Is Vancouver Worth Visiting In 2024? 15 Incredible Reasons To Visit
Wondering If Vancouver Is Worth Visiting In 2024?
If you’re wondering is Vancouver worth visiting, this blog post will help you in making a decision.
Explore the must-see attractions, reasons to visit, accommodation options, and find answers to common questions that may arise.
By the end of this blog post, you’ll have a clearer understanding of whether Vancouver is the ideal destination for your upcoming vacation.
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Is Vancouver Worth Visiting In 2024?
Yes, Vancouver is definitely worth visiting.
As one of Canada’s most vibrant and picturesque cities, Vancouver offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and urban attractions.
The city is nestled between the stunning mountains and the Pacific Ocean, providing breathtaking views and many outdoor recreational opportunities.
Vancouver is known for its pristine parks, including Stanley Park, with its iconic seawall, as well as its beautiful beaches.
Also, the city has a thriving culinary scene, vibrant neighborhoods like Gastown and Granville Island, and different museums and galleries.
Whether you’re interested in exploring nature, experiencing diverse cultures, or enjoying a dynamic city atmosphere, Vancouver has something for everyone.
Where Is Vancouver Located?
Vancouver is located on the southwestern coast of Canada, in the province of British Columbia.
Vancouver is situated on the mainland, with Vancouver Island located to the west across the Strait of Georgia.
It is positioned near the border with the United States, with the city of Seattle in Washington State being approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) south of Vancouver.
What Is So Special About Vancouver?
Vancouver is a vibrant and diverse city that is special for many reasons.
Firstly, its stunning natural beauty sets it apart as Vancouver is a gateway to many outdoor adventures.
With easy access to mountains, forests, and waterways, you can enjoy activities like hiking, skiing, kayaking, and whale watching.
Secondly, Vancouver is renowned for its cultural diversity and thriving arts scene.
The city embraces multiculturalism, with a rich tapestry of different ethnicities and languages.
Additionally, Vancouver is known for its thriving food scene.
It offers a wide range of culinary delights, from fresh seafood to international cuisines and innovative farm-to-table experiences.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Vancouver?
The best time to visit Vancouver is during the summer months, from June to August.
This is when the city experiences its warmest and driest weather, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit).
The summer season allows for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the city’s many parks and gardens.
Another great time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October).
During these months, the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.
Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while fall showcases tree foliage, making for beautiful scenery.
It’s important to note that Vancouver can experience rain throughout the year, so it’s advisable to pack a waterproof jacket and umbrella.
Reasons To Visit Vancouver
There are many reasons to visit the beautiful city of Vancouver, British Columbia.
Let’s look at some of them.
1. Stunning Natural Beauty
Vancouver is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and the Pacific Ocean.
The city’s coastal location provides access to sparkling waters and pristine beaches.
Vancouver’s coastline provides opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and whale watching, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
The majestic mountains surrounding the city, offer stunning views and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
In the mountains, you can enjoy hiking, camping, exploring, etc.
Whether you’re exploring the old-growth forests, strolling along picturesque shorelines, or embarking on a scenic hike, Vancouver’s natural beauty will leave you awestruck.
2. Stanley Park
This iconic urban park offers beautiful trails, beaches, gardens and is one of the city’s most cherished landmarks.
Stanley Park is renowned for its scenic beauty, featuring lush forests, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, ocean, and city skyline.
There are plenty of things to do in Stanley Park as it is the largest park in Vancouver and one of the largest in North America.
Visitors to Stanley Park can also enjoy many recreational activities.
Such as picnicking, birdwatching, tennis, swimming at the Second Beach Pool, or simply relaxing in one of the park’s many grassy areas.
With its natural beauty, diverse attractions, and serene atmosphere, Stanley Park truly exemplifies the unique charm of Vancouver and serves as a beloved retreat within the heart of the city.
👉 If you are looking for an organized walking tour, check out this option: Vancouver Secrets of Stanley Park Walking Tour
3. Stanley Park Seawall
Another notable feature is the Stanley Park Seawall, a scenic pathway that encircles the park and offers panoramic views.
