Robson Street

For a great walking experience, check out Robson Street. Begin your exploration at BC Place and stroll down this vibrant street, where you’ll find a variety of shops including Swarovski, Roots, Victoria’s Secret, and H-Mart, among others. Don’t miss Robson Square, where you can enjoy the lively fountain. When you’re ready for a bite, I recommend Kosoo Korean Restaurant Chicken & BBQ. Although it’s not free, it served one of the best Korean meals I’ve ever had, making it a memorable part of my 30th wedding anniversary. Continue your walk and you’ll eventually reach Stanley Park. For a convenient stay close to Robson Street, consider the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. It’s not only ideally located but also offers a delightful Afternoon Tea at Notch8.

Canada Place

One of my top landmarks in Vancouver is Canada Place, situated right on the waterfront. From May to August, you can watch cruise ships arriving from and departing to Alaskan destinations. Stroll along the pier for stunning views and see Harbour Air seaplanes take off and land. You can walk from Canada Place to The Drop, a striking blue raindrop sculpture, and then head to one of my favorite breakfast spots, De Dutch. While it’s not free, their Dutch pannekoeken—both sweet and savory—are definitely worth trying. For excellent views of Canada Place, we suggest staying at the Fairmont Waterfront, located just across the street from the iconic sails.

Just north of downtown Vancouver, immerse yourself in nature at Cleveland Dam and the Capilano River Hatchery. The hatchery was established to bolster salmon populations impacted by the Cleveland Dam’s construction. It attracts nearly 250,000 visitors each year and showcases various salmon species, including Chinook, Coho, and Steelhead. Committed to preservation and sustainable fishing, the hatchery also serves as a vital cultural resource for the Squamish First Nation, providing essential food and ceremonial fish. For an educational experience, visit the Capilano River Hatchery’s interpretive center, which is open daily and offers insights into the salmon life cycle. For convenient access, consider staying at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre. It’s just a 25-minute drive with a few easy turns (Hornby to 99 to Marine Drive to Capilano Road).

Discover Olympic Village

Originally constructed to house athletes for the 2010 Winter Olympics, Olympic Village has since evolved into one of the world’s most eco-friendly communities, featuring solar heating and green roofs. Today, it boasts a mix of residential areas, parks, and shopping options. You can stroll along the False Creek Olympic Village walkway, which loops around the eastern section of the False Creek Seawall and crosses the Cambie Street Bridge. During your walk, you’ll pass by BC Place Stadium, which was originally built for the Expo 86 World’s Fair.

Stanley Park

Adjacent to downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park spans over 1,000 acres and offers a wealth of attractions. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse gardens, such as the Ted and Mary Greig Rhododendron Garden, which boasts an impressive collection of hybrid rhododendrons and azaleas. Rose lovers should visit the Stanley Park Rose Garden, home to more than 3,500 rose bushes. History buffs can explore various monuments, including the 9 O’Clock Gun, the Air India Memorial, the Garden of Remembrance, and the Japanese Canadian War Memorial. Wildlife is abundant in the park, with the possibility of spotting bald eagles soaring above, playful black squirrels on the ground, and harbor seals swimming in the water. For convenient access to the park, consider staying at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver.