Ultimate Vancouver Travel Guide (2025)

Planning a visit to Vancouver? Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or exploring British Columbia for the first time, this guide will show you the best of Vancouver—with expert tips from the team at Way Out West Tours, Vancouver’s leading hiking and day tour specialists.

🌲 Stanley Park – A Must-See Urban Oasis

Looking for an easy, scenic way to explore nature in the city?

• Highlights: Seawall biking or walking, totem poles, beaches, the Vancouver Aquarium, Stanley Park Brewing.

• Try This: Rent a bike at Cycle City or Spokes, or join one of our Way Out West guided City Tours.

• Fun Fact: The Stanley Park Pitch & Putt is a great 18-hole course for families and first-timers ($20–25 per round).

🏝️ Granville Island – Culture, Food & Waterfront Charm

Perfect for a relaxed afternoon after a morning hike.

• Don’t Miss: Granville Public Market, artisan shops, and local street performers.

• Pro Tip: Take the Aquabus or False Creek Ferry for a scenic return.

• Way Out West Add-On: Combine with our Private Guided Vancouver City Tour.

🕰️ Gastown – History Meets Hipster Cool

Explore Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood with cobblestone streets and indie boutiques.

• What to See: The Steam Clock, the iconic Sun Tower, and great local galleries.

• Eat & Drink: Discover local favorites like our favourite cafe, Nemesis!

🌉 Best Vancouver Hiking & Nature Adventures

🌁 Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Want thrills without the hike?

• Attractions: 450-foot suspension bridge, treetop walkways, and cliffside views.

• Getting There: Free shuttle from Canada Place.

• Admission (2025): Adults $72 + | Seniors $65 + (prices subject to dynamic pricing).

• Way Out West Option: Combine with our Vancouver Guided Hiking Highlights Tour.

🏔️ Grouse Mountain – Epic Views & Alpine Adventures

A 15-minute drive from downtown and home to one of Vancouver’s most iconic hikes.

• Summer Activities: The Grouse Grind (2.7 km steep climb), wildlife sanctuary (bears, owls), ziplining, gondola.

• Entry (2025): Adults $85 | Seniors $75 + (prices correct at time of publication).

• Guided Option: Join our Grouse Mountain Hiking Tour for unbeatable photos.

🏮 Vancouver’s Cultural Hotspots

🧧 Chinatown & Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden

Step into one of North America’s oldest Chinatowns.

• Garden Entry: $16

• Snack Tip: Try a famous steamed bun or apple tart at New Town Bakery.

• Local Tour: Ask about our Chinatown Walking & Tea Tour.

🏖️ Best Beaches in Vancouver (Free & Relaxing)

• English Bay – Amazing sunsets

• Kits Beach – Local favorite

• Jericho & Spanish Banks – Great for paddleboarding

• Third Beach – More secluded

• Wreck Beach – Clothing optional and a local legend

🌸 Queen Elizabeth Park – The Best View in Vancouver

• Top Sights: Quarry Garden, Rose Garden, and the tropical Bloedel Conservatory.

• Perfect For: A stop on your Private Guided City Highlights Tour.

🎨 Mount Pleasant & Main Street – Art, Food & Vibes

One of Vancouver’s trendiest neighborhoods and a favorite among locals.

• Food Scene:

  • Published on Main (Michelin-starred)

  • Acorn, Burdock & Co – Plant-forward cuisine

  • AJ’s Brooklyn Pizza – Best pizza in town

• Murals: 300+ from the Vancouver Mural Festival

• Local Events: Vancouver Canadians Baseball at Nat Bailey Stadium

🏙️ Downtown & West End – City Meets Sea

• Marine Building – Art Deco architecture lovers, take note!

• Davie Village – LGBTQ2+ heart of the city with top-rated drag shows

• Events:

  • Rogers Arena – Concerts year-round

  • BC Place – Home to Whitecaps FC (MLS) & BC Lions (CFL)

🚶‍♀️ Ready to Explore With Us? Book a Day Tour or Hiking Adventure with Way Out West Tours

We offer local, small-group tours for travelers who want to go beyond the usual. Popular 2025 options include:

• Vancouver: Guided Hiking Highlights Tour incl. Grouse Mountain and Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge Park. 7 hours of epic sightseeing! All for less than $179CAD per adult.

• Vancouver City Highlights Tour: Private guided. 3hrs plus with space for up to 14 people from just $549 plus tax & grats.

👉 Visit wayoutwesttours.com to book your spot or contact us for custom group experiences.