The most livable city in the world! 14 recommended sightseeing spots in Vancouver

Vancouver, the gateway to Western Canada, consistently ranks among the world's most livable cities and is widely known for its safety. It also gained worldwide attention as the host city for the Winter Olympics in 2010. As a tourist city that attracts many visitors from around the world every year, Vancouver has plenty to see and do! You can also refresh yourself in the abundant nature just a short distance away. This time, we will introduce 14 carefully selected recommended tourist spots that you should definitely visit in Vancouver, a city rich in greenery despite being a metropolis.

1. Stanley Park

Located in downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park is the largest park in the city. Covering an area of approximately 4 million square meters, it's said to be 7 times larger than the size of Rizal Park in Manila. As the oldest park in Vancouver, it's also designated as a Canadian National Historic Site.

The park is packed with attractions, including an aquarium, a zoo, Totem Pole Park, a rose garden, and more. It's a great place to rent a bike and enjoy a leisurely cycle. As it's easily accessible from downtown Vancouver by foot or bike, feel free to drop by whenever you like.

2. Vancouver Aquarium

Located within Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium was the first officially opened aquarium in Canada. Since its opening in 1956, it has remained the largest aquarium in the country as of 2019. It houses an astonishing 8,000 species of marine animals! The orca monument at the front entrance is particularly impressive.

If you visit the Vancouver Aquarium, you definitely have to see the famous sea otters. While simply watching them is enjoyable, there are also programs where you can learn about sea otter ecology or participate in feeding experiences. Don't miss the exhibits focused on Canada's Inuit culture.

3. Granville Island

Granville Island is a popular tourist spot in Vancouver where you can find markets, souvenir shops, restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and more. It's easily accessible from downtown by bus in about 10 minutes, making it a popular destination for both local Vancouverites and tourists.

At the Public Market, you can find organic fruits and vegetables straight from the farm, freshly baked bread, seafood, and more. As it's the kitchen of Vancouver, it's a great place to see how locals live. For those who enjoy alcohol, you can enjoy freshly brewed craft beer at a local brewery.

4. Queen Elizabeth Park

Queen Elizabeth Park is situated on a small hill 152 meters above sea level. It was named after Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom who visited Vancouver in 1940. The park is adorned with colorful flowers, offering beautiful scenery throughout the year. As it provides a panoramic view of downtown Vancouver and the harbor, it's also a popular spot for enjoying the night view.

5. English Bay

Located west of downtown, English Bay is a popular recreational area for Vancouver residents. It's easily accessible by bus from the city center in about 10 minutes, and it's always bustling with people on weekends. English Bay is famous for its stone sculptures called Inukshuks, which resemble human figures. The sunset view with the Inukshuks is a must-see.

6. Vancouver Lookout

Vancouver Lookout is an observation deck located a 2-minute walk from the Waterfront Station on the SkyTrain. From a height of 168 meters, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the city of Vancouver, the mountains of North Vancouver, and the Pacific Ocean. Tickets are valid all day, and you can enter as many times as you like. It's great that you can enjoy both the daytime and nighttime views.

7. Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of Vancouver's most popular tourist attractions, drawing over 800,000 visitors each year. This suspension bridge was built in the Capilano Canyon in 1889 and boasts a length of 140 meters and a height of 70 meters above the ground. The bridge sways quite a bit, so be cautious if you have acrophobia. Let's enjoy a thrilling adventure and feel like a kid again.

Around the bridge, there are plenty of exciting activities for adults, including the Treetop Adventure, a walk through the forest; the Cliffwalk, a walkway built on a cliff; and forest bathing tours. From November to January, the "Canyon Lights" event illuminates the forest with magical lights.

8. Gastown

Gastown is known as the birthplace of Vancouver. Located along Water Street lined with brick buildings, it exudes a classic atmosphere in stark contrast to the modern buildings of the city center.

The Steam Clock, a symbol of Gastown, is one of a kind in the world. Every 15 minutes, it whistles and steam erupts, so be sure to time your photo. Gastown is lined with antique shops and gift shops, making it perfect for souvenir hunting.

9. Vancouver Public Library (Vancouver Central Library)

A striking, colosseum-like building stands out in downtown Vancouver. Constructed in 1995 by Canadian architect Moshe Safdie, this building is the Vancouver Public Library, once voted the world's best library. Also known as the Vancouver Central Library, its beautiful exterior has been used as a filming location for movies and dramas. With a cafe inside, it's a great addition to your rainy-day itinerary.

10. UBC Museum of Anthropology

Located on the campus of the University of British Columbia, the UBC Museum of Anthropology was founded in 1949. It boasts one of the world's largest collections of works by Indigenous sculptor, Bill Reid. The museum is filled with ethnographic and archaeological collections from around the world, including Haida totem poles. Don't miss the two large totem poles displayed outdoors.

11. Canada Place

Canada Place is a multi-purpose facility that was originally the Canadian Government Pavilion for the 1986 Vancouver Expo. Its distinctive ship-shaped exterior has made it a Vancouver landmark. Canada Place, which juts out into the inlet, is also known as a scenic spot. The night view is particularly beautiful, so be sure to visit after dark. A breathtaking night view awaits you.

12. Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain is a 1,250-meter-high mountain located in North Vancouver. You can take the Skyride gondola from the base to an elevation of 1,128 meters. Of course, hiking up the trail on your own is also recommended. From the summit, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Vancouver below, making it perfect for a date!

At the summit station, where the gondola ends, there is an observation restaurant called "Observatory." Although it's a bit pricey, there are special menus that come with a gondola ticket, so it's worth trying for a special occasion. At the summit, there are also various attractions such as a bear feeding center where you can watch bears being fed and a lumberjack show.

13. Kitsilano Beach

Kitsilano, located south of downtown, is an area lined with trendy restaurants and cafes. Kitsilano Beach, affectionately known as "Kits Beach" by locals, is located in this area. You can enjoy shopping and dining or simply relax on the beach and watch the sunset. Kitsilano Beach might be the place where you can feel the most authentic Vancouver atmosphere.

14. Commercial Drive

Located about a 10-minute train ride from downtown, Commercial Drive is lined with trendy cafes, vintage clothing stores, record shops, and antique buildings. This area is also known as "Little Italy." The annual Italian Day is Vancouver's largest festival, attracting over 300,000 visitors each year. This is an event you don't want to miss.

◎Summary

Vancouver is a scenic city surrounded by mountains and the sea, despite being a big city. It's no wonder it consistently ranks as one of the most livable cities in the world. Vancouver is full of attractions, from natural spots to historical sites. Be sure to plan a wonderful trip using this article as a reference.