Fun Outdoor Things to do in Vancouver, BC

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is full of fun outdoor activities. I love to get some exercise and walk one of the many trails around Stanley Park. The 1000-acre public park has outdoor fun for all ages. Ways to explore the park include riding the Stanley Park mini train, hiking the trails and taking a horse-drawn carriage. There is swimming in both a pool and two beaches. I also like to see the BC First Nations totem poles in the park. These totems are a popular tourist attraction. During the summer, musical theater performances are held in the outdoor amphitheater in the park.

Granville Island Public Market

Located on the waterfront, it is possible to arrive by land or sea. The market is open daily and is home to local artists, boutiques, entertainment and dining. There is always a line at the popular Lee's Donuts. Boat rides leave from the market as well. I have taken a ride on the aquabus ferry and a whale-watching tour, both leaving from the public dock. The market is supportive of the community. It houses an Arts Club Theater Co. This is a non-profit organization that supports live theater in Vancouver. Go to the market to support local vendors!

Vancouver Lookout

If you are not afraid of heights, the Vancouver Lookout is a good observatory to visit. It is open daily. The glass elevator rises 553 feet. Information panels are located throughout the deck or there is a free self-guided audio tour to point out different locations. There is also a restaurant located one floor above the lookout. I took some great pics of both the harbor and downtown from the top.

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain is located in North Vancouver. It has outdoor fun for all seasons! In the winter there is snow skiing and in the summer there are hiking and mountain biking trails. The place to get the perfect insta pic is The Skyride. It is North America's largest aerial tramway and will take you one mile up and down the mountain. The warmer weather brings mountain zipline tours. Fly through the air and above the Grouse Mountain on this adventurous tour.

Wild Whales Vancouver

My husband and I took a great whale-watching tour! It was 85-degrees, but we put on the heavy cruiser suit that was provided and had a fun time! Wild Whales is located on Granville Island and has different tours to choose. We took the open-air boat tour on the zodiac boat. There are wildlife guides as part of the crew and are willing to share about the whales and surrounding wildlife. While cruising super fast in our open-air boat, we spotted several pods of killer whales!

Day Trips

Victoria, BC

Victoria may be more of a weekend trip, but it truly is worth it. My favorite thing to do in Victoria is to have afternoon tea at the Empress hotel. The gardens in Victoria are beautiful! Not far from Victoria are The Butchart Gardens. The 55 acres of gardens are a National Historic Site and attract visitors from all over the world. With over 200 varieties of roses, the gardens are a fun outdoor space for exercise and to explore.

Go Fish Ocean Emporium

This is a fun location because it is located at the ferry dock in Vancouver. My husband and I love to order fresh fish and chips and eat right on the dock. This location is to-go only and lines form to order at the window.

Beaucoup Bakery & Cafe

This award-winning bakery serves the best French pastry and attracts locals and tourists. I can't wait to go back and get the almond double-baked croissant! If you have a sweet tooth, go by Beaucoup and choose from their cakes, cookies and croissants.