Vancouver is the kind of city that feels like you’re living inside a postcard—mountains in the distance, ocean views everywhere, and neighborhoods that make exploring feel effortless. If you’re planning a trip and searching for the best things to do in Vancouver in 2026, this list gives you the perfect mix of iconic attractions, nature escapes, and local-approved experiences you’ll actually remember.

Here are the top 5 things to do in Vancouver in 2026, plus tips to help you plan the best trip possible.

1) Walk or bike the Stanley Park Seawall (the most classic Vancouver experience)

If you only do one outdoorsy, scenic activity in Vancouver, make it the Stanley Park Seawall. This waterfront path wraps around the park and gives you some of the most beautiful views in the city—ocean on one side, lush forest on the other, and the skyline popping through at the right moments.

How to enjoy it in 2026:

  • Rent a bike to complete the loop faster
  • Walk it if you want to stop for photos and take your time
  • Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and softer lighting

What makes it special: Stanley Park doesn’t feel like a park inside a city. It feels like nature took over and decided to stay. It’s the perfect first-day activity because it instantly sets the mood for Vancouver: calm, fresh, and outdoors-first.

Local tip: If you want the best skyline shots, keep an eye out for viewpoints along the water as you approach the downtown-facing sections of the route.

2) Eat your way through Granville Island (market snacks + waterfront charm)

Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s best spots for food, creativity, and laid-back exploring. It’s the perfect mix of local energy and visitor-friendly fun—without feeling too touristy. The Public Market alone can fill a full afternoon, and the waterfront setting makes everything feel more scenic.

What to do here:

  • Start at the market and snack as you go
  • Try a fresh bakery item and something warm for lunch
  • Browse local artisan stalls and small shops
  • Walk along the water and take in the views

Granville Island is also one of the easiest places to visit if your group has different interests—some people can shop, others can eat, others can just stroll and people-watch.

Local tip: Go earlier if you want a calmer experience, especially during weekends in spring and summer.

3) Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge (a rainforest adventure without hiking)

If you want a bucket-list experience that feels like an instant adventure, visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge. The bridge itself is famous for a reason—crossing it gives you that thrilling, “how is this real?” feeling, with a dramatic canyon and forest views beneath you.

But what most people don’t realize is that it’s more than just the bridge:

  • There are forest walkways with elevated viewpoints
  • You can explore at your own pace
  • The whole park feels like a full rainforest experience

How to make it worth your time in 2026:

  • Go earlier in the day for shorter lines and better photos
  • Wear shoes you’re comfortable walking in (there’s more to explore than you expect)
  • Plan 2–3 hours if you want to enjoy the full experience

Local tip: If you’re visiting in cooler months, bring a light jacket—this area can feel colder and mistier than downtown.

4) Take the Skyride up Grouse Mountain (the best city views year-round)

For the best “wow” views in Vancouver, head up Grouse Mountain. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience Vancouver’s signature scenery—mountains, ocean, and city skyline all in one frame—without needing a full-day trip outside the city.

Why Grouse is a must in 2026:

  • It’s beautiful in every season
  • It offers a true mountain experience close to downtown
  • It’s perfect if you want great photos without major planning

Best ways to enjoy it:

  • Visit in the late afternoon for soft lighting and epic views
  • Stay long enough to take in the scenery, not just the ride up
  • If you’re visiting during winter, you’ll get that snowy, cozy mountain vibe

Local tip: Even if you don’t plan to do a hike, the ride up alone is worth it for the panoramic views.

5) Do a culture-and-coast day at UBC (Museum of Anthropology + nearby beaches)

If you want a day that feels meaningful, peaceful, and uniquely Vancouver, plan a half-day around UBC (University of British Columbia). It’s one of the most beautiful parts of the city and a perfect place to slow down your trip.

Start with the Museum of Anthropology (MOA)—a powerful cultural space known for Indigenous art and impactful exhibits. It’s the kind of museum that feels immersive, not just something you walk through quickly.

Then, take advantage of the location:

  • Visit nearby beaches like Spanish Banks
  • Walk scenic trails near the coast
  • Stay for golden hour views (the sunset here is unreal)

Local tip: This is one of the best “slower” Vancouver days you can have. Less rushing, more experience.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Vancouver Trip Even Better in 2026

Here are a few planning details that make a big difference:

Choose the right season for your vibe

  • Spring: comfortable weather + fewer crowds
  • Summer: busiest but most energetic
  • Fall: beautiful colors + calmer feel
  • Winter: mountain vibes + cozy city energy

Vancouver is walkable—but you’ll still want transit
Downtown is easy to explore on foot, but places like Grouse Mountain, Capilano, and UBC are smoother with transit planning.

Pack layers
Even in warmer months, mornings and evenings can feel cool—especially near the water.

2–3 Day Vancouver Itinerary (Easy + Balanced)

If you want a simple plan that covers the best experiences:

Day 1: Downtown + Nature

  • Stanley Park Seawall
  • Optional: Vancouver Aquarium
  • Waterfront sunset walk

Day 2: Food + Views

  • Granville Island
  • Explore nearby neighborhoods
  • Grouse Mountain late afternoon

Day 3: Adventure + Culture

  • Capilano Suspension Bridge
  • UBC Museum of Anthropology + beach views