The Best Spots in Vancouver, BC, Canada

Ahhh, Vancouver… Van, Vancity, Raincouver, Wet Coast, etc.

Whatever you may call it, Vancouver should be on your travel bucket list!

The city actually holds a very special place in our hearts, as it’s where we got engaged back in April of 2016! *sigh*…ah, to be young and in love again.

Benny made this sweet little video capturing where it happened, and you’ll be able to see that he caught me COMPLETELY off guard. I was actually already out west visiting family in Kamloops, and Ben flew to meet me in Vancouver for a week.

Along with the proposal, he also captured some footage of some key things we recommend you check out- so give it a view (and try not to laugh at my stunning crying face…)

Here is a list of some of our favourite spots & things to do in Vancouver!

Acadia Beach & Wreck Beach 

We accidentally found this place while strolling around after exploring the University of British Columbia campus. We found a set of steps leading to the beach, and decided to check it out. Initially, we were alarmed by the ‘Clothing Optional Beyond This Point’ signs… but given that it was April, we thought we were in the clear. We stepped onto a virtually empty beach overlooking the city, with the mountains in the background. What a breathtaking view!! We definitely recommend spending an afternoon in the sunshine here. Important tip- Acadia beach is a typical beach, where as Wreck Beach is where clothing is not required… whatever floats your boat.

Stanley Park 

Along the seawall, overlooking the skyline near the totem poles is where Benny popped the question all those years ago. We LOVED biking along the seawall of Stanley Park, and hoping off at spots that interested us. Stanley park is absolutely beautiful, and well worth spending the time to explore it- it is huge!

Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge 

We were planning on checking out the Capilano Suspension Bridge, but a friend said, “Don’t bother! It is so busy, go to the Lynn Suspension Bridge instead!” So, we went and we are so glad we did! We were the only people there, and were able to explore the sights solo! (Not to mention we got way better photographs). Plus, the Lynn Canyon is a local park, so the cost is free! (cha-ching!) The Capilano Suspension bridge costs $47, but is much bigger! If you’re like me… not too keen on heights or busy crowds, the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is a great place to check out!

Gastown 

We found this to be a great spot to grab a bite to eat and explore some shops and boutiques. 

Granville Island

Again, food and shopping! So many little shops, boutiques, bakeries and more! We enjoyed poking around the island.  

Bus to Whistler for a day 

On a whim, we decided to book a cheap last minute ticket from downtown Vancouver to Whistler for a day. The drive only took about an hour and a half, and was worth it! We arrived in Whistler just before noon, and explored the village before taking the chairlift up the mountain. It was about 17 degrees at the bottom, but at the top there was still snow and plenty of people skiing! It was so cool to see (and feel) the change in temperature. Just make sure that you come prepared with the right attire. Unfortunately, due to weather, the gondola connecting the Whistler peak to the Blackcomb peak was closed- apparently the views from this are amazing! For dinner, we enjoyed some food and drinks at El Furniture Warehouse (one of our personal favourites; all meals are $4.95 baby!) 

Overall, we found Vancouver to be a fun, outdoorsy city with plenty to offer tourists (young and old alike). We already can’t wait to go back sometime soon!

A couple key recommendations: 

• Hop on, Hop Off Bus Tours

  • A common problem we faced while we were young and traveling was that we were not able to rent a car, so we had to get creative. We booked a hop-on hop-off bus tour with the Vancouver Trolly Company because it was a great way to get to all the key sites, and get off where we wanted. We recommend looking over their map first, to ensure you leave enough time to see all the destinations you’re interested in. 

• Rent a Bike in Stanley Park 

  • There are so many shops and stands to grab a bike in (or just outside of) Stanley Park. It was a quick way to explore the park, and make the most of our short time there. We loved seeing the sites, stopping to explore certain things, and take photos! Please note, don’t be that person who does not follow the bike lane rules. Stay on your side, and pedestrians… don’t cross without looking. Please :)

• If you get the chance, take a seaplane!

  • I (Becky) flew into Vancouver from Victoria B.C on a seaplane, and it was an incredible way to travel! The views were unbelievable! Totally worth the extra money, as opposed to taking the ferry.