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Browsing Vancouver
186 Barclay Heritage Square
The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation created this historical park to preserve the nine heritage houses that date back from the late 1890s. The Barclay side of the Absolute Spa at the Century
Many celebrities have been seen at the Absolute Spa at the Century, so it's obviously good at what it does. Rated the number one day spa in the city, it has 8,000 square feet of luxurious pampering space. Italian marble, murals and other touches make the surroundings as relaxing as the services. Treat yourself to a massage (an hour) or a dip in the ozonated pool, meditate in the eucalyptus steam rooms ('Fatigue Fighter' treatment) or a deluxe makeover (45 minutes).
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Ambleside Park
As the name suggests, this parkland is a perfect place for a beachside amble or jog. It has views of Art Beatus
Established in Hong Kong in 1992, this gallery set up its second gallery in Artspeak Gallery
If you want to look at intriguing modern art, stop by this cutting edge gallery. The connection between visual art and language is explored through contemporary art at this 15-year-old BC Golf Museum
This small golf museum, archive, library and meeting place is perfect for those who want to learn more about this relaxing, centuries-old sport. Antique equipment such as bags, clubs, and balls are on display, as well as photos of memorable games, tournaments, players, and world-class courses -- all from British Colombia -- are there to admire. Other golf-related facts and artifacts also fill the room.
For those new in town and in the mood to tee-off, information on the province's best courses can be found among the library's documents. More »
BC Place Stadium
This is BC Sports Hall of Fame and Museum
The Hall of Fame Museum features a large display gallery, tons of great feature exhibits and a hands-on participation space where you can "go ballistic." There is a climbing wall, rowing machines and bikes. Test your ball-throwing skills for speed and accuracy and race against the clock and computers. The Hall of Fame has exhibits on two of Canada's greatest sports heroes: Terry Fox and Rick Hansen. It is located in the massive Bloedel Conservatory
This triodectic dome sits on the highest point of the city, in Bowen Island
This small island in Howe Sound, a mix of residential areas and forest, is linked to the mainland by ferry from Horseshoe Bay. The ferry docks at the island’s main settlement, aptly named Snug Cove, which has all the services of a small town. There’s good swimming at nearby Mannion Bay, but the rest of island is also good to explore. A 1.2-mile walking trail leads from Snug Cove to Killarney Lake, where birdlife is prolific and roads lead across to the island’s west coast.
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Britannia Heritage Shipyard
On the south side of the fishing village of Steveston, this historic site dates to 1885. Restoration is ongoing, but visitors are encouraged to wander through what was once a community that centered on a shipyard and cannery. Interpretive boards describe the process of building wooden boats as well as life in the surrounding village. Wooden boats in varying states of disrepair add to the authenticity.
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Burnaby Village Museum
Built as a memorial to British Columbia's centennial in 1958, this four-hectare (10-acre) open-air museum is a recreation of an early 1900s community. Among its 30 buildings and outdoor scenes are a schoolhouse, blacksmith's shop, dentist's office and a real working theatre. It also has an operational ice cream parlour but the main attraction is a restored 1912 carousel.
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Buschlen-Mowatt Fine Arts
This gallery has won the "gallery of the year" award from a prominent local magazine and does a good job of living up to its reputation. The Butchart Gardens
These delightful gardens are Victoria's best-known attraction. They were developed by the original owner, who in the early 1900s began filling an abandoned quarry with exotic plants collected from around world. The garden now contains more than 5,000 varieties of flowers, and the extensive nurseries test-grow some 35,000 new bulbs and more than 100 new roses every year. Highlights include the Sunken Garden (the original quarry site) with its water features and annuals; the formal Rose Garden, set around a central lawn; and the Japanese Garden, from where views extend to Saanich Inlet. Summer visitors are in for a special treat on Saturday nights (July and August only), when a spectacular fireworks display lights up the garden.
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Canada Place
On many postcards of the city, you will find images of this "five-sailed" complex adorning the harbour shoreline. This should be high on the list of things to see for first timers to the city. The centre, located Canadian Memorial Church
When Chaplain George Fallis arrived in Vancouver shortly after World War I, he had dreams of erecting a memorial to Canadians who fought in the war. With that in mind, he solicited funds from all over the country. In 1928, his dream was fulfilled with the church opening its doors in the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month (Memorial Day). The greystone gothic-style church's main attraction is its masterfully crafted stained-glass windows. Each window portrays a biblical scene coupled with a provincial coat of arms and illustrations of historical events underneath.
