Liam AndersonLooking for an adventure that will leave you breathless? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In Vancouver, the question isn’t whether there’s something to do – it’s where to begin!
From enchanting natural wonders to exhilarating urban escapades, from hidden gems known only to the locals to world-class attractions that draw visitors from afar, Vancouver has it all… and we’re here to show it to you.
So, fasten your seatbelts (or should we say toques?) because we’re about to embark on a whirlwind tour of the city that marries breathtaking vistas with urban charm.
- Strike at Commodore Lanes & Billiards
- Laugh at Vancouver TheatreSports
- Jump at Sky Zone Trampoline Park
- Shoot at DVC Indoor Shooting Centre
- Paddle with Vancouver Water Adventures
- Solve with Vancouver Mysteries
- Whale watch Wild Whales Vancouver
- Trek through Lynn Canyon Park
- Discover the Beaty Biodiversity Museum
- Relax in Dr. Sun Yat-Sen's Chinese Garden
- Browse the Pacific Arts Market
- Visit Van Dusen Botanical Gardens
- Experience the Granville Island Market Food Tour
- Dine at Shaughnessy Restaurant
- Have a drink at The Pint Public House
- Go skiing at Cypress Mountain
- Take in 360-degree panoramic views with Vancouver Lookout
Strike at Commodore Lanes & Billiards
– Media from eltonsean
Location: 838 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2C9, Canada
Contact: +1 604-681-1531
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Open since 1930, this venue is Canada’s oldest surviving recreation centre. With 12 lanes of 5-pin bowling and 20 billiards tables, along with an arcade, foosball tables, and a virtual dart arcade, the venue promises a mix of nostalgia and modern entertainment.
The lanes here are even equipped with automatic scorekeeping, and the license lounge area provides a comfortable space for relaxation. The venue can also accommodate up to 250 people, making it an ideal location for parties or casual get-togethers.
Plus, pricing here is considerate of various needs. For billiards, charges are by the minute, with a one-hour booking minimum. Bowling is time-based and can be booked in 30-minute increments.
Laugh at Vancouver TheatreSports
– Media from theimprovcentre
Location: 1502 Duranleau St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3S4, Canada
Contact: +1 604-738-7013
Opening hours:
- Wednesday – 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 2:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Vancouver TheatreSports has established itself as a premier destination for improv comedy. It’s not only affordable, with tickets starting as low as $10.00 online, but also a registered charity so you’re ensured that laughter here supports a good cause.
The venue offers a 186-seat theatre where over 60,000 audience members, artists, and students enjoy productions annually. So… it’s pretty big. And the energy can be big too.
By the way, if you’re looking to dine out, you can present your ticket to The Vancouver Fish Company or Dockside Restaurant and you can get a discount of 15% on your meals!
Jump at Sky Zone Trampoline Park
– Media from sz_vancouver
Location: 5000 E 4th Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661, United States
Contact: +1 503-433-3939
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
As the pioneer of indoor trampoline parks, Sky Zone offers an array of activities that go beyond just jumping. From the adrenaline-pumping Freestyle Jump to the challenging Sky Ladder, the park presents a variety of attractions to suit all age groups and fitness levels.
For younger guests, the Toddler Zone provides a safe and enjoyable environment, while the Parkour Box and Free climb are perfect for those seeking a more vigorous activity.
Shoot at DVC Indoor Shooting Centre
– Media from dvcventures
Location: 1655 Broadway St #201, Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 2M7, Canada
Contact: +1 604-941-6933
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Since its inauguration in 2007, this facility has garnered acclaim for offering an engaging and secure environment to experience the thrill of shooting. You won’t need a firearm license to partake in the activities they offer.
Here. you’re greeted with a broad spectrum of firearm options, ranging from semi-automatic handguns to shotguns. Also, the center’s professionally trained Range Officers are committed to providing a memorable and safe experience.
Paddle with Vancouver Water Adventures
– Media from dazzleshine_
Location: 1812 Boatlift Lane, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Y2, Canada
Contact: +1 604-736-5155
Opening hours:
- Saturday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Paddling with Vancouver Water Adventures allows you to enjoy serene views of iconic landmarks like Granville Island, the Olympic Village, Science World, and BC Place stadium without the hassle of crowded streets.
