downtown vancouver tour walking

The Ultimate Self-Guided Vancouver Walking Tour

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Vancouver. My hometown, it is a city well-known for its ever-present veil of rain clouds. Regardless, Vancouver is an amazing city to walk around, with stunning views of the vast Pacific Ocean on one side and the towering North Shore mountains on the other. And, I would like to share my Vancouver walking expertise with you; this is my self-guided Vancouver walking tour!

While there are many possible walking routes around Vancouver, this one will take you from the Vancouver Art Gallery to the aquarium (two worthwhile visits on your Vancouver itinerary). Without any stops, this walk typically takes around 1.5 hours.

However, my favorite part of walking around a new city is the freedom to explore as I please. So, this walk will take you anywhere from 3 hours to a whole day to complete – you can go at your own pace! Browse the cute shops, admire the views of the endless Pacific, learn more about Vancouver’s marine life at the aquarium; you’ll have one incredible travel day.

Without further ado, let’s begin! This is my ultimate self-guided walking tour of Vancouver, BC.

Vancouver Art Gallery and Robson Square

First, we’ll start our Vancouver walking tour at the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Located on Robson Street, the Vancouver Art Gallery features incredible pieces of work, including paintings by one of the most famous Canadian artists, Emily Carr.

You can easily spend hours at Vancouver’s Art Gallery, admiring its selection of fine art, relaxing at the Vancouver Art Gallery café, and browsing the gift shop for souvenirs. And, if you’re visiting Vancouver in the winter, you can also go skating at Robson Square!

Overall, the Art Gallery in Vancouver, BC is definitely worth a visit.

• Address : 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7, Canada
• Cost : $24 for adults, $20 for seniors, $18 for students
• Hours : Tuesday and Friday: 12 pm – 8 pm. Every other day: 10 am – 5 pm.
• Website : https://www.vanartgallery.bc.ca/

Holy Rosary Cathedral

Next, you’ll head over to the Holy Rosary Cathedral, a catholic church in downtown Vancouver. A lovely cathedral with a gloomy, Gothic exterior and a charming interior, it is a delightful place to stop by.

Built in 1885, the Rosary Cathedral is not as extravagant as the majestic cathedrals you’ll see in Europe. Nevertheless, it holds its own charm on the modern streets of Vancouver. I definitely recommend checking out this downtown Vancouver church as you walk around Vancouver!

• Address : 650 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3A3, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 10 minutes from the Vancouver Art Gallery.
• Website : https://www.holyrosarycathedral.org/

Next, you’ll proceed to one of Vancouver’s oldest and coolest neighborhoods: Gastown. A key location for all walking tours in Vancouver, Gastown was founded by John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton in 1867 (the same year Canada became a country)!

Today, Gastown is one of Vancouver’s key historic districts, well-known for its Victorian architecture, cobble-stoned streets, old-fashioned lamp posts, and cute Gastown shops. There is also a large variety of delicious restaurants, making it one of the best places to eat in Vancouver !

Some key sights include the Gassy Jack statue and the Gastown Steam Clock!

• Address : 305 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B9, Canada
• Time to Get Here : It takes 7 minutes to walk from the Holy Rosary Cathedral to the Gastown Steam Clock.

Waterfront Station

After exploring the historic Gastown district, head over to Waterfront Station. Located neatly between Gastown and the Vancouver waterfront, it is the final stop on many of the Vancouver Skytrain lines.

However, there’s no need to stay here long, as it’s simply a train station. Nevertheless, it does feature some pretty lovely architecture!

• Address : Vancouver, BC V6C 2R6, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 4 minutes from the Gastown Steam Clock.

Want to learn more about the great things to do around Vancouver? Click here for my guide on the best hikes in Whistler !

Canada Place

Now, head over to Canada Place. Built for the Expo ’86 world’s fair, Canada Place is set right on the downtown Vancouver waterfront. With a cruise ship terminal and views of the seaplane terminal nearby, the Canada Place pier is the perfect place to relax and gaze at the surrounding scenery.

However, that’s not all you can do at Canada Place. Part of Vancouver’s main convention center, it includes the FlyOver Canada multi-sensory theatre experience.

Nevertheless, my favorite thing to do at Canada Place is to simply walk along the Vancouver waterfront, and admire the views of the tranquil ocean and North Shore mountains. And, fun fact, this is actually where I went after prom; as an introvert, I needed a place to relax after all the socializing that comes with graduation.

• Address : 999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3T4, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 4 minutes from Waterfront Station.
• Website : https://www.canadaplace.ca/

Olympic Cauldron

Next, you’ll walk a few minutes from Canada Place to the Vancouver Olympic Cauldron. A prominent stop in all Vancouver walking tours, it was built for the 2010 Winter Olympics held in Vancouver.

Nowadays, the Olympic Cauldron is only lit for special events. Nevertheless, it is a cool display to check out as you walk along the Vancouver waterfront!

• Address : 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 4 minutes from Canada Place.

Digital Orca

Near the Olympic Cauldron sits the Digital Orca Vancouver statue. A sculpture by Douglas Coupland, it looks as if it was made by LEGOs. While some people don’t like the sculpture, I think it’s a pretty cool piece of art with a great backdrop, and a worthwhile stop on your Vancouver walking tour.

• Address : Vancouver Convention Centre West Building, 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 1 minute from the Olympic Cauldron.

Vancouver Seawall

While you can end your Vancouver walking tour at the Digital Orca (as the next portion of the walk is the longest), you’ll be missing out on some of the best views in Vancouver . So, I definitely recommend continuing, and heading down the Vancouver Seawall.

Not a destination, the Vancouver Seawall is one of the easiest Vancouver hiking paths. With construction beginning in Stanley Park in 1917, the Vancouver Seawall has since grown exponentially. Today, the Seawall is 22 kilometres (13.5 miles) long.

However, you’ll only be walking a portion of it, from Canada Place to Stanley Park.

But, the Seawall passes by some of Vancouver’s greatest attractions, including Granville Island, Science World, BC Place, Yaletown, Stanley Park, and Canada Place. So, while this Vancouver walking tour is only doing a small portion of the Vancouver Seawall, I definitely recommend walking the other portions as well!

Nevertheless, on this walking tour, you’ll walk on the Vancouver Seawall from the Digital Orca to our next destination: the Brockton Point Lighthouse.

