title: "Top 6 Things to do in Vancouver, Canada" description: "Discover the top activities in Vancouver. 1. Explore Stanley Park and the Seawall 2. Discover Granville Island Public Market 3. Cross the Capilano Suspe..." slug: "index" content_type: html parts: ["north-america", "canada", "british-columbia---pacific-coast", "vancouver"] publication_date: "2025-08-01T11:13:17.901350" og_image: "https://images.tfaworldguide.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=1024,format=auto,height=1024,fit=cover,gravity=auto/image_library/pexels/vancouver/vancouver_18604163.jpeg"
Vancouver
Vancouver presents a unique blend of urban sophistication and breathtaking natural beauty. This coastal city invites exploration, from its sprawling urban parks and scenic beaches to its mountainous backdrops. Visitors can immerse themselves in a vibrant city life while still being steps away from outdoor adventures.
<p>For those seeking to connect with others, Gastown offers cobblestone streets lined with trendy bars and restaurants, providing a lively atmosphere. Granville Island, with its dynamic public market and diverse eateries, is another energetic hub. Yaletown also contributes to the city's social fabric with its fashionable restaurants and vibrant nightlife. The West End provides a rich cultural experience alongside its beach access, fostering a community feel. </p>
Top 6 Things to do in Vancouver
Vancouver offers a range of activities, from exploring expansive urban parks and vibrant markets to experiencing mountainous adventures and rich cultural sites.
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<h3>1. Explore Stanley Park and the Seawall</h3>
<p>Cycling or walking the Stanley Park Seawall provides impressive views of Vancouver's skyline, mountains, and the ocean. This 9-kilometer path circles the park, offering a refreshing outdoor experience and access to beaches and notable landmarks like the Totem Poles. Consider renting a bike to cover more ground and truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty.</p>
<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Exploring Stanley Park is free. Bicycle rentals are available just outside the park, starting from approximately $8.57 CAD for the first hour for an adult bike. Paid parking is available throughout the park, costing $4.50 CAD per hour or $16.75 CAD for a full day from April to September. </p>
<p><strong>Transport:</strong> Stanley Park is easily accessible from downtown. The #19 bus route serves various points within the park, costing around $4 CAD for a single fare. Taxis from downtown take about 3 minutes and cost $10-$13 CAD. </p>
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<h3>2. Discover Granville Island Public Market</h3>
<p>Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Granville Island Public Market, a food lover's paradise. It features over 60 merchants offering fresh seafood, local produce, baked goods, artisan cheeses, and unique crafts. This vibrant hub is perfect for a leisurely stroll, sampling local delicacies, and experiencing Vancouver's dynamic culinary scene.</p>
<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Entry to Granville Island Public Market is free; costs will vary depending on purchases of food, drinks, or artisan goods. </p>
<p><strong>Transport:</strong> Accessible by the #50 False Creek bus from downtown, which stops near the island for approximately $4 CAD. Alternatively, embrace a scenic approach by taking an Aquabus or False Creek Ferry from various points around False Creek. Pay parking is available on the island from 9 AM to 10 PM daily. </p>
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<h3>3. Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge</h3>
<p>Experience an exhilarating walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, suspended high above the Capilano River. Beyond the main bridge, explore the Treetops Adventure, a series of smaller suspension bridges through the forest canopy, and the Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway offering dramatic views. This attraction provides a thrilling connection with nature.</p>
<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Ticket prices are approximately $56 CAD for evening admission (as of 2024). It is recommended to book online for potential savings. </p>
<p><strong>Transport:</strong> A complimentary shuttle service operates from downtown Vancouver during peak season (May 3rd to September 1st) with park admission. Public transit via the #246 bus takes about 24-32 minutes and costs around $4 CAD. A taxi or rideshare from downtown typically costs $25-$35 CAD and takes 10-20 minutes. </p>
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<h3>4. Ascend Grouse Mountain via Skyride</h3>
<p>Take the Skyride aerial tram to the summit of Grouse Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains. Once at the top, enjoy a variety of activities depending on the season, including wildlife viewing at the Refuge for Endangered Wildlife, hiking, ziplining, or witnessing the Lumberjack Show. The 'Peak of Vancouver' offers both adventure and stunning vistas.</p>
<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Skyride admission for adults (18-64) is approximately $86.17 CAD (2025 prices). </p>
<p><strong>Transport:</strong> During summer, a free shuttle bus operates from Canada Place to Grouse Mountain. Alternatively, take the SeaBus from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay, then connect to the #236 bus, which goes directly to Grouse Mountain. The bus fare is around $4 CAD. A taxi from Vancouver to Grouse Mountain takes about 14 minutes and costs $30-$40 CAD. </p>
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<h3>5. Stroll through Gastown</h3>
<p>Wander the historic cobblestone streets of Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood. Admire the Victorian architecture, browse the unique boutiques and art galleries, and enjoy the diverse array of trendy restaurants and lively bars. Don't miss the iconic Gastown Steam Clock, a popular landmark that emits steam and whistles every quarter-hour.</p>
<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Exploring Gastown is free; costs vary for shopping, dining, and drinks. </p>
<p><strong>Transport:</strong> Gastown is centrally located and highly accessible by public transit. It is one block from Waterfront Station, which is served by SkyTrain lines, the SeaBus, and various bus routes, with fares around $4 CAD. </p>
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<h3>6. Visit the Museum of Anthropology at UBC</h3>
<p>Explore the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia, a world-renowned museum showcasing impressive collections of Northwest Coast First Nations art and artifacts. The soaring glass and concrete architecture, designed by Arthur Erickson, provides a dramatic setting for magnificent carvings, totem poles, and contemporary artworks, offering deep insights into Indigenous cultures and global art.</p>
<p><strong>Cost:</strong> Admission for adults is $25 CAD (as of January 2025). Half-price admission is available on Thursday evenings after 5 PM. </p>
<p><strong>Transport:</strong> From downtown Vancouver, various westbound bus routes (e.g., #25, #33, R4, #99 B-Line) arrive at UBC Exchange, followed by a 15-minute walk to MOA, costing around $4 CAD. Taxis from downtown typically cost $30-$40 CAD and take about 14 minutes. </p>
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