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Capilano Fish Hatchery
If you are in Capilano River Regional Park, follow the signs to the fish hatchery. This facility produces three million salmon each year. There are display aquariums, adult fish ponds, and a fry-filled juvenile rearing area. If visiting in the fall, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the adult salmon jumping up the fish ladders. It's definitely a unique experience. Admission is free.
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Capilano Suspension Bridge
Although it's safe, you will want to grip the rope as you step out on to the creaky wooden planks of this bridge, which provides a look down at the glorious Capilano River raging 230 feet below. This popular attraction, the city's oldest, isn't recommended for those who fear heights. Ten minutes from Cathedral Square
This bit of serenity lies smack in the middle of the mad business and shopping district Children's Farmyard
See and admire exotic and domestic birds, reptiles, rabbits, goats, cows, ponies, donkeys, sheep, pigs, guinea pigs and chickens.
Located across from
Chinatown
Known as the second largest in North America, Vancouver's Chinatown is a colourful area filled with exotic wonders. The profusion of markets and stores sells everything from star fruit, gai lan, ginseng, herbal medicine and tea sets to hand carved chopsticks, rice paper pads and Buddha figurines. It's a very inexpensive place to shop for gifts and groceries. Pender Street, between Carral and Main, has shops selling curios, clothing, herbs and house wares. There's also an open-air Chinatown Night Market
This place will delight you on a hot summer night when you feel like having an intense sensory experience. There is plenty to taste, touch, smell, hear, drink and drink in. Explore blocks and booths of everything from bubble tea to bok choy. Find delicacies and desserts like Frog's Eggs or dried, salted plums. You can also find clothes, toys like Pokemon and nearly any household accessory, all at inexpensive prices.
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Chinese Cultural Centre Museum & Archives
This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Chinese in British Columbia. Permanent exhibits focus on the history of Chinese Canadians, while temporary exhibits present the work of local and international Chinese artists. The building itself, belnding classical and modern architectural styles, is noteworthy. The museum is part of the much larger Chinese Cultural Centre, where a schedule of events may include language classes, tai chi workshops and historical discussion groups.
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Christ Church Cathedral
Walk into this 110-year-old church and feel as though you've stepped back in time to a serene place. The historic cathedral, located across the street from the equally impressive The downtown landmark plays host to many choir recitals and concerts that are worthwhile for the acoustics alone. More »
Cleveland Dam
Hike or drive from the The free bused tours led by the dam's staff inform visitors about where the water comes from, where it's going, and everything in between. More »
Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery
First Nations culture often provides a significant voice in the city's art scene. Located in the heart of trendy Commercial Drive
Dotted with character homes, coffee shops, delis and cheap grocers, "The Drive" is now a colourful, richly diverse street experience. Originally, the street was most famous as "Little Italy." It now supports every sort of ethnic shop and restaurant, including Jamaican patty shops, Ethiopian restaurants, Spanish tapas bars, Portuguese coffee shops, Indian clothiers, organic food stores, Chinese grocers, Moroccan falafels, Italian furniture, French bakeries and Cuban cafes. It also hosts annual events such as the Cypress Falls Park
This serene area is one of the best-kept secrets among the 161 pearls that make up the city's parks. It's a pleasant escape from city bustle, just 10-minutes from downtown. There are two kilometres of well-marked trails, two waterfalls, wooden bridges over misty creeks, and miles of dense old-growth forest. A great day trip for the family or for a serene solo hike, it is a surefire way to regenerate.
