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Planning Your Visit:

• Tickets: Purchase your tickets online in advance as they are required and come in timed slots. Visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge official website for details and to book your tickets.
• Getting There: Take advantage of the free shuttle service with pick-up at Canada Place.
• Cost: Adult admission ranges from $59.95 to $66.95 depending on the season, with discounts available for seniors, students, and children.
• Hours: The park is open year-round except for December 25th. Generally, it’s less crowded early mornings and late afternoons.
• Luggage: No luggage storage is available at the park, but you can find storage options near Canada Place where the free shuttle picks up.

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Additional Tips:

• Dress for the weather; umbrellas are available for purchase if it rains.
• Canyon Lights, a dazzling winter event with festive illuminations, runs from November to January.
• Consider an evening visit (after 5 pm) for discounted rates and a potentially less crowded atmosphere.

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Paddle Through Picturesque Waterways: Discover Vancouver’s hidden coves and bustling harbor by renting a kayak and cruising the calm waters of False Creek.

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Kayaking for All Levels:  Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a curious first-timer, False Creek is a perfect place to explore.  Several rental companies like Vancouver Water Adventures offer kayaks (single or double) and guided tours,  some even lasting up to 3 hours. Most tours include a brief safety lesson and paddling instruction, making it a great option for beginners.

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FlyOver Canada

Prepare to be suspended in awe at FlyOver Canada, an immersive flight simulation located at the heart of Vancouver’s waterfront, Canada Place. This exhilarating experience whisks you on a heart-pounding journey over some of the world’s most spectacular destinations, all without ever leaving your seat.

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Get Ready for Liftoff:

FlyOver Canada utilizes cutting-edge technology to create a truly unforgettable experience. Here’s what awaits you:

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Current Adventures:

FlyOver Canada offers different experiences throughout the year.  Here are a few currently showing (subject to change):

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• Windborne: Call of the Canadian Rockies (Limited Showing – Jan 22 – June 30): Take a breathtaking journey over the Canadian Rockies, flying over snow-capped peaks and beautiful lakes while admiring the beauty of this unique landscape. Adult tickets are CA$33, while children’s tickets are CA$23.

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Stanley Park

Urban Oasis Escape: Stanley Park, Vancouver’s crown treasure, represents 1,000 acres of pure recreational activities. This gorgeous green retreat features towering cedars, hidden gardens, and the scenic Seawall trail, which is ideal for cycling while enjoying stunning city and ocean views.

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Unforgettable Experiences for All:

• Explore: Hike through the 400-hectare rainforest, teeming with majestic trees. Discover hidden gardens bursting with vibrant blooms.
• Relax: Unwind on one of Stanley Park’s beautiful beaches or have a picnic with a view.
• Get Active: Cycle the world-famous Seawall route, which offers stunning views of the city and water. Enjoy more than 27 kilometers of forest pathways, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
• Learn: Immerse yourself in Stanley Park’s rich history and culture. Visit the famous totem poles or explore the numerous monuments and sculptures.
• See Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for herons, beavers, and other fascinating creatures that call Stanley Park home.

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Must-Do Activities:

• Stanley Park Train: Take a charming 15-minute journey through the forest aboard the delightful Stanley Park Train.
• Vancouver Aquarium: Encounter over 65,000 fascinating creatures at Canada’s largest aquarium! (Note: Vancouver Aquarium requires a separate admission fee).
• Second Beach Pool: Cool off with a refreshing dip in the heated outdoor pool, open from Victoria Day to Labour Day.
• Lumberman’s Arch: Snap a photo under this iconic landmark, a remnant of Vancouver’s rich logging history.

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Planning Your Visit:

• Open Daily: Stanley Park is open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, with washrooms accessible from dawn to dusk.
• Location: Situated in downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park offers easy access for visitors.
• Getting Around: Explore the park by foot, bike, or hop on the hop-on, hop-off bus that conveniently stops at major park attractions.

Whale Watching Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable adventure and witness majestic orcas, playful humpback whales, and other marine giants frolicking in their natural habitat off the coast of Vancouver.  Companies like Vancouver Whale Watch offer thrilling 3 to 5-hour tours through the scenic Gulf and San Juan Islands, boasting a 95% success rate of spotting these magnificent creatures. Their experienced guides will lead you on an unforgettable adventure, focused on spotting orcas, humpback whales, and other fascinating creatures like porpoises, sea lions, seals, and even bald eagles.

