Hey, lovelies!
Vancouver, BC is a city close to my heart. I usually visit once or twice a year, for the Christmas holidays and the August wedding season. I have a big family, and one part of the tribe lives in Vancouver! Inevitably, there’s always a wedding or celebration to attend in the peak of summer!
In fact, I only just returned from Vancouver for – you guessed it – a wedding, and I decided to take the opportunity to round up some of my favorite sights and tastes in the city.
My Favorite Places to Visit
If you find yourself in the Vancouver area, try to work one or two of these sights and attractions into your visit!
Granville Island
Granville Island isn’t actually an island, but the name sounds a little more appealing than Granville Peninsula, I suppose. This used to be an industrial area for freight and ships but has been converted into a fun district with restaurants, galleries, shopping, and a large public market.
The public market is my favorite location, as you can find really fresh food products like cheese and meats. The food court is also home to a ton of local eateries that are worth a visit!
The Sea to Sky Gondola
If soaring falls, sprawling mountains and spectacular scenery are some of your favorite things to take in, then you have to indulge in the Sea to Sky gondola.
Only ten minutes in length, this gondola will take you from Squamish over 2,800 feet high past Shannon Falls. There’s a ton to do up here, including nature trails, a gravity-defying Suspension bridge, and skiing in the winter.
Stanley Park
Stanley Park has to be one of the biggest parks I’ve ever seen. I think it’s over 1,000 acres! Here you’ll find multiple beaches, the Vancouver Aquarium, a pool, splash park, botanical gardens, tennis courts, and an entire golf course.
If you walk the many nature trails in the park, chances are you’ll see a ton of wildlife. You can also see whales off the coast!
Capilano Suspension Bridge
The north shore of Vancouver is home to a rainforest, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge offers a close-up view of it. 230 feet high and 450 feet across, the Suspension Bridge crosses the Capilano River – if you’re brave enough to cross it, you’ll find a cliff walk and a rainforest park beyond.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
GasTown
Gastown used to be the heart of Vancouver but is now a unique historic district with cobblestone streets, fun eateries and a ton of shopping. Some of my favorite cocktail bars and restaurants are tucked into the Gastown area- it’s a great spot for nightlife!
Vancouver Whale Watch
If you’ve never been to Vancouver before, then a whale watching tour is a must. The waters around British Columbia are full of orca whales, seals, dolphins, and even enormous humpback whales. You’ve got to see them up close to believe it!
Where to Eat in Vancouver
Cactus Club Cafe
The Cactus Club Cafe has a few locations throughout Canada, but the original is in the heart of downtown Vancouver. This is one of my favorite cocktail bars and eateries- there’s thoughtfully prepared global cuisine with only local fresh ingredients. The truffle fries are a must!
The Keg Steakhouse+Bar
The Keg is a moody, modern steakhouse that has amazing service and even better steak. The peppercorn steak with whiskey sauce is to die for – and if you need a refreshing start to your meal, you can’t go wrong with the basil lemonade!
Miku Vancouver
Miku Vancouver is a place you go for the view, and you stay for the sushi and sustainably-farmed seafood. It’s very sophisticated, and the patio with sprawling water views makes this a truly romantic date spot.
Hy’s Steakhouse
Hy’s serves amazing steaks. This restaurant has been around a long time, and has the traditional wood paneling and mood lighting of a posh steakhouse.
Places to Stay
While I often visit family in Vancouver, I love to stay in some of the local hotel spots in order to be closer to the downtown scene. I have three favorite hotels:
the Douglas
This is a super trendy hotel with some of the most attentive service I’ve ever experienced.
Parq
What I love about the Parq is all the fun you can have without actually leaving the hotel! the Parq has a casino in the hotel and a bar and lounge that’s the perfect place to end your day.
Trump International Hotel & Tower Vancouver
The Trump Tower in Vancouver has pretty small rooms, to be honest, but the feel is very modern. The real standout of this hotel is the lobby, where you can grab some delicious small plates and drinks while waiting for the night to begin!
What are your favorite place to go in Vancouver? Put them in the comments below and I’ll check it out next time I’m in the area!
