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Top 10 Fun Activities to do in Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is a cosmopolitan hotspot unlike any other, where the salty ocean meets snow-capped mountains, modern glass skyscrapers meet an influential First Nations culture, and endless natural adventure meets ever-expanding urbanism.

Hike the trails around Squamish or shred some fresh powder on one of the many world-class slopes. Take in some live music at one of Vancouver’s ever-lively watering holes, browse the award-winning museums, or go for a jog around Stanley Park if you prefer something more low-key.

Whatever type of things to do in Vancouver you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of options in this bucket list destination!

1. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is your gateway to Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast. From a one-hour interpretive walk to a lifetime hike along the legendary West Coast Trail, there is something for everyone. Explore tidal pools teeming with sea life, or take a peaceful paddle among the emerald waters of the Broken Group Islands.

Long Beach, the West Coast Trail, and the Broken Group of Islands are the three distinct sections of the park that include sandy beaches, island archipelagos, temperate rainforests, and significant archaeological sites.

2. Take in the scenery from the Vancouver Lookout

A panoramic view is essential for appreciating Vancouver in all its grandeur, as it is surrounded on one side by the Coal Harbor and on the other by the jagged Olympic and North Shore mountain ranges.

And what better location than the Vancouver Lookout? With a height of 168 meters in the heart of downtown, this iconic lookout provides 360-degree views of ‘the Coove’ in all its glory. It’s ideal for photo ops and getting your bearings before exploring the city on foot!

3. Spend the day in Victoria on Vancouver Island

Stock Aerial Photo of Clayoquot Tofino Vancouver Island BC, Canada. Photo by Overflight stock Ltd.

Victoria on Vancouver Island is well worth the day trip for history buffs and nature lovers alike, and is only a short ferry ride or scenic flight from Vancouver.

A trip to James Bay would be incomplete without a visit to downtown’s historic Bastion Square and Chinatown. It’s also important to make time for some of Victoria’s lesser-known attractions, such as the Royal BC Museum (formerly the Provincial Museum), Emily Carr House, and one of the city’s many iconic lighthouses.

Combine a visit to Victoria with a whale-watching boat tour and a ticket to the Butchart Gardens for the best experience.

4. Make the trip to stunning Whistler

Whistler Black comb day trip. Photo by Murray Foubister. Wikimedia

Whistler is a world-famous destination for winter sports enthusiasts (and for good reason), offering incredible heli-skiing, snowmobiling, skijoring, and even dog sledding. There are numerous opportunities to demonstrate your downhill abilities.

Visitors who prefer to keep their feet on the ground can still participate in a variety of winter activities. These activities range from ice skating at one of Whistler’s many outdoor rinks to the popular après-ski or sleigh rides through the snow-dusted forest.

Outside of ski season, the Sky Gondola and hiking trails provide absolutely stunning views — a must-see at any time of year.

5. Visit the Vancouver Aquarium 

Vancouver Aquarium entrance. Photo by Jeff Hitchcock.

The Vancouver Aquarium is easily British Columbia’s most revered aquatic tourist attraction, with over 70,000 animals and over 30 unique exhibits, including insights into beluga whales and dolphins!

This fascinating facility not only houses a variety of aquatic life (including fish, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles), but it also hosts daily feeding demonstrations for visitors who want to get up close and personal with their favorite aquatic animals.

6. Immerse yourself in the culture of Chinatown Vancouver

This vibrant neighborhood is worth visiting just for the restaurants, but there’s much more to Chinatown than just delicious food. Take a guided walking tour of the area for an authentic experience and learn all about it from friendly locals who know these streets well.

If you’re looking for some zen with your kids, don’t miss the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, an enchanting space where you can stroll through elaborate gardens designed to reflect.

7. Turn the page at the Vancouver Public Library

Vancouver Public Library. Photo by GoToVan.

With 20 locations scattered throughout the city, the Vancouver Public Library is your best bet for a quiet place to work or study (or simply dive into a thrilling novel).

This magnificent main building (Central Library on West Georgia Street) houses millions of books (most of which are in English), as well as hundreds of thousands of e-books and other items available on-demand through its catalog — including DVDs, CDs, magazines, and newspapers!

8. Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery to broaden your horizons

This impressive building, located just off Robson Street, one of Vancouver’s main shopping areas, is officially the largest art gallery in Western Canada.

It provides visitors with a world-class exhibition program that includes works by both Canadian and international artists from ancient to contemporary times.

In addition to its traditional exhibitions, the VAG hosts community events such as free family days and hands-on workshops for kids, as well as guided tours!

9. Visit Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens. Photo by cultural heritage site in Canada.

Butchart Gardens is a popular tourist attraction in Canada and a worthwhile day trip destination for visitors to Vancouver Island (especially those keen on ferns).

The 55-acre Butchart Gardens, famous for their year-round blooms, is located just outside Victoria and offers a nearly limitless array of floral wonders to explore.

The sprawling gardens are divided into sections that focus on different themes, such as lush perennials, colorful roses, peonies, and azaleas.

While you’re there, keep your eyes peeled for peacocks!

10. Look up at the trees in Queen Elizabeth Park

Cherry Blossoms at Queen Elizabeth Park. Photo by GoToVan.

This local treasure features peaceful, sprawling gardens and a lovely pond, as well as one of North America’s largest collections of mature Douglas Fir trees.

The park is conveniently located northeast of downtown Vancouver and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Many visitors choose the guided tour, which includes hotel pickup and stops at Granville Island and Prospect Point Lighthouse.