There are some things in Vancouver that are gimmicky no matter how you slice them (we’re looking at you, Gastown Steam Clock). But there are also plenty of attractions that are popular for a reason—and they should be on your Vancouver bucket list, regardless of whether you’re a visitor or a local. Here are five worth checking out. —Sara Harowitz\
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Any time in nature is time well spent. Of course, you can walk in Vancouver’s forests for free—but for those who want something a little more special, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in North Vancouver is a magical wilderness escape. The suspension bridge itself, which has been around since 1889, is breathtaking; offering a thrilling amount of wobble as you walk across, it also boasts incredible views of the river below. There’s also a Cliffwalk around the edge of a ridge, a treetop pathway with mini suspension bridges, pathways dotted with decorative lights, and cute huts selling hot drinks (go for the apple cider). It’s very easy to enjoy an afternoon here among the trees. Pro tip: take the free shuttle from Coal Harbour right to the park so that you don’t have to deal with parking.
FlyOver Canada
Did this author write off FlyOver Canada as a tourist attraction not worth her time? Yes, yes she did. Did this author then go to FlyOver Canada and fully understand the hype? Yes, yes she did. It’s hard not to fall in love with this immersive video experience once you’ve done it. It has the thrills of an amusement park ride with the views of a helicopter ride, complete with heart-stopping drops and wind blowing in your face (note: take a ginger pill beforehand if you’re prone to motion sickness). FlyOver Canada is currently showing Awaken Canada, a love letter to our home country, as well as Hawaii From Above; if you’re craving a beach vacation but can’t get away, this might just be the next-best thing.
Biking the seawall
A true classic! You may have to dodge dozens of other folks on this oceanfront pathway, but biking (or blading, or walking) the seawall is popular because it’s awesome. The 22-kilometre route is one of the most magical ways to see the city—and get some exercise, too. Stop at Third Beach to take in the views, and then at the Stanley Park Brewing brewpub or the Sylvia Hotel lounge for well-earned snacks and drinks.
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Sometimes it’s nice to feel small—to remember that we’re mere specks in a much vaster universe. At the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, space exploration is on full display with a series of exhibits, some of them interactive, that showcase the wonders of our universe (and beyond). It’s also a testament to the human mind, celebrating some of our species’ most incredible feats (when you actually stop and think about it, it’s pretty wild that we put people on the moon, and that we might do so again in a few years!). The highlight of the whole place is the Planetarium Star Theatre, where the domed roof is used to project immersive videos, illustrations, and pictures of space during educational shows. Sit back, look up, and prepare to be wowed.
Vancouver Art Gallery
The Vancouver Art Gallery is a treasure trove of art and ideas. As the city’s biggest and most famous gallery, it frequently puts on thought-provoking shows from both Canadian and international artists. Multiple floors display everything from the Group of Seven to contemporary artists, all housed in a stunning building that used to be a courthouse (that is, until the gallery moves to its new location, which is currently being built a few blocks away). Among the current exhibitions is Multiple Realities: Experimental Art in the Eastern Bloc, 1960s – 1980s, which features experimental and anti-establishment art from six Central Eastern European countries. Do not sleep on the onsite cafe or gift shop, either.
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