Vancouver

Welcome to Vancouver

The first stop on the trip, Vancouver is one of Canada's most densely populated and ethnically diverse cities. Surrounded by lush forests, towering mountains, and the Strait of Georgia, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Vancouver. Below are some recommendations.

Visit Stanley Park

Vancouver's first park is also one of its top tourist attractions. Occupying the majority of the peninsula to the northwest of downtown, Stanley Park features pristine woodlands and tremendous views of downtown Vancouver. Take a stroll along the Seawall and be sure to walk over to Brockton Point to check out the famous Totem Poles.

Stroll though Gastown

Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, Gastown grew from a single tavern founded by John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton back in 1867. Today, the district retains its historic charm and independent spirit. Victorian architecture houses a thriving fashion scene, impeccably curated décor boutiques, one-of-a-kind galleries and some of the best culinary fare in Vancouver. It’s a gathering place for stylish locals and an ideal neighbourhood to explore on foot. Gastown lies along the north of the downtown Vancouver peninsula, from Richards east to Main Street, and south to Hastings Street.

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Take the Ferry to Granville Island

In the early 1900s, Granville Island was home to factories, plants and sawmills. Things are a little different today—Granville Island is both a locals’ favorite and a huge draw for visitors. Technically a sandspit and not an island, the neighbourhood sits just south of the downtown peninsula, right under the Granville Bridge. The Granville Island Public Market acts as a hub of activity, but it’s also one of the city’s most important cultural districts with theatres, artisan workshops and craft studios.

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GETTING TO GRANVILLE ISLAND

Although not actually an island, the easiest way to get there from downtown is by ferry. There are 2 main ferry services that sail from various terminals downtown:

Both options also provide passage to multiple points along the False Creek.

Walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge

No trip to Vancouver is complete without visiting the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge. While there are many suspension bridges in the canyons around Vancouver, this one, saddling the Capilano River is by far the most famous and popular

Visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden

Located in Vancouver bustling Chinatown, the Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden is one of the more exquisite Chinese Gardens in Canada and North America. It was built by hand in the traditional style and is made to reflect the complex gardens of mainland China. The Garden is open daily from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM during the summer. Admission is $14/person.

More info on the Sun Yat-Sen Garden

Hike Lynn Canyon

While Capilano may get most of the attention, Lynn Canyon is also a worthy destination. The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge hangs 160 feet over the Lynn Creek and connects a multitude of trails on either side. Unlike Capilano, Lynn Canyon Park is free to visit and is a great connection to nature in urban Vancouver.

Vancouver Dining

Check out these restaurants, cafes, markets, and coffee shops.

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