Choose from 84 Fun Things to Do in British Columbia
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 84 listings.
Downtown Vancouver
Surrounded by water on three sides, downtown Vancouver is the place to go for sea views, bright lights, and action. The city’s commercial core, it encompasses several distinct areas including shop-lined Robson Street, the green expanse of Stanley Park, historic Gastown, and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America.
The Basics
With so much to see here, many visitors to Vancouver devote the majority of their time to downtown. Join sightseeing tours of downtown, or delve deeper with walking tours of specific downtown neighborhoods, such as Victorian-era Gastown or the hip waterfront enclave of Yaletown. Downtown biking tours typically follow routes around Stanley Park’s scenic seawall, while many boat tours cruise around Vancouver Harbour, False Creek, and English Bay, offering front-row views of the downtown skyline.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Downtown Vancouver is a must for first-time visitors.
- You’ll never be far from a restaurant in downtown Vancouver, with lots of dining options at all price points, including an abundance of Asian eateries.
- Navigating downtown Vancouver is easy, with an interlinked transit network that includes the SkyTrain, buses, and the SeaBus passenger ferry.
How to Get There
From the airport, take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Yaletown–Roundhouse, Vancouver City Centre, or Waterfront station. Cruise ship passengers disembark at Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal, on downtown Vancouver’s waterfront .
When to Get There
Downtown Vancouver sees the warmest weather from mid-June through mid-September, and this is the best time for outdoor activities such as biking around Stanley Park or kayaking in False Creek. Avoid driving into or out of downtown during rush hours (7am–10am and 4pm–7pm).
Top Sights in Downtown Vancouver
Many of Vancouver’s most recognizable landmarks and well-known attractions are situated in the downtown area. View the city from on high at the Vancouver Lookout observation deck, admire the sail-shaped forms of Canada Place, hear the Gastown steam clock chime, and explore Stanley Park, home to the Brockton Point Totem Poles and the Vancouver Aquarium.
Address: Canada
From $ 30
Fairmont Empress Hotel
The grand lady of Victoria, the Fairmont Empress Hotel was built in over-the-top French chateau style by the Canadian Pacific Railway company, opening in 1908.
Victoria’s first hotel is still the grandest, and one of the most highly awarded hotels in the country. Over the last 100 years, all manner of famous people have stayed here, including Edward Prince of Wales, Queen Elizabeth and Shirley Temple.
Taking afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel is an experience not to be missed, complete with Edwardian style service, clotted cream, scones and pots of tea. Bookings are essential.
The style is more subcontinental colonial in the Bengal Lounge restaurant, where the menu features a curry buffet.Practical Info
The Fairmont Empress Hotel has a grandstand location on Government Street smack bang in the city center, with front-seat views of the inner harbor.
Address: 721 Government Street, Victoria BC V8W 1W5, Canada
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 169
Cypress Mountain
Attracting skiers and hikers alike, Cypress Mountain is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The title Cypress Mountain is something of a misnomer; there is no peak by this name. It instead refers to a trio of skiable mountains (Black Mountain, Mt. Strachan, and Hollyburn Mountain) that hosted events at the 2010 Winter Olympics.
The Basics
Because of its proximity to downtown Vancouver, Cypress Mountain is often visited on sightseeing tours. During the summer season, many sightseeing tours of Vancouver or the scenic Vancouver area stop at Barrett’s View lookout, which offers far-reaching vistas. The park is most heavily used in winter, when its downhill runs, snowshoe and cross-country ski trails, and snow-tubing course attract locals and visitors.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cypress Mountain is a must for outdoorsy and active travelers.
- Snowshoes, skis, snowboards, and cross-country skis can all be rented on the mountain. Poles, boots, helmets, jackets, and pants are also available for rent, but be sure to bring your own goggles and gloves.
- Familiarize yourself with bear safety and mountain safety before embarking on a summer hike.
- Cypress Mountain’s Yew Lake trail is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Cypress Mountain is in Cypress Provincial Park on Vancouver’s North Shore, about a 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. Car-free travelers or those who don’t want to tackle mountain roads in winter can take seasonal winter shuttle buses from Vancouver to the ski resort area.
