Destination YVR: Explore Vancouver BC, the city where ocean meets mountains

View from beach across bay to city skyline, Vancouver, BC

Relaxing by the shore in Vancouver BC

From the sun-drenched beaches to the bustling city streets, Vancouver is an outdoor-lover's dream and the perfect summer escape. Visitors can enjoy paddleboarding on calm coastal waters, hike through lush rainforest trails, and wind down with a sunset dinner by the waterfront. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Rocky Mountains, Canadians visiting Vancouver this summer can look forward to a memorable West Coast getaway.

Where to stay

Vancouver’s West End is the heart of the city’s action. Steps away from major attractions, shopping, entertainment and local restaurants, this neighbourhood also boasts numerous hotels situated on the water, allowing guests to take in the beautiful ocean view and breeze, while still within walking distance of some of the city’s best sites.

What to do

Get in touch with nature

Bike or stroll along the Stanley Park Seawall, the world’s longest continuous waterfront path, spanning 22 kilometres with ocean, skyline and island views. Hop on the SeaBus across the Burrard Inlet to North Vancouver and board a harbour cruise or rent a canoe and explore False Creek.

Nature-lovers can step into the trees and cross the iconic swaying Capilano Suspension Bridge (CSB) over a stunning river gorge, surrounded by lush rainforest. Just a six minute drive up the mountain from CSB lies the iconic Skyride gondola, known for its sweeping city views. Visitors looking for an extra challenge can tackle the famous Grouse Grind, a workout locals lovingly refer to as “mother nature’s stairmaster.”

Explore the city’s beautiful beaches

As a coastal city, Vancouver has no shortage of charming beaches, adored by both visitors and locals.

Kitsilano Beach, locally known as “Kits,” is a summer hotspot for relaxing in the sand or taking a dip in North America’s longest outdoor saltwater pool or joining a game of beach volleyball. Other notable favourites include Jericho Beach, Spanish Banks Beach and English Bay Beach, which is a local gem known for its beautiful golden sunsets.

Catch a BC Lions game

Sports fan rejoice! Vancouver is home to the BC Lions CFL team who play at BC Place, an open-air stadium right downtown. Sporting enthusiasts should check out Rogers Arena next door, home of the Vancouver Canucks hockey team.

Vancouver Aquarium

As a coastal city, Vancouver is known for its diverse marine life, with many different species of sea creatures located across the city’s shores. Luckily, visitors won’t have to go far to see more than 65,000 incredible animals across 120 exhibits at the Vancouver Aquarium! Located in Stanley Park, this exciting attraction is perfect for guests of all ages.

What to eat

Just south of downtown lies the Richmond Night Market, known for its delectable Asian street food, bubble waffles and giant skewers in addition to unique goodies and games!

Foodies also love Granville Island Public Market, where hungry patrons can enjoy fresh seafood, local produce, artisan cheeses and baked goods.

The Shipyards Night Market buzzes with food trucks, live music and artisan vendors every Friday night in the summer, located on North Vancouver’s waterfront Lonsdale Quay.

Where to shop

Vancouver’s shopping scene is as bright and vibrant as its culture, with shops and boutiques scattered throughout the city.

The historic Gastown neighbourhood is the perfect harmony of historic elegance and modern charm, featuring cobblestone streets lined with local shops featuring some of the city’s most eye-catching fashion. Known simply as “The Drive,” Commercial Drive boasts a mix of Italian cafés, independent shops and global eats, making it the perfect neighbourhood for an afternoon stroll with a gelato in hand.