Heady heights, ancient lore, tasty treats

Vancouver is considered the gateway to Canada’s expansive wilderness, the Rockies and world-class ski resorts. But this cosmopolitan city is so much more, with nature escapades and urban adventures a magnet for Aussie travellers. Read on for 5 not-to-be-missed Vancouver attractions.

Stanley Park
Stanley Park is the icing on the metaphorical cake of downtown Vancouver. The 1,000-acre park provides a green escape from the urban setting, and is brimming with activities that you can take in year-round. Walk the famous Seawall for unparalleled views of the Burrard Inlet or head inland and marvel at the giant trees and totem poles that still live in this preserved forest.
First Nations owned Talaysay Tours offer cultural and eco-tourism experiences in Stanley Park. Listen to the ancient stories and legends of your First Nation guide as you walk among old growth forests, and delve into the rich history and landmarks of the region.

Granville Island
Beneath a major bridge near downtown Vancouver, you’ll find a hotspot of dining, shopping and entertainment. Granville Island is a buzzing community full of artisans creating unique gifts, passionate foodies sharing the fruits of their labour, and aspiring musicians perfecting their craft. The Granville Island Market Tour will begin running in May 2022, the perfect way to skip the lines and indulge in 20+ signature Canadian tasting

Capilano Suspension Bridge
Overcome your fear of heights in style, with the help of the 137 metres Capilano Suspension Bridge, hanging 70 metres above the rushing Capilano River. This series of cliff-side suspended and cantilevered walkways above the rainforest offers a bird’s eye view that’s not for the faint-hearted. Ready for more? Walk your way through Treetops Adventure, comprising seven bridges suspended by 250-year-old Douglas firs, soaring 34 metres above the forest floor. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is full of adrenaline-pumping attractions that immerse you in the beautiful outdoors. 
From November to January, the bridge comes alive with Canyon Lights, as the bridge is lit with a multi-colour display, creating a magical spectacle. Delve into the rainforest and walk between the eight tallest Christmas trees in the world on Treetops Adventure.

Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, but offers everything you could want from a mountain. In the winter, hit the slopes for a few hours before enjoying a mountain-top après-ski. In the summer, hike or take the gondola up, watch a lumberjack show and say hi to Grinder and Coola, the two rescued orphan grizzly bears who live at Grouse’s wildlife reserve.

Vancouver Aquarium
Home to more than 50,000 creatures, the Vancouver Aquarium is the ultimate ocean-lover’s playground. As an animal care and animal rescue facility, you’ll find everything from friendly sea otters to bright jellyfish in the Aquarium, and get up close and personal with marine wildlife from across the globe. Buy tickets to one of the adults-only After Hours events and enjoy the aquarium with a drink in hand. Oh, and don’t forget to see if you can find Nemo.