5 unexpected things you have to do in and around Vancouver

For a number of reasons, Vancouver, British Columbia is possibly Canada’s most popular destination for tourists from around the world.

It’s mild year-round climate combined with a vibrant arts, culture and food scene, not to mention easy access to various ski resorts, make it a prime destination. But there are a few things to do in Vancouver that might not be obvious and should be on the list.

Grouse Mountain

The peak of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain looms large over the city. It’s accessible via North Vancouver and is a constant presence. While it’s known for its outdoor winter sports, especially skiing and snowboarding, there’s a lot more to it than that.

Taking the gondola to the peak is an incredible ride, though it can also be hiked. Once there, several dining options are available to guests. That includes The Observatory, a five star dining experience with one of the best views in the world.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

The experience of setting foot in this garden is like no other in Vancouver. The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden contains two distinct but intertwined aspects, the garden and the park. Together, they create one of the most serene spaces in city.

Located in Vancouver’s Chinatown neighborhood, it was designed to emulate a Ming Dynasty-style garden-home. Reputedly, it was the first of its kind to be built outside of Mainland China. It is an incredibly special experience.

Wreck Beach

Vancouver rests on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. As such it has several great beaches, though there are a lot of rainy days in the region. It is in a rainforest, after all. And Wreck Beach offers nearly eight kilometers of pristine sand with one small caveat.

Wreck Beach is clothing optional. Not everyone who enjoys the beach has to be nude, but there will be a lot of people there who are. Again, the weather plays a factor in that. No one is making use of the clothing optional rule if it’s a rainy day.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is one of Vancouver’s most popular spots. It is a spectacular way to experience nature in Vancouver, walking across an intense bridge suspended hundreds of feet off the ground. But there are numerous other experiences in the park.

There are, of course, restaurants, stores and other amenities. But the coolest part might be the Treetops Adventure. Seven suspension bridges allow guests to experience the mid-story level of an old-growth coastal rainforest. It is truly awe inspiring.

Lonsdale Quay Market

In beautiful North Vancouver, the Lonsdale Quay Market has more than 60 retail shops, restaurants and other vendors. It’s a great spot to find fresh food and unique items to take home from a trip to Vancouver.

But Lonsdale Quay Market also provides a variety of entertainment options, including regular live music. It also has an onsite hotel that offers great views, direct access to the market and puts guests in the middle of the action.