Vancouver is a beautiful seaport city in the pacific northwest. Nestled between mountains and the ocean, this culturally diverse town is an outdoor enthusiast dream. After multiple trips to Vancouver, I am absolutely in love with this city. Keep reading for ideas on how to spend your time in Vancouver.
Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a 400-hectare lush park in the middle of Vancouver. It is full of beautiful gardens, monument and sculptures, and a variety of trees and wildlife. As you stroll along look for these points of interest: Lost Lagoon, Siwash Rock, the Hollow Tree, Beaver Lake and Prospect Point.
Granville Island
Located under the south end of the Granville Street Bridge, Granville Island is a great place to spend an afternoon strolling through shops and cultural venues. This transformed industrial area, hosts a large public market that is open daily. There are also several breweries and tasting rooms. I highly recommend sampling a flight at Granville Island Brewing Company.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
Originally built in 1880, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is 450 feet long and hangs 230 feet above Capilano River. This popular tourist attraction will have you walking among the trees in it Treetop Adventure and offers alternative views of the suspension bridge from the Cliffwalk that hang out over the river. The park is beautiful and is a must-do if you are in Vancouver.
Grouse Mountain
If you love skiing or hiking you have to make the trip to Grouse Mountain. On my first trip to Vancouver a local recommended that we do the Grouse Grind. This 1.8 mile hike (with 2,800 feet of elevation gain) up the face of Grouse Mountain isn’t for the faint of heart. While a strenuous hike for us, the reward was the beautiful chalet at the top with panoramic views of the city. Shop, grab a bite to eat and see the wildlife at the top of the mountain before taking the skycar back down.
Lynn Canyon Park
This North Vancouver park is one of the prettiest parks I’ve ever visited. Lynn Canyon Park is 617 acres and home to Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge which leads to multiple hiking trails. The lush forest, beautiful river and waterfalls make this the perfect place to get some fresh air and take a hike.
Sea-To-Sky Highway
This 101 mile scenic drive takes you from Vancouver to Pemberton (just north of Whistler). Every corner you round offers another spectacular mountain or ocean view earning this iconic route its reputation as one of the pretties scenic drives in the world. There are multiple viewpoints to pull off as you drive along this route. Recommend stops at Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, Shannon Falls Provincial Park, Sea to Sky Gondola, Whistler Olympic Plaza.
