VANCOUVER TRAVEL TIPS: 11 Things to Know Before You Go
Discover the best of Vancouver, Canada, from the historic charm of Gastown to the natural beauty of Stanley Park and the vibrant culinary scene of Granville Island. This guide highlights essential tips for exploring iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local favorites in this stunning Pacific Northwest city.
Gastown
The original settlement of Vancouver, known for its businesses and the steam clock.
Stanley Park
Vancouver's large city park with over 1,000 acres, voted a top city park by TripAdvisor, featuring a seawall, totem poles, and bicycle rentals.
YVR Airport
Canada's busiest airport, located 30 minutes south of the City Center, with connections to Asia and the US.
Granville Island
An island with a public market, shops, and other attractions, accessible by Aquabus or False Creek Ferries.
Granville Public Market
A public market with tons of food options, including the famous Lee's Donuts.
Japadog
A street food vendor in downtown Vancouver serving Japanese-style hot dogs, open late.
Aberdeen Centre
An Asian mall in Richmond with an Asian food court.
Kokoro
A Japanese restaurant near Gastown known for mazesoba, a noodle dish without soup.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
A theme park in the mountains featuring a suspension bridge; admission costs $55 for adults.
Banana Leaf
A Malaysian restaurant on Willow and Broadway, known for its Singapore laksa and Char Kway Teow.
Hyatt Regency Vancouver
A great hotel in the central business district, convenient for accessing the SkyTrain and major sites.
Fairmont Vancouver Hotel
A classic downtown Vancouver hotel, erected in 1939.
Fairmont Vancouver Airport
A hotel directly connected to Vancouver Airport, convenient for early morning flights.
Hudson House
A souvenir shop in Gastown with a large decoration of maple syrup and maple leaves.
Herschel
A store in Gastown selling backpacks, rain jackets, and other Canadian items.
Kids Market
A market building on Granville Island with toy shops.
Granville Island Broom Company
A store on Granville Island that sells nothing but brooms.
Robson Street
A street with fashion and trendy stores, centered around the Pacific Center Mall.
Pacific Centre
A mall on Robson Street with 150 underground shops and a Nordstrom's on the outside.
Vancouver Aquarium
An aquarium located in Stanley Park.
Queen Elizabeth Park
A city park on the South Side of the city with views of downtown Vancouver and public art.
Seasons in the Park
A fancy restaurant in Queen Elizabeth Park.
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
A free park with a suspension bridge and waterfalls, offering hiking trails.