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Cypress Mountain
Located 30 minutes from Deep Cove
Take an easy ride, by public transit or car, to the quaint village of Deep Cove in North Vancouver. Although it's only 20 minutes from Diane Farris Gallery
Attila Richard Luckas is just one of many gifted artists that this gallery shows, along with Chris Woods, Dale Chihuly and Angela Grossman. Start the Douglas Reynolds Gallery
This gallery is situated in Downtown
All the action is right here: sightseeing, shopping, dining and entertainment. Go underground to the Downtown Historic Railway
You've probably taken a ride on Vancouver's SkyTrain, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Characterized by the harmony between rock, water, plants, and architecture, the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Garden is a classic Chinese garden that is the first of its kind outside of China. The Garden, which is the gateway to Vancouver's Chinatown, is an example of an authentic Ming Dynasty scholar's home and garden. Designed with asymmetrical arrangements of plants and intricately planned placement of each element, this garden is full of symbolism and history. A team of Chinese craftsmen from Suzhou, China worked on the delicate design of the serene garden. The garden is named after Dr. Sun Yat Sen, who is commonly referred to as the "Father of Modern China" for his push for democracy in modern China. Enjoy the the serenity of a classic Chinese garden marked with perfect balance.
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Emily Carr Institute of Art + Design
This modern college campus on Granville Island is named after the 19th century's Emily Carr, one of Canada's most famous artists. Stop by while you're on the island shopping or enjoying the parks. Over 75 years old, this cutting edge visual arts school offers galleries, a cafe and shops. There are often events, guest speakers, exhibitions and student art sales to check out. The buildings' construction alone; clean lines of glass, concrete and burnished steel; worth taking in.
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English Bay
English Bay is one of Vancouver's most diverse neighbourhoods. Located in English Bay Beach
This popular beach is close to everything: cafes, bars, an indoor pool, the vibrant Essential Day Spa
Pamper yourself with a visit to this spa, which offers a range of services from skin care to body massage. You decide the length and intensity of the treatment. Facials feature a 90-minute multi-vitamin facial that uses self-heating seaweed packs. The aromatherapy wrap is equally popular too. The body massage is the ultimate in relaxation, and goes on for 30 minutes. The self-serve 'mud bar' allows you to enjoy mineral rich mud on your own time.
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Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the pompous, ivy-covered 1908 Fairmont Empress is Victoria's most recognizable landmark. Its architect was the well-known Francis Rattenbury, who also designed the parliament buildings, the CPR steamship terminal (now housing the wax museum), and Crystal Garden. It's worthwhile walking through the hotel lobby to gaze—head back, mouth agape—at the interior razzle-dazzle, and to watch people-watching people partake in traditional afternoon tea. Browse through the conservatory and gift shops, drool over the menus of the various restaurants, and get a feel for the hotel's history by joining a tour.
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Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
The first Hotel Vancouver was built on this site in 1887. It featured 200 rooms, half of which had private bathrooms, unheard of in that day. The original property burnt to the ground in 1932 and was replaced by the hotel that stands today, a city landmark reflecting the heritage of Canadian Pacific Railway hotels across the country. Most distinctive is the chateau-style architecture topped by a copper roof. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth wandering through the front doors to admire the cavernous marble-floored lobby.
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False Creek Ferries
Vancouver is connected by intersecting waterways, with many of its premier attractions situated along the shorelines. One fun way to travel around the city by water is to cruise through False Creek in a small ferry boat. These small boats take you to city highlights along the waters that pass between Fort Langley National Historic Site
In 1827 the Hudson's Bay Company built Fort Langley on the mighty Fraser River to trade with the aboriginal peoples. In 1858, rumors of gold in the Fraser River caused a massive influx of Americans into the area. Fearing annexation by the United States, British Columbia was proclaimed a Crown Colony on November 19th, 1858. Fort Langley celebrates not only the events that shaped the province of British Columbia but also the people and lifestyles of the time. Would you like to try your hand at gold panning? Visit the blacksmith and cooper hard at work and see how the First Nations wives of the Hudson's Bay workers helped the Fort to thrive. Costumed interpreters are on-site year round to introduce you to the rich local history.
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Fraserview Golf Course
If you want to play golf in a country setting without leaving the city, then this golf course is for you. It is centrally located and private, with dense forests concealing the surrounding cityscape. Watch out for the one-and-a-half-acre pond on the 13th, the stream on the 17th and Vivian Creek on the 18th. The Fraserview Clubhouse serves "On The Go" items like hot dogs, hot and cold beverages, and snacks for uninterrupted golfing pleasure. Regular green fees start at around CAD35 for adults, and CAD17 for seniors and youths.
