Vancouver is a beautiful city with so much to offer. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. And while there are plenty of guidebooks and blog posts out there that detail all the must-see attractions, sometimes it’s nice to explore a city without any preconceived notions. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the lesser-known but still awesome things to do in Vancouver. From hidden gems in Stanley Park to offbeat museums, there’s something for everyone in this list. So whether you’re a local looking for new ideas or a visitor wanting to get off the beaten path, read on for some great suggestions.
Vancouver Art Gallery
The Vancouver Art Gallery is a world-renowned art museum that houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the gallery is a must-see for anyone interested in the arts.
Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of artwork, from early Canadian paintings to contemporary pieces from around the world. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions, which feature different artists and styles throughout the year. With something for everyone, the Vancouver Art Gallery is a must-visit for any art lover.
Tickets : Single-day tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors, and $19 for students. Children under 12 are free.
How to Reach Vancouver Art Gallery
The best way to reach Vancouver Art Gallery is by SkyTrain. The Canada Line station at Vancouver City Centre is just a block away from the Gallery. For those coming from outside of Vancouver, the closest major airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). From YVR, you can take the Canada Line SkyTrain directly to Vancouver City Centre.
There are also a number of buses that serve the downtown area, including the 99 B-Line express bus which stops right at Vancouver Art Gallery. For those driving into the city, there are several parking options within a short walk of the Gallery. Parking rates vary depending on the time of day and day of the week, but there are some affordable options available if you plan ahead.
Vancouver Aquarium
Vancouver Aquarium is a public aquarium located in Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia. In addition to being a major tourist attraction for Vancouver, the aquarium is a Centre for marine research, conservation and education.
The Vancouver Aquarium was one of the first facilities in North America to incorporate professional naturalists into their exhibits to interpret animal behavior's and educate the public. As well as being accredited by CAZA (Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums), the Vancouver Aquarium is a member of WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums). The Vancouver Aquarium was the first aquarium in Canada to be accredited by both organizations.
The mission of the Vancouver Aquarium is “to inspire conservation of aquatic life through leadership in education, research and stewardship”.
Tickets : An adult ticket during peak season (May 1-Sept. 30) costs $39.95 CAD, while a child's ticket (ages 4-12) during the same period costs $29.95 CAD. A family membership, which includes two adults and up to four children, costs $199 CAD per year.
How to reach Vancouver Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium is located in the heart of Stanley Park, and is easily accessible by public transit, car, taxi, or foot.
The Aquarium is a 5-minute walk from the Stanley Park bus loop. Buses #19, #22, and #44 all stop at the loop. For up-to-date transit information, visit translink.ca or call 604-953-3333.
Museum of Anthropology
The Museum of Anthropology is a world-renowned museum located at the University of British Columbia. The museum is home to an extensive collection of First Nations artifacts and artworks, as well as a variety of other cultural objects from around the world.
The Museum of Anthropology is one of Vancouver's must-see attractions. Visitors can explore the museum's many galleries, which feature a wide range of exhibits on topics such as First Nations history and culture, Indigenous art, and the anthropology of food. The museum also offers a variety of public programs, including lectures, workshops, and films
Tickets : Adult: $16.00, Senior (65+): $12.00, Student (with ID): $12.00
How to Reach Museum of Anthropology
The Museum of Anthropology is located at the University of British Columbia, 6393 NW Marine Drive. It is a 10-minute drive from downtown Vancouver and can be reached by taking public transit.
Take the 99 B-Line bus from Broadway & Granville Street and get off at the stop for University Boulevard & Wesbrook Mall. From there, it is a 5-minute walk to the Museum of Anthropology.
Experiences to add to your itinerary
Take to the water by beach, boat or board
Find fine art, family fun and fresh fare on Granville Island
Cycle around the Stanley Park seawall
Take a trek through the treetops
Hit the local ski slopes
Do dim sum on the Dumpling Trail
Take in a spectator sport
Best Accommodations in Vancouver
There are many great accommodation options in Vancouver, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some of our top picks:
For luxury accommodations, the Fairmont Pacific Rim is a great option. Situated in the heart of downtown Vancouver, this hotel offers stunning views of the city and harbour. Guest rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and there are plenty of on-site amenities to enjoy, including a spa, pool, and several restaurants.
If you're looking for something more affordable, but still central, the Holiday Inn Vancouver Centre is a good choice. This hotel is just steps from popular attractions like Granville Island and Robson Street shopping, and offers comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.
For those wanting to experience Vancouver's vibrant nightlife scene, the Cambie Hostel & Bar is a great option. This hostel is located in Gastown (Vancouver's historic district) and features a bar that stays open late into the night. The hostel itself is clean and comfortable, with private rooms available for an additional fee.
Conclusion
There are plenty of great things to do in Vancouver, no matter what your interests are. With so much to see and do, you'll never be bored in this beautiful city. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or just a chance to relax, Vancouver has something for everyone. So start planning your trip today and experience all that Vancouver has to offer!