Walk, bike, or rollerblade along the scenic seawall, a 28-kilometer path that wraps around the downtown peninsula.
The Seawall provides a picturesque route for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the park’s stunning coastline.
Along the way, there are several lookout points and benches where you can pause to take a break and take some pictures.
In addition, the Seawall is separated from vehicle traffic, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Many people choose to rent bikes from nearby rental shops and embark on a leisurely ride along the Seawall.
👉 If you want to do a biking tour around Staley Park, here is a good option: Vancouver: Stanley Park Bicycle Tour
4. Gastown
Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood is known for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, trendy shops, and Victorian architecture.
One of the highlights of Gastown is its iconic steam clock, a unique landmark that chimes every quarter hour and releases steam.
The clock is a popular spot for photo opportunities and often attracts large crowds of visitors.
🎥 Check out this video, which shows the mechanics inside the clock
Gastown is renowned for its diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a culinary experience to suit every taste.
Also, the neighborhood is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, boutiques, and independent shops showcasing local artists and artisans.
Gastown is a hub of activity, hosting festivals, events, and live music performances throughout the year.
👉 If you are a foodie, this experience will give you a chance to try some tasty foods: Vancouver: 2.5-Hour Gastown Walking Food Tour
5. Granville Island
Granville Island is a vibrant cultural hub with a public market, shops, galleries, theaters, and waterfront dining.
The Granville Island Public Market is a mecca for food lovers.
It features an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, baked goods, seafood, and local delicacies.
In addition to the market, Granville Island is home to an arts community.
The island is dotted with numerous galleries, studios, and theaters, showcasing the works of local artists and performers.
Also, Granville Island offers a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
👉 If you are interested in a Granville Island market tour, here is a good option: VIP Access Granville Island Market Tour
6. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a popular tourist attraction located in North Vancouver (about 20 minutes drive from downtown Vancouver).
It is home to the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge.
The iconic Suspension Bridge stretches 137 meters (450 feet) across the Capilano River and sits 70 meters (230 feet) above the forest floor.
In addition to the suspension bridge, there are various other attractions at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, including the Cliffwalk.
The Cliffwalk is a suspended walkway that protrudes from a granite cliff face.
Also, you will find the Treetops Adventure, which is a series of raised walkways that guide visitors through the forest canopy of the park.
Also, the park provides educational opportunities, with informative displays and guided tours that delve into the region’s rich ecosystem.
👉 You can book your entry ticket here: Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Entry Ticket
7. Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is located in North Vancouver and is famous for its scenic views, outdoor recreational activities, and wildlife.
In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, zip-lining, a visit to grizzly bear habitat, and the thrilling Grouse Mountain Skyride, a scenic gondola ride to the mountaintop.
During the winter months, Grouse Mountain transforms into a winter wonderland, offering activities such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snowshoeing.
Also, Grouse Mountain hosts special events throughout the year, including seasonal festivals, concerts, and outdoor movie screenings.
In addition, Grouse Mountain has various dining, shopping, and entertainment options, including a theater and a Lumberjack Show.
Instead of using the Grouse Mountain Skyride, a popular hike that follows the path of the gondola is the Grouse Grind.
The Grouse Grind stretches for 2.5 km (1.55 miles) and ascends 800 meters (2,624 feet) in elevation.
Completing this difficult hike takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours for most fit individuals.
👉 You can book your Mountain Admission ticket, by clicking here: Vancouver: Grouse Mountain Admission Ticket
👉 If you want to incorporate Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain in one day, check out this tour: North Shore Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain Tour
8. Lynn Canyon Park
Lynn Canyon Park and Bridge is a popular natural attraction located in North Vancouver.
The park covers over 600 acres and features a rainforest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge.
Also, Lynn Canyon Park has many other attractions, including the Twin Falls, a set of waterfalls that cascade into a pool below.