Wondering what else to do around Vancouver? I recommend hiking! Click here for my guide to hiking in Vancouver , and click here for my guide to hiking the Greater Vancouver Area .

Brockton Point Lighthouse

Named after Francis Brockton, an engineer that surveyed the coast of British Columbia from 1857 to 1860, the Brockton Point provides some pretty incredible ocean views.

While the lighthouse itself is diminutive, it is a part of the history of Vancouver, as it was designed and built by Colonel William Anderson in 1914 (which is considered ancient in Canada )!

All in all, I recommend taking a small break on your walk to admire the delightful lighthouse and the beautiful ocean views, before heading into Stanley Park.

• Address : Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 45 minutes from the Digital Orca.

Stanley Park

Once again, Stanley Park is less of a destination, and more of an opportunity to explore some of the Vancouver walking trails. Definitely one of the best parks in Vancouver, Stanley Park is huge, covering 400 hectares (1,000 acres).

Covering such an immense space, it’s not surprising that there are many things to do in Stanley Park. Filled with the temperate West Coast rainforest and surrounded by beautiful beaches, you can spend hours wandering through the Stanley Park trails.

But, one of the top sights is definitely the Stanley Park totems. Unfortunately, Canada’s indigenous (the First Nations people) have suffered a lot from colonization and the Canadian government. Stanley Park itself sits on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples (as is most of greater Vancouver). So, it’s always great to learn, appreciate, and pay respects to the First Nations people and culture.

If you want to learn more about the First Nations people of Vancouver and British Columbia, check out these great resources:

• If you want to learn more about the Musqueam Nation, click this link .
• If you want to learn more about the Squamish Nation, click this link .
• If you want to learn more about the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, click this link .
• If you want to learn more about the First Nations in British Columbia, click this link .
• Address : Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
• Hours : 6 am to 10 pm (unless otherwise posted)

Vancouver Aquarium

Finally, after exploring the vast forests of Stanley Park, head over to our final destination: the Vancouver Aquarium.

With more than 70,000 aquatic animals, from mesmerizing jellyfish, adorable sea otters, and Amazonian snakes, the Vancouver Aquarium is well-worth a visit!

It’s also a great educational experience. Part of the Ocean Wise initiative, the Vancouver Aquarium is the perfect place to learn more about the threats to the marine environment of British Columbia.

Overall, the Vancouver Aquarium is filled with both cute animals and educational resources, making it the perfect ending to our Vancouver walking tour!

• Address : 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
• Time to Get Here : 16 minutes from the Brockton Point Lighthouse.
• Website : https://www.vanaqua.org/
• Note : Due to financial difficulties caused by COVID-19, the Vancouver Aquarium is currently closed.

Other Things to Do in Vancouver

While this walking tour takes you to many of Vancouver’s best sights, there are still several more amazing things to do in Vancouver, including:

• Explore Granville Island . An essential for any beginner in Vancouver , this island is filled with charming boutiques, a lively public market, and several art stores, you can spend hours wandering around this man-made island.
• Relax at one of Vancouver’s beaches , like English Bay, Kitsilano Beach, or for all the nudists out there, Wreck Beach.
• Visit the UBC Museum of Anthropology . With several indigenous artifact displays, it is a great place to learn more about the First Nations’ history and culture, and one of the best places to visit in Vancouver in the rain .
• Embark on one of the many hikes in Vancouver , such as the Grouse Grind or the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. Or explore the hikes in the Greater Vancouver area .
• Check out some of the hikes near Whistler . With epic alpine views and enchanting turquoise lakes, these hikes are some of the best in BC.
• If you’re visiting Vancouver in the winter, check out some of the winter activities around Vancouver and Whistler , like the ski hills and the spas!
• If you’re visiting in the summer, check out the Richmond Night Market for some mouthwatering food.
• Wander around Steveston Village . While Steveston is technically located in Richmond, it is definitely worth a visit. A historic fishing village, it is teeming with cute boutiques, great boardwalk trails, and a public fish market (the Fisherman’s Warf)!
• Take a day trip to the US , and explore Seattle through a self-guided walking tour . Or admire the dazzling scenery surrounding Seattle ; from Mount Rainier to Olympic National Park, they’re definitely worth the drive!
• If you’re interested in exploring more of British Columbia, check out some of the weekend getaways from Vancouver , like Salt Spring Island or Victoria.

Planning on going on a Canadian Rockies road trip? Click here for my 7-day road trip itinerary from Calgary to Vancouver!

In Conclusion,

While Vancouver (otherwise known as Raincouver) is not known for having the best weather, it is a charming city filled with great waterfront boardwalks, lush parks, and lovely beaches; overall, it’s a great place to walk around! I hope this article helped you decide where to go in Vancouver, and I hope you’ll enjoy this Vancouver walking tour!

Thanks for reading the article! If you have any questions, feel free to comment down below, and if you want to see more travel and hike-related content, make sure to check out my other articles.

Photos by Pixabay.

Enjoyed this Vancouver walking guide? Want to read more? Click here for my walking guide to Ottawa, Canada , and here for my Montreal walking tour !

Or if you’re interested in exploring the islands off the coast of BC, click here for my list on the best things to do in Salt Spring Island !

About to embark on a trip? Here are some helpful articles to make your trip as awesome and stress-free as possible:

• How to Travel Without Breaking the Bank
• 15 Things to Do Before a Trip
• How to Start Hiking: 15 Beginner Hiking Tips

And here are some additional helpful links:

• Click here for my walking guides
• Click here for my hiking guides
• Click here for more posts on North America
• Click here for more posts on destinations in Canada
• Click here for more resources

Like this post? Share it!

Mia is the founder of Walk a While with Me, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the best self-guided walking tours, travel itineraries, and hikes for destinations around the world. A keen traveler, she has visited more than 20 countries in the past six years. She is excited for you to follow along on her adventures!

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Thank you so much for your article. I am going to be in Vancouver for only 16 hours and have been searching for things to do. Your article has been the most informative and well organized list of great activities with realistic timelines to help a newbie get as much out of a short trip. I appreciate it.

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Explore Vancouver at your own pace

VanWalks is a walking tour web app that works on any device with a modern web browser. No app to download, no accounts to create, no ads to watch.

Walking tours of the most popular areas of Vancouver

Optimize your time in Vancouver by exploring the most popular areas of the city. Stop when and where you like, grab a coffee, and continue when you're ready.

Your virtual host, Chris King, has been living in Vancouver for 20 years and is excited to give you a unique look into the most interesting aspects of his city.

Our routes combine historical context, modern events, and local interpretation to provide an interesting and fun experience for tourists, new Canadians, and lifelong locals.

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The Vancouver Bundle is a great way to optimize your time in Vancouver. It includes all the premium content of the most popular areas of the city. From the rugged history of Gastown to the majestic splendor of Stanley Park , the Vancouver Bundle has something for everyone.

Bundle includes Gastown and both Stanley Park walking routes

Available Routes

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Inner stanley park.

Coal Harbour

Vancouver Police Museum - Soul Food

BC Entertainment Hall of Fame StarWalk

Vanwalks in the media.

This new app guides users on history walks around Vancouver

Historic sites don't exist on a planned path, so Chris King built an app to help guide visitors and locals along some of the best routes in the city.

Surrey Now Leader - New ‘StarWalk’ tour maps B.C.’s most celebrated entertainers for free on VanWalks app

Chris King, founder of VanWalks, said he’s thrilled to launch the content collaboration with BC Entertainment Hall of Fame, the latest addition to the company’s tours, some downloaded for a fee. Other destinations in Vancouver include Gastown, Chinatown, Stanley Park Seawall and Coal Harbour.

“Seeing the names of our most well-known and well-loved public figures on the StarWalk is an important part of any trip to Granville Street,” King said. “Having the StarWalks route in VanWalks will allow people to easily learn more about their most beloved entertainers and to discover new favourites.”

Miss 604 - 10 Tours in Downtown Vancouver

VanWalks is beyond excited to be included in Miss 604's list of recommended tours in downtown Vancouver. There are some amazing companies on that list, so we are honoured to be included with such heavery hitters.

Radio Interviews

In the early days of VanWalks, Chris King was interviewed on two different radio programs. Unfortunately, they aren't available online, so you'll have to take our word for it that they were great!

The 13 Best Walking Tours to Take in Vancouver

Vancouver is a very walkable city. It’s easy to stroll between tourist attractions and popular neighborhoods in the downtown peninsula. So take to the streets like a resident, and learn more about the incredible city through a walking tour. Here are 13 of the best ones to enjoy across the Greater Vancouver Area.

Gastronomic gastown.

Gastown is one of Vancouver’s coolest neighborhoods , and it’s also the oldest area in town, filled with many excellent local restaurants and bars. Learn more about the neighborhood’s history while sampling some of its best products on the Gastronomic Gastown Walking Tour . This all-inclusive three-hour walking tour includes stops at places such as Six Acres, Meat and Bread, and Nicli Antica Pizzeria. All of the walking and learning will definitely make you work up an appetite.

Explore Vancouver’s downtown core through a private walking tour. From the Olympic Cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza to Vancouver Art Gallery , this tour includes stops at the Marine Building, Christ Church Cathedral, and the Granville entertainment district. Your informative guide will tell you how the Marine Building is one of Canada’s most well-preserved Art Deco landmarks and about the famous people who have walked down Granville Street.

Secrets of Stanley Park

Who knew Stanley Park was filled with secrets? You can learn all about them through this walking tour. Your guide will take you along the seawall first to check out the beautiful vistas, totem poles, and a secret cemetery. It’s then time to head into the park and along the forested trails, where you’ll learn about a long-lost indigenous village. Following the tour, you can head off along the seawall on your bike or check out one of Stanley Park’s many beaches .

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North Vancouver Foodie Tour

Unfortunately, visitors to Vancouver often overlook North Vancouver. This fantastic food and walking tour combines the history of North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale area with eight tastings, two alcoholic beverages, and desserts. Learn more about the neighborhood’s historic shipyards while you sample dishes such as turkey meatloaf, homemade soups, and candied salmon, brie, and pear pizza.

Brewery Tour

For beer lovers, this is the number one craft brewery tour in Vancouver. Tours depart every Wednesday and Friday and visit three breweries in the Brewery Creek neighborhood. Wednesdays include Brassneck Brewing, Faculty Brewing, and Big Rock Urban Brewery & Eatery, while Fridays highlight Main Street Brewing instead of Big Rock. Guests get to go behind the scenes at each brewery; receive a flight of beer at every stop; and get a free Vancouver Brewery Tours beer glass following the outing.

Downtown Ghost Walk

Many cities and towns around the world do ghost walking tours, and Vancouver is one of them. Step back in time and learn about the history of the city and its many hauntings. Along the tour, you will visit the Orpheum Theatre, Vancouver Art Gallery, and the Hotel Vancouver. Your animated guide will regale stories based on local legend, personal experiences, and paranormal investigations.

This urban hike takes you out of the downtown core and through residential Vancouver, from Granville Island to Queen Elizabeth Park. It goes for six kilometers (four miles) and includes stops at Charleson Park, Vancouver City Hall, Cambie Village, Hillcrest Centre (the former Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Centre), and Nat Bailey Stadium. You will also pass “one of the city’s best ice cream shops” before arriving at Queen Elizabeth Park and its panoramic city views.

Little Italy

“From savory to sweet, if you are a fan of Italian food, you will love the Little Italy Food Tour.” Explore Commercial Drive and its Little Italy community through this foodie tour. Learn more about the neighborhood’s lesser-known history as you stop at eight different places and sample Italian dishes such as panini, deli meat, Italian sausage, authentic Neapolitan pizza, traditional spaghetti and meatballs, cannoli, and gelato. The guide will also introduce you to some of the owners of the family-run businesses that have shaped The Drive since the 1950s.

Architecture Tours

Learn more about the architecture in six Vancouver neighborhoods with the Architectural Institute of British Columbia. Their summer architecture walking tours include Gastown, Chinatown, Downtown, Yaletown , West End, and Strathcona. The best thing about these tours is learning about the areas’ buildings from passionate local architects. If you’re a fan of architecture, this is the tour for you.

Enjoy one of four free seasonal walking tours with the Tour Guys , one of Canada’s most popular tour companies. The four free tours take people to Granville Island, Downtown Vancouver and its Waterfront, Granville Street and Gastown, and Chinatown . Although free, the guides hope you enjoy their tours so much that you’ll leave a gratuity at the end. Tour Guys also offer private tours year-round.

