Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Vancouver
Vancouver is one of the world’s top tourist destinations – and for a good reason! There is so much to do here and in such variety that there is something for everyone and not a single day of your visit will be boring.
Whether you prefer nature walks and wildlife or shopping trips and new food experiences; Vancouver has something you will fall in love with. Check out our top 5 things to do when you visit Vancouver:
Whale watching tours are one of the biggest draws for tourists visiting Vancouver. The beautiful coastline is full of majestic wildlife including orca, grey whales, humpback whales, dolphins and sea lions.
Seeing these magical creatures is a once in a lifetime opportunity and Vancouver is one of the best places in the world to do it. It is an unforgettable journey through the San Juan and Gulf Islands, where you will see beautiful wildlife, and scenery that will make you treasure your visit to Vancouver forever.
On our tours we seek resident and transient killer whales, humpbacks, porpoise, sea lions and more. Plus we visit some island gems like Poets Cove and Port Browning, travelling on an exhilarating boat. You will be bringing back photos of some of the dazzling animals and landscapes that you will be the envy of everyone you know.
If you have an Instagram account, you will know what the Capilano Suspension Bridge is with over 100,000 photos tagged at the location.
It was first built in 1889 and totals 137 metres across the Capilano River. It’s not a place to visit if you have a fear of heights as it swings over 70 metres above the water. Before it was the bridge you see today, it was built with hemp rope and cedar planks and used by the log baron property as a way to access the dense forests on either side of the river.
Stanley Park is a place that needs no introduction, it is one of the most famous parks not just in Canada but in the whole world. It is cherished by tourists and locals alike with people from all over the world coming to stroll through its beautiful gardens, trails and beaches.
There are also historical totems within the park with three beautifully carved First Nations poles at different entrances to the park. Other totems have also been purchased over the years, and there are nine in total that you can go see.
If you’re a foodie, then this is the place for you. Granville Island is Vancouver’s second most visited destination and is a busy and overwhelming place with restaurants, theatres and shops galore.
There is a huge variety of street food and restaurants to choose from with food from all over the world, but of course, if you’re in Canada you have to try the poutine! Why not pick up a portion and just observe the world going by on the island?
With 20 locations on Granville Island for street performers of all varieties, including musicians, fire performers, magicians and other entertainers, even just standing still and watching the streets could never be boring here.
The Museums and Galleries
Vancouver has a rich and exciting history, and you can explore it along with its art and culture in one of the many galleries and museums across the city.
Our personal favourites are:
- UBC Museum of Anthropology – Showcasing an incredible collection of First Nations and Coast Salish art and historical artefacts that can only be found in this region.
- Vancouver Art Gallery – Exhibiting a range from cutting-edge, contemporary work to historical masters this gallery is one of Vancouver’s top landmarks. It is home to more than 9,000 works of art, including those by famous BC artist Emily Carr. Handy tip for the budget traveller – Tuesday from 5pm to 9pm you can get in with a donation of any amount rather than the set admission fee.
- Vancouver Maritime Museum – Of course, this made our list, anything to do with boats and you can count us in! It’s the premier maritime museum on the whole of the Pacific coast of Canada and is the home of the masterfully restored St. Roch, a 1928 schooner that travelled the Northwest Passage and circumnavigated North America.
We hope you got some good ideas from our list of how to best experience Vancouver. Leave us a comment on Facebook, Instagram, or send us a message to let us know.
If you are looking to book your spot or group for an upcoming whale watching adventure, be sure to check out our online booking feature which makes booking easy! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send us a message or call 604-868-1755.
See you out on the water!
Jesse Finkle