See and Do in Vancouver
Vancouver is a city rich in history, culture and outdoor attractions, and there are plenty of distractions to offer its resident expats. Popular areas for a day at leisure include Granville Island, Gastown and Chinatown.
A ‘See Vancouver and Beyond Smartvisit Card’ provides access to 40 attractions in and around the city, as well as local maps and travel tips. Here’s our selection of the best things to see and do in Vancouver for expats:
Recommended sightseeing in Vancouver
Vancouver Art Gallery
Located in downtown Vancouver, this well-established gallery showcases the works of both local and international artists including Emily Carr, Andy Warhol, Picasso and Rodin.
www.vanartgallery.bc.ca
Tel: (604) 662 4700
Vancouver Lookout at the Harbour Centre
Take a trip in the glass-fronted Skylift, up the Harbour Centre Tower, to the famous Vancouver Lookout. Here, great bird’s-eye views of the city and surrounds are accompanied by amenities including shops, a food court and the fantastic Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant.
www.vancouverlookout.com
Tel: (604) 689 0421
Commercial Drive
Commercial Drive is one of Vancouver's most eclectic neighbourhoods, popular with both expats and trendy locals. The area boasts a number of chic boutiques and second-hand shops, as well as live music venues, an ice-skating rink, a bowling alley and dozens of authentic, street-side Italian cafés.
www.thedrive.ca
Tel: (604) 251 2884 (Commercial Drive Business Society)
Museum of Anthropology
Totem poles on the Point Grey cliffs mark the way to the Museum of Anthropology, an institution displaying fine examples of Northwest Coast art and architecture. See the work of internationally acclaimed Haida artist, Bill Reid, and explore the traditional houses built on the premises – a great way for expats to get a feel for the culture of the area.
www.moa.ubc.ca
Tel: (604) 827 5932
Granville Island
In central Vancouver, on the south shore of False Creek, is Granville Island – a wonderful entertainment and shopping destination. The island’s array of markets include the Public Market (fresh produce and clothing), the Kids Market (toys and games), and the Maritime Market (boating equipment and supplies).
www.granvilleisland.com
Tel: (604) 666 5784
Queen Elizabeth Park
Queen Elizabeth Park is home to abundant flower gardens, the Bloedel Floral Conservatory, a Pitch and Putt course and a lovely restaurant. The conservatory boasts over 100 species of free-flying tropical birds for visitors to see. This is the perfect day out for apartment-dwelling expats.
www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/Parks/parks/queenelizabeth
Tel: (604) 257 8400 (Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation) or (604) 257 8584 (Bloedel Floral Conservatory)
Pacific National Exhibition (PNE)
Established in 1910, PNE hosts a variety of shows, concerts, sports events and exhibitions. The assortment of amusement park rides and the annual PNE Fair are family favourites.
www.pne.ca
Tel: (604) 253 2311
Lonsdale Quay
Lonsdale Quay has something for everyone, from a vibrant public market and trendy boutiques to a good selection of restaurants and a play area for kids. Climbing the quay’s red tower offers great views of the harbour and the North Shore Mountains.
www.lonsdalequay.com
Tel: (604) 985 6261
Gastown
Wander the cobbled streets of Gastown to discover beautiful Victorian architecture and hidden courtyards. The district is home to a selection of trendy boutiques and restaurants to boot. Visit the Dominion Hotel’s Lamplighter Pub, the first Vancouver establishment to serve alcohol to women.
www.gastown.org
Tel: (604) 683 5650
