First of all, let me start this post by saying…
Vancouver is AMAZING.
I couldn’t believe how much I LOVED the city.
AND I was only there for 2 days and 1 full day was for work!
The city reminds me of NYC, Portland, and San Francisco all mixed together (and a little cleaner than all of them).
The closeness of the city, the ocean, and the mountains was pretty ideal if you ask me.
I stayed in Downtown Vancouver at the Marriott Pinnacle which was walkable to Gastown and Stanley Park.
Here’s some of the things I did! I’ve also added a list of recommendations that I’ve gotten from people who live in Vancouver and others who just plain love it!
Things to do:
Explore Granville Island – public market, small shops, and docks to stroll around on
Bike around Stanley Park– This is a MUST do. Rent a bike and tour the whole thing. Views are incredible and I especially love the totem poles. Apparently there are hidden swimming areas too, so bring a suit!
Explore YaleTown
Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge – about $37 to get in. Unsure it’s worth that because it’s mainly forest and views are so-so, but fun to see anyway!
Wander around Gastown
Robson Street – for downtown shopping, restaurants, and nightlife
Historic Chinatown – there are some great old school shops, but also a growth of trendy craft roasters and eateries
Richmond – the new Chinatown, great bakeries and restaurants, and shopping centers
Lion’s Gate Bridge
Watch the sea planes and grab a beer by Canada Place – great place to sit by the water downtown
Kitsilano Beach
Vancouver Lookout
Day Trip to Vancouver Island – visit Victoria and Butchart Gardens
Food & Drinks:
Meat & Bread – amazing sandwiches
Kintaro Ramen – solid ramen place with strong flavors
Ramen Butcher – best bang for your buck (they give you a second
Shanghai River – if you like Shanghai soup dumplings
Catch 122 – Great brunch spot in Gastown! Try the Dirty Breakfast or the Chorizo Hash
Alibi Room – gastropub and cocktails
Japadog – Japanese inspired hotdogs
Tuc Craft Kitchen – get the crispy bacon & eggs… you won’t regret it
The Flying Pig – another craft kitchen with new takes on Canadian food, pulled pork poutine is good
Guu with Garlic – Japanese Izakaya
Granville Island Brewing
East Van Vodka
Amsterdam Cafe – if you’re into this kind of thing (haha)
xoxo,
Katie
Leave A Comment