Does Vancouver have a fun nightlife? Well, that’s like asking if the mountains need the sky – absolutely! When the sun takes its final bow and the city lights perform their nightly ballet, this city transforms into a playground for the nocturnal at heart.
So grab your favourite nighttime snack (we won’t judge if it’s a maple donut) and get ready to explore the best things in Vancouver at night. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about getting a front-row seat to the symphony of snoring at the nearest hotel!
- Enjoy a Vancouver sunset dinner buffet cruise
- Take a spooky Lost Souls of Gastown Walking Tour
- Experience the enchanting Capilano Suspension Bridge Canyon Lights
- Go stargazing at the Gordon MacMillan Southam Observatory
- Join a nighttime kayak tour in English Bay with Jericho Beach Kayak
- Try your luck at the Parq Vancouver Casino Resort
- Attend a late-night comedy show at Yuk Yuk's Comedy Club
- Experience the thrill of night skiing or snowboarding on Grouse Mountain
- Go for a late-night swim at Maple Grove Pool
- Enjoy a night of dancing at The Roxy
- Explore the Shipyards Night Market
- Take a scenic night drive to enjoy city views from Queen Elizabeth Park
- Dine at The Observatory
- Sip cocktails at The Parlour
Enjoy a Vancouver sunset dinner buffet cruise
– Media from harbourcruises
Location: 501 Denman St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2W9, Canada
Contact: +1 604-688-7246
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Harbour Cruises gets the timing of this cruise just perfect. It starts late in the afternoon so this means that not only do you get to bask in the golden hour’s glow and witness the sun dip into a mesmerizing orange sky.
Now onto the cruise itself. Picture this: you’re gliding through the harbour, with stunning views of Canda Place, the North Shore Mountains, and the Vancouver skyline.
Plus, the dinner buffet is a culinary journey! Fresh salads, slow-roasted beef sirloin, baked salmon fillet. And of course, you’ve got to save room for desserts like New York-style cheesecake and decadent chocolate cake.
Take a spooky Lost Souls of Gastown Walking Tour
– Media from forbiddenvancouver
Location: You can meet the organizers outside of Monaco Cafe – 356 Water Street, Vancouver, Canada
Contact: [email protected]
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 7:00 PM onwards
Led by an actor guide, this Forbidden Vancouver tour brings to life the gripping stories of Gastown’s early days. You’ll wander through the historic streets and alleys where you can be immersed in tales of fires, plagues, gambling dens, and mysteries.
Running for about 90 minutes, it starts at the heart of Gastown and takes you on a journey through time that reveals the area’s gritty and intriguing past. While the content is mature, it’s still an engaging way to learn about the city’s history interactively and memorably.
Experience the enchanting Capilano Suspension Bridge Canyon Lights
– Media from capilanosuspensionbridge
Location: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada
Contact: +1 604-985-7474
This activity lights up close to half a million lights and decorations that transform the already stunning Capilano Suspension Bridge into a winter wonderland.
The real start of the show here is the suspension bridge itself, and let me tell you, crossing it at night is an otherworldly experience. Imagine the bridge, lit end-to-end with a multi-colour display, swaying above the illuminated river – it’s both thrilling and utterly magical.
To top it all off, you can enjoy live festive tunes and sip hot chocolate (marshmallows for the kiddos, and Bailey’s for the grown-ups, perhaps?). The atmosphere is romantic and family friendly which is an ideal spot for a date night or an evening with the family.
Go stargazing at the Gordon MacMillan Southam Observatory
– Media from spacecentreyvr
Location: 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3J9, Canada
Contact: +1 604-738-7827
Opening hours:
- Wednesday & Friday – 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM
At Gordon MacMillan Southam Observatory you can view planets, moons, and star clusters, and on special occasions, maybe even catch a glimpse of the rings of Saturn! It’s the perfect blend of science and awe, and a chance to step away from the city.
The observatory also hosts family events where you can learn about how telescopes work, enjoy live demonstrations, and make some fun astronomy crafts.
Join a nighttime kayak tour in English Bay with Jericho Beach Kayak
– Media from jerichobeachkayak
Location: 1300 Discovery St, Vancouver, BC V6R 4K5, Canada
Contact: +1 604-689-7575
Opening hours:
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
What’s great about Jericho Beach Kayak is that it offers a “Glow in the Dark Tour’. Imagine kayaks lit up with LED lights, creating a mesmerizing scene on the water. Plus, your guides here are experienced and can cater to both beginners and seasoned kayakers.
The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, which gives you ample time to soak in the scenery and the night’s calmness. The tour is perfect whether you’re a local looking for a new way to see your city or a visitor seeking an unforgettable experience.
And the best part? No prerequisites are needed, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to try sea kayaking
Try your luck at the Parq Vancouver Casino Resort
– Media from parqvancouverbc
Location: 39 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5E7, Canada
Contact: +1 888-281-8868
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
At Parq, it’s not just about rolling the dice or playing the slots – though, with their vast 72,000-square-foot gaming floor, you’re certainly in for some gaming fun. With high-end salons, dining options, and exquisite bars, Parq is where you go to see and be seen.
With a variety of games here, there’s a good chance you might walk away feeling lucky. And even if Lady Luck isn’t on your side, the clean and pristine facilities, along with the great food options and service, ensure a fun experience regardless.
