Vancouver
Vancouver blends stunning mountain-meets-ocean scenery with a vibrant food scene and a wealth of free outdoor activities. While accommodation can be pricey, savvy travelers find tremendous value through world-class hiking, free beaches, and some of North America's best affordable Asian cuisine.
Why go to Vancouver
Stanley Park
A 1,000-acre rainforest park with a scenic seawall, totem poles, and sweeping views of the skyline and mountains, all free.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Walk 450 feet across a swaying bridge 230 feet above a canyon surrounded by ancient Douglas firs.
Granville Island Public Market
A buzzing waterfront market packed with local vendors, fresh seafood, artisan foods, and free live entertainment.
Grouse Mountain
Hike or tram up for panoramic views of the city, glacier skiing, and wildlife encounters including resident grizzly bears.
Museum of Anthropology (UBC)
One of North America's finest collections of Indigenous Northwest Coast art, including massive totem poles in a stunning glass-and-concrete building.
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Good to know in Vancouver
- Transit: TransLink's SkyTrain, buses, and SeaBus all use the same Compass Card, load it up for ~$3 per ride and avoid paying cash surcharges.
- Tipping: Tipping 15-18% is standard at sit-down restaurants; many counters now prompt for tips but 0-10% is fine for counter service.
- Tap water: Vancouver's tap water comes from mountain reservoirs and is among the cleanest in the world, drink freely and skip bottled water.
- Free-entry days: The Museum of Anthropology offers free admission Tuesday evenings (5-9 PM); the Vancouver Art Gallery has pay-what-you-can on Tuesday evenings as well.