When to Get There
In summer, come during the day to fully appreciate the views from the various lookouts. In winter, the resort remains open as late as 10pm, meaning visitors can ski down floodlit runs. The winter season typically lasts from mid-November to mid-April, while hiking is best between June and October.
Hiking on Cypress Mountain
Hikers heading to Cypress Mountain can choose among several trail options. The flat and accessible 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) Yew Lake trail leads through meadows to Yew Lake, whose waters are framed by mountain peaks. A more challenging option is the 5-mile (8.2-kilometer) Eagle Bluff trail, which leads to viewpoints overlooking Howe Sound and Vancouver.
Address: 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver, British Columbia V0N 1G0, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 297
Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens, established in 1904, treat visitors to an enchanting floral show that changes with the seasons. Covering 55 acres (22 hectares) on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, the botanical space is intricately laid out into separate themed gardens with landscaping that impresses and inspires gardeners and nature lovers alike.
The Basics
Butchart Gardens are a popular spot to visit from Victoria, Vancouver, and even Seattle, either on a gardens tour or combined with a whale-watching cruise, sightseeing tour, or seaplane flight and three-course dinner in the park. As you make your way through the different garden areas—from rose-covered paths to the dramatic Sunken Garden—you can admire blooming bulbs in springtime, head out on the dahlia walk during summer, admire floral displays in gorgeous fall colors, or take in the Japanese-inspired garden in the winter months.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear clothing suitable for the outdoors: dress for the weather, and bring an umbrella or hooded jacket in the rainy months.
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the gardens or eat at one of the several onsite restaurants.
- The gardens are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- You may visit the gardens independently or with a tour guide.
- Though cameras are encouraged, the use of selfie sticks is prohibited.
- WiFi is available at the coffee shop near the visitor center.
How to Get There
Butchart Gardens are 14 miles (23 kilometers) north of Victoria’s Inner Harbour on Vancouver Island, about 30 minutes away by road. Buses run to the gardens from downtown Victoria and the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal. You can also take a shuttle bus, taxi, or limo from the Fairmont Empress in Victoria to Butchart Gardens.
When to Get There
Butchart Gardens are open every day of the year. During peak season (July through August), the gardens can get quite crowded between 11am and 3pm. Arrive right at 9am when they open, and you’ll be rewarded with thin crowds and beautiful lighting for your photographs. On summer evenings, the gardens are filled with thousands of illuminations, with fireworks displays taking place every Saturday night in July and August (included in your Butchart Gardens admission). In December, the garden’s Waterwheel Square is converted into an outdoor ice-skating rink, complete with Christmas decorations and lights.
Butchart’s Themed Gardens
You can easily spend a full day exploring Butchart’s six themed gardens: the Sunken Garden, the Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden, the Concert Lawn Walk, and the Mediterranean Garden. The original Sunken Garden is a must-see, with its deep walls (remnants of the old quarry) cradling beds of annuals, flowering trees, and unique shrubs. Kids will love the hand-carved wooden carousel along the Concert Lawn Walk, just before the rose-laden arches greet visitors on their way into the Rose Garden—be sure to drop a penny in the Wishing Well here. The serene Japanese Garden invites contemplation as you wander along the paths past streams, ponds, and bridges, while the Italian Garden features sculptures and the Frog Fountain, and the small Mediterranean Garden has drought-tolerant plants from areas of the world with climates similar to Victoria’s.
Address: 800 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay BC V8M 1J8, Canada
Hours: Varies seasonally
Admission: Varies seasonally
From $ 16
Craigdarroch Castle
In 1890 Scottish coal baron Robert Dunsmuir built Craigdarroch Castle in Victoria, British Columbia, to showcase his inordinate wealth. This 39-room hilltop mansion is rich with opulent details, including multiple turrets and chimneys, a red slate roof, stained-glass windows, wood carvings, antique furnishings, and gold-framed paintings.
The Basics
A National Historic Site, Craigdarroch Castle is one of the most prominent—and certainly the most eye-catching—of Victoria’s historic houses. Experiencing the castle provides insight into the history of Victoria and the life of turn-of-the-century wealthy industrials in Canada.
You can see the castle during walking, biking, pedicab, and driving tours of the city, which typically include Victoria’s other most well-known attractions, such as Butchart Gardens, Beacon Hill Park, and the Emily Carr House. Some sightseeing tours even include admission to the castle. Once inside, you take a self-guided tour around the property.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Allow at least one hour to properly explore.
- Volunteers are stationed throughout the castle and can answer questions regarding its history.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are lots of stairs to navigate.
- Craigdarroch Castle is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Craigdarroch Castle is east of the inner harbor, just off Fort Street in the suburbs of Rockland. Take bus line 11, 14, 15, or 22 from downtown Victoria and get off at the Eastbound Fort at Fernwood stop, which is just a block from the castle.
When to Get There
The castle is open year-round. If visiting during the peak period of mid-June to early September, arrive soon after opening (9am) or an hour or two before closing (5pm to 6pm) to beat the crowds.
Trials and Tribulations of the Dunsmuirs
Exhibits in the house reveal more about the tempestuous Dunsmuir family dynamics. Though it was Robert Dunsmuir who ordered Craigdarroch to be built, he himself never got that chance to live in the mansion, as he passed away several months before the building was completed. His family took up residence here in 1890, though Robert’s death—or more specifically, his will—sparked conflict within the family regarding the distribution of his estate. Robert’s first son, Alex, passed away in 1900, and his death ignited yet more tension regarding the distribution of assets and wealth, with Robert’s second son, James, instigating legal action against his own mother, Joan Dunsmuir.
Address: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria BC V8S 3L5, Canada
Hours: Open daily 10:00am - 4:30pm, Extended hours from June 15th to Labor day: 9:00am - 7:00pm
Admission: CA$14.25
From $ 31
Dr Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden
The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, in Vancouver’s Chinatown, was the first “scholar’s” garden built outside of China in the Ming Dynasty tradition. This cultural and natural oasis offers a serene break from Vancouver’s hustle and bustle, and the nonprofit organization was named the one of top 10 city gardens in the world by National Geographic.
The Basics
This combination of the free public park and admission fee-based garden comprises winding covered walkways, ancient limestone formations, and 150-year-old miniature trees that serve as a tranquil break from the concrete jungle. The first classical Chinese garden in Canada, the site was created by master craftsmen from China using 14th-century methods: no screws, no glue, and no power tools. On Friday nights in summer, the garden hosts an eclectic repertoire of musical and dance performances that includes classical, Asian, world, gypsy jazz, Slavic soul, and fusion. The garden aims to create cultural understanding between the eastern and western ways of life in British Columbia.
The Chinese garden offers 45-minute guided tours throughout the day and is also a stop on many Vancouver gardens tours, city highlights tours, Vancouver bike tours, and cultural tours of Chinatown.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The garden serves traditional Chinese tea and offers a family-friendly scavenger hunt for kids.
- It is recommend to sign up for guided tours in advance to ensure your desired time.
- Parking in Chinatown can be tricky. Tours with included transportation from area hotels offer an easy solution, as does public transportation.
- The small garden requires little walking and is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, on Carrall Street in the heart of Vancouver’s Chinatown, is easily accessible via public transportation, and it’s only a few blocks away from the Gastown neighborhood and downtown Vancouver.
When to Get There
The garden is open daily from 10am to 4:30pm from October 1 to April 30 (closed on Mondays from November 1 to April 30), 10am to 6pm May 1 to June 14, and 9:30am to 7pm from June 15 to August 31. Summertime visitors get an added bonus of Friday night cultural performances, held from mid-July through the first weekend in September.
Feng Shui at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden
The ancient Chinese practice of feng shui, or energy alignment between physical spaces and people’s intentions, is evident everywhere in the garden. Notice how dark pebbles are placed next to light ones, how swaying bamboo grows around immovable rocks, and the way in which soft-moving water flows across solid stone. Each item—including the roof tiles, tai hu rocks, and native flora—was placed with a considered purpose to create balance and harmony.
Address: 578 Carrall Street, Vancouver, Canada
Hours: 10am to 4:30pm from October 1 to April 30 (closed on Mondays from November 1 to April 30), 10am to 6pm May 1 to June 14, and 9:30am to 7pm from June 15 to August 31
Admission: Varies
From $ 52
British Columbia Legislature Buildings
Built overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbor, the British Columbia Legislature Buildings form an impressive architectural and historical landmark within a few steps of downtown.