One of the standout features of Vancouver Water Adventures is the flexibility and personalisation of the experience. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely paddle at your own pace or seeking a more structured tour with insightful stories, this place has your back.
Solve with Vancouver Mysteries
– Media from vancouvermysteries
Location: 550 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1L6, Canada
Contact: +1 778-707-1962
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
This unique activity lets you dive into the heart of the city’s secrets through an interactive, games-based approach. The games are creatively themed around spy missions, detective cases, and even superhero adventures.
The game operators, or as they like to call them, your ‘Agent X’, equip you with everything you need – from maps to mysterious artifacts. It’s all about real-life fun and bringing an exciting twist to traditional city exploration.
Each game spans about 1 to 2 hours and covers a route of approximately 2km filled with challenges and clues to decipher. And the best part? The games are accessible to all, regardless of your familiarity with Vancouver or your puzzle-solving prowess.
Whale watch Wild Whales Vancouver
– Media from wildwhalesvan
Location: 1806 Mast Tower Lane, Vancouver, BC V6H 4B6, Canada
Contact: +1 604-699-2011
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
As Vancouver’s original whale-watching company, Wild Whales offers a range of immersive tours aboard different types of vessels tailored to varying levels of adventure and comfort.
Options like the Partly-Sheltered, Open Air, and Zodiac tours cater to everyone from the curious novice to the fearless adventurer. Each option offers a unique perspective, whether it’s enjoying the comfort of a protected space or feeling the thrill of being close to the waterline.
With prices for adults starting at $170 and special rates for seniors, students, and children, the tours provide a range of affordable options.
Trek through Lynn Canyon Park
– Media from superjongho
Location: 3663 Park Road, North Vancouver, BC V7J 3K2, Canada
Contact: +1 604-990-3755
Opening hours:
- Saturday – 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
One of the park’s highlights is the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. It’s free to cross and provides breathtaking views of the canyon, waterfalls, and deep pools below. However, it’s worth noting that the bridge is quite narrow, so we recommend going early in the morning.
Lynn Canyon also boasts several other attractions like the Twin Falls and the 30-foot Pool. The park is suitable for families and children. Note that the trails are not stroller-friendly (but who brings a stroller when trekking, right?).
Discover the Beaty Biodiversity Museum
– Media from beatymuseum
Location: Vancouver Campus, 2212 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
Contact: +1 604-827-4955
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Nestled within the University of British Columbia Campus, this museum is a space dedicated to exploring the diversity of life on Earth. It welcomes around 30,000 visitors annually and stands out as one of the city’s most popular attractions.
The museum’s centrepiece is an impressive 82-foot-long skeleton of a blue whale – we highly recommend seeing this. It’s a stunning representation of the museum’s dedication to showcasing a vast range of biological specimens.
Now, if you want a deeper level of understanding, the Discovery lab and fossil collection offer an educational experience for both children and adults. It’s a place where learning is made interactive and engaging.
Relax in Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Chinese Garden
– Media from vancouverchinesegarden
Location: 578 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K2, Canada
Contact: +1 604-662-3207
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM
If you’re seeking a tranquil escape right in the heart of the city, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Chinese Garden is your go-to spot in Vancouver. It’s the first classical Chinese garden ever built outside of China and is meticulously crafted in the style of the Ming Dynasty.
As you wander through the garden, you’ll notice how every pavilion, every covered walkway, and even the koi fish darting through the jade-green pond, tell its own tale.
And if you’re keen on diving deeper, the garden doesn’t disappoint. The array of cultural programs, events, and educational activities it hosts makes it a vibrant hub of community engagement.
Browse the Pacific Arts Market
– Media from pacific_arts_market
Location: 1450 W Broadway #1448, Vancouver, BC V6H 1H4, Canada
Contact: +1 604-216-9063
Opening hours:
- Thursday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 6:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Going to this place is like stepping into a canvas where the city’s artistic pulse truly comes alive. It’s a space where over 100 local artists converge and showcase their masterpieces which range from exquisite paintings to handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and photography.
So, whether you’re an artist dreaming of a space to display your work or just a local looking for a unique piece, the Pacific Arts Market caters to all.
And the best part? It’s incredibly accessible! Located just off Gallery Row, getting here is a breeze. Plus, with the free customer and artist parking (1 hour max), the market ensures that your visit is hassle-free.