Self-guided audio tour

“This culturally exciting audio tour will guide you through Vancouver . See popular sights such as the vibrant area of Gastown, the modern Olympic Cauldron, and the significant Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden.” If you enjoy walking tours, but want to go at your own pace, this self-guided audio tour through Viator is an excellent choice. When purchased, you’ll receive a mp3 audio guide, as well as a map. Let the fully narrated tour take you from the waterfront in Downtown Vancouver to Chinatown.

First Nations Interpretive Walk through Stanley Park

Back in Stanley Park, this walking tour is completely different to the secrets tour previously mentioned. It is an interpretive walking tour with a trained, local First Nations Cultural Ambassador. Your guide will share their own family history before leading you around Beaver Lake within Stanley Park. On this tour, you will learn more about the history of the park and the Coast Salish First Nations people . Discover how the First Nations lived and managed the land for many generations. You will undoubtedly end the tour with a deeper understanding of the First Nations people.

Lost Souls of Gastown

Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, of course, has the most ghost stories and the most gruesome history. Follow your guide’s lamplight on this Lost Souls of Gastown walking tour, and learn more about the horrific Great Vancouver Fire , Vancouver’s smallpox outbreaks, and the unsolved murder of John Bray. The tour is made for adult audiences, and it is not only a walking tour but also a theater piece, so expect to be entertained from beginning to end.

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Indigenous Canada: Seven Eye-Opening Experiences for Your Next Trip

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free walking tours in vancouver

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Walking tours

Downtown & historic vancouver.

• 90 minute free walking tour exploring the streets and alleyways of downtown Vancouver's main sites. 
• This free tour departs from main plaza at Vancouver Art Gallery , and ends at Andy Livingstone Park
• Learn about the local indigenous Nations and their history with Vancouver.
• Hear stories about the first residents of the historic Gastown and Chinatown districts.

Stanley Park

• 2 hour free tour of Stanley Park while immersed in its nature and beautyk.
• This is a free walking tour that starts and ends at the Stanley Park Bus Loop .
• Walk along forested trails and learn about the local plants and animals, including ancient trees and medicinal plants.
• Visit the famous Seawall and look out for marine mammals.
• Gain an in-depth understanding of Totem pole carving and the indigenous history of Stanley Park.

Custom Tours

• Flexible schedule that can cater to short or long tours.
• Extensive knowledge of local plants and wildlife, including their traditional and western uses.
• Background in Archaeology with a deep understanding of Vancouver's local history from the past 10,000 years to the 21st century.
• Experienced with introducing and facilitating discussions around reconciliation and traditional land use.
• Knowledgeable about various areas around Vancouver and willing to work with you to develop the perfect tour!

My Background

I am honoured to work and live on the unceded territory of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh speaking peoples, the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations in the place we now call Vancouver. The indigenous nations have stewarded the land since time immemorial and I am grateful for all the learnings and lessons they have shared.

I have spent the last decade leading various tours and workshops around Vancouver that dive into the history and culture of this place I call home. I am a passionate learner and I love to share the knowledge that I have gathered through all my previous experiences working with indigenous groups, elders, school districts, tourist attractions, and museums. I look forward to meeting you on our free tour of Vancouver or Stanley park.

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Walk in Vancouver like a local

• A fun, friendly guide to talk about all things history, lifestyle, fashion, politics, sports.
• Tips where to eat, what to see and what to do.
• Experienced photographer to capture your perfect travel memories.
• Vancouver Chinatown Millennium Gate, 26 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1R3, Canada At the gate, on the corner of the street.
• Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3L5, Canada The tour will end at the Olympic Cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at Vancouver Chinatown Millennium Gate 26 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1R3, Canada At the gate, on the corner of the street. See address & details
• 1 Vancouver ChinaTown Stop: 20 minutes See details
• 2 Gastown Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 3 Canada Place Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 4 Marine Building Stop: 15 minutes See details
• You'll end at Jack Poole Plaza 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3L5, Canada The tour will end at the Olympic Cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza. See address & details

• Clarisse_Simao 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amaizing! Irina was a wonderful host! All the sights was really amazing and she had the the kindness to send me those photos over and over again haha. I really enjoyed your job, Irina! I think these photos are my favs from the whole trip. Thank you so much! Read more Written February 27, 2020

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27 Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver: What to Do DT

If you’re looking for the best things to do in downtown Vancouver, I’ve got the mother lode.

These downtown Vancouver attractions run the gauntlet from a chill urban oasis to epic food and drink to full-on nights out.

Let’s figure out what to do in downtown Vancouver!

Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver

Check out stanley park.

Stanley Park is a 405-hectare (1,001 acres) public park situated alongside the Westernmost border of Downtown Vancouver.

This is one of the best things to do in Vancouver , downtown or not. And trust me, it’s not just any park. In fact, Trip Advisor has recently christened it “The Best Park in the World.”

Stanley Park is a uniquely natural evolution of the pre-existing coastal rainforest that has been adapted to its surrounding urban environment.

Here you can bike along the park’s world-renowned Seawall, marvel at the exotic Coast Salish  totem poles , or explore the wonders of the Vancouver Aquarium .

I also suggest taking Stanley Park tours to get the full experience.

Related : Best Hotels Near Stanley Park

Take a Tour of Downtown Vancouver

You can check off all the places to visit in downtown Vancouver by taking one of Vancouver’s top sightseeing tours .

I find this the best way to take in the sights, learn about the city, and even get in some exercise.

Some of the top tours include:

• Lost Souls of Gastown : Live the Great Vancouver Fire, smallpox outbreaks, and  tales of revenge   and redemption in this delightfully  macabre Vancouver walking tour .
• Stanley Park Bike Tour : Take a guided bike tour of Vancouver and weave through  old-growth forest trails , learn about local flora and fauna, and live  Coastal First Nations history .
• Vancouver City Highlights Tour : Check out the Vancouver Lookout and Capilano Suspension Bridge and get a Vancouver downtown city highlights guided tour all at once.

Related : Best Walking Tours in Vancouver

Walk Through Gastown

When people ask me what to do in downtown Vancouver my gut reaction is to direct them to Gastown.