When the provincial legislature outgrew its former home, the provincial government hosted an architectural competition to build the new legislative buildings. Francis Rattenbury, a then 25-year-old recent arrival from England, won with his three-building neo-baroque style plans, but construction didn’t go without its woes; the project soared beyond its original budget, but the new British Columbia Parliament Buildings did open their doors in 1898.
The white marble, massive central dome, and lengthy façade combined to make an innovative and impressive monument for what, at the time, was a relatively young Canadian province. The building remains equally impressive, today, and a few new landmarks exist on its property. A statue of Queen Victoria stands on the front yard, while a figure of George Vancouver sits atop the central dome. There is also a statue of a soldier to commemorate the province’s fallen heroes from WWI, WWII, and the Korean War.
Practical Info
The British Columbia Legislature Buildings are located at 501 Belleville St in Victoria, B.C. Throughout the summer; they are open daily from 9am to 5pm. Throughout the winter, the buildings are closed on weekends.
Address: 501 Belleville St., Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Hours: Summer daily 9am-5pm; winter M-F
From $ 48
BC Place Stadium
For more than three decades, BC Place Stadium has been the premier venue for British Columbia’s athletics. Originally built for the 1986 World’s Fair, it played a major role in the Vancouver’s hosting of the 2010 Winter Olympics. In preparation for the event it was updated with a retractable roof that became the largest of its kind in the world. The large fabric rooftop is supported by cables, transforming the stadium for whichever weather conditions or event is present. Guests can remain covered during inclement weather, or be open to the sky (which is particularly beautiful on clear night.)
BC Place is home to the city’s two major sports teams, as well as the BC Sports Hall of Fame. The stadium is also host to the city’s largest community events. With over 1,000 digital screens and nearly 55,000 stadium seats, it’s one of the top sports arenas in Canada.
Practical Info
BC Place is located near False Creek in southeastern Vancouver, on Pacific Boulevard. The BC Sports Hall of Fame is located at Gate A and is open from 10 am to 5 pm. To get there via public transportation, buses 15 and 17 and False Creek Ferries drop off closest to the stadium and the Skytrain stop is Stadium/Chinatown. Parking is available nearby at varying costs.
Address: 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Canada
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Free with event; $15 for Hall of Fame
From $ 37
English Bay
Situated between Kistilano and Stanley Park, English Bay is one of Vancouver’s best spots for water sports, such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Two popular beaches—Kitsilano Beach and English Bay—face out onto the bay, as does part of the Stanley Park seawall, a waterside promenade used by cyclists and walkers.
The Basics
Walking or cycling along Stanley Park’s seawall is an essential Vancouver experience, and one of the best ways to see English Bay. Visitors can rent bikes and cycle along the path solo, or dive deeper into Vancouver on guided bike tours that visit other downtown sights. Visitors can also swim at English Bay Beach or Kitsilano Beach, take an exciting Jet Ski ride, kayak, or take a stand-up paddleboard tour around the bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Public amenities, including restrooms and restaurants can be found at English Bay Beach, Kitsilano Beach, and Stanley Park.
- Lifeguards are stationed at both English Bay Beach and Kitsilano Beach from late May to early September.
- Both beaches are equipped with Mobi-Mats (portable pathways that provide access to the sand) and water wheelchairs, which can be booked in advance.
- The waters of English Bay are suitable for swimming.
How to Get There
English Bay Beach is situated in the West End neighborhood of Vancouver, adjacent to the downtown area. The No. 6 bus connects Yaletown with English Bay Beach.
When to Get There
The bay is best explored between May and September when warmer weather facilitates water-based fun. Strolling and cycling along the seawall and the beaches can be enjoyed year-round. For an invigorating winter activity, attend the Polar Beach Swim in January, when thousands of brave swimmers plunge into the cold waters of English Bay.
Celebration of Light
Every summer, the skies above English Bay explode with light during the annual Celebration of Light fireworks competition. This pyrotechnic spectacle, produced by teams representing different countries, is choreographed to music and launched from offshore barges. Crowds of spectators gather on the waterfront around English Bay to watch the show.
