City and Rural Landmarks to Explore in Vancouver

Vancouver is a bustling metropolis surrounded by beautiful landscapes in Lower Mainland, British Columbia, on the western coast of Canada and a short hop across the water from University of Victoria on Vancouver Island.

Even if you’re studying at the University of Toronto on the east coast, you could work in a road trip or a stunning railway journey to see the west coast’s capital. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Stanley Park

In the heart of Vancouver, Stanley Park is a 1,000-acre public park with breathtaking views of the city, the mountains, and the Pacific. A local favorite, the park has beaches, trails, an aquarium, a miniature train, and much more.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

This iconic suspension bridge 70 meters above the Capilano River in North Vancouver is naturally thrilling. One brave step out on to the bridge and you get incredible views down the rainforest valley from the rope bridge. It’s quite an experience.

Granville Island

A unique, vibrant neighborhood just south of downtown Vancouver, Granville Island has great shopping at the public market, fun street performers, and some of the best dining in the city.

Whistler

The world-renowned ski resort is two hours away, by car or bus, from Vancouver. Its hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding, and skiing are just the start of the fun. The one-time Winter Olympic village has nightclubs, bars, and community galore. And it’s a real treat for a long weekend visit with friends, whatever the season.

Lynn Canyon Park

A beautiful forest in North Vancouver, and not far from Capilano, Lynn Canyon has several hiking trails, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge. There are also swimming holes for a quiet summer’s day making memories.

The Bloedel Conservatory

This domed conservatory in Queen Elizabeth Park is alive with stunning exotic plants and birds. Take a leisurely stroll through the conservatory and enjoy the tropical atmosphere and take a moment of quiet.

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

In Chinatown, this beautifully kept garden is a serene oasis in the middle of the city. The garden features traditional Chinese architecture, a pond, and an abundance of plants and flowers. It’s the first traditional garden created outside China and is one of Vancouver’s top tourist attractions.