Vancouver’s most historic district is famous for its cobblestone streets and bars, and the best things to do in Gastown include:

• Epic souvenir shopping at places like the Coastal Peoples Gallery
• Happy hour craft beer and cocktails at places like Clough Club
• Some of the city’s best restaurants, like St. Lawrence
• The Gastown Steamclock : Vancouver’s most photographable object
• The Vancouver Police Museum : maybe the most macabre museum in Canada

Looking for more places to eat? Check out my post on the best restaurants in Gastown .

Related : Best Gastown Hotels

View Local Indigenous Art at the Bill Reid Gallery

A Vancouver itinerary cannot be considered complete without exploring the history and culture of the indigenous people who’ve called the area home for time immemorial. 

Nestled in the heart of downtown, this small gallery is the only facility dedicated entirely to contemporary Northwest Coast Indigenous Art .

It is named after the acclaimed Haida artist, carver and goldsmith Bill Reid who did more to popularize the style than any other.

The Bill Reid Gallery contains an extensive collection of his works and those of his contemporaries. If you can’t make it out to UBC’s Museum of Anthropology , then a trip is highly recommended.

Related : Best Things to Do in Summer in Vancouver

Eat at Some of Vancouver’s Best Restaurants

Booking a table at one of Vancouver’s best downtown restaurants should be an automatic for anybody, visitor or local.

Here are a few amazing options:

• Blue Water Cafe : Fresh , high-quality , sustainable seafood. An extensive raw bar features premium cuts of sushi and sashimi and an extensive selection of local and imported oysters  and caviar .
• Cioppino’s : Award-winning chef and owner Pino Posterano masterfully combines the rustic simplicity of his Calabrian roots with elevated Italian culinary techniques and fresh West-coast ingredients.
• Marutama : Ramen spot that was initially founded in Japan, famous for its creamy chicken broth and house-made noodles . Also a great gyoza spot and one of the best value places downtown.

Take a Downtown Vancouver Food Tour

Eating must eat Vancouver food doesn’t have to mean booking a table at Vancouver’s best restaurants .

One of the best ways to get a guided tour of downtown Vancouver is to see the city while scheduling stops at some amazing Vancouver treat spots.

Two of my favourite Vancouver food tours that include Vancouver downtown activities include:

• Gastown Historic Food Walking Tour : A walk through Gastown’s classic cobblestone streets with an improv comic as a guide and stops for seven food tastings and three alcoholic beverages . Expect poutine, dumplings, cheesecake, and more.
• Wok Aroun d Chinatown : Prowl for goodies at traditional medicine shops, cookware stores, and a Chinese bakery – all led and narrated by a neighbourhood chef. You’ll learn the streets and crispy BBQ duck.

Walk Through Chinatown

Chinatown Vancouver is the second largest in North America, and it’s a great way to experience a bit of Chinese culture in the city.

It’s conveniently located right on the outskirts of downtown. Some of the best things to do here include:

• Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classical Garden : The first Chinese “Scholars” garden built outside of China remains the largest outside of Asia and is an amazing urban escape right in the chaos of downtown Vancouver.
• The Chinese Cultural Centre Museum : The first Chinese Canadian culture museum. Here you can experience the Chinese Canadian immigrant experience in the 19th and early 20th centuries. 
• Chinatown Millennium Gate : These terracotta tiled arches create one of the most emblematic spots in downtown Vancouver and make an awesome photo spot.
• Chinatown BBQ : The best BBQ chicken, pork, or duck you’ll ever get – done in the traditional Hong Kong style, this is one of the best value meals in the entire city.

Take a 4D Flight Across Canada

Right at Canada Place , next to the  Vancouver Cruise Terminal , you can strap in and prepare yourself for an amazing flying experience.

The Flyover Canada  ride uses state-of-the-art  4D video technology  to create a flight simulator for the ages. This contraption takes you on an eight-minute ride through Canada’s best natural and urban landscapes

You’ll get special effects, such as wind, mist, and scents and a thrilling, realistic flight experience. Who needs to buy a flight across Canada when it’s right here?

Plan My 4D Flight Now

Shop up a Storm on Robson Street

Some of Vancouver’s best shopping is along Robson Street , right in the heart of downtown.

The fun begins on Granville Street , where you can find the Pacific Centre Mall . This spot is home to popular department stores, the Hudson Bay Co. and Holt Renfrew .

At Robson Square , you’ll find a multitude of shops and boutiques, including favourites like Roots , Lululemon , Nike , Muji and Aritzia

Head a block North to the “ Luxury Zone, ” which can be found on Alberni and West Georgia Streets. This area is perfect if you’re looking for something more opulent.

Related : How Many Days Do I Need to Spend in Vancouver?

Experience Vancouver Nightlife

Fun things to do in downtown Vancouver usually stop (and end) at Vancouver’s best bars .

Downtown Vancouver also has a handful of nightlife districts bound to make you turn it into a crawl. Here are a few areas you’ll want to check out:

• The Granville Strip : Vancouver’s closest answer to the Vegas Strip, the Granville Entertainment District, is six blocks of bars, mostly frequented by young people, backpackers, and clubbers.
• Yaletown : A plethora of bars, restaurants and lounges catering to yuppies, celebrities, foodies, and anybody else cool. It’s Vancouver’s most stylish nightlife area.
• Gastown : World-class cocktail bars and cheap and cheerful dive bars serving up the best Vancouver craft beers are the names of the game here. If you’re a drinker through and through, this is it.

Take in the Views at Vancouver Lookout

Located a stone’s throw away from Waterfront Station , the Vancouver Lookout is a 553-foot (168 metres) tall  observation deck . It provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the Vancouver skyline, the North Shore Mountains and Burrard Inlet.

Take advantage of the interactive displays or a multi-lingual tour from a knowledgeable local guide. That way, you can learn more about the city’s past, present and future.

The best part is that admission is valid all day! So you can head up in the morning and return at dusk for sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. This is one of the best things to do in Vancouver when the sun is going down.

Vancouver Lookout Tickets

Catch a Canucks Game

Hockey is so deeply intertwined with Canada’s cultural identity that it’s arguably as much of a  national religion as a national pastime .

Playing out of downtown’s Rogers Arena , the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks  have just celebrated their 50th anniversary. While their play has resulted in more broken hearts and hockey riots than championships, Vancouverites still can’t get enough.