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Gaoler's Mews
This small two-cell courtyard, built in the mid-1800s and burned down in the Great Fire of 1886, used to serve as the city's first jail. It is a Gastown
This part of Gastown Steam Clock
On a street corner of this Victorian-era warehouse district stands the world's first steam clock, and probably the city's most photographed attraction. The timepiece plays the Westminster Chimes every hour and whistles every 15 minutes with a gush of steam. Despite its gothic style, it's not as old as it looks. Famed inventor and horologist Ray Saunders built the clock in 1977 to muffle steam from underground lines that were used to heat local buildings.
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General Motors Place
Also known as the "Garage", this is George C. Reifel Bird Sanctuary
Cross Canoe Passage on an old wooden bridge to access this great wildlife sanctuary far enough from the city to be missed by most visitors. The 800-acre sanctuary protects the northern corner of low-lying Westham Island, a stopover for thousands of migratory birds in spring and fall. In the middle of a wide delta at the mouth of the Fraser River, the island is a world away from surrounding urban life. The best time for a visit is during the spectacular snow goose migration, which runs from early November to mid-December. Otherwise, you'll see abundant migratory birdlife anytime between October and April. The island also serves as a permanent home for many bird species, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, herons, swans, owls, and a parking lot filled with ducks. Within the sanctuary are many easy walking trails, an observation tower, free birdseed, and a couple of picnic areas.
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Granville Island
Take a full day to explore this shopping and entertainment favourite, a destination on everyone's "best of" list. The island is five minutes from Granville Island Sport Fishing, Model Ships and Trains Museum
Find large, detailed models of ships and trains from the early 1900s. These small Grouse Grind (The)
They don't call this the 'grind' for nothing. This 2.9 kilometre mountain trail may not be long, but it's steep and rises to 3,700 feet above sea level. It's a challenging and sometimes grueling hike that's been dubbed 'Mother Nature's Stairmaster.' The payoff is a panoramic view, a restaurant, and the Skyride down from the summit. The trail is usually busy on weekends, thick with families and athletes in training, so it's best to go during the week.
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Grouse Mountain
See the entire city, sea and beyond from this peak's magnificent vista. 15 minutes from Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site
On the harbor front in Steveston, you'll find this national historic site protecting a cannery that operated between 1894 and 1979. Much of the original cannery has been restored. In addition to canning line exhibits and demonstrations of the various machineries, an audiovisual presentation is offered in the Boiler House Theatre, and the Discovery area is set aside for children.
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Harrison Lake & Hot Springs
There is so much to do in this small resort town that you may have to make a schedule to manage your stay. Most popular as the home of a large mineral hot springs at the south end of the lake, the world-famous resort is popular. There are museums, theme parks, hotels, spas, shops, festivals, restaurants, beaches, an international sand castle contest, wind surfing, sailing, water-skiing, canoeing and more. Camping sites are on the east side of lake.
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Hastings Mill Museum
At the foot of Alma Street in Hastings Park Racecourse
This long-standing racecourse overlooks the North Shore Mountains and the city's busy port harbour. It has year-round live and simulcast thoroughbred racing and a variety of restaurants, lounges and grandstands for avid and newbie racing fans. The racecourse has been a Vancouver institution for decades. For a meal, choose between Jerome's Sports Bar or the Terrace, which has a view of the home stretch.
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Helen Pitt Gallery
Socio-political discussions through contemporary art is this gallery's mandate, so if you are itching for thought-provoking visual displays, check this space out. Located in a fairly small Holy Rosary Cathedral
With its asymmetrical towers, HR Macmillan Space Centre
Considered one of the best planetariums in North America, this 1968-built structure has had many transformations. Aside from the planetarium and observatory, it also features the Cosmic Courtyard hands-on gallery, a Virtual Voyages full-motion simulator, GroundStation Canada exhibits and multimedia and popular laser shows. Its overnight adventures and space camps are popular. Don't forget to visit the gift shop with space-related souvenirs. Admission: CAD14.00 Adults (19-64); CAD10.75 Seniors (65+); CAD9.75 Youth (11-18); CAD10.75 Students (w/ID) 5-10; CAD9.75 Child (4-12), free for children under 5.
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Ice Sports 8 Rinks
This ice rink claims to be the largest in the world. It offers NHL calibre training facilities, the Penalty Box Sports Bar, a sports store for equipment, extensive tournament packages and year-round family fun. The arena is the official practice facility of the NHL's IMAX Theatre at Canada Place
If you get a bit squeamish on amusement park rides, this mega-theatre at Canada Place probably won't be your favorite place to visit. The experience will give you the sensation of being right in the middle of the action that takes place onscreen. The theatre has a giant screen, surround sound, and stacked seating so that every seat in the house has a good view. Some shows featured have been Extreme, a spectacle of dangerous, hard-core sports like skiing and climbing, and Into the Deep, an underwater exploration. Check local listings for times and shows.
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Jericho Beach
This is a large and long sandy stretch with views of the mountains and Kerrisdale
In terms of variety and quality of selection, this is one of the best shopping neighbourhoods in town. Also known as Kerrisdale Village, the area has an old English character, with specialty shops offering everything from rich chocolates to flavourful cheeses. There are shops for the fashion-conscious, including Hill's and Margareta, as well as those for the do-it-yourselfers and home decorators, including Hobbs and Ragfinders. The surroundings of Kerrisdale are well maintained, courtesy of the residential community's strong support for the area's businesses.
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Kids Market
A trip to Kitsilano
Kitsilano is an interesting shopping area and neighbourhood that was a major haven for hippies in the 1960s. Today, retail stores peddling kitchenware, clothing, home furnishing, books, and sporting goods have usurped the former bohemian character. Traces can still be found, however, in some of the eclectic shops and vegetarian restaurants such as Môtiv, Kaya Kaya, Kitsilano "Kits" Beach
This is where the temple of the body is worshipped: in the height of Vancouver's summer, there are hordes of bikini-clad fitness addicts, testosterone-fueled displays and rollerblading madmen. With views of the North Shore mountains and Ladner Village
On the south side of Vancouver, Delta is a sprawling industrial and residential district. But take Ladner Trunk Road at Exit 28 of Highway 99 and you’ll quickly find yourself in another world. Here, along the shallow delta of the Fraser River, are strata-titled “floating homes.” Some are older, comprising homemade add-ons and a motley collection of artifacts attached to exterior walls. But you’ll also see brand new homes, with fancy vehicles in enclosed garages. One thing all property owners have in common is that they enjoy an absolute waterfront position.
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Library Square
When bookworms and businesspeople from surrounding office towers want to enjoy a sunny day, they can often be found lounging outside in this busy Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver
This park is considered one of the most ideal places to hold hands and have a picnic. Built in 1912, Point Atkinson Lighthouse is a wilderness area close to the West Vancouver city centre. Easily accessible by car and public transit, it is a favourite day hiking spot. The park trails take you through huge Douglas firs, rocky cliffs and a granite shoreline. Be on the lookout for the bald eagles that nest in the Douglas firs. Unfortunately, the lighthouse itself is a working one and is closed to the public.
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Lonsdale Quay Market & Shops
Where the SeaBus trip from downtown ends, this large, unique market begins. Bring your camera and climb the seaview observation tower for an unobstructed shot of the city. The harbour market has three levels of shops, boutiques and restaurants. The ground level houses more than 60 fresh market vendors selling a variety of goods from flowers, fruits and vegetables, to sweets, soups and sauces. Specialty stores occupy the second level, carrying everything from home decorations to fashion for adults and children. The third level leads to the Lonsdale Quay Hotel.
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Lookout
Where can you get a 360-degree view of Vancouver and its outlying areas? From BC's tallest building, the Harbour Centre Tower. Its observation deck gives an unobstructed view of the city, Burrard Inlet, the North Shore mountains, Burnaby Mountain, West Vancouver and Bowen Island. Getting there is a spectacle in itself: glass elevators whisk you up 167 metres in 40 seconds. There are multilingual guides to assist you with your needs.
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Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve
Interpretive trails and educational tours are offered at this 5,200-hectare park located in the North Shore Mountains. Hiking and biking along the serene lake or a picnic in the woods make this a spectacular day trip for families. Admission is free. The park is located on the north end of Lillooet Road, on the North Shore side of the Second Narrows Bridge. Head west on Highway 1, take third exit after bridge. Head up the hill and follow the signs to the forest.
