Three-Day Getaway: Vancouver

Three days? Better lace up your walking shoes if you want to cover as much of Vancouver as possible in that time. Start with these essential highlights to make the most of your time in this vibrant city caught between old and new, east and west, gleaming ocean and forested mountains.

From here, set out on the Seaside Greenway towards Stanley Park. This 28-kilometre (17-mile) route is the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront walk-run-cycle path, and comprises the Stanley Park Seawall before continuing along False Creek through Kitsilano and on to Spanish Banks.

Stanley Park

The 400 hectares (1,000 acres) of this public park mix wild rainforest with beautifully landscaped gardens. Explore Stanley Park‘s beaches, trails,  totem poles, playgrounds, miniature railway, lighthouses, and the world-renowned Vancouver Aquarium. Grab at bite at one of the concession stands or restaurants, then climb aboard a hop-on, hop-off bus and head straight to Chinatown.

Chinatown

This historic neighbourhood is one of North America’s oldest and biggest predominantly Chinese neighbourhoods. Designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 2011, it is home to the peaceful Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, the dragon-entwined China Gate, lively noodle shops, Chinese herbalists, and hip new restaurants.

Gastown

Northwest of Chinatown is Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, Gastown, with cobblestoned streets and low-rise brick buildings that date back to the 1860s. Check out the famous Gastown Steam Clock, then browse through the Indigenous art galleries and local designer boutiques such as John Fluevog and Obakki, before stopping for dinner. Enjoy the Quebecois richness of St Lawrence, French-influenced L’Abattoir, Mexi-Cali at Tacofino, pan-Asian Pidgin, or what many consider one of the city’s best burgers at Pourhouse.

Day 2: West Side

Take the foot passenger ferry called the Aquabus across False Creek (which is actually an inlet), then spend a leisurely day exploring Kitsilano, Granville Island, and the University of British Columbia.

Joe to Go

Don’t let Vancouver’s laid-back reputation fool you; this is one well-caffeinated city. Some of the best places to get your cuppa tea or coffee are on the west side, including Beaucoup Bakery & Cafe,  49^th Parallel Coffee Roasters, Silk Road Tea, and O5 Rare Tea Bar.

UBC and the Museum of Anthropology

The University of British Columbia’s sprawling campus is home to several galleries and museums, including the famous Museum of Anthropology, a concrete-and-glass clifftop structure designed by notable Vancouver architect Arthur Erickson. Spend a few hours exploring its remarkable collection of Indigenous art from around the world, especially the Pacific Northwest totem poles, spirit masks, and sculptures.

Kitsilano and Vanier Park

“Kits” was hippie heaven back in the patchouli-scented 1960s and ’70s. Today it’s more hip than hippie. Enjoy some window shopping along busy 4^th Avenue, then stop for lunch at Fable Kitchen, Au Comptoir, or Vancouver’s beloved vegetarian eatery, The Naam.

Day 3: North Shore

The North Shore Mountains are an outdoor lover’s paradise of hiking trails, ski runs, breathtaking attractions, and the communities of North and West Vancouver. Get there via shuttles, city bus, or the SeaBus foot-passenger ferry.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Don’t look down! It’s a terrifying 70-metre (230-feet) plunge from the swaying wood-and-cable footbridge to the Capilano River below. The park also features a Treetops Adventure, cantilevered Cliffwalk, gift shop, restaurant, and Indigenous exhibits.

Grouse Mountain

This family-friendly ski hill offers the very best views of the city as well as the surrounding landscape. Feeling energetic? Hike the demanding 2.9-kilometre (1.8-mile) Grouse Grind to the top. In a more leisurely mood? Take the Skyride gondola. At the summit, you can hike, mountain bike, and zipline in summer; ski, skate, and sleigh ride in winter. Or just grab a seat at one of the numerous eateries and savour that unbeatable view.