Nestled between snow-capped mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is a natural paradise. With its mild year-round climate, spectacular natural surroundings and modern urban environment, Vancouver holds something for everybody.
During your studies at VGC Language School, we recommend that you take advantage of the beautiful city you are in. There are so many things to do in Vancouver and so many places to see, you will never want to leave. Here are a few examples of what’s on offer in and around the World’s Most Liveable City.
Take a deep breath. Imagine you are standing in a dense forest thick with trees that are hundreds of years old. It is a relaxing sanctuary. The only sounds come from chirping birds, curious squirrels and the gentle sound of the ocean lapping the shore. Now imagine that you are within walking distance of downtown Vancouver! This is Stanley Park. Situated on a peninsula immediately west of Vancouver’s downtown core, Stanley Park is an oasis of calm in the middle of the busy city. It is the one of the largest urban parks in North America, larger than New York City’s Central Park. Ride around the park in old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage, ride a bike around the seawall with friends, visit the world-class Aquarium and spot a whale, go trail hiking, check out the Native American totem poles or play in the public waterparks—there’s much to discover in Stanley Park.
Nestled in the heart of Stanley Park is the Vancouver Aquarium. It is Canada’s largest aquarium, home to more than 70,000 fascinating sea creatures and animals. Be thrilled by the daily beluga whale shows, play with the sea otters, and splash in the water by trying a hands-on animal encounter. You may also relax in the Upstream Café and buy souvenirs in the Gift Shop. There is also a new 4D Experience theatre, which combines the high-definition excitement of a 3-D film with thrilling sensory effects!
Located in heart of downtown Vancouver right next door to shopping districts and the outdoor skating rink at Robson Square, the Vancouver Art Gallery features renowned historical, contemporary, international and Canadian art. Exhibits are always changing, drop by and see what’s on offer.
Located in the vibrant West End of downtown Vancouver and on the edge of Stanley Park, this beachside neighbourhood is a gorgeous area to walk around, shop or have a drink. Sunsets on the beach are stunning all throughout the year. And don’t forget to get your spot early to watch the free Celebration of Lights fireworks competition that takes place every summer.
Hidden away beneath the Granville Bridge is Vancouver’s best kept secret—the Granville Island Market. Granville Island is an exciting outdoor market that is home to many unique art shops and galleries. Local artisans sell their original arts and crafts, street performers put on exciting shows while delicious smells from the gourmet food stalls waft through the air to tempt shoppers. There are also stage theatres, restaurants, a brewery, a hotel, and some of the freshest food in all of Vancouver. Perfect for souvenir shopping!
Within view of downtown Vancouver and just a 20 minute drive, Grouse Mountain is a year-round destination for people looking for adventure or just a great view. Up for a challenge? During the summer, you can hike straight up the face of Grouse Mountain. During the winter, Grouse Mountain operates 26 ski runs of varying difficulty. If you are not skiing or hiking, you can enjoy the amazing views of the Skyride, try ice skating or snowshoeing, go up on a helicopter ride, visit the conservation centre or try some fine dining on a top-of-the-mountain restaurant.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is located just on the other side of Lion’s Gate Bridge in North Vancouver. Test your nerves by walking across the swaying suspension bridge that is 450 feet across and is 230 feet above the crystal blue waters of the Capilano River. The park offers guided nature tours, the Kids' Rainforest Explorer program and Living Forest exhibit.
Shop on the most famous street in Vancouver! Robson Street is lined with the most popular clothing designers and stores in the world. Shop until you drop at American Eagle Outfitters, Guess, Zara, Armani Exchange, and browse the trendy designer boutiques. Take a break for lunch and try out the fantastic restaurants with international flavours and menus from around the world.
Yaletown is a historic warehouse district on the edge of downtown Vancouver, immediately across the water from False Creek. The area has been completely refurbished, creating a very hip and trendy mixture of residential buildings, businesses, offices, shopping boutiques, cafes and lounges.
Gastown is one of Vancouver's oldest districts and boasts one of the most unique atmospheres in all of Vancouver. It is lined with many beautifully refurbished buildings and cobblestone lanes for an old-world feel to it. Stroll down the street and enjoy the designers' shops, artists' studios, galleries and restaurants. Don’t forget to come out here at night time to visit some of Vancouver’s coolest and most popular bars and clubs.
Experience moments of peace and serenity, by visiting the only Ming Dynasty-style Chinese garden built outside of China in 400 years. Take a free guided tour of the beautifully manicured grounds, and enjoy a complimentary cup of Chinese tea. Only a short walk from VGC, this beautiful garden is a perfect place to relax and find inspiration.
A Canadian essential! From October to June, the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks play hockey in the Rogers Arena. If you have never experienced the thrill of a fast and exciting professional hockey game before, now is your chance. Get into the crowd and find out why Canadians love hockey so much. There are 42 home games every year, plus playoff games. You will be swept up in the excitement.
Only an hour and a half away by car, bus or train, Whistler is the world famous playground that hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics. During the winter, ski and snowboard on Whistler’s world-famous ski runs—from beginners to Olympians, there’s something to keep everybody happy. In the summer, rent a horse, an ATV, or a bike and explore the picturesque trails. Throughout the entire year, you can enjoy delicious five-star cuisine and shop in all the international stores.
These attractions are only barely scratching the surface of all that Vancouver has to offer—there are hundreds more attractions in Vancouver and the surrounding areas! If you are ever looking for something to do or need more information about an attraction in Vancouver, be sure to ask our Activities Coordinators. They are always on hand to organize school events and lead students on field trips to these attractions and more, so please don’t hesitate to ask—there’s lots to discover!
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