As well as, a variety of hiking trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
In addition, one of the highlights of Lynn Canyon Park is the 30 Foot Pool, where visitors love to swim in the summer months.
Here is a Lynn Canyon Park map, including the tails and other important information.
The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge spans 40 meters (130 feet) across the deep canyon and is suspended 50 meters (160 feet) above Lynn Creek.
Therefore, the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is a lot smaller than the more popular Capilano Suspension Bridge.
The Lynn Canyon Park and Bridge is free to enter but you will have to pay for parking.
🦄 If you want more information about the above three attractions, check out this blog post: Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain & Lynn Canyon
9. English Bay Beach
English Bay Beach, also known as First Beach, is one of the most popular beaches in Vancouver.
It is a popular urban beach located in the West End neighborhood of Vancouver.
The beach is located along the shores of English Bay, and it offers beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains.
In addition, English Bay Beach is a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, beach volleyball (two courts), and other water sports.
Also, there are many amenities available, including washrooms, beach umbrella and chair rentals, kayak rentals, etc.
Visitors can relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the ocean.
10. Whistler
Whistler is a world-renowned resort town located approximately 121 kilometers (75 miles) north of Vancouver.
It is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant alpine village atmosphere.
Whistler gained international recognition as the host of the 2010 Winter Olympics, which showcased its exceptional ski slopes, snowboarding terrain, and winter sports facilities.
In addition, Whistler is home to Whistler Blackcomb, which is one of the largest ski resorts in North America.
It is consistently ranked among the top ski destinations in Canada and offers a vast network of ski runs and trails suitable for all skill levels.
Beyond winter sports, Whistler offers a plethora of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Visitors can explore the stunning landscape through hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, and so on during the warmer months.
Whistler Village, the pedestrian-only center of the town, features a vibrant mix of restaurants, shops, bars, and accommodations.
👉 You can book your ticket here: From Vancouver: Full-Day Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola
11. Food Scene
The food scene in Vancouver is diverse, vibrant, and renowned for its culinary excellence.
From high-end restaurants to casual eateries and food trucks, there is something to satisfy every palate.
Vancouver is particularly known for its seafood, given its coastal location.
You can indulge in a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including candied salmon, Dungeness crab, and spot prawns.
Also, the city’s sushi scene is highly regarded, with a wide selection of sushi restaurants serving up delicious and artfully crafted rolls.
In addition to seafood, Vancouver has a thriving farm-to-table movement.
Many restaurants prioritize using locally sourced, organic ingredients, resulting in creative and sustainable dishes.
Farmers’ markets, such as Granville Island Public Market, provide an opportunity to sample a range of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more.
Also, the city is a melting pot of international cuisines.
Some of the best places to grab food in Vancouver are in Gastown, Grandville Island, Yaletown, etc.
12. Vancouver Lookout
The Vancouver Lookout is a 360-degree observation deck located at the top of the Harbour Centre building.
It offers stunning panoramic views of the city and its surrounding mountains, waterways, and urban landscape.
The tower is 553 feet (168 meters) tall and features two elevators that take visitors up to the observation deck.
The Vancouver Lookout provides an excellent vantage point to admire iconic landmarks such as Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, Canada Place, and the bustling cityscape.
In addition, the observation deck features both indoor and outdoor viewing areas, allowing visitors to take in the sights from different perspectives.
Also, there is a restaurant located on the top of the Vancouver Lookout, one floor above the observation deck.
It is called the “Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant” and it offers a unique dining experience for visitors.
👉 You can book your entry ticket here: Vancouver: Entry Ticket for the Vancouver Lookout
13. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is located in Vancouver’s Chinatown.
It was built in the style of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and is considered one of the best examples of a classical Chinese garden outside of China.
The garden was built in 1985-1986 and is named after Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, who was the leader of the Chinese Nationalist Party and is considered the father of modern China.
It covers an area of 1 acre and features unique features such as winding paths, rocks, and a jade-green pond filled with koi fish.
The garden was built using traditional Chinese techniques and materials, including hand-cut marble, hand-carved granite, and traditional wooden joinery.