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Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre
This nature hut is nestled in Lynn Canyon Park. Featuring hands-on displays about animals, plants and the urban environment, it is a great way for families to round out an afternoon in the park. You can also enjoy films in the mini-theatre, play with the puppets, or relax while the kids play with the piles of animal and nature toys. The park itself is home to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, acres of hiking trails, a concession stand and picnic facilities. It is easily accessible by public transit.
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Maple Tree Square
Whatever road you take when you explore historic Maplewood Farm
Five acres of farm-park with over 200 domestic farm animals and birds will delight the entire family. Feed the bunnies and birds, watch the cows being milked and hang out on Goat Hill. It's an excellent place to have a picnic, and various events are held throughout the year, including the Annual Farm Fair in September, the 101 Pumpkin Event in October, and the Country Christmas in early December. One to two hour pony rides and birthday parties can also be arranged.
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Marine Building
This fabulous art deco building amid downtown's square steel uniformity is an ornate sight to behold. Designer JW Hobbs wanted to transpose the architectural grandeur of New York City to then-modest Vancouver, and he did so with terracotta, steel, brass, marble, intricate nautical details, gargoyles, murals and an impressive 40-foot archway entrance. The 25-story Marine Building was built in the late 1920s and now serves as an office building. It is set right at the harbour's edge, with the North Shore Mountains towering just beyond it.
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McCleery Golf Course
This newly redesigned course has sculptured but narrow fairways and strategically placed water hazards. The 6,265-yard par-71 course on the banks of the Fraser River is minutes from Minter Gardens
Tucked away at the foot of a 7,000-foot mountain, the Minter Gardens consist of 11 themed show gardens that proudly display a dazzling array of flowers. In spring, the gardens are known for their display of over 10,000 tulips. Rhododendrons are planted throughout the gardens, which also feature a Canadian flag flower bed, a colorful garden in the shape of a peacock, an alpine garden with wildflowers, a stream garden, and a rose garden. Paths wander over gently rolling hills through the gardens, and the verdant setting surrounded by mountains surely makes the Minter Gardens one of the most unique and beautiful show gardens anywhere.
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Mount Seymour
Discover the joys of skiing and snowboarding on Mount Seymour. First-time lessons are a bargain compared to big resorts, and you can rent equipment from the on-site shop. There is also tobogganing and snow-tubing along the Enquist Snow Tube Park.
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Museum of Anthropology
This award-winning glass and concrete structure holds one of the world's most extensive collections of Northwest Coast First Nations art. This Nitobe Memorial Garden
Professor Kannosuke Mori created this place in memory of Dr. Inazo Nitobe (1861-1933), an esteemed educator in Canada. The Northview Golf & Country Club
Arnold Palmer was in charge of the design and development of this golf resort situated in the scenic Fraser River Valley, just kilometres from The first is the 7,100-yard Canal Course, designed for golfers of all skills. The second is the 6,900-yard Ridge Course. Though shorter than the Canal Course, it offers a more challenging round and is the Western Canadian site of the PGA Tour's yearly Air Canada Championship. Green fees start at $35CDN. More »
Omnimax Theatre
This massive domed theatre, one of the largest in the world, transports its visitors to a myriad of spectacular locations. It's a 400-seat theatre with a five-storey screen and 28-speaker digital sound system. And as if that wasn't impressive enough, it shows award-winning science and nature films from around the globe. Travel among the mysteries of Egypt, scale Everest's heights, float through space on a "Cosmic Voyage," and more!
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Pacific Coliseum
Seating over 15,000 this 80,000 sq. ft. stadium is the place to see the latest events in sports and music. The Pacific Coliseum is the largest building in Hastings Park where you can see the Vancouver Giants score in hockey or the University of Golden Bear and Pandas play basketball. The Pacific Coliseum also features concerts, ice shows, trade shows, and other electrifying spectacles. Watch from spectacular seating while you enjoy a hot dog from one of their many food stands. This venue is easily accessible by car or public transportation. For information on upcoming events, visit their website.
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Pacific Museum of the Earth
This museum features hundreds of spectacular mineral specimens, a tornado simulator, a genuine complete dinosaur skeleton, and live earthquake data from southern British Columbia. Displays discuss the role minerals play in our health, lives, and environment. The special Vault gallery is a treasure trove of gold, silver, and rare minerals, plus gems and beautiful but delicate specimens.