Lighthouse Park

Lace up your boots and discover Lighthouse Park, a 75-hectare gem situated in West Vancouver. This magnificent peninsula is home to Vancouver’s only remaining old-growth Douglas fir forest, making it a nature lover’s paradise.

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A Landmark Location:

• National Historic Site: Lighthouse Park is crowned by a historic lighthouse, a sentinel guarding the Pacific coast since 1874. This iconic landmark is one of the most photographed spots in Lower Mainland.
• Uncut Rainforest: Take yourself in the beauty of Vancouver’s last uncut old-growth forest. Towering trees and lush vegetation provide a wonderful setting for your adventure.

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Essential Information:

• Open Daily: Explore the park from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm year-round.
• Parking: Public parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider alternative transportation or arriving early. Paid parking is in effect year-round.
• Trail Map: Plan your adventure with a trail map available online.
• Hiking Tips: The trails offer varying levels of difficulty. Wear sturdy footwear for a safe and enjoyable exploration.

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Granville Island Public Market: A Foodie’s Paradise

The crown jewel of Granville Island is the Public Market, a haven for food enthusiasts.  Open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, this indoor market boasts a dazzling array of:

• Fresh Produce: From plump berries to crisp vegetables and glistening seafood, source the freshest ingredients for your next culinary masterpiece.
• Global Delights: Sample delicacies and gourmet dishes from around the globe as you go on a taste exploration.
• Delectable Treats: Indulge your sweet tooth with handcrafted pastries, decadent chocolates, and tempting ice cream.
• Open Consumption: Feeling sociable? Enjoy a drink purchased from a market vendor and relax in the inviting Public Market Courtyard.

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Souvenir Shopping Spree

Venture beyond the culinary delights and discover a treasure trove of unique souvenirs:

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Indigenous Art: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Northwest Coast with handcrafted jewelry, masks, and carvings at stores like Eagle Spirit Gallery and The Raven and the Bear.

Locally Made Crafts: Find one-of-a-kind keepsakes from local artisans like hats, scarves, and pottery at studios like Banquet Atelier.

Fair Trade Finds: Support sustainable practices and discover beautiful, handcrafted items from around the world at Kasandy “Locally Global”.

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Planning Your Visit:

Parking:  While paid parking is in effect year-round ($2/hour weekdays, $3/hour weekends and holidays from 11 am to 6 pm), you can find free parking before 11 am and after 6 pm.  To avoid the hassle of finding a spot, consider arriving early or using alternative transportation such as biking, walking, or taking the bus.

Public Transit: Easily accessible by bus or the scenic Aquabus ferry.

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Must-See Landmarks:

Gastown Steam Clock: Don’t miss this iconic landmark, a whimsical marvel that whistles every quarter hour. While the clock appears steam-powered, it’s a clever feat of engineering with a hidden electric motor.

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The Vancouver Lookout: Ascend 553 feet to the top of the Harbour Centre for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. Open daily 10 am – 6 pm. The last elevator is up 30 minutes before closing time.

• Admission Prices:
  • Adult / Senior: CA$18.25 per ticket
  • Student (with ID): CA$13.25 per ticket
  • Children (6-17 years old): CA$13.25 per ticket
  • Infants (0-5 years old): Free

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Unveil Vancouver’s Dark Past with Gastown’s Lost Souls Tours: This walking tour delves into Gastown’s dark history. Listen to your costumed guide tell stories about fire, plague, and gold rushes. Choose between two popular options:

• HelloTickets: For just $24 and with the convenience of free cancellation, take a 1.5-hour journey through Vancouver’s history.
• Forbidden Vancouver: This 90-minute theatrical adventure with a costumed guide delves even deeper, priced at $33 (adults) or $30 (youth and seniors). Daily tours start at 7 pm, with additional times from May. Meet outside of Monaco Cafe (356 Water St.).

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Vancouver Police Museum: Learn Vancouver’s law enforcement history at this fascinating museum housed in the former city morgue. Browse over 20,000 items and engage in interactive crime-solving activities. Buy your tickets on their website.

• Admission Prices:
  • Adult: $13.50
  • Senior (65+): $12.00
  • Student (w/ ID): $12.00
  • Youth (5-18 yrs): $10.00
  • Family (2 adult/2 youth): $35.00

• Admission Prices:
  • Adult: $13.50
  • Senior (65+): $12.00
  • Student (w/ ID): $12.00
  • Youth (5-18 yrs): $10.00
  • Family (2 adult/2 youth): $35.00

Gastown Delights: A Culinary & Shopping Adventure

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Indulge Your Inner Foodie:

• Gastown is a haven for food lovers! Savor cuisines from throughout the world, from French-inspired cuisine at L’Abattoir to authentic Moroccan fare at Moltaqa. Don’t miss Vancouver’s best sandwiches at Meat and Bread
• Take a bite of history with the Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour, combining delicious tastings with fascinating stories of the neighborhood’s transformation for $95.97.