The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden hosts various cultural events and activities throughout the year, including tea ceremonies, musical performances, and art exhibitions.
🦄 If you want more information about the above attractions, check out this blog post: Vancouver: Gastown, Chinese Garden & Vancouver Lookout
14. VanDusen Botanical Garden
The VanDusen Botanical Garden is a stunning 55-acre oasis renowned for its beautifully landscaped gardens, diverse plant collections, and educational programs.
The garden features a wide variety of plant species from around the world, with meticulously designed displays that showcase different garden styles and themes.
Visitors can explore a range of gardens, including the Japanese Garden, Korean Pavilion, Sino-Himalayan Garden, and the Fragrance Garden, among others.
One of the highlights of the VanDusen Botanical Garden is the Elizabethan Maze, an enchanting maze made up of over 3,000 pyramidal cedars.
It offers a fun and interactive experience for visitors of all ages as they navigate their way through the maze’s twists and turns.
The garden is not simply a feast for the eyes but also a center for education and conservation.
It offers various programs and workshops for both adults and children, focusing on topics such as horticulture, gardening, and environmental sustainability.
👉 Can grab your admission ticket here: VanDusen Botanical Garden Admission Ticket
15. Kitsilano Beach
Kitsilano Beach, also known as Kits Beach, is a popular and picturesque beach located in the Kitsilano neighborhood.
It is a beautiful sandy beach that stretches along the shores of English Bay, offering stunning views of the city skyline and mountains.
Kitsilano Beach is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its vibrant atmosphere and range of recreational activities.
The beach is ideal for sunbathing, picnicking, and relaxing on the soft sand.
One of the highlights of Kitsilano Beach is the outdoor saltwater Kitsilano Pool, which is one of the longest swimming pools in Canada.
Also, the beach is equipped with various amenities, including washrooms, change rooms, and volleyball courts.
Here, beachgoers come together to enjoy the beauty of nature, engage in outdoor activities, and savor the laid-back beachside ambiance.
In addition to its natural beauty, Kitsilano Beach is surrounded by a vibrant neighborhood with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes.
👉 A few of the above-mentioned activities are included in this tour: City Highlights Tour
Where To Eat In Vancouver?
Here is a list of the restaurants that we tried and loved in Vancouver.
Brunch
Chamber is a great spot for brunch, although it can be a bit expensive.
We enjoyed the Cassoulet, which featured chicken, bacon, and Manchego sausage, as well as black-eyed beans, fried egg, kale, and chimichurri.
Also, the waffles were a highlight, especially with the Salted Caramel and White Chocolate Pistachio Rosewater dips.
In addition to the brunch menu, Chamber also offers dinner options and a selection of wine, cocktails, and spirits.
Another great brunch place is Nero Belgian Waffle Bar which is located close to Stanley Park.
They have sweet and savory waffles and an assortment of teas and coffee.
In addition, they have both Brussels Waffles (crispier and lighter dough) and Liege Waffles (thicker dough with pearl sugar).
It is a cozy little place and the food was tasty, so I highly recommend it.
🦄 Related Vancouver blog posts:
Is Vancouver Worth Visiting? 15 Incredible Reasons To Visit
Biking Stanley Park, Vancouver + 7 Best Bike Rentals
Is It Safe To Drink Tap Water In Vancouver?
Is There Uber In Vancouver?
Lunch And Dinner
If you find yourself in the Granville Island area, I suggest checking out a restaurant that used to be called Bridges.
Bridges used to be a famous landmark in Vancouver for over 42 years.
The original Bridges location has undergone renovations and a rebranding and is now called Tap and Barrel.
You can’t miss it as it’s a large yellow building located right by the water.
Also, the restaurant has a year-round heated patio that overlooks downtown Vancouver.
It offers a distinct menu that celebrates Bridges’ legacy.
The menu offers hand-stretched pizzas, seafood, steak, pasta, salads, bowls, burgers, sandwiches, etc.
