Vancouver
Canada
Attractions & Events in Vancouver
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Vancouver, Canada
Top Attractions
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
A historic suspension bridge spanning 140 meters across the Capilano River, offering breathtaking rainforest views.
Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds; wear comfortable shoes for the treetop adventures.
Gastown
Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, featuring cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and the famous Steam Clock.
Tips: Explore the unique boutiques and art galleries; the Steam Clock chimes every quarter hour.
Granville Island
A vibrant cultural district featuring a public market, artisan shops, theaters, and diverse dining options.
Tips: Visit the Public Market for fresh produce and local crafts; enjoy live performances at the Arts Club Theatre.
Grouse Mountain
A year-round destination offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and panoramic views of Vancouver.
Tips: Take the Skyride gondola for stunning views; in winter, check for night skiing options.
Kitsilano Beach
A popular beach known for its sandy shores, outdoor saltwater pool, and views of the city skyline.
Tips: Great for sunbathing and beach volleyball; the Kitsilano Pool is open from May to September.
Queen Elizabeth Park
A 130-acre park offering beautifully landscaped gardens, the Bloedel Conservatory, and panoramic city views.
Tips: Visit the Quarry Garden and the conservatory; the park is a popular spot for picnics and photography.
Science World
An interactive science museum housed in a geodesic dome, featuring exhibits and an OMNIMAX theatre.
Tips: Ideal for families; purchase tickets online to avoid long lines.
Stanley Park
A 1,001-acre urban park offering scenic views, forest trails, beaches, and the famous Seawall for walking and cycling.
Tips: Rent a bike to explore the Seawall; visit the Vancouver Aquarium located within the park.
Vancouver Art Gallery
Western Canada's largest art museum, showcasing a vast collection of Canadian and Indigenous art.
Tips: Check for special exhibitions; the gallery is closed on Mondays.
VanDusen Botanical Garden
A 55-acre garden featuring over 7,500 plant species, themed gardens, and a hedge maze.
Tips: Visit during spring or summer for the most vibrant blooms; don't miss the Elizabethan hedge maze.
Events & Festivals
Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival
An annual spring festival celebrating the city's cherry blossoms with events like bike rides, viewing tours, and traditional Japanese festivities.
When: April
Tips: Check the festival's website for peak bloom times and event schedules. Many events are free, but some may require registration.
Pacific National Exhibition (PNE)
A 15-day summer fair held at Hastings Park, offering amusement rides, live performances, agricultural exhibits, and a variety of food options.
When: August
Tips: Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long lines. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Powell Street Festival
An annual celebration of Japanese Canadian culture held in and around Oppenheimer Park, featuring music, dance, martial arts demonstrations, and a variety of food vendors.
When: August
Tips: Explore the craft market for unique items and arrive early to participate in interactive installations and activities.
Vancouver Pride Parade and Festival
One of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in North America, featuring a vibrant parade through downtown Vancouver and a festival at Sunset Beach.
When: August
Tips: Wear comfortable clothing and bring water. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route.
Vancouver International Wine Festival
One of the largest and oldest wine festivals in the world, featuring wine tastings, seminars, and dinner events.
When: February
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance, as popular events sell out quickly. Attend seminars to enhance your wine knowledge.
Honda Celebration of Light
An annual musical fireworks competition held over three nights in late July, featuring international teams showcasing pyrotechnic displays synchronized to music over English Bay.
When: July
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along English Bay or Kitsilano Beach. Public transit is recommended due to road closures and limited parking.
Vancouver Folk Music Festival
A three-day outdoor festival at Jericho Beach Park featuring a diverse lineup of folk and world music artists from around the globe.
When: July
Tips: Bring a blanket or low chair for comfortable seating. Sunscreen and hats are advisable for daytime performances.
Canadian International Dragon Boat Festival
North America's largest dragon boat festival, featuring competitive races, cultural displays, and community celebrations along False Creek.
When: June
Tips: Best viewing spots are along the seawall in False Creek. Arrive early to enjoy cultural performances and food vendors.
Vancouver International Jazz Festival
An 11-day festival featuring around 300 concerts with over 1,800 artists, spanning jazz to world music genres, held across various venues in the city.
When: June
Tips: Many outdoor concerts are free; bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfort. Check the schedule for ticketed indoor performances.
Vancouver International Fringe Festival
A celebration of independent theatre, featuring over 100 performances from local and international artists across various venues.
When: September
Tips: Be open to experimental performances. Arrive early to secure good seats, as venues can be intimate.