Vancouver is much more than just a city surrounded by mountains and the ocean—it is a tapestry of diverse neighborhoods and rich history waiting to be explored. In her newest guidebook, 100 Things to Do in Vancouver Before You Die, local author and travel journalist Kathryn Anderson offers the ultimate companion for both seasoned locals and first-time visitors looking to spark their next adventure. Whether you are seeking iconic landmarks or offbeat hidden corners, Kathryn’s curated list inspires a more intentional and joyful way to experience the charm of Canada’s third-largest city.
We sat down with the creator of Coffee and Mascara to discuss her journey through Vancouver’s stunning landscapes and what it really takes to narrow down the city’s best experiences. From savoring oysters on a sunny patio to uncovering the stories that shape our streets, Kathryn shares how to navigate the city with curiosity and flair. —Noa Nichol
The Ultimate Litmus Test: You’ve literally written the book on what to do before we kick the bucket in this city. If someone only has 24 hours in Vancouver and they waste them at a tourist trap instead of one of your “offbeat” gems, how personally offended are you going to be?
I think with only 24 hours in any city, most of us would inevitably end up at a tourist trap or two, so I wouldn’t be too offended. Vancouver has so many incredible experiences if you know where to look, but it’s so easy to default to the obvious ones. My goal with the book was to help people go just one layer deeper. If you only have 24 hours, I want you to leave feeling like you discovered the city, not just checked it off a list.
Coffee vs. Mascara: Your award-winning site is Coffee and Mascara. Which Vancouver neighbourhood has the best caffeine-to-glamour ratio for a Saturday morning “main character” moment?
I would have to give this one to Yaletown. There are so many great cafés, from Homer Street Café to Café Medina to Small Victory right on the seawall. It doesn’t get much more “main character” than grabbing a cappuccino and a croissant before strolling along the water, past a marina lined with mega-yachts. Bonus points if you hop on a water taxi over to Granville Island for a little post-caffeine shopping.
The Rainy Day Reality: We all know Vancouver “sun” is a rare species. What is the one thing on your list that is actually better to do when it’s pouring rain and our blowouts are officially ruined?
A spa day, hands down. Self-care can feel indulgent, but when it’s pouring outside, it suddenly feels completely justified. There’s something about lounging in a robe, sipping bubbles after a massage, and knowing you’re not missing a sunny day that makes it even better. I’m a big believer in self-care days, and they just hit differently when the weather is miserable.
The Oyster Obsession: You mentioned your happy place is savouring oysters on a sunny patio. In the cutthroat world of Vancouver seafood, who is currently winning the “shuck-off” for the best half-shell in the city?
This is a tough one, but right now, I’d say Rodney’s. They consistently deliver a lively, unpretentious experience with delicious, freshly shucked oysters. It’s the kind of place everyone should try at least once. That said, in the summer, you’ll likely find me at Papi’s in the West End, enjoying their sunny patio with ocean views and a plate of oysters in front of me.
The Gatekeeper Challenge: Locals are notoriously protective of their “hidden corners”. Which spot in the book was the hardest for you to actually share with the public because you wanted to keep it all to yourself?
As a travel writer, I’m not big on gatekeeping, but I will admit there was one spot I hesitated to include—Wreck Beach. Not just because it’s one of my favourite beaches in the city, but because I don’t want it treated like a novelty or a checklist stop. It’s a clothing-optional beach, one of the only ones in Canada, and it has a very specific energy and vibe to it. If you go, I hope it’s because you genuinely want to experience it and respect it for what it is.
The “Death” in the Title: “Before You Die” is a pretty dramatic deadline. Which activity on the list is so high-adrenaline or high-reward that it actually made you feel the most alive while researching it?
I’m an adrenaline-loving girlie, so my tolerance is definitely higher than most, but every time I visit Playland and ride the wooden coaster, my heart skips a beat. It’s Canada’s oldest roller coaster, and there’s something about the fact that it’s built almost entirely of wood that just scares the heck out of me—in the best way. Driving go-karts is a close second, though. Racing around an indoor track at 75 km/h is pretty thrilling.
The Fashion Police: As someone who blends adventure with “well-being and joy,” what is the ultimate Vancouver fashion faux pas that identifies a “first-time visitor” immediately?
Overdressing in general—but especially overdressing for the weather. Vancouver style is very casual, sometimes a little too casual in my opinion. If you’re in heels on a rainy day or not wearing a jacket, it’s an immediate giveaway. Locals dress in layers because the weather can turn at any moment, and they’re almost always in shoes they can actually walk in. That said, if you do want to dress up a little, head to Yaletown because that’s where you’ll find Vancouver at its most polished.
The Neighbourhood Throwdown: Vancouver’s neighbourhoods are incredibly diverse. If the different districts had a “Real Housewives” style reunion, which one would be the most dramatic and which one is the undisputed fan favourite?
I can honestly say I’ve never watched an episode of Real Housewives, but from what I know, Gastown would definitely be the most dramatic. It has a lot of personality, it’s a little unpredictable, and there’s always a story unfolding. There are two sides to Gastown and no shortage of drama. Kitsilano would be the fan favourite. It’s sunny, it’s social, and everyone enjoys chilling there.
The “Intentional” Travel Hack: You guide readers toward travel that is “intentional and joyful”. What is the most “unintentional” thing you’ve ever done in Vancouver that surprisingly ended up being a core memory?
Some of my best moments here have been completely unplanned. One evening, I was walking along the seawall toward Third Beach when I stumbled on a DJ pop-up. I ended up dancing on the beach at sunset while Felix Cartal was spinning. It wasn’t planned, and it didn’t cost a thing, which somehow made it even better.
The Next Big Adventure: Now that the ultimate Vancouver guide is out, where are you headed next to find “hidden corners,” and does it involve more oysters or more mascara?
This summer, I’m staying home and really soaking up Vancouver, enjoying more beach days, long patio afternoons, and as many oysters as I can justify on a sunny day. Come fall, I’ll be back on the road chasing new stories and hidden corners, but for now, I’m leaning into everything I love about being here.
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