Top 15 Things to do in Vancouver
Vancouver is a city with endless possibilities. It offers beautiful landscapes, oceans, amazing food, and a variety of activities all in one place. Beyond its beauty, Vancouver is full of interesting character and charm. It’s home to Stanley Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, offering scenic seawall views that stretch for kilometers. The city is also famous for its diverse food scene—from fresh Pacific seafood to some of the best sushi you’ll find outside of Japan.
Vancouver is often called “Hollywood North” because it’s a major filming location for movies and TV shows, rivalling even Los Angeles in production volume.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or just want something new to enjoy, there is an experience for everyone. Here are 15 cool experiences worth adding to your Vancouver bucket list.
1. Helicopter Tour Whistler – Sightseeing the Summit
For a truly unforgettable Vancouver sightseeing experience, take to the skies on this helicopter tour over Whistler Blackcomb Resort Provincial Park. During this 24-minute flight, you’ll soar above the turquoise waters of Cheakamus and Garibaldi Lake and take in breathtaking views of Black Tusk Peak and mountain landscapes. It’s an incredible way to experience the natural beauty Vancouver has to offer.
2. Jet Ski Tour – The Ocean is Yours
For an exciting way to explore the shoreline, hop on a jet ski and explore Vancouver from the water. This guided tour departs from Granville Island and takes you past iconic sights such as Stanley Park and Bowen Island. It’s a thrilling Vancouver experience for anyone who wants an adventure away from the busy city life.
3. Segway Tour – Stanley Park Vancouver
This exciting 3-hour adventure takes you on a guided Segway tour through Stanley Park. Before setting off, you’ll receive professional training and gear to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. You’ll then be able to glide along Stanley Park’s Seawall, one of Vancouver’s most scenic routes, and witness the breathtaking coastal rainforest, stunning ocean views, lush greenery, and iconic landmarks. This is the perfect Vancouver sightseeing experience for anyone looking to explore the beautiful landscapes the city has to offer.
4. Vancouver Whale Watching Adventure and City Tour
Head out on a whale watching adventure along the Pacific Coast. You’ll get to sit in a comfortable covered boat and spot incredible marine wildlife such as Orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, and even bald eagles while learning about their behaviour from a trained guide. Before the tour, you will also have a chance to stop at the Island Public Market. If you’re looking for a cool experience in Vancouver, this experience will surely keep you thrilled.
5. Vancouver Secret Food Tour
This Secret Food Tour in Gastown is a must if you are someone who loves food and adventure. This guided experience takes you to local restaurants where you can try Vancouver favourites like fresh sushi, poutine with a spicy twist, and even a secret dish. As you taste the city’s flavours, you’ll learn the history and culture as well.
6. Vancouver Paintball Game
If you’re looking for an action-packed experience, a paintball game is a great way to have fun with friends. Players can take part in themed mission scenarios that test teamwork and require strategizing and quick thinking. You’ll be provided with all safety equipment and friendly supervisors will be looking out for you, so enjoy and have fun. It’s the perfect experience for those looking for a thrill.
7. Squamish Canyon Walk
For nature lovers searching for something peaceful, this canyon walk is the perfect Vancouver sightseeing experience. It is a 1 hour drive from Vancouver, offering a beautiful escape into BC’s coastal rainforest, where you’ll be guided on elevated walkways past waterfalls and lush forests while preserving the surrounding delicate ecosystems. Whether you seek an adventure or a deeper connection with nature, the Squamish Canyon is a great option for anyone of any age to explore.
8. Vallea Lumina Whistler
Vallea Lumina is a magical multimedia night walk that takes you through an old growth forest filled with lights and storytelling. As you follow the trail you’ll witness old stories inspired by wondrous things that happened near Whistler. It’s one of the coolest experiences near Vancouver and is perfect for people of any age.
9. Secret Mission Outdoor Adventure Vancouver
In this Vancouver adventure, your mission is to save the city as secret agents. It combines the excitement of a scavenger hunt with a clue-solving mystery, and is perfect for friends and family to enjoy together. At the beginning of the game, you’’ meet a Vancouver Mysteries detective and that will introduce the storyline, provide maps, tools, and clues needed for the mission. You and your team must explore the city, complete challenges, and solve clues under a time crunch. This adventure is a must if you are looking for a fun and cool Vancouver experience.
10. Granite Falls Boat Tour
Explore Vancouver’s stunning coastline on the Granite Falls Boat Tour, a scenic 3 hour adventure through Vancouver Harbour into Deep Cove, a coastal town nestled at the base of Mount Seymour. You’ll also witness the natural and stunning fjord leading to Granite Falls. That’s not all, many more locations await you. This is a great experience to try if you want to explore Vancouver and its hidden gems.
11. Mirror Self-Portrait Studio
Want a way to capture your trip to Vancouver or a special occasion? Get creative with SELFIELAB, a unique self-portrait studio where you can control your own photoshoot. You get the whole space to yourself, no photographers. With a clicker remote and a special mirror equipped with a hidden camera, take stunning high-quality pictures under professional lighting.
12. Vancouver Sea to Sky Private Tour
This tour allows you to discover some of the most beautiful landscapes in Vancouver. Explore some stunning locations such as Lion’s Gate Bridge, Cypress Mountain, Shannon Falls Provincial Park, and the Sea to Sky Highway. Additionally, you’ll be able to take a trip on the gondola for a beautiful view of the landscapes. This is a must-do experience for everyone staying in Vancouver.
13. White Water Rafting – Green River, Whistler
For an exhilarating adventure, get ready to try water rafting on the class 2 and 3 rapids in Whistler’s only whitewater experience. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking and lush scenery paired with stunning mountains. It’s an experience that is perfect for beginners and is a fun way to explore the outdoors with friends and family.
14. Harrison Hot Springs – Private Day Trip
Escape the city by taking a relaxing day tip to the Harrison Hot Springs. Located about 90 minutes from Vancouver, you’ll start your tour with a scenic drive to Fraser Valley before arriving at the popular Harrison Hot Springs Resort on the shores of Harrison Lake. There you’ll get to experience a private tour around the charming town and enjoy private massages and treatments, all while being surrounded by stunning mountain views. This experience is perfect for those who want to spend a day to unwind during their stay in Vancouver.
15. 2-Night Vancouver Getaway Breakfast for Two
This 2-night getaway allows you to enjoy a relaxing escape into one of Canada’s most beautiful cities. It includes comfortable and stylish accommodations in top-rated hotels, including a breakfast each morning to start off the day before heading out to explore the city. From scenic walks through Stanley Park to visiting Granville Island’s artisan markets, this getaway provides the perfect retreat for two.
There are so many Vancouver experiences to try, and each one will leave you with fond memories to look back on. Whether you’re looking to try delicious food, go sightseeing and explore some stunning landscapes, or simply a cool experience, Vancouver has something for everyone.
Looking for more Vancouver experiences? Find them here. For other cool experiences, find them at Epic Experiences.