Also, they offer Brunch and Happy Hour (every day from 3 pm to 5 pm and 9 pm to close).
For some ice cream, stop at Rain or Shine ice cream which you can only find in Vancouver.
It is a short walk from Kits Beach (close to Granville Island).
Rain or Shine is a local staple, offering interesting flavors such as Pine, Honey Lavender, and London Fog.
We tried the London Fog ice cream and it was delightful.
If you are craving some sushi, check out Bella Sushi.
There used to be a location near Rain or Shine but it closed down. There is only one location now in North Vancouver.
In Gastown, I suggest checking out Tacofino, a local chain that specializes in tacos.
Their nachos and cocktails are also worth trying out.
Originating from Tofino, BC, Tacofino has now expanded to at least six locations in Vancouver.
Where To Stay In Vancouver?
There are many options when it comes to where to stay in Vancouver. Here are a few suggestions.
Hotel BLU
Hotel BLU is a lovely hotel located in one of my favorite parts of Vancouver.
- Free WiFi is available in every room
- There is an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and a fitness center
- Gastown is a 12 min walk away, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is 15 mins away, and a 10 min drive to Granville Island
- Also, the subway is a 10 min walk (Stadium-Chinatown stop), and Vancouver International Airport is 11km away
👉 Check availability for your dates: Hotel BLU
Carmana Hotel & Suites
Carmana Hotel & Suites is located on the opposite side of the city, closer to the downtown area.
- Offers stunning city views; the rooms have a modern design
- All of the suites have full kitchens and free WiFi
- Steps away from the waterfront and Gastown; Stanley Park is 4 mins drive away
- Also, the Metro is close by – 5 min walk to the SkyTrain station called Burrard
👉 Check availability for your dates: Carmana Hotel & Suites
FAQs About Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?
Below you will find some of the most frequently asked questions about is Vancouver worth visiting.
Is Vancouver, British Columbia safe?
Vancouver is generally considered a safe city for residents and tourists alike.
It has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities in North America.
However, as with any city, there are some areas that could be more prone to crime or safety issues.
Therefore, it is always important to remain aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure personal safety.
How many days do you need in Vancouver?
To get a well-rounded experience of the city, I would recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Vancouver.
This will allow you to explore popular attractions such as Stanley Park, Granville Island, and Gastown.
You can also take day trips to nearby destinations like Whistler or the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
If you have more time, you can explore further, enjoy outdoor activities, or venture into the beautiful surrounding nature.
Do you need a car to go around Vancouver?
While having a car can provide convenience for transportation in and around Vancouver, it is not essential.
The city offers a comprehensive public transportation system comprising of buses, trains, and ferries.
Which can easily take you to various destinations within the city and its surrounding areas.
Additionally, Vancouver has an extensive network of bike lanes and paths, making cycling a popular mode of transportation.
The subway, known as the SkyTrain, is an efficient and popular rapid transit system that serves the Greater Vancouver area.
The SkyTrain is fully automated, running on elevated tracks and in underground tunnels.
It connects various neighborhoods, suburbs, and key destinations within the city.
There are three main SkyTrain lines: the Expo Line, the Millennium Line, and the Canada Line.
However, if you opt for driving, it’s important to note that traffic congestion can occur during peak hours.
Also, parking can be challenging and pricey in certain areas of the city.
Having a vehicle will be helpful when going to destinations that are a bit further such as Whistler and Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.
👉 Rent a car in Vancouver after exploring the world’s biggest car rental website: Rentalcars
Conclusion: Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?
In conclusion, Vancouver is undoubtedly worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant city life, and diverse range of attractions and activities.
From the majestic mountains and picturesque parks to the bustling neighborhoods and thriving culinary scene, there’s no shortage of experiences to indulge in.
With its welcoming atmosphere, natural wonders, and endless possibilities for adventure, Vancouver promises a memorable and fulfilling travel experience.
So, if you’re considering a trip to Canada, Vancouver should definitely be on your list of destinations to explore.