Visit Van Dusen Botanical Gardens
– Media from pacific_arts_market
Location: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada
Contact: +1 604-257-8463
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
This 55-acre haven in the heart of Vancouver is a botanical wonderland, showcasing over 7,500 plant species from around the world. Imagine getting lost in the intricate pathways where each turn reveals a new array of vibrant colours and fragrant blossoms.
Our favourite part of the garden is the Elizabethan hedge maze. It’s both a delightful challenge and a unique way to experience the garden.
Beyond the flora, Van Dusen is also a wildlife sanctuary. It’s not uncommon to catch glimpses of birds and small animals darting through the foliage. And for a moment of relaxation, the patios of the Garden Café and Shaughnessy Restaurant offer the perfect setting to dine in.
Experience the Granville Island Market Food Tour
– Media from vanfoodietoursone01
Location: 1494 Old Bridge St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3S6, Canada
Contact: +1 604-295-8844
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM
If you’re a food enthusiast looking for a unique culinary adventure in Vancouver, the Granville Island Market Food Tour is an experience you shouldn’t miss.
During the tour, you’ll get VIP access to some of Canada’s top artisans. This means skipping the line to indulge in over 20 signature Canadian tastings. The tour also showcases a variety of foods like maple salmon candy, Lee’s Honey Dipped Donuts, and more.
You’ll also get to know the community of Granville Island, meet the people behind the food, and even enjoy exclusive discounts at the market.
Dine at Shaughnessy Restaurant
– Media from shaughnessyrestaurant
Location: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada
Contact: +1 604-261-0011
Opening hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Wednesday to Friday -11:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 9:00 pM
The culinary journey at Shaughnessy is a celebration of British Columbia’s bounty. The menu showcases locally sourced ingredients and each dish narrates the region’s diverse palate.
But let’s talk specifics, the must-tries that make this place a culinary landmark. For starters, we recommend trying their Pacific Northwest seafood. For the main course, the locally sourced lamb and salmon are your best bet.
While the prices reflect the quality and ambiance, the value you’ll receive is undeniable. You’ll get fine dining, exceptional service, and an enchanting setting in this resto. So, whether you’re in for a celebration, a romantic date, or a soulful treat, Shaughnessy Restaurant has you covered.
Have a drink at The Pint Public House
– Media from pint_vancouver
Location: 455 Abbott St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2L2, Canada
Contact: +1 604-684-0258
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday & Sunday – 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 3:00 PM to 3:00 AM
The Pint Public House is a place where the energy is contagious, and the large venue size means you can find your perfect spot, whether you’re here for a lively gathering or a laid-back evening.
Their menu features crowd-pleasers like honey garlic chicken wings that have garnered fans over time.
But what truly steals the show is their happy hour offer – imagine sipping on a pint of beer and being treated to a pound of wings. Yep, a whole pound! It’s an offer that will make both your taste buds and wallet rejoice.
Go skiing at Cypress Mountain
– Media from cypressmtn
Location: 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver, BC V7V 3N9, Canada
Contact: +1 604-926-5612
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
As Vancouver’s largest ski hill, Cypress Mountain offers a blend of nature’s grandeur and thrilling sports. It’s the ideal destination if you’re looking to embrace winter in its purest form.
Comprising 600 acres that cater to various skill levels, this place features 53 runs and 6 chairlifts. But fair warning for beginners – the mountain may pose a challenge as it leans more towards immediate and difficult slopes.
Night skiing here is really popular. It offers a mesmerising and festive atmosphere (just be careful because, well… it’s night).
Take in 360-degree panoramic views with Vancouver Lookout
– Media from vancouverlookout
Location: 555 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6, Canada
Contact: +1 604-689-0421
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Perched atop the Harbour Centre, the Lookout is a 553-foot-high observation deck providing 360-degree panoramic views of the city’s landmarks, including historic Gastown, Coal Harbour, the downtown core, and Stanley Park.
One of the highlights of this attraction is the journey to the top. A 40-second glass elevator ride whisks you to the observation deck, where you’re greeted by breathtaking views.
For ticket prices, adults can expect to pay $18.25, while discounts are available for seniors, students, and children. Your little ones, specifically ages 5 and under, get free admission.
