With towering mountains, rugged glaciers, shimmering turquoise water and a lively city centre, Vancouver is one of the most picturesque destinations in the world.
The city is a unique blend of new-age culture and old-world beauty. It’s a fascinating mix of big street art murals, hipster spots and stunning green spaces.
1. Seaplane Tours
Seaplane Tours are a great way to get to see the city from above. Not only do they provide incredible views of the city, but they can also take you to other destinations.
There are plenty of options to choose from including tours that can connect you from Vancouver to Whistler or Victoria BC. They can also be combined with other tours for a complete Vancouver experience!
This 20-minute Vancouver seaplane tour starts from Coal Harbour and gives you a spectacular aerial view of downtown Vancouver. The flight then flies over Stanley Park and Lion’s Gate Bridge, before circling back over the North Shore Mountains.
2. Breweries
When it comes to beer, Vancouver is home to some of the best breweries in the world. They brew everything from dark and rich stouts to light, refreshing IPAs.
Some breweries even have their own taprooms to serve up fresh beer, and some also offer food for guests. Many breweries in Vancouver also give tours of their brewing facilities and offer tastings.
Steamworks Brewpub in Burnaby is one of the first breweries to use traditional steam-powered brewing methods in Canada, and they have 20 rotating taps featuring seasonal flavours. They’re a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and their pub eats go well with their craft beers.
3. Museums
Vancouver is home to a number of museums that offer something for everyone. From interactive science exhibits to contemporary art galleries, these museums are perfect for visitors of all ages and interests.
The Vancouver Maritime Museum is a great place to learn about the area’s unique maritime history. It’s a stunning A-frame building that’s built around the restored 80-ton schooner St. Roch, the first vessel to sail the Northwest Passage from west to east.
Located in Kits Point and Vanier Park, the museum is a fascinating look into Canada’s history of naval warfare. It also includes a research library. It’s a great place for children to get a taste of Canadian heritage.
4. Whale Watching
The waters around Vancouver are home to many varieties of whales including humpback, orcas and minke. All of these creatures pass through these waters at different times of the year and their migration patterns vary.
During the summer months, resident orcas reliably show up, while transient animals are also spotted from time to time. During the fall, orcas start migrating south to warmer waters, looking for mates.
You can see these magnificent marine mammals in Vancouver on a number of different tours. Some focus on humpback whales while others combine a boat and seaplane tour.
5. Gastown
Vancouver's historic Gastown, named after saloon owner "Gassy" Jack Deighton, is a treasured national historic site with cobblestone streets and beautiful Victorian buildings that date back to 1867. It's an area full of charm, shopping and some of the city's best restaurants and bars.
- Originally a small settlement of lumber mill workers, dockhands and gold prospectors, Gastown thrived as a cultural centre for the city. Despite falling into disrepair during the Great Depression and facing plans for demolition in the '60s, Gastown has endured to become one of Vancouver's most beloved neighbourhoods today.
- Global cuisine shines in the neighborhood's cafes and eateries, from Ukrainian (Kozak) to Korean (Zoomak) to Italian (Robba da Matti). You can also find tacos, Japanese Kar-age chicken, west coast eats, and local craft beer in Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood.
