The Lower Mainland boasts an array of premier attractions, including museums, parks, beaches, ski hills, and gardens. Below, we present Vancouver’s top 24 locales that captivate both residents and visitors alike.
Our compilation features perennial favorites, ensuring they remain accessible for most of the year, particularly during peak tourist seasons. We also celebrate seasonal gems like the Chilliwack Tulip Festival in spring and holiday-themed attractions during Halloween and Christmas.
Capilano State Park
One of Vancouver’s most significant tourist magnets is Capilano State Park. Situated just outside the city, the park comprises three captivating attractions: the Capilano Suspension Bridge, the Cliffwalk, and the Treetop Adventure.
Exploring the park offers a multitude of activities, so allocate a few hours to leisurely wander. Capilano State Park provides complimentary shuttle services from downtown Vancouver hotels or Canada Place. Upon entering the park, period-clad singers transport you to pioneer days, creating an immersive experience.
Originally an access bridge engineered by George Grant Mackay in 1889, the Capilano Suspension Bridge was initially meant to facilitate his forest land access. However, it swiftly transformed into one of Vancouver’s most beloved landmarks.
While the original bridge was suspended by rope, today’s version boasts a 450-foot expanse suspended by 2-inch thick steel cables. Astonishingly, it can bear the weight of two fully loaded 747 airplanes — an impressive feat!
The Cliffwalk, a narrow pathway winding around cliffs high above the forest, might prove thrilling for some and daunting for those wary of heights. Yet, the thrill of being 300 feet above the river and the canyon below is undeniable.
The Treetop Adventure features an array of pathways, viewing platforms, and suspension bridges that guide you through the rainforest. Perfect for younger children, the adventure allows them to enjoy scampering around the suspension bridges. From the platforms, an avian perspective of the surrounding forest unfolds.
Stanley Park
Amidst the plethora of green spaces, Stanley Park reigns as the most cherished. Encompassing 1,000 acres of forest trails, children’s play areas, lakes, and beaches, it offers an exquisite green sanctuary within the city’s urban expanse.
The park commands the tip of Downtown Vancouver, affording breathtaking views of the water and the cityscape. Prominent attractions in Stanley Park encompass the aquarium, the renowned totem pole display, the Brockton Point Lighthouse, and the 5-mile long seawall encircling the park.
Granville Island
Perhaps the most renowned among Vancouver’s tourist hotspots is Granville Island, located just across from Downtown Vancouver. Though referred to as an island, it’s actually a peninsula. Once an industrial manufacturing hub, it has now evolved into a shopping haven, boasting trendy boutiques, eateries, and an expansive farmers’ market.
Granville Island’s farmers’ market is a standout, captivating visitors with its size and quality. Bursting with vendors, it offers an array of fresh produce, meats, fish, baked goods, cheeses, flowers, antiques, clothing, and more.
A visit to Granville Island could easily span half a day, wandering amidst enticing food displays and relishing stunning views of Downtown Vancouver from across the water.
Outdoor Adventure Games
For those seeking outdoor fun in downtown Vancouver, Vancouver Mysteries offers adventure games that engage participants in the heart of the city. They also offer a range of hosted virtual games. Using the promo code BESTPLACES when playing with three or more players provides a 10% discount.
Guided Walking Tours
Vancouver itself is a captivating attraction, best explored through guided tours. Explore Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours for an array of engaging and informative options.
Museum Promo Code
Planning a visit to the Vancouver Maritime Museum? Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER to enjoy a 25% discount on admission (subject to change).
Other Notable Destinations
Vancouver’s array of top attractions extends beyond the aforementioned 24 spots. Explore Metro Vancouver’s Top 100 Places for an all-encompassing list of the region’s finest locales. Additionally, recognizing diverse preferences, Vancouver’s Best Places provides a categorization of top attractions based on activities, seasons, age appropriateness, interests, and more.