Address: Vancouver, BC, Canada
From $ 27
Canada Place
One of the best places to orient yourself, especially if this is your first trip to Vancouver, is Canada Place. Built for Expo '86, this iconic, postcard-friendly landmark is hard to miss: its five tall Teflon sails that jut into the sky over Burrard Inlet resemble a giant sailing ship. Now a cruise-ship terminal and convention center, it's also a pier where you can stroll out over the waterfront, watch the splashing floatplanes, and catch some spectacular sea-to-mountain views.
Around the perimeter of Canada Place is a promenade, where you can gaze out at the North Shore mountains standing tall across Burrard Inlet. You can also see nearby Stanley Park and its famous Seawall Promenade. Walk to the other end of the promenade and you’ll be rewarded with great city views, including the historic low-rise tops of Gastown, where Vancouver was first settled. Inside the building is FlyOver Canada, a cool simulated flight attraction that takes you across Canada, from the Atlantic Coast and Arctic peaks to the Rocky Mountains and Northern lights.
Practical Info
Canada Place is located on the northeast edge of downtown Vancouver. It’s easily accessible by public transportation, and the Sky Train, which is one block away. Nearby attractions are Gastown, the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Art, Vancouver Art Gallery, and Robson Street. Tourism Vancouver Touristinfo Centre is right across the street.
Address: North foot of Howe Street, Downtown, Vancouver, Canada
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Bloedel Floral Conservatory
Atop a hill in Queen Elizabeth Park, the Bloedel Floral Conservatory—or simply Bloedel Conservatory—overlooks downtown Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains. The domed structure is divided into three climatic zones: tropical, subtropical, and desert. It houses plants and free-flying birds with eye-catching plumage.
The Basics
Purchase tickets for the Bloedel Conservatory in advance and explore the site independently, wandering at your preferred pace. Among the many different species growing here, you’ll find succulents, cacti, banyans, and colorful orchids. Look out for the free-flying birds that inhabit the conservatory, which range from rainbow-colored Gouldian finches to chatty African parrots.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bloedel Conservatory is an ideal rainy- or cold-day destination for families.
- Pick up a bird-watching checklist from the front desk to help you identify the various species you see.
- The conservatory is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Bloedel Conservatory is in Queen Elizabeth Park, less than 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver. To get there using public transit, take the SkyTrain (Canada Line) to King Edward Station. From there, it’s 15–20 minutes to the conservatory on foot. Alternatively, ride bus 15 to Cambie Street/West 33rd Avenue.
When to Get There
Though it’s open year-round, the Bloedel Conservatory is a particularly welcome place to while away a cold or wet winter’s day, as the interior is warm and balmy. Weekend afternoons are the busiest time, so come early in the morning or midweek.
What Else to See at Queen Elizabeth Park
While you’re at the conservatory, it’s worth setting aside some time to explore surrounding Queen Elizabeth Park. On warm days, children love splashing around in the jets of the Dancing Waters fountain outside the conservatory, while older visitors will enjoy browsing the artists’ offerings at Painters’ Corner. A stroll around the park may also lead you to the quarry garden, the rose garden, or one of several public artworks, including the bronze sculpture Knife Edge Two Piece by the renowned English sculptor Henry Moore.
Address: 4600 Cambie St., Vancouver, BC, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 5
Church & State Wines
To its owners, the name Church and State Wines represents a balance between the varied elements required to produce the highest quality wines. The name suggests a balance between change – each year’s distinct vintage – and tradition – aging wines in French oak barrels.
Church and State Wines puts plenty of focus on its grapes. Its owner’s belief is the best grapes are only produced on the best land, but also requires unwavering attention to detail throughout the planting, growing, and harvesting processes. The best land is also subject to the right grape varietal, so Church and State Wines has two British Columbia locations: Oliver-Osoyoos and Victoria. The former includes 70 acres of Vineyards BC’s dominant wine region, while the latter houses 11 acres of vineyards on the Saanich Peninsula, just minutes from downtown Victoria.
Their mindfulness is paying dividends, too, as they’ve now been awarded Canada’s best red wine on three occasions.