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Shop & Explore Gastown’s Charm:

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• Discover unique finds at Water Street’s independent boutiques, trendy cafes, and stylish eateries.
• Unearth hidden gems at Coastal Peoples Gallery, showcasing exquisite First Nations art. Find local flair with beautiful British Columbia jade at Cavalier.
• Stroll down Blood Alley, once notorious for butchers, now a vibrant hub with shops, restaurants, and the famous Tacofino.
• Relax and check out Gastown’s nightlife options – enjoy happy hour at The Diamond or live music and food at Guilt and Co.

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Robson Street

Robson Street, a bustling thoroughfare in Vancouver, offers a captivating blend of shopping, food, and entertainment.  Immerse yourself in this bustling district:

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Shopping Spree

• Trendy Boutiques & Global Brands: Indulge in retail therapy along Robson Street, brimming with flagship stores like Aritzia, Lululemon, and Roots. Go on a global brand exploration journey or find hidden treasures that highlight local designers.
• Pacific Centre: For an extensive shopping experience, delve into the Pacific Centre, a vast mall housing department stores like The Bay and Holt Renfrew.
• Luxury Zone: Craving designer labels? Head to Alberni Street, just a block away, for a touch of luxury with stores like Burberry, Prada, and Gucci.

Catch a Game: The eastern end of Robson Street leads to the energetic Stadium District. Cheer on the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena or the BC Lions and Vancouver Whitecaps at BC Place Stadium.

Robson Square: People-watch and soak up the atmosphere in Robson Square. This vibrant plaza transforms into a magical outdoor ice rink from December to late February – a must-do for families and winter enthusiasts!

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Oddfish: This restaurant offers an ever-changing menu featuring the day’s bounty from local farms and the sea. Don’t miss their daily oyster selection and unique Spaghetti Vongole. (Address: 1889 W 1st Ave, Vancouver)

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Blue Water Cafe: A Vancouver staple, renowned for its live seafood tanks, impressive raw bar, and extensive wine list. Try their Ahi Tuna Tataki or the crowd-pleasing Sablefish. (Address: 1095 Hamilton St, Vancouver)

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Upscale Indulgence

Okeya Kyujiro: A MICHELIN-starred experience in Yaletown. Witness culinary artistry as chefs prepare a 25-course omakase journey through Japanese flavors. Expect to see everything from chutoro tuna to Hokkaido hairy crab. (Address: 1038 Mainland Street, Vancouver)

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Vancouver Classics

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Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House: A landmark institution on Robson Street. Indulge in fresh oysters, their signature Seafood Linguine, or the classic Fish & Chips. (Address: 777 Thurlow Street, Vancouver)

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Top-Notch Sushi

Tom Sushi: A local favorite known for its unique fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and fresh, local ingredients. Try their Tobiko with Quail Egg nigiri or take a chance on the daily limited donburi bowls. (Address: 1175 Davie St, Vancouver)

Unfamiliar with dim sum? Let the Dumpling Trail lead the way! Explore a diverse range of restaurants serving steamed, fried, and boiled dumplings – a delicious adventure across 13 eateries.

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1. Jade Seafood Restaurant
2. Yuu Japanese Tapas
3. Szechuan House
4. Bánh Mì Très Bon
5. Pepper Lunch
6. R & H Chinese Food
7. Suhang Restaurant
8. Tsim Chai Noodle Restaurant
9. Silkway Halal Cuisine
10. Empire Seafood Restaurant
11. Parkhill Seafood Restaurant
12. 4 Stones Vegetarian Cuisine
13. Dinesty Dumpling House

Fisherman’s Terrace Seafood Restaurant: Renowned for its signature Fresh Shrimp Dumplings and a relaxed ambiance, this Aberdeen Centre gem is a must-try.

• What to order: Fresh Shrimp Dumplings, Steamed Pork Dumplings Shanghai Style, Steamed BBQ Pork Bun.

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Empire Seafood Restaurant: Craving a modern twist on tradition? Empire Seafood offers a stunning panoramic view alongside a delectable dim sum. Try their Steamed Beef Tripe & Tendon for a unique experience.

• What to order: Steamed Shrimp Dumplings, Steamed Pork Dumplings, Steamed Beef Tripe & Tendon.

