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.
Since 1973 the Cultch has been providing Vancouver with quality contemporary productions in the arts. The theater was actually originally a Methodist church, long since converted into the venue that it is known and loved. The Cultch also provides art programs for youth and hosts an annual youth arts festival. See website for more details.
Vancouver Aquarium Marine Wetenschapscentrum is één van de grootste van Noord-Amerika. U vindt er meer dan 8.000 waterdieren, komende uit het verre Arctica en Amazonegebied. Het pas geopende Pacific Canada Paviljoen bevat een levende expositie die de problemen van het leven in zee van de Georgia Straight interpreteert. De belangrijkste attracties zijn echter de orca, beluga en dolfijnen shows. Kijkt op de website voor de toegangsprijzen
Deze bekroonde glas en betonnen structuur bevat één van de grootste kunstverzamelingen van de wereld van de Noordwest Kust Eerste Naties. Dit Universiteit van Brits Columbia museum mag u niet missen. Geschiedenis, cultuur en kunst worden er tentoongesteld in een sfeer van rust en licht. Bekijkt de totempalen, kano's, sculpturen in zilver, goud en hout. Er is ook een geschenkenwinkel en er zijn rondleidingen. Kijk op de website voor meer details.
Orpheum Theatre was built in 1927 and restored in 1976 to its former glory. Originally opened as a vaudeville house, it is now a beautiful, much-loved city landmark. Located in the entertainment district Downtown, it is the perfect venue for a glamorous night out on the town, offering a variety of concerts, musicals and ceremonies as well as being the home of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
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.
For an evening of laughter and merriment, visit Yuk Yuk's Comedy Club, nestled in Downtown Vancouver. This, chain of comedy clubs created in 1977 by Mark Breslin, a stand-up comedian, is one of Canada's prime places for a laughter riot. A line up of events by popular names like Sean Cullen, Nikki Payne and various artistes from New York, leaves the audience in splits of laughter. Yuk Yuk's is one of the best places to drop by when you are gloomy. After a show take home a memorabilia from Yuk Yuk's; you can choose from sweatshirts, tank tops, bags, hats and more. Visit the store and check out their collection.
Fondly known as the golf ball because of the glittery geodesic dome that sits atop it, this science center is a former Expo '86 pavilion. Today, it is a top family destination, offering educational, entertaining and interactive exhibits. Three main galleries explore the areas of biology, physics and music. A 3D laser show presents fun images. The biggest attraction is the OMNIMAX Theatre, which features science and nature films on one of the world's largest dome screens.
This massive domed theater, one of the largest in the world, transports its visitors to a myriad of spectacular locations. It's a 400-seat theater with a five-story screen and 28-speaker digital sound system. And as if that wasn't impressive enough, Omnimax Theatre shows award-winning science and nature films from around the globe.
Initially opened in 1931 as a vaudeville and movie house, this Art Deco establishment is now under the management of the Arts Club Theatre. It is another testament to Vancouver's current cultural rejuvenation. The historic landmark seats 650 and is currently home to musicals, theater productions and comedies. The venue now has full bar service and is within walking distance to pre-theater and post-theater dining. There is ample parking in the surrounding residential streets. Check website for more details on current and upcoming events.
Brimming with a delightful vibrancy, Granville Island is a veritable haven of shopping, entertainment and culture located only a few minutes away from Downtown Vancouver. At the crack of dawn, water taxis can be seen ferrying across False Creek, bearing local wares and fruit crates ready to be sold at the Public Market. The Island's colour, warmth and jubilant personality are fed by each of the 300 businesses and vendors that inhabit its charming stretch. Whether it is the assortment of handicrafts, Aboriginal Art and locally curated souvenirs sold at its homegrown shops and galleries or the pull of culture on display at its performing arts venues, Granville Island saves something for everyone. Notable among its many landmarks is the Emily Carr University of Art and Design, the Vancouver Theatresports League and the Granville Island Brewing Company.
Established in 1965 this gallery, located in Toronto is the oldest contemporary art gallery in Canada. The gallery represents about 50 artists, from senior artists that are part of Canadian art history to promising talent from the current generation. It is also a member of the South Granville Gallery Association. The gallery holds numerous national and international exhibitions. They also provide additional services like shipping and delivering art work to private residences and public spaces.