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Pacific Spirit Regional Park
This lush park covers over 763 hectares. It is located in Point Grey, adjoining the University of British Columbia. It is popular with hikers and bikers. There are approximately 35 kilometers of trails, used by bikers and horseback riders, and a further 18 kilometers for hiking only. Walkers and joggers enjoy the Sword Fern Trail that runs the length of the park. The best spot to enter is on 16th Avenue, west of Blanca Street. Admission is free and parking is available.
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Park & Tilford Gardens
Waltz through the wisteria. Boogie among the begonias. Lunge over the lilies. With eight separate themed gardens, you will want to explore this oasis for hours. Meditate in the oriental garden, stop to smell the flowers in the rose garden, be blinded by beauty in the white garden, and then relax by the rock pool. But there is more to see: a native garden with lots of indigenous plant life, an herb garden, colonnade garden and finally, a display garden. Guided tours can be arranged for groups of ten or more people, but appointments must be booked. Admission is free.
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Parliament Buildings
Satisfy your lust for governmental, historic, and architectural knowledge all in one go by taking a free tour of Victoria’s harborside parliament buildings. The exterior is British Columbia Haddington Island stone, and if you walk around the buildings you'll no doubt spot many a stern or gruesome face staring down from the stonework. Atop the copper-covered dome stands a gilded statue of Captain George Vancouver, the first mariner to circumnavigate Vancouver Island. Walk through the main entrance and into the memorial rotunda, look skyward for a dramatic view of the central dome, then continue upstairs to peer into the legislative chamber, the home of the democratic government of British Columbia.
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Playland
Located on the east side of the city about 20 minutes out of Point Grey
This shopping district has a distinctly serene neighbourhood feel. That's probably because it's set in Vancouver's oldest and most prestigious locale. It is a perfect area for calm browsing and hassle-free shopping. Specialty shops run the gamut from decorator stores (Pleasantries, the Cloth Shop, and Splish Splash Bath Boutiques) and fashion boutiques, to hardware (Hewer Home Hardware) and grocers. Choose from casual to fine dining in places like Dentry's Irish Grill and Brock House Conservatory. Many of the retailers carry high-end merchandise, but a range of shops is present.
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Presentation House Gallery
This is North Vancouver's multi-functional art centre. Part gallery and part museum, it focuses on contemporary art in many forms. The gallery portion houses one of the largest photographic and artistic media collections in western Canada. Both national and international artists display their work here, but the focus is on Canadian talent. In addition to the gallery, the North Vancouver Museum and Archives holds the key to the North Shore's photographic history.
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Punjabi Market (Little India)
This shopping area has some of the smells, sounds, colours and tastes of India. Hear Indian music and smell the spicy aromas of authentic food. The district teams with stores hawking food, spices, jewellery, saris and fabrics. A trip to Little India won't be complete without sampling some Indian cuisine. If you travel (by car) farther southeast to Marine Drive, you will find the large Sikh Temple on Ross Street. Renowned local architect Arthur Erickson designed the award-winning temple, which blends traditional Indian architecture with a modern sensibility.
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Queen Elizabeth Park
This park is known as 'Little Mountain' because it sits atop the geographical high point and centre of Vancouver proper. Its two sunken gardens are a colourful backdrop for wedding photos. On top of the park are lookout points to spectacular vistas of Queen Elizabeth Park Pitch & Putt
Nestled in the southern section of Robson Street
This was where the original German community in Vancouver shopped. Robsonstrasse, as it was formerly known, was lined with delis, bakeries and restaurants. Today, it's one of the city's most fashionable shopping streets: Alfred Sung, Salvatore Ferragamo, Chanel, Rodier Paris and Stephane de Raucourt are just some of the big names in this urban shopping destination. Options for grabbing a bite abound. Find everything from Schnitzel to Sushi along this bustling thoroughfare. It is also cruising central in the summertime, with cars and sidewalks filled with people enjoying the warm summer air.
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Roedde House Museum
Roedde House is a restored Victorian home in Romanov Gallery
This downtown gallery displays modern Russian art. The owner deals directly with the artists in Russia, allowing easier access to works at affordable prices. The gallery has contacts in all parts of the world and is able to track down special order pieces. The works featured are from internationally acclaimed artists, with an emphasis on contemporary Russian works. Canadian Neo-romantic paintings and sculptures are also on display.
