Vancouver is a world-class city and has all the amenities and activities you would expect from one. It is also well-known for its stunning natural beauty and endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Regardless of the season or weather, there is always plenty to see and do in Vancouver.
Vancouver's best known park is beautiful Stanley Park, which is a huge 1001-acre park that borders the city's downtown. The park is circled by the Sea Wall and features several beaches, hiking trails, a pool, water park, and The Vancouver Aquarium. Pacific Spirit Regional Park is a great escape for the city's runners and cyclists and the gardens and views at Queen Elizabeth Park make it well worth visiting. Located 168 metres above sea level, this park is the perfect place to take in views of Vancouver and the surrounding mountains. It also is home to the Bloedel Floral Conservatory, which is home to a host of tropical plants and birds.
As you would expect from a city by the sea, Vancouver has a wealth of public beaches. There are quiet beaches, busy beaches, dog beaches, and even nude beaches! Whatever your interests, Vancouver has a beach for you. In the Kitsilano area Jericho Beach, Kitsilano Beach, Locarno Beach, and Spanish Banks are good options. Around the downtown area, check out Sunset Beach, English Bay, Second Beach, or Third Beach.
Vancouver offers limitless opportunities for outdoor adventure. The city is particularly bike-friendly and has numerous cycle paths and bike lanes. The Sea Wall also has a dedicated bike and rollerblade path for scenic rides around the park.
Vancouver's local mountains are perfect for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Cypress and Mount Seymour are a quick drive from the city and Grouse Mountain is 30 minutes from downtown and accessible by public transit. The world-class Whistler ski resort is only two hour's drive from Vancouver.
Vancouver's oceanfront location makes it ideal for boating and water sports. Kayaking and sailing are popular activities as is whale watching (local whales include orcas, humpback whales and grey whales).
Vancouver also has a wealth of arts and cultural activities that appeal to a wide range of interests. Music venues abound - from the Commodore Ballroom to the historic Orpheum Theatre. Musical acts from a hugely diverse range of genres regularly play in the Queen Elizabeth Theatre or the Vancouver Playhouse. Watch numerous theatre groups, such as the Arts Club Theatre or Pi Theatre, which offer contemporary and classic theatre all over the city.
