Ash
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25 Best Outdoor Activities in Vancouver

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A dream destination for adventurers, the best outdoor activities in Vancouver are things you’ll usually find on rural retreats – not in a city of millions.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, my list of fun outdoor activities will get you out and about. 

Let’s break down Vancouver outdoor activities one by one.

Best Outdