Yet, despite this industrial rebirth, the city retains a quiet, rain-soaked humility that feels more like a sanctuary than a metropolis. You will find it is less about rushing through attractions and more about savoring slow mornings in Stanley Park, where mist clings to ancient cedars while the harbor whispers stories of resilience and serene coastal life.
Do Vancouver the way locals do: start slow at Whytecliff Park | West Vancouver, eat where the regulars do at JOEY Burrard, let the evening run long at Steamworks Brewpub.
Top things to do in Vancouver
Ranked by rating and review volume. These earn their hype. Booking links may earn Roam a commission, at no cost to you.
1
Stanley Park
Vancouver's largest urban park has beaches, trails & family attractions, plus a picturesque seawall.
Check tours & tickets2
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Built in 1889, this 137m-long treetop bridge offers scenic views of the forest below.
Check tours & tickets3
Gastown Steam Clock
Built in 1977, this well-known, antique-style clock is powered by steam & whistles to tell the time.
Check tours & tickets4
Queen Elizabeth Park
Urban landmark on a hill featuring manicured gardens, a conservatory, sculptures & sports courts.
Check tours & tickets5
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
Scenic canyon with a suspension bridge in a 617-acre forest with hiking trails & swimming holes.
Check tours & tickets6
VanDusen Botanical Garden
Space with ever-changing greenery, flowers & art installations plus fine dining & a casual cafe.
Check tours & tickets7
Grouse Mountain
1,200-metre mountain offering activities such as skiing & hiking plus sweeping views of Vancouver.
Check tours & tickets8
Sea to Sky Gondola
Dramatic gondola over Howe Sound, plus cafes, hiking trails, lodges & a suspension bridge.
Check tours & tickets9
Science World
Interactive science displays & films for kids from toddlers to early teens, inside a geodesic dome.
Check tours & tickets10
Vancouver Aquarium
Popular kid-friendly attraction showcases local & exotic aquatic life with a focus on conservation.
Check tours & ticketsWhere to eat
Local favorites, not tourist traps.
11
JOEY Burrard
Snazzy chain outpost known for frozen cocktails offering an eclectic menu from sushi to steak.
Website12
Earls Kitchen + Bar
Sleek, upscale chain serving gourmet burgers, global comfort food, cocktails, wines & beers.
Website13
iDen & Quanjude Beijing Duck House
Acclaimed Chinese eatery offering elevated cuisine & a robust wine list in an airy, elegant setting.
Website14
Glowbal
Global fare & lots of cocktails served in a glitzy, sprawling space with a long, sleek bar.
Website15
Miku Vancouver
Sushi & sustainable seafood are served in a sophisticated setting with a patio & water views.
Website16
Coast
Upmarket bi-level eatery serving West Coast seafood, with a huge circular oyster bar & cocktails.
Website17
Cardero's Restaurant
Seafood, burgers & classic comfort dishes on expansive marina-side patio plus weekend brunch.
Website18
Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House
Vibrant, booth-lined dining room for seafood & steak, with a popular oyster bar & rooftop patio.
WebsiteHungry for more? Book a food tour or tasting in Vancouver
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Tours worth booking ahead
These sell out, so lock them in early.
19
Granville Island Public Market
Popular indoor market with restaurants, bars & cafes, plus gourmet food stalls & artisan boutiques.
Check tours & tickets20
E-Bikes and Blades Rentals Stanley Park
Check tours & tickets21
Vancouver Water Adventures
Check tours & tickets22
Toonie Tours Vancouver | Free Walking Tours, Private Tours, Bike Tours, Art, Beer & Coffee Tours
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Prince of Whales - Whale & Marine Wildlife Adventures Vancouver
Check tours & tickets24
ToursByLocals
Check tours & ticketsGet outside
25
Whytecliff Park | West Vancouver
Rocky swimming beach & popular scuba diving spot featuring walking trails, a cafe & mountain views.
Website26
Cates Park/Whey-ah-Wichen
Seaside trails with totem poles alongside tennis courts, playgrounds & a picnic area.
Website27
Pacific Spirit Regional Park
Dog-friendly park offering 73km of trails amid old-growth trees & a bog with interpretive boardwalk.
Website28
Deep Cove Park
Website29
Quarry Rock
Serene hiking spot with waterfalls & moderate trails, plus panoramic water views.
WebsiteAfter dark
30
Steamworks Brewpub
Cheery microbrewery serving its house beers with diverse pub grub including steaks, pizza & chili.
Website31
Score on Davie
Neighbourhood hangout serving Canadian pub fare, local wines & tap craft beers plus weekend brunch.
Website32
33
The Shameful Tiki Room
Lively haunt with a tropical vibe offering Polynesian-inspired food, exotic cocktails & live music.
WebsiteEverything above is live data. Real ratings, opening hours, and photos, not AI guesswork. The planner turns it into your day, hour by hour.
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