Shanghai River: Impress your colleagues or indulge in a solo treat at this elegant establishment. Their Pork Dumplings and Deep-fried Shrimp Dumplings are crowd-pleasers and don’t forget to end your meal with their perfectly balanced Hot & Sour Soup.

• What to order: Pork Dumplings, Deep-fried Shrimp Dumplings, Hot & Sour Soup.

Fortune Terrace Chinese Cuisine: Embrace the playful side of dim sum with Insta-worthy creations like cartoon character buns! Don’t miss their flavorful Shrimp & Lobster Dumplings and the Pig Egg Young Bun.

• What to order: Deep-fried Dry Shrimp & Pinched Meat Dumplings, Steamed Shrimp and Lobster Dumplings, Pig Egg Young Bun.

Chef Tony: Modern takes on dim sum classics reign supreme at Chef Tony. Be sure to try their Shrimp & Matsutake Dumplings and the decadent Egg Yolk Lava Buns.

• What to order: Shrimp & Matsutake Dumplings, Egg Yolk Lava Buns, Black Truffle Pork and Shrimp Dumplings.

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Spice it Up in Little India: Experience the sights and fragrances of Punjabi Market (also known as Little India). Numerous eateries provide fragrant curries, sizzling tandoori chicken, and delicious naan. Some popular places include Main Kabab Hut and Himalaya Restaurant.

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A taste of Italy on Commercial Drive: “The Drive” is a haven for Italian food lovers. Savor homemade pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and authentic antipasti at spots like Marcello Ristorante & Pizzeria, Arriva Ristorante (established landmark!), or Via Tevere Pizzeria for a taste of true Neapolitan pizza.

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Fiesta on Main Street: Main Street sizzles with Mexican options. The Mexican Antojitos Y Cantina offers classic dishes like quesadillas and real tacos. Salsa & Agave promises an authentic taste of Mexico in a cozy ambiance. Craving something a bit more upscale? Check out Cuchillo or El Camino’s for a refined Mexican experience.

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Fare Zones:

• SkyTrain: Requires a 1, 2, or 3-zone fare depending on the time of day and number of zones you cross. During off-peak hours (weekdays after 6:30 pm and all weekends/holidays), all SkyTrain journeys are a 1-Zone fare ($3.15 CAD cash, $2.55 CAD Compass Card).
• SeaBus: Requires a 1 or 2-Zone fare, following the same off-peak rules as SkyTrain ($3.15 CAD cash, $2.55 CAD Compass Card for a 1-Zone during peak hours).
• Buses: All bus journeys are a 1-Zone fare, regardless of time or distance traveled ($3.15 CAD cash, $2.55 CAD Compass Card).

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SkyTrain Lines:

• Expo Line: Travel from bustling Downtown Vancouver to dynamic Burnaby, historic New Westminster, and growing Surrey.
• Millennium Line: Explore East Vancouver’s vibrant communities and connect to thriving Burnaby, scenic Port Moody, and growing Coquitlam.
• Canada Line: This line is your fast track to catching your flight at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), exploring Richmond’s sights, or enjoying the heart of Downtown Vancouver.

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SkyTrain Schedules & Fares:

• Check out SkyTrain schedules and maps for planning your trip here.
• See a detailed breakdown of fares, including concession rates and monthly passes here.

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Other Public Transit Options:

Buses: An extensive network reaching most neighborhoods. RapidBus routes offer faster service with fewer stops. Fares are the same as SkyTrain at $3.15 CAD cash or $2.55 CAD with a Compass Card.

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SeaBus: A passenger ferry crossing the Burrard Inlet, connecting Downtown Vancouver to North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay. Fares follow the SkyTrain structure.

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Handy Resources:

• TransLink Trip Planner: Plan your route, see real-time schedules, and check fares.
• Compass Card Information: Learn about purchasing, reloading, and using your Compass Card.

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Mobi – Vancouver’s Public Bike Share System

• Ideal for short, one-way trips within the city center.
• Unlock bikes from a station and return them to any station in the system.
• Pricing:
  • Pay-per-ride:
    • Classic Bike: $1.00 unlock fee, then 29¢/minute.
    • E-Bike: $1.75 unlock fee, then 39¢/minute (minimum $3.00 per ride for both).
  • Monthly Pass ($49): Unlimited 30-minute rides on classic bikes for 30 days (longer rides are charged per minute after 30 minutes).

