Vancouver really offers so many activities and adventures, so what do you want to do for the day?
Let’s start with Stanley Park, here you can find a bit of nature amidst the busy city. The park is considered to be the “Crown Jewel” of Vancouver. The park covers 1000 acres and you can find so many things to do. First stop is the Vancouver Aquarium, there are over 50,000 animals here and offers visitors a chance to explore and learn. There are over 17 miles of trails to walk and wander. If you are a biker, rent a bicycle and pedal around the park and along the seawall for views of the harbor and city.
Next stop, Granville Island, an urban oasis. The island is an artists community offering waterfront restaurants, galleries, unique shops and the most amazing fresh food market you have ever seen. If you are visiting in warm weather, rent a kayak and paddle around the island.
Shop, shop, shop ~ Vancouver has some great shopping. The best shopping areas are the Robson and Burrard Streets. They have high end shops as well as the smaller boutique stores. When your feet have had enough, find Thierry’s on Alberni St. This little boutique chocolaterie, patisserie and cafe is a peaceful spot to sit out on the patio, people watch and sip a latte. The lattes are beautiful, you may be thinking how do you make a latte beautiful? The Barista’s work really hard to add a delicate design in the cream, adding that special touch. The freshly baked macaroons are a must to have with your latte. They feature a special flavor of the day and they are simply scrumptious.
Head to Victoria, it is such a quaint little town. Go stroll through Butchart Gardens, the flowers will take your breath away, they are incredible. Stop for High Tea at the Empress Hotel, or head to the Sticky Wicket Pub and Restaurant. This is a fun and energetic pub where you can enjoy a cold beer, glass of wine and some appetizers. If you happen to be at the pub when the Vancouver Canuck’s hockey team is playing, be prepared. The place is loud, lively and so much fun. They love their hockey teams. Want an adventure to get to Victoria from Vancouver? Hire a floatplane, it is so much fun.
Are you a foodie? Vancouver is definitely a foodie destination. There are several great food tours in the city. The Original Vancouver Food Tour offers 3 different tours, they will take you through Gastown, visit the Molson Coors Canada plant, a Craft Beer n Bites tour will take you around the neighborhood sampling beer paired with food. Taste Vancouver Walking Food Tours takes you to the off-the-beaten-path eateries and shops.
We have barely scratched the surface of what there is to do for a day in Vancouver. The city truly is one that you need to visit. I hope you love it as much as I do.