Whistler Day-trip Idea: Top 5 Best Things to Do in Vancouver

Located less than two hours south of Whistler, Vancouver in British Columbia provides an exciting day-trip for all ages. The city has a diverse population and often serves as a popular filming location for movies and TV shows. But there’s way more to do than people-watch. Here are some of our favorites for a Whistler day-trip to Vancouver.

Whistler Day-trip to Vancouver: 5 Things To Do

Stanley Park

Vancouver’s best known urban park, Stanley Park features a beautifully landscaped 400-acre green space surrounded by water on three sides. The seawall path around the park is popular with walkers and bikers, offering scenic views of the city and sea with plenty of great spots for a picnic.

Visitors can also circuit the park by horse-drawn carriage or hop-on, hop-off bus. As site of many special events, Stanley Park also houses numerous attractions, including a swimming beach, children’s farm, Vancouver Aquarium, children’s spray park, Lost Lagoon Nature House, a famous collection of totem poles and several restaurants.

Granville Island

A collection of trendy galleries, theaters and restaurants Granville Island offers an indoor public market. Pick up made-to-order sandwiches or fresh-made baguettes, and have a meal on the sunny back patio where guests watch the river traffic while listening to local musicians. After lunch, stroll the island’s art galleries, studios and theaters. Buskars and musicians perform regularly on the island, adding to the fun.

Yaletown

When the sun goes down, head to Yaletown. Just south of downtown, this spot houses trendy restaurants and hot nightlife. Lively pubs and dance clubs provide the perfect place to let loose after a day exploring.

Want to visit Yaletown during the day? No problem. Visitors are welcome to walk, jog, bike and skate along the seawall, or browse public art. Don’t forget to pop in a boutique for souvenirs and special gifts.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

This scenic attracts draws nature lovers to its mazes, labyrinths and meticulous landscape. VanDusen Botanical Garden showcases four distinct gardens with each offering their own special designs. One popular option is the Elizabethan Maze, home to 3,000 pyramidal cedars. Other stops include the Stone Garden, Scottish Shelter and Korean Pavilion.

Grouse Mountain

Winter or summer, the gondola to Grouse Mountain provides a gateway to outdoor fun. During the winter, enjoy skiing, ice skating, snowboard terrain parks and sleigh rides. Summer offers hiking, ziplines, an exciting ride to the top of a wind turbine, nature walks and wildlife programs. The mountain is only 15 minutes from downtown, making it an easy stop.

While vacationing in Whistler, take a sightseeing tour and see the area in new ways.