Practical Info
Church and State Wines’ Victoria winery is located at 1445 Benvenuto Ave. It’s tasting bar is open Friday-Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: 1445 Benvenuto Ave., Central Saanich, British Columbia, Canada
Hours: Tasting bar is open Friday-Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
From $ 185
Emily Carr House
The Emily Carr House was the childhood home of Canadian painter and author Emily Carr and had a long-lasting impression on much of her work. Today, it is an Interpretive Centre for Carr’s artwork, writing, and life.
Emily Carr’s work reads like an adventure. It carried her from remote native settlements throughout British Columbia to major cities like San Francisco, London, and Paris. But her childhood home continually appeared throughout all of her work, especially her writing.
The house itself was built in 1863 and Carr called it home from her birth, in 1871, until she left to pursue artist training overseas. Her father’s death triggered ownership changes and, after years of passing through the Carr Family, the house was sold off. Although it was once scheduled for demolition, the house made its way back to the Emily Carr Foundation before being purchased by the provincial government and restored. It is now considered a prime heritage example of Italianate villa style popular in that era. It’s also the second National Historic Site of Canada designed by the local architects Wright and Saunders, who also built the Fisgard Lighthouse.
Practical Info
The Emily Carr House is located at 207 Government Street, just six blocks south of Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The interpretive center within the house is open throughout the summer and for special events throughout the remainder of the year.
Address: 207 Government Street,, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Hours: Vary
Admission: Adults $6.75, Youth $4.50, Seniors/Students $5.75
From $ 92
Brockton Point
Brockton Point is the easternmost peninsula of Vancouver’s Stanley Park and is best known for the good views it offers of the downtown area with its skyscrapers, and the Burrard Inlet ranging from North Vancouver and the Lions Gate Bridge to Coal Harbour. Since there are also several important shipping lanes passing through the inlet, Brockton Point is a favorite among ship spotters for watching big freight vessels heading to and from the port with goods piled high.
The peninsula encompasses several of the park’s well-known landmarks, such as the 9 O’Clock Gun, an old naval cannon that fires a shot every evening at nine; a colorful totem pole display, British Columbia’s most-visited tourist attraction; and a century-old lighthouse. The Brockton Point Lighthouse features a prominent red and white tower, which was built in 1914 after numerous shipwrecks on the treacherous shores of Stanley Park and, in more recent years, has become a favorite among photographers. It is supported by delicate arches, underneath which visitors can stroll through on the shoreline pathway.
The peninsula encompasses several of the park’s well-known landmarks, such as the 9 O’Clock Gun, an old naval cannon that fires a shot every evening at nine; a colorful totem pole display, British Columbia’s most-visited tourist attraction; and a century-old lighthouse. The Brockton Point Lighthouse features a prominent red and white tower, which was built in 1914 after numerous shipwrecks on the treacherous shores of Stanley Park and, in more recent years, has become a favorite among photographers. It is supported by delicate arches, underneath which visitors can stroll through on the shoreline pathway.
Practical Info
Brockton Point within Stanley Park is located in the West End neighborhood and can be reached with bus number 19, which makes stops at Stanley Park Drive and Stanley Park Loop. Apart from hop-on hop-off trolleys and horse-drawn carriages in summer, there is no transit service available within the park, and visitors usually walk or bike the short distances.
Address: Canada
From $ 30
Bowen Island
Calm and free from crowds, this forested island off Vancouver serves as a retreat from the stresses of the city. With hiking trails, kayak-friendly coastline, and sheltered bays, the island offers plenty of opportunities for fun in the fresh air, while a smattering of small villages showcase its vibrant art, craft, and food scenes.
The Basics
Just a 20-minute boat ride from Vancouver, Bowen Island is an ideal day trip. Jet Ski tours of Howe Sound depart from Granville Island and skirt around the scenic coast of Bowen Island, as well as other neighboring islands such as Anvil Island. Some Jet Ski tours make a dinner stop at Bowen Island, allowing participants to disembark and dine at one of Bowen Island’s local restaurants.
While the island is served by a ferry, visitors looking for a little more freedom and flexibility may want to rent a private speedboat instead. Once on the island, while away the hours lounging on sandy beaches, hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bowen Island is an easy day-trip option for visitors based in Vancouver.
