ages to thoroughly enjoy. Many enjoy the music venues present in Gastown. There are also plenty of art-centric spots for those who enjoy a bit of culture.
Science World
This spectacular building can be seen from the plane as you fly into Vancouver. It stands out as a major landmark within the city limits. Science World sits on the water as it looks across Chinatown and Yaletown. The structure looks like a sparkling glass golf ball made up of different shapes and textures. At night, the orb-like building glows with colors of white, blue, and pink. Science World itself is an interactive museum with captivating exhibits for people of all ages to enjoy. For those visiting with children, Science World is a terrific place to spend an afternoon.