If you’re in town between October and April (or June if we make the playoffs!), read up on your hockey slang and grab some Canucks tickets .

Maybe this year is the year! (editor’s 2023 note: no, it isn’t )

Related : Best Things to Do in Vancouver in Winter

Hit up the Art Gallery

Housed in a stunning 165,000-foot neo-classical building in the heart of Downtown Vancouver. The Vancouver Art Gallery is guaranteed to add a little culture to your visit.

You’ll find it adjacent to Robson Square, which frequently hosts political rallies and cultural festivals. The VAG (I swear I didn’t make it up!) is the city’s informal cultural heart.

You can head inside and marvel at any of the 11,000 pieces . These include  Coastal Indigenous works, famous local artists such as Emily Carr and a significant European Classical collection.

Grab My Tickets Now

Things to Do Downtown Vancouver Map

Whether you’re up for cool things to do in downtown Vancouver or something a little more laid back, downtown contains many of the top areas to stay in Vancouver .

Let’s take a closer look at the area’s geography to clear up the confusion.

Related : Best Vancouver Festivals

The Downtown Core

The central portion of downtown contains the Financial District , the Granville Strip entertainment district and Robson Street – arguably Vancouver’s best shopping district.

This is where you’ll find most of the best hotels in Vancouver , and some of the best cheap hotels in Vancouver .

A former warehouse district transformed into one of the city’s hippest neighbourhoods .

The area is home to sidewalk cafés, chic restaurants, trendy bars and various beautiful parks along its stunning stretch of the Vancouver Seawall .

Related : Best Hotels in Yaletown

The Stadium District

The location of Rogers Arena and BC Place, the home to the city’s perennially suffering professional sports franchises; the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks , the MLS’s Vancouver Whitecaps and the CFL’s BC Lions .

The area also contains a variety of hotels, bars and restaurants catering to sports fans and concertgoers.

It’s even home to Parq: our number-one choice on our list of the best Vancouver casinos .

Related : Best Hotels near Rogers Arena

The West End

This largely residential neighbourhood is most widely known as the gateway to Stanley Park.

However, the West End also contains Davie Village, the home to much of the city’s LGTBQ community .

The area also houses numerous bars and restaurants, a collection of parks and some of Vancouver’s best beaches nestled along the shores of False Creek.

Coal Harbour

Stretching between Canada Place and Stanley Park, Coal Harbour is a peaceful waterfront area contains a mix of residential and commercial buildings.

The area is most known for the striking juxtaposition between its large glass condominium towers and the peaceful tranquillity of Burrard Inlet.

Related : What is Vancouver Known For?

Gastown and Chinatown

Technically downtown includes the neighbourhoods of  Chinatown and Gastown .

However, due to the abundance of attractions in these historic neighbourhoods, we’ve elected to grant them the special attention they deserve.

You can get free visitor tips, things to do, food, and nightlife options by clicking the links below:

Related: The Best Things to Do in Gastown Vancouver | Chinatown Vancouver Neighbourhood Guide

Looking for Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver?

Still looking to fill out your downtown Vancouver things to itinerary?

I invite you to write me in the comments below with what you want. That way, I can give you custom advice for your travels.

Whichever of my top things to do in downtown Vancouver you choose, I wish you the best of luck! ?

I've used online guides on five continents to find the world's greatest travel spots and this is my chance to give back - with insider info on my home, the mighty Vancouver BC!

Related posts

4 Best Vancouver Whale Watching Tours (2024 Reviews)

12 Things to Do in Vancouver with Kids

The Vancouver Lookout: Visit a Panoramic Paradise

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Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Things to See
• Best Restaurants
• Best Nightlife
• Organized Tours
• Planning a Trip
• Walking Tour 1
• Walking Tour 2
• Walking Tour 3
• Active Pursuits
• Spectator Sports
• Suggested Itineraries

Walking Tour 1 in Vancouver

Walking Tour 1: Downtown & the West End

Start : The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver.

Finish : Cathedral Place.

Time : 2 to 3 hours, not including museum, shopping, and eating stops.

Best Time : Daytime, particularly during the week, when the Law Courts building is open.

Worst Time : Late in the evening when the shops and offices have closed.

Once said to be the densest residential district west of Manhattan (now trumped by Toronto's St. James Town), it's surprising that Vancouver's West End doesn't overwhelm with tall buildings and concrete. Indeed, urban density has never been more beautifully planned or landscaped than in Vancouver. Every Edwardian house and every high-rise residential tower in the West End is surrounded by lush, beautiful plantings of trees, shrubs, and flowers. City council has given density bonuses to developers: trading more floors of condos for the preservation of heritage and trees. This appealingly green idea of the urban working with nature instead of against it carries over into Vancouver's commercial downtown, where the placement and orientation of buildings has been carefully controlled to preserve view corridors to the mountains and bodies of water. Remember to look up as you wander downtown -- more often than not, you'll be rewarded with a peek-a-boo view of a North Shore peak.

1. The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

At 900 W. Georgia St. and dating from 1939, this hotel was built and owned by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), just as the city itself was for many, many years. In return for agreeing in 1885 to make Vancouver its western terminus, the CPR was given 2,428 hectares (6,000 acres) of prime real estate -- nearly the whole of today's downtown. The Hotel Vancouver is built in the CPR's signature château style, with a verdigris-green copper roof. Construction took 11 years, halted mid-build by the Great Depression. It's worth stepping inside to see the grand, old-fashioned ambience of the lobby.

Leaving by the Burrard St. exit, turn left. Pass the intersection with Alberni St., and when you reach the corner, turn right, cross Burrard St., and you're on:

2. Robson Street

The shops on this corner are said to get more foot traffic than any others in Canada. But things were different back in the 1950s, when so many German delis and restaurants opened up that for a time the street was signposted as "Robsonstrasse." Beginning in the 1980s, the older businesses were replaced with high-end clothiers and new restaurants and gift shops with signs in Japanese. Whether you're into shopping or not, Robson Street is a great place to walk and people-watch. The street has an international cosmopolitan feel to it, and chances are you'll hear Cantonese, Croatian, Japanese, and other tongues as you stroll.

