Things to Do in Vancouver

A popular city beach with a view of the North Shore mountains. Sandy shore, lifeguards in summer, and a long promenade for walking.

🕐 Open 24 hours. Lifeguards: 11am–5pm in summer only.

💡 Head to the Sunset Beach side, quieter with better sunset views. Bring your own food – nearby cafes overcharge. Free public BBQs available.

A lively indoor market under the Granville Street Bridge selling fresh produce, artisan foods, and crafts. Also has street performers and galleries.

🕐 Market: 9am–7pm daily (closes 6pm in winter).

💡 Go early (9am) on weekdays to avoid crowds. Free samples at the bakery stalls. The nearby breweries offer $6 tastings.

A 405-hectare urban park with a seawall walk, old-growth forest trails, and beaches. You can walk, cycle, or take the free shuttle in summer.

🕐 Open 24 hours. Seawall lit until 10pm.

💡 Hire a bike from Denman Street (about $10/hour) and ride the 9km seawall loop clockwise to avoid hills. Skip the paid aquarium inside.

A 55-acre botanical garden with themed areas, a hedge maze, and a large lake. Entry costs about $12 adults, free for under-5s.

🕐 9am–8pm (summer); 9am–4:30pm (winter). Closed Dec 25.

💡 Visit in December for the Festival of Lights ($12–16) – much cheaper than other holiday events. The garden cafe does affordable tea and cake.

University museum with an outstanding collection of First Nations art, totem poles, and contemporary works. Entry is $18 but free on Friday evenings (5–8pm).

🕐 10am–5pm Wed–Sun; free 5–8pm Fri. Closed Mon–Tue.

💡 Use the free UBC bus shuttle from the main campus for a scenic ride. Book the Friday free evening slot online to guarantee entry.