Corraled by the English Bay on one side and the Vancouver Harbour on the other, this stunning stretch of land was declared the city's first public park in 1886. Unlike most city parks, Stanley Park was not laid-out by a landscape architect, but instead, grew organically over the years. The rainforest forms the core of Stanley Park, with trees towering to a height of 76 meters (249 feet) and close to 100 years old, while the seawall hems the park's waterfront. Scattered throughout are monuments, landmarks and public art, as well as gardens with vivid floral displays and totem poles; a tapestry of varied habitats teeming with native wildlife that is held together by a network of trails. The park is also home to attractions like a miniature railway, the Malkin Bowl and the Vancouver Aquarium.
Although it's safe, you will want to grip the rope as you step out on to the creaky wooden planks of Capilano Suspension Bridge, which provides a look at the glorious Capilano River raging down at 230 feet (70 meters). This popular attraction, situated at the park of the same name, isn't recommended for those who fear heights. Ten minutes from Downtown, the attraction includes a restaurant, post and gift shop and offers guided tours as well. All the park attractions are included in the admission price.
This award-winning glass and concrete structure hold one of the world's most extensive collections of Northwest Coast First Nations art. This University of British Columbia Museum is a must-see while you are in the city. History, culture and art are on display in an atmosphere of tranquillity and light. See totem poles, canoes and sculptures in silver, gold and wood. There's also a gift shop if you wish to buy some souvenir for your family or friends.
Get a 360-degree view of Vancouver and its outlying areas from one of British Columbia's tallest buildings at the Harbour Centre. Its observation deck gives an unobstructed view of the city, Burrard Inlet, the North Shore mountains, Burnaby Mountain, West Vancouver and Bowen Island. Getting there is a fun experience in itself; glass elevators whisk you up 168 meters (553 feet) in just 40 seconds. There are multilingual guides available for those who are interested.
As part of the complex of museums located in Vanier Park, Vancouver museum is paired with the Macmillan Planetarium at the Pacific Space Centre. It has been in operation since 1894, with most exhibits and presentations focusing on the history of the city and the regions surrounding it. Renowned for its collection of natural history, ethnology, archaeology, and Asian artifacts, there are many things here to see and explore.
Considered one of the best such facilities in North America, this structure has had many transformations. Aside from the planetarium and observatory, H.R. MacMillan Space Center also features the Cosmic Courtyard hands-on gallery, a Virtual Voyages full-motion simulator, Ground-station Canada exhibits and multimedia and popular laser shows. Its overnight adventures and space camps are popular. Don't forget to visit the gift shop with space-related souvenirs. Check the website or call ahead for timings of the evening laser shows. Admission prices mentioned are applicable throughout the day.
Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver - Museum & Archives is the first museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Chinese community in Canada. While the permanent exhibits focus on the history of Chinese Canadians, the temporary exhibits present the work of local and international artists. The building blends classical and modern architectural styles and mimics the Ming Dynasty's Su Zhou Garden. Open all year round, the museum offers guided tours, language classes, tai chi workshops and historical discussion groups. The museum is adjacent to the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Gardens.
Featuring the largest collection of motorcycles, the Deeley Motorcycle Exhibition is the only one of its kind in Vancouver. Owned by motorcycle enthusiasts, Don James and Malcolm Hunter, this state-of-the-art museum takes visitors through the history and evolution of the two wheeled speed machine. The collection spans 120 years with over 250 antique, vintage and modern pieces from the likes of Harley-Davidson, Zenith and more.
Corraled by the English Bay on one side and the Vancouver Harbour on the other, this stunning stretch of land was declared the city's first public park in 1886. Unlike most city parks, Stanley Park was not laid-out by a landscape architect, but instead, grew organically over the years. The rainforest forms the core of Stanley Park, with trees towering to a height of 76 meters (249 feet) and close to 100 years old, while the seawall hems the park's waterfront. Scattered throughout are monuments, landmarks and public art, as well as gardens with vivid floral displays and totem poles; a tapestry of varied habitats teeming with native wildlife that is held together by a network of trails. The park is also home to attractions like a miniature railway, the Malkin Bowl and the Vancouver Aquarium.
This nature hut is nestled in Lynn Canyon Park. Featuring hands-on displays about animals, plants and the urban environment, it is a great way for families to round out an afternoon in the park. You can also enjoy films in the mini-theatre, play with the puppets or relax while the kids play with the piles of animal and nature toys around. The park itself is home to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, acres of hiking trails, a concession stand and picnic facilities. It is easily accessible by public transit.
Rent a motorboat and go fishing on the cool-blue waters. Or cruise the islands and inlets of Howe Sound as well. Rates include dockside instructions and equipments. You can also let experienced guides bring you to where the salmon are jumping and biting. A five-hour charter trip includes everything except licenses and food. You can also take a wild ride on an inflatable hull!
Possibly the city's least crowded beach, this is a great place to go to appreciate the sea's wonder in peace and quiet. This is a long stretch of clean and sandy waterfront in West Point Grey. It is family-friendly and home to summertime events like a sandcastle competition in late July, beach soccer competition mid August and the Jewish Worldbeat Festival in late August. There are concession stands, changing rooms, showers and grassy areas. Skimmers alert: this is the perfect place for skim boarding once you learn the optimal tidal conditions. Great for swimming and other adventurous water sports such as windsurfing. Lifeguards are assigned for the safety of the visitors and parking is free.