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Local Bike Rental Shops

• Perfect for longer rides, exploring Stanley Park, or venturing outside the city center.
• Wider variety of bikes including road bikes, mountain bikes, comfort cruisers, and e-bikes.
• Often offer add-ons like helmets, locks, baskets, and child seats.
• See the list of Vancouver Bike Rentals here: //www.mobibikes.ca/en/local-bike-shops.

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Several user-friendly platforms connect you with secure luggage storage options in Vancouver. Here are some popular choices:

• LuggageHero: This service offers flexible pricing, allowing you to choose between daily rates (starting at $4.50 per bag) or hourly rates (starting at $1 per bag). Perfect if you have a few hours to explore before your cruise.
• Bounce: Bounce’s luggage storage options allow you to stroll around Vancouver with peace of mind. With locations all across the city, you may discover convenient drop-off points close to your pre-cruise activities. Rates usually start at CA$8 per bag per day.
• Stasher: Offering competitive rates (around CA$7.49 per bag per day) and various locations, Stasher provides a reliable option for secure luggage storage before your cruise.

Enjoy Beaches: Vancouver has a beautiful coastline, and you may enjoy the sun on various beaches for free. Popular beaches include English Bay, Kitsilano, and Jericho.

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Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery: Give yourself over to the world of art! The Vancouver Art Gallery provides free admission on the first Friday of each month, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Visitors under the age of 18 are always admitted free of charge.

Outdoor Movies in Stanley Park:  Catch a classic film under the stars! Every Tuesday evening during July and August, Stanley Park transforms into an open-air cinema with free movie screenings.

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Pacific Spirit Park: Escape the urban bustle and delve into the tranquility of Pacific Spirit Park. This 750-acre urban oasis boasts a network of easy hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Immerse yourself in the lush rainforest, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with nature.  The park is also dog-friendly, making it a great spot for a furry friend outing.

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Lynn Canyon Park:  Lynn Canyon Park offers a peaceful alternative to the masses.  This hidden gem has a suspension bridge that rivals the Capilano Suspension Bridge, minus the high entrance price. Unwind with nature by exploring the forest pathways and navigating the unstable bridge.  Arrive early to avoid peak crowds, particularly during the summer.

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St. Mark’s Summit:  For breathtaking panoramic vistas, consider the challenging hike to St. Mark’s Summit, located about 45 minutes outside of Vancouver. This hike is suitable only during the dry months (summer to fall) due to elevation gain. The roundtrip journey takes approximately 5 hours and covers 11 kilometers.

Quarry Rock in Deep Cove: Deep Cove offers a delightful beginner-friendly hike to Quarry Rock.  The easy-to-follow trail takes one to two hours to complete and rewards you with stunning views of Burnaby Mountain, Eagle Ridge, and Deep Cove. Afterward, explore the charming area and indulge in delicious treats at Honey Doughnuts & Goodies.

Brandywine Falls: Take a scenic break while driving on the Sea to Sky Highway towards Squamish or Whistler.  A short 30-minute hike (1 km roundtrip) leads you to the mesmerizing Brandywine Falls cascading down dramatic cliffs.

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Tunnel Bluffs Hike:  Challenge yourself with the Tunnel Bluffs hike, known for its stunning views and moderate difficulty. This 4-hour roundtrip hike covers 11.5 kilometers and features an elevation gain of 470 meters.  Be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Bowen Island and the Sunshine Coast upon reaching the summit.

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Alouette Lake:  For a refreshing summer escape, head to Alouette Lake, located just an hour’s drive from Vancouver. This vast lake is perfect for swimming, boating, or fishing. Pitch a tent and spend a night or two at the campsites offered within Golden Ears Provincial Park. While there, consider the short and family-friendly Gold Creek Falls hike, offering beautiful scenery.

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Sasamat Lake: Leave the city for a day of beach pleasure at Sasamat Lake, commonly known as White Pine Beach.  This picturesque spot is about an hour from Vancouver and has warm seas perfect for swimming. Picnic tables, toilets, and a concession stand make the beach ideal for budget-conscious families.

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Vancouver’s a treasure trove of sights and experiences, but attraction costs can add up. Let’s delve into money-saving options to ensure you experience Vancouver’s top attractions without breaking the bank.

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CityPassport®: Consider purchasing a CityPassport®, a multi-attraction pass offering discounted entry to popular Vancouver destinations like the Vancouver Aquarium or Capilano Suspension Bridge. This option is ideal if you plan on visiting several major attractions.  For  CAD $39.95, you get  1 Year of Access to the CityPassport®, providing instant rebates of up to 50% at over 50 attractions, restaurants, and shops. Visit their website to avail subscription.

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