Plan Better Days Out in Vancouver and Beyond
Parks, beaches, gardens, markets, festivals and day trips across Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, the North Shore and beyond, with original photos and first-hand tips from a local.
Top Attractions in Vancouver
The landmarks, gardens and viewpoints that first-time visitors and locals keep coming back to.
Stanley Park
Seawall, totem poles, beaches, forest trails and the city's best-known green space.
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Granville Island
A public market, artisan studios, waterfront cafes and plenty of walking.
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Capilano Suspension Bridge
A swaying bridge, treetop walks and cliffside paths above the Capilano River.
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Grouse Mountain
Alpine views, wildlife, seasonal events and a quick ride above the city.
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VanDusen Botanical Garden
Themed gardens, lakes and the winter Festival of Lights in the heart of Vancouver.
Read the guide →English Bay Beach
Sunsets, summer fireworks and an easy stretch of sand beside the West End.
Read the guide →What to Do in Vancouver Right Now
Holiday markets, glowing parks and weekend plans, collected in one place.
Christmas Markets in Vancouver
Dates, locations and what to expect at the region's best holiday markets.
See the markets →
Best Christmas Lights in Vancouver
Light festivals, decorated streets and illuminated parks worth a night out.
See the lights →
Things to Do This Weekend
Events, concerts and easy plans for the coming weekend across Metro Vancouver.
Plan the weekend →
Lumière Festival 2026
Free light art across five downtown plazas, Nov 12 to 14, 5 to 9:30 pm.
See the festival →
Bear Creek Lights
Free lights in Bear Creek Park, Surrey, on now to Nov 20.
See the lights →
Circle Craft Holiday Market 2026
315+ artisans at the Vancouver Convention Centre, Nov 11 to 15.
See the market →More seasonal guides: November December Craft Fairs Remembrance Day All Festivals and Events
The Guides Readers Search For Most
The pages that bring the most visitors to Explore Vancouver.
UU Family Farm
Richmond's petting zoo farm, the most-searched page on the site.
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Day of the Dead in Vancouver
Ofrendas, events and where to see them.
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Best Sunsets in Vancouver
The best viewpoints at golden hour.
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Granville Island Public Market
Hours, food and how to visit.
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Richmond Country Farms Pumpkin Patch
The fall pumpkin patch in Richmond.
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Movies and TV Filmed in Vancouver
Hallmark, blockbusters and the sets you can visit.
Read the guide →New on the site: Movies Filmed in Ladner Ladner, BC
Explore Metro Vancouver by City
Pick a city or district to see its parks, attractions, food stops and neighbourhood highlights.
Find Something to Do by Interest
Hand-picked roundups for every pace, from a flat stroll to a full day on the water.
Plan Your Visit with Confidence
Practical guides that help you pick the right time, the right weather plan and the right budget.
Best Time to Visit Vancouver
Weather, crowds and what each season does best.
Read more →Rainy Day Activities
Indoor and covered ideas, organized by city.
Read more →Free Hidden Gems
Low-cost places that locals love and tourists often miss.
Read more →Parks Without a Car
Green escapes you can reach by transit.
Read more →Easy Escapes from Vancouver
Island ferries, heritage villages and waterfront hikes that fit into a single day.
A Local Guide Built on Real Visits
ExploreVancouver.org is an independent guide to Metro Vancouver. Each page is written after visiting the place, and the photos you see are taken on location.
- Original photos from every park, beach, market and attraction
- Clear, practical details for planning a visit
- Links to official sources for current hours and prices
- Seasonal guides refreshed as events change
Ready to Plan Your Next Vancouver Day Out?
Start with this month's picks or browse every city guide to build your own itinerary.
