Vancouver Sightseeing

From architectural masterpieces to breathtaking natural landscapes, stunning museums to lively neighborhoods sightseeing in Vancouver offers something for everyone.

Just a few of the main Vancouver sights you won't want to miss include:

Canada Place Complex
This architectural landmark on Vancouver's waterfront houses the World Trade Centre, Vancouver's Convention Center, and the Cruise Ship Terminal.

Capilano Suspension Bridge
Visitors to British Columbia are invited to experience a toe-tingling trip 25 stories above the Capilano Canyon on the longest suspended footbridge in the world. The nature park also offers a large selection of colorful Totem Poles and Native Indian carvers continue this centuries-old tradition on a daily basis for visitors to watch. 

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Gardens
Vancouver's living treasure. See how 52 master craftsmen utilized treasured natural materials to create this unique expression of Chinese culture. This garden is the first of its kind on the North American continent. 

Gastown
The birthplace of Vancouver, Gastown is the oldest part of the city and is still lined with cobblestone streets and features an authentic steam clock, shopping and restaurants. 

Granville Island
Granville Island contains an array of popular Vancouver sights including theatres, artists studios, craft shops and a large public market.  The Island also boasts many restaurants, marinas and its own brewery.

Grouse Mountain
Located 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, this year round sightseeing destination offers a skyride tram which, on a clear day, looks back onto the extraordinary beauty of Vancouver.  Enjoy downhill skiing, snowshoeing and sleigh rides in the winter or join an interpretive hike, a lumberjack competition, or try paragliding in the summer.

Museum of Anthropology
This unique collection is found in an architecturally stunning building. With special recognition given to the achievements of the northwest coast Indians, the museum features a spectacular collection of authentic west coast Totem poles and work by renowned Haida artist Bill Reid. The museum also showcases other artifacts from around the world.

• Located at the University of B.C.

Rocky Mountain Rail Tours
Experience sightseeing in Vancouver as never before. This two day, all-daylight tour travels through more than 600 miles of wonderful scenery along the legendary rail routes of Western Canada.

• For fares or package information, please call 1 (800) 665-7245

Stanley Park
One of North America's largest urban parks, covering 1,000 acres, the park includes an aquarium, 22 miles of hiking and walking trails, plus cycling paths, tennis courts, Indian Totem poles and a scenic drive.

Vancouver Museum
A visit to the museum is an easy way to learn about Vancouver's past. Exhibits vividly depict the city's story from the time of explorations to the beginning of World War I.

Vancouver Aquarium
Visit Canada's largest aquarium and winner of Attractions Canada's 'B.C.'s Best International Attraction'. Beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters, seal, sharks and much more. Allow two hours for your visit to fully enjoy all this facility has to offer.

Chinatown
Just east of the downtown core, the bustling traditional Chinatown offers sightseeing in Vancouver that's a feast for the senses. Stop in at one of the many restaurants for a delicious dim sum lunch and then enjoy shopping at the various markets before visiting the tranquil Dr. Sun Yat Sen Gardens.

Science World
An interactive science centre suitable for the entire family.  Exhibits explore themes such as physics and British Columbia's natural history.  The Kid's Space Gallery will be a favourite with the younger children.  Science World also offers films in the Alcan Omnimax Theatre which is the world's largest big screen dome.

Vancouver Art Gallery
Located in the former Vancouver Courthouse building, this spectacular heritage site offers contemporary and historic exhibits.  Also home to a collection of paintings by renowned BC artist Emily Carr.  For information on the latest exhibits, please see www.vanartgallery.bc.ca

Queen Elizabeth Park
Perched atop a hill, Queen Elizabeth Park offers panoramic views of the city of Vancouver.  This park features examples of all the native trees found across Canada along with many exotic species, a beautiful sunken quarry garden and the Bloedel Floral Conservatory with its many climactic zones displaying a huge variety of plants and a superb selection of free-flying tropical birds.

Van Dusen Botanical Garden 
Among the most spectacular Vancouver sights, this 22 hectre (55 acre) garden located in the heart of Vancouver, contains over 7500 plants assembled from six continents placed artistically amidst woodlands and tranquil lakes.  It also offers an Elizabethan maze for families and an international sculpture collection for art lovers.