- Most boats dock at Snug Cove on the east coast, where you’ll find restaurants, cafés, art galleries, and a weekend market in summer.
- Private speedboat rentals usually include a boat license, safety briefing, and instructions.
How to Get There
Regular ferry service to Bowen Island departs from Horseshoe Bay terminal. To get to the ferry terminal, ride bus 250 or 257 from downtown Vancouver, a journey of between 40 and 50 minutes. The ferry journey itself takes another 20 minutes or so. For a quicker option, take a water taxi or pilot your own private speedboat from Granville Island.
When to Get There
Bowen Island is best in summer, when warm weather allows for outdoor activities. The summer season also offers more festivals and events, including outdoor climbing sessions and open-air yoga classes.
Wildlife-Watching near Bowen Island
The boat trip over to Bowen Island takes passengers through the heart of Howe Sound, where a host of wildlife species thrive. As you cruise across from the mainland, look out for harbor seals, which can often be seen at Palm Rocks, and bald eagles. Whales, including humpbacks, have been spotted in the waters of Horseshoe Bay. Bowen Island is free from bears and cougars, though deer do roam freely.
Address: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
From $ 41
Capilano Salmon Hatchery
Situated in Vancouver’s forested North Shore, this hatchery was established in 1971 to help boost depleting salmon stocks in the Capilano River. As well as breeding and releasing steelhead, chinook, and coho salmon, the hatchery also serves an educational purpose, chronicling the life cycle of salmon in an on-site interpretive center.
The Basics
Tours of Vancouver’s North Shore often combine a visit to the salmon hatchery with a trip to the nearby Capilano Suspension Bridge, a swaying crossing strung 230 feet (70 meters) above Capilano Canyon. Some full-day tours include a morning of city sightseeing, viewing key sights such as Stanley Park, Chinatown, and Granville Island, followed by an afternoon exploring the Capilano Suspension Bridge and the hatchery.
Inside the hatchery, visitors take a self-guided tour. Don’t miss the hatchery’s observation gallery, where—depending on the time of year—salmon may be seen climbing up the fish ladder.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Capilano Salmon Hatchery is a must for families and natural-history enthusiasts.
- Wear hiking boots so you can explore trails in the surrounding Capilano River Regional Park.
- The hatchery is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Capilano Salmon Hatchery is in Capilano River Regional Park, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. Take Capilano Road north past the suspension bridge, and turn left onto Capilano Park Road. Alternatively, take the SeaBus ferry to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver and connect to bus 236.
When to Get There
Though the hatchery is open year-round, the best time to go is during the salmon run, which typically takes place between September and November. During this time, adult salmon can often be observed fighting their way upstream.
Exploring Capilano River Regional Park
While you’re at the hatchery, set aside some time to explore Capilano River Regional Park. Farther upstream from the hatchery, you’ll find the Cleveland Dam, the source of a portion of Vancouver’s drinking water. The dam is also the starting point for several scenic hiking trails, including the 4.3-mile (7-kilometer) Capilano River Walk and the 1.8-mile (3-kilometer) Capilano Dam Loop.
Address: 4500 Capilano Park Rd, North Vancouver, BC, Canada
From $ 100
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Get your fill of Vancouver's famous natural landscapes at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, a quintessential British Columbia experience and one of the Pacific Northwest's most popular attractions. Travelers are drawn to the park to walk out onto the the 450-foot (137-meter) suspension bridge as it sways between the temperate rain forest trees over the rushing Capilano River below. Other highlights include kid-friendly guided nature walks; several First Nations totem poles; the 700-foot-long (213-meter) Cliffwalk; and the TreeTops Adventure, a swinging network of smaller, open-ended suspension bridges strung between eight towering Douglas fir trees.
The Basics
Travelers can purchase suspension bridge admission tickets and make their own way to the park (it's best to book tickets to this popular site in advance), or visit on a small-group or private tour from Vancouver that also heads to Grouse Mountain or includes a Vancouver city tour with roundtrip transportation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- To quell any fears of heights, it helps to remember that the bridge's thick steel cables used for grip are securely embedded in huge concrete blocks on either side of the canyon.
- While strollers, wheelchairs, and crutches are not allowed on the bridge, visitors with wheelchairs receive free entrance to the park and can take part in other activities.
- Dogs are permitted in the park, as long as they stay on-leash.
- The site features a gift shop.
How to Get to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is located in North Vancouver, across the First Narrows from Stanley Park. By road, take Highway 99 north across the Lions Gate Bridge to Exit 14 on Capilano Road. By public transit, take bus No. 246 from downtown Vancouver, or take the connection between the SeaBus and bus No. 236. A free shuttle also stops at several downtown hotels, and you can get there easily from the Olympic Cauldron, Granville Island, and Canada Place.
When to Get There
While summer is by far the most popular time to visit and take your turn at the walk across the bridge, the park is open year-round. Between the months of November and January, the bridge and surrounding area are lit up with hundreds of thousands of canyon lights set against the greenery. You’ll also find fun holiday activities suitable for families and kids.
Address: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver, British Columbia V7R 4J1, Canada
Hours: Daily; hours vary seasonally
Admission: Varies
From $ 64
Cleveland Dam
Built in 1954, the Cleveland Dam was constructed for a number of important reasons. Unlike many other dams though, this one is not used for hydroelectricity. Instead, the original purpose of the dam was to hold back water entering into Burrard Inlet, which used to come in at a heavy pace carrying with it a hearty amount of silt and rocks, as well as a heavy current. Cleveland Dam was also constructed to protect a means of fresh drinking water for the lower mainland of Vancouver. In fact, the lake above Cleveland Dam provides the lower mainland with a whopping 40% of its fresh drinking water.
These days, Cleveland Dam makes up a part of North Vancouver that has quickly become a popular tourism destination and in the area around the dam, there are a number of parks and hiking paths. The dam itself sits in a protected park called Capilano River Regional Park, which also encompasses Capilano Lake, the body of water that the 300-foot spillway of the dam encloses. In the area, visitors can also find attractions such as the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Lynn Canyon Park, and Grouse Mountain.
Practical Info
Cleveland Dam is located in North Vancouver and if you’re heading there by car from the downtown area, is best reached via Stanley Park, the Lion's Gate Bridge and Capilano Road. You can also reach the Dam via public transport by catching bus No. 426 toward Highland. The journey takes about 45 minutes and busses leave around every 30 minutes.
Address: North Vancouver, BC, Canada
From $ 121
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
A mix of styles come together at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, from Asian and Latin American, to contemporary and ethnic artworks.
The gallery exhibits a wide range of sculptures, textiles, prints, paintings and weaving, focusing in particular on Japanese and Canadian works.
An Asian garden surrounds the gallery, underscoring the gallery’s highly prized collection of Asian art inside.
Guided tours, events, classes and educational programs round out the gallery’s cultural calendar.The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a few streets east of Victoria Harbour.
Buses run here from downtown, or it’s around a 20-minute stroll from the waterfront.
Address: 1,040 Moss Street, Victoria BC V8V 4P1, Canada
Hours: Open daily, closed Easter Monday, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
From $ 31
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls is a spectacular 216-foot waterfall located just a short hop off the Sea-to-Sky Highway between Squamish and Whistler. The falls are also surrounded by Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, which has tripled in size in the past decade.
Measuring 216 feet, the waterfall is nearly 30 percent taller than Niagara Falls, albeit with a fraction of the water volume. A half-mile (1-km) walking trail leads from the parking lot to a viewpoint, and it’s worth venturing a few minutes further down the trail, too, as a second viewpoint offers panoramic views across Daisy Lake.
Both the Lava Lake and Sea-to-Sky trails offer short hiking and mountain biking opportunities within the park. The steeper Swim Lake Trail, which starts just before the railway crossing, doesn’t actually lead to a good swimming hole, as Swim Lake doesn't have a dock or beach. However, the trail is worth exploring because it provides the best opportunity to spot the rare – and endangered – red-legged frog.
Practical Info
Brandywine Falls Provincial Park is open year round, although deep snow makes access difficult in winter. It is located 10.5 miles (17 km) south of Whistler and 25 miles (40 km) north of Squamish on the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99).
Address: Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, BC, Canada
From $ 104