Attend a late-night comedy show at Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club
– Media from yukyukscomedy
Location: 188 N Renfrew St, Vancouver, BC V5K 3N8, Canada
Contact: +1 800-899-9136
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 8:00 PM onwards
- Saturday – 7:00 PM onwards
Now, why should you spend your evening at Yuk Yuk’s? First off, the talent is top-notch. You’ll get a mix of seasoned pros who know how to work the room, along with up-and-coming comics delivering fresh material that’s bound to leave you in stitches.
The vibe here is uniquely welcoming. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back, relax, and just enjoy being entertained. Whether you’re on a date, out with friends, or flying solo, you’ll feel right at home.
And let’s not forget about the variety of shows they offer. From open mic nights where anything can happen to themed evenings and special events, there’s always something new and exciting on their calendar.
Experience the thrill of night skiing or snowboarding on Grouse Mountain
– Media from grousemountain
Location: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9, Canada
Contact: +1 604-980-9311
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Night skiing at Grouse Mountain has an entirely different vibe. The crowds are thinner, the lines for the lifts are shorter, and the atmosphere is just magical. It’s like having your private mountain playground, where every turn and jump feels a bit more exciting under the night sky.
And let’s talk about runs. They are beautifully lit, offering just the right amount of light to guide your way down while still keeping that thrilling night-time feel.
But it’s not just about skiing. Grouse Mountain at night is a vibe. It’s where the cool temperature meets even cooler experiences. You can take a break at the lodge, sip some hot cocoa, or indulge in some après-ski dining while sharing stories of your snowy escapades.
Go for a late-night swim at Maple Grove Pool
– Media from jowonese
Location: 6875 Yew St, Vancouver, BC V6P 5W2, Canada
Contact: +1 604-266-9512
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Maple Grove Pool is a heated and outdoor shallow pool. It’s like a little oasis with a landscape summer water park vibe that’s complete with a mini island. And guess what? It’s wheelchair-accessible too, so everyone can join in on the fun.
Sure, this spot is a hit during the day, especially with families (thanks to its child-friendly features like a water basketball hoop), but there’s something extra special about being there when the sun goes down. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day or to kickstart your evening.
Enjoy a night of dancing at The Roxy
– Media from roxyvancouver
Location: 932 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L2, Canada
Contact: +1 604-331-7999
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Nestled in the heart of the city on Granville Street, The Roxy is an iconic beacon of nightlife that’s been cranking up the volume and the fun since 1988. Think of it as a dance floor time capsule where the 90s never really ended, and the party’s just as lively.
The Roxy’s live bands are the heartbeat of the venue, pumping out tunes that range from rock anthems to catchy pop hits. And when the bands aren’t ruling the stage, the DJs take over to ensure that the beat keeps coming and your dance moves keep going.
Sure, the place can get packed, and you might find yourself elbow-to-elbow with fellow partygoers. But that’s all part of the charm. It’s where the city comes to celebrate – birthdays, big wins, or just the fact that it’s a Saturday night.
Explore the Shipyards Night Market
– Media from shipyardsnightmarket
Location: 19 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B2, Canada
Contact: [email protected]
Opening hours:
- Friday – 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Located at the scenic Shipbuilder’s Square, the markets offer a feast for all your senses. Here you can savour a gastronomic extravaganza from the multitude of food trucks. From the sizzle of Asian street food to the embrace of gourmet burgers, this is the place to be.
But this place is also a celebration of local craftsmanship. Here, you’ll encounter a treasure trove of artisan stalls showcasing handmade jewelry, unique clothing, and an assortment of other handcrafted wonders.
And then, there’s the music – the heartbeat of the market. Live bands fill the air with melodies, creating a soundtrack for your night market adventure.
Take a scenic night drive to enjoy city views from Queen Elizabeth Park
– Media from ina_vine_cu_tine
Location: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1, Canada
Contact: +1 604-873-7000
Opening hours:
- Friday – 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Perched atop Little Mountain, Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest point in Vancouver proper. This former rock quarry, now a lush city park, is a viewing deck for the city’s twinkling lights and the majestic North Shore Mountains.
As the sun sets and the city lights begin to sparkle, the park transforms. The skyline becomes a canvas of nocturnal beauty. It’s a place where you can witness the harmonious blend of nature and cityscape.
Dine at The Observatory
– Media from clairejemamartin
Location: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9, Canada
Contact: +1 604-998-5045
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday – 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Dining at The Observatory on Grouse Mountain is an experience that literally elevates your dining experience to new heights. Situated in a chalet atop the mountain, it offers mesmerizing views of Vancouver’s city lights.
The dining experience here is unique since they offer two to three-course meals. What makes it even more special is the focus on local flavours, with a wine and beverage list featuring the finest from Okanagan vineyards.
Sip cocktails at The Parlour
– Media from theparlourrestaurants
Location: 1011 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5T4, Canada
Contact: +1 604-568-3322
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Thursday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
When it comes to choosing a drink at The Parlour, you’re definitely spoilt for choice. If you’re visiting during brunch hours (which are a must, by the way), the ‘Brunch Spritz’ is a dazzling choice.
Now, if you’re in the mood for something truly emblematic of the city, the ‘Hey Migos!’ is a must-try. This cocktail is a medley of Casamigos Blanco, Sombra Mezcal, mint, ginger, lavender, grapefruit, and lime.
And while you’re sipping on these masterpieces, don’t forget to pair them with one of their famed pizzas.