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Roundhouse Community Centre
This impressive community arts and recreation centre opened its doors in 1997 and is located in the eastside of Royal BC Museum
There is no better way of getting to know a place than by exploring its history and tracing past events. The Royal BC Museum gives you this chance to go back in time and witness the evolution of British Columbia, from what it once was to what it is now. Its permanent galleries - those of Modern History, Natural History and Anthropology, and the First People's Gallery - beautifully recreate settings and situations that help you understand, imagine and create visual impressions of the region's past in your mind. Fascinating displays of creatures that might have existed in the last ice-age make for a good learning experience for children as well as adults. Apart from this, temporary exhibits from time to time ensure that visitors are not deprived of international history and knowledge. The admission fees for the museum range from CAD12.50 for adults to CAD8.70 for seniors and students, and CAD33.70 for family. Children from 3-5 years are admitted free.
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Salt Spring Island
This is the largest and most populated of the Gulf Island chain. It has rolling hills, forests, lakes and beaches. Visitors hike, bike, kayak, fish or relax. Renowned for its population of artists, there is an abundance of studios and galleries. If you feel one day is too short, stay over in one of the world-class bed and breakfasts. There are spots to enjoy a picnic or try one of the local restaurants. Saltspring is accessible by a 90-minute ferry ride from Tsawwassen on the mainland.
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Sam Kee Building
The Guinness Book of World Records lists this landmark as the world's narrowest building. The edifice is a mere metre and half wide, while its upper floor has less than two metres in available space with bay windows. The structure is named after a group of Chinese traders. The city decided to widen the street to allow for increasing traffic, thus reducing the size of their land. Undaunted, the men pushed through with their plans and erected a building.
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Science World / Vancouver Science Centre
Fondly known as the "golf ball" because of the glittery geodesic dome that sits atop it, this science centre is a former Expo '86 pavilion. Today, it is a top family destination, offering educational, entertaining and interactive exhibits. Three main galleries explore the areas of biology, physics and music. A 3-D laser show presents fun images. The biggest attraction is the OMNIMAX Theatre, which features science and nature films on one of the world's largest dome screens.
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SeaBus
This is the BC transit ferry service that links Seawall (The)
Sewell's Marina
Rent a motorboat and go fishing on the glassy waters. Why not cruise the islands and inlets of Howe Sound as well? Rates include dockside instructions and equipment. You can also let experienced guides bring you to where the salmon are jumping and biting. A five-hour charter trip includes everything except licences and food. You can also take a wild ride on a 26-foot inflatable hull!
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Shadbolt Centre for the Arts (The)
This centre is named in honour of renowned artist Jack Shadbolt and his wife, writer Doris. It opened in November 1995 as a performance and teaching centre for the visual arts, theatre and dance. In order to better accommodate the more than 8,000 arts enthusiasts who take part in its programs, classes and workshops, it added multi-use studios and a second theatre. Designed by internationally renowned Hotson Bakker Architects, its design and layout, with large, windowed studios, an atrium and raised terrace, complements its natural surroundings.
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Simon Fraser University
This university is a mid-size campus with 17,000 students and 100 programs. It has three campuses: in the city of Surrey, Skoah
Stuck indoors on a rainy day? Get off that couch and head over to Skoah – a famous spot among Canadians, to rejuvenate and revitalize. The uninitiated may well ask for advice, for the range of services available is extensive. Facials are the specialty, albeit a bit pricey, and a quick one is available for those on the run. Skincare products abound here, from toners to astringents and creams to sunscreens. The website and staff provide many useful beauty tips - a good reference for those unsure of what their skin needs. The best part is that Skoah is eco-friendly - towels and linen are reused or donated, plastic is recycled, while the paper they use is 100% recycled.
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South Granville
This is a shopping area rich with culture and tasteful boutiques. The area is abundant with upscale galleries, restaurants, and specialty stores full of high-end merchandise. Between West 6th and 15th Avenues you'll find Vancouver's Gallery Row, showcasing some of the city's best artists. There is a wide array of modern art to check out at galleries like