2 blocks farther down Robson St. at Bute St., turn left and walk 2 blocks and through a mini-park to Barclay St., and you've entered:

3. The West End

Beginning in about 1959, this down-at-its-heels neighborhood of once-grand Edwardian houses was transformed by the advent of the concrete high-rise. By 1970, most of the Edwardian houses had been replaced by apartment towers, and the West End was on its way to becoming one of the densest -- and simultaneously one of the most livable -- inner cities on the continent. The mini-park at Bute and Barclay is one of the things that makes the neighborhood so successful: Traffic is kept to a minimum on the tree-lined West End streets, so that residents -- though they live in the city center -- can enjoy a neighborhood almost as quiet as a small town. Beautiful landscaping, and plenty of it, adds to the area's appealing allure.

Turn right and walk 3 blocks down Barclay St. to Nicola St. Along the way, you'll see some of the elements that make the West End such a sought-after enclave: the gardens, street trees, and range and variety of buildings -- including a few surviving Edwardians, like the Arts and Crafts house at 1351 Barclay St. and the pair of houses on Barclay between Broughton and Nicola sts., otherwise known as:

4. Barclay Square

This beautifully preserved bit of 19th-century Vancouver consists of Barclay Manor, built in the Queen Anne style in 1890, and Roedde House, a rare domestic design by Francis Rattenbury, British Columbia's leading 19th-century institutional architect, who designed the Vancouver Courthouse that Arthur Erickson revamped into the Vancouver Art Gallery. Roedde House (tel. 604/684-7040; www.roeddehouse.org) is now a museum, open for guided tours Wednesday through Friday 1 to 4pm; admission is C$5 adults. On Sundays, tea and cookies are served and the admission price is C$1 more.

Turn left and walk south down Nicola St. for 1 block -- past Fire Station No. 6 -- then turn right and go 1 block on Nelson St., then left again onto Cardero St. Just ahead is the tiny Cardero Grocery at 1078 Cardero St. All the grocery needs of the West End were once supplied by little corner stores like this one. Turn right and walk 2 blocks on Comox St. to reach Denman St., the perfect place to:

5. Urban Rush & Delaney's on Denman

If Robson Street is the place Vancouverites go for hyperactive shopping sprees, Denman Street is where they go to sit back, sip a latte, and watch their fellow citizens stroll past. Urban Rush (1040 Denman St.; tel. 604/685-2996 ) is a fine spot for coffee and people-watching, particularly if you can nab a table on their outdoor terrace. One block down on the opposite side of the street, Delaney's on Denman (1105 Denman St.; tel. 604/662-3344 ) is a favorite coffee hangout for members of the West End's sizable gay community. Everyone's welcome, of course, and the pies and cakes at this little cafe are great.

When you're ready to continue the walking tour, go 2 blocks farther down Denman St. and you're at:

6. English Bay Beach

This is the place to be when the sun is setting or on one of those crystal-clear days when the mountains of Vancouver Island can be seen looming in the distance -- or any day at all, really, so long as the sun is shining. Every January 1, shivering Vancouverites in fancy costumes surround the bathhouse here at the very foot of Denman Street (entrance at beach level) to take part in the annual Polar Bear Swim. Check out the Bathhouse where a sign dating to 1931 prohibits "immodest attire"; back then, swimmers would rent wool bathing suits that tended to sag when wet.

Walk southeastward (left, as you're facing the water) on palm-tree lined Beach Ave., and you come to a tiny green space with a band shell known as:

7. Alexandra Park

Back around the turn of the 20th century, a big Bahamian immigrant named Joe Fortes used to make his home in a cottage near this spot -- that is, when he wasn't down on the beach teaching local kids to swim. In recognition of his many years of free service, the city finally appointed Fortes its first lifeguard. Later, a marble water fountain was erected in his memory by the Beach Avenue entrance to the park.

When you're finished looking around the park, head up Bidwell St. 2 blocks to Davie St., cross the street, turn right, walk 2 blocks farther on Davie St., and on your left at no. 1531, you'll see:

8. The Gabriola

This was the finest mansion in the West End when it was built in 1900 for sugar magnate B. T. Rogers. Its name comes from the rough sandstone cladding, quarried on Gabriola Island in the Strait of Georgia. Unfortunately for Rogers, the Shaughnessy neighborhood soon opened up across False Creek, and the West End just wasn't a place a millionaire could afford to be seen anymore. By 1925, the mansion had been sold off and subdivided into apartments. Since 1975, it's been a restaurant of one sort or another although at press time the building sat vacant and the gardens gated.

If it's open, cut through the garden and walk up through the Nicola St. mini-park, turning right on:

9. Pendrell Street

A few interesting bits of architecture reside on this street. One block farther, at the corner of Broughton Street, is the Thomas Fee house (1119 Broughton St.), where one of the city's leading turn-of-the-20th-century developer-architects made his home. Farther along, at the southeast corner of Pendrell and Jervis streets, is St. Paul's Anglican Church, a 1905 Gothic Revival church built entirely of wood. Next door at 1254 Pendrell, is the Pendrellis -- a piece of architecture so unbelievably awful, one gets a perverse delight just looking at it. Built as a seniors' home at the height of the 1970s craze for concrete, the multistory tower is one great concrete block, with nary a window in sight.

At Bute St., turn left and walk 1 block to Comox St., and you're at:

10. Mole Hill

These two dozen or so preserved Edwardian homes provide a rare view of what the West End looked like in, say, 1925. That they exist at all is more or less a fluke. The city began purchasing buildings here in the 1950s but continued renting them out, thinking one day to tear them down for a park. By the 1990s, however, heritage had become important. The residents of the houses waged a sophisticated political campaign, renaming the area Mole Hill and bringing in nationally known architectural experts to plead the case for preservation. The city eventually gave in.

Cut across the park to Nelson St. and continue down Nelson St. past Thurlow St. to 970 Burrard St., where stands:

11. The BC Hydro Building

Built in 1957 by architects Ned Pratt and Ronald Thom, it was one of the first modernist structures erected in Canada and has since become a beloved Vancouver landmark, thanks in no small part to its elegant shape and attention to detail. Note how the windows, the doors, and even the tiles in the lobby and forecourt echo the six-sided lozenge shape of the original structure. In the mid-'90s, the building was converted to condominiums and rechristened the Electra. And contrary to the former-tenant BC Hydro's present-day power-saving messages, lights in the building were once routinely left on with the idea to make the building a city icon.

From here, continue on Nelson St., crossing Burrard St. and Hornby St. to:

12. The Provincial Law Courts

Internationally recognized architect Arthur Erickson has had an undeniable impact on his native city of Vancouver. His 1973 Law Courts complex covers 3 full city blocks, including the Erickson-renovated Vancouver Art Gallery at its north end. Linking the two is Robson Square, which Erickson -- and everyone else -- envisioned as the city's main civic plaza. As with so many Erickson designs, this one has elements of brilliance -- the boldness of the vision itself, the tiered fountains (behind them are the offices of the Crown attorney -- the Canadian equivalent of a district attorney), the cathedral-like space of the courthouse atrium -- but, raised above street level, the entire ensemble is removed from all the life around it. To reach the courthouse, take the concrete stairway up and follow the elevated pedestrian concourse. The courthouse, with its giant glass-covered atrium, is worth a visit.

When you've seen the Law Courts, backtrack along the concourse, and you'll end up at:

13. Robson Square

As a civic plaza, Robson Square should be grand, but in fact, it's pretty underwhelming. Its basic problem is that it has been sunk 6m (20 ft.) below street level, so it's never exactly appealing or inviting to passersby. Despite the skating rink added for the 2010 Winter Games and a UBC bookstore, Robson Square lacks the throngs of people that add the essential ingredient -- life -- to a civic plaza. But look across the street, and you'll see the life that Robson Square lacks.

Directly across from Robson Sq., at 750 Hornby St., is the:

14. Vancouver Art Gallery

On sunny days, people bask like seals on the steps of the old courthouse-turned-art-gallery, a great gathering place and the perfect spot to see jugglers and buskers, pick up a game of outdoor speed chess, or listen to an activist haranguing the world at large about the topic du jour. Designed as a courthouse by Francis Rattenbury, architect of Roedde House, described earlier, and the Legislature Buildings and Fairmont Empress hotel in Victoria and renovated into an art gallery by Arthur Erickson, the Vancouver Art Gallery is home to a tremendous collection of works by iconic west coast painter Emily Carr, as well as rotating exhibits ranging from native masks to video installations. Film buffs may remember the entrance steps and inside lobby from the movie The Accused. To continue the tour, go around the gallery and proceed down Hornby Street. Note the fountain on the Art Gallery's front lawn. It was installed by a very unpopular provincial government as a way -- according to some -- of forever blocking protesters from gathering on what was then the courthouse lawn. In 2007, the 2010 Olympic Winter Games countdown clock was placed here. The clock has since been removed.

Cross Georgia St. and have a glance inside the Hong Kong Bank building (885 W. Georgia St.), where a massive pendulum designed by artist Alan Storey slowly swings back and forth. Cross Hornby St. and continue west on Georgia St. to 690 Burrard St., where stands:

15. Christ Church Cathedral

A Gothic Revival sandstone church with a steep gabled roof, buttresses, and arched stained-glass windows, the Anglican Christ Church Cathedral was completed in 1895. It was nearly demolished in 1971, when the church membership voted to build an Erickson-designed high-rise on the corner. But the public outcry overwhelmed the congregation's vote, resulting in the cathedral being named a heritage building in 1976.

Backtrack east to Hornby St., turn left, walk half a block, and climb the few steps into:

16. Cathedral Place

Often overlooked by Vancouverites, peaceful Cathedral Place is a charming example of an urban park. The building behind it, at 639 Hornby St., is a postmodern structure with small Art Deco parts melded onto a basically Gothic edifice. Some of the panels on its front were salvaged from the Georgia Medical-Dental building, a much-loved skyscraper that used to stand on this site. As for the Cathedral Place courtyard itself, which although it lacks sunlight, has the formality and calm of a French garden. The garden also adjoins the Bill Reid Gallery.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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THE LOST SOULS OF GASTOWN TOUR

• The Hidden History & Sweet Treats Tour
• The Forbidden Vancouver Tour
• The Really Gay History Tour

THE DARK SECRETS OF STANLEY PARK TOUR

• Private Groups
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• Secrets of the Penthouse
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• BOOK YOUR TOUR

FORBIDDEN VANCOUVER WALKING TOURS

Experience Vancouver like never before! Let us immerse you in the city’s hidden history of dark crime, outrageous intrigue, and filthy scandal.

Discover the eerie history of Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood. Follow the lamplight of your guide into Vancouver’s earliest and most gruesome history. You’ll step inside a world of murder, revenge, and true grit in a dramatic retelling of Victorian Gastown’s earliest stories. Hear tales of deadly fire, smallpox, and more in this unique performance-theatre experience.

DAILY 7PM | $33

THE HIDDEN HISTORY & SWEET TREATS TOUR

Explore Vancouver’s heritage buildings – and their stories of murder, jealousy, sin and irresistible glamour. Enjoy treats at the city’s finest bakeries and chocolatiers and a private viewing inside the famous Marine Building.

SAT & SUN 11 AM | $69 + VICTORIA DAY (MAY 20)

THE FORBIDDEN VANCOUVER TOUR

Explore the breathtaking beauty and intriguing tales of Stanley Park. Beyond the lush forests, charming gardens, and beautiful beaches, lies a story of forced evictions, hidden treasures, chilling crime scenes, and the eerie legend of Deadman’s Island.

SAT 4 PM | $33

THE REALLY GAY HISTORY TOUR

Celebrate love with a raucous chronicle of Vancouver’s LGBTQ2+ community on a stroll through the vibrant and historic Davie Village. Discover the queer heroes who changed our city forever.

SUNDAY 10 AM | $33

PRIVATE WALKING TOURS

Plan a get together with your friends, family, or team members for an outdoor experience in Vancouver that’s original, active, fascinating, and utterly engaging. Explore Vancouver’s hidden history. Reach out today to get started!

FROM $30 PER GUEST CUSTOM START TIMES

SECRETS OF THE PENTHOUSE EVENT

Explore backstage at Vancouver’s most notorious nightclub with club owner Danny Filippone as your guide, with a live jazz band, and spaghetti & meatballs dinner.

MAY 29, 2024 APR 17, 2024 DOORS AT 6:30 PM | $70

OUR LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

We gratefully acknowledge our walking tours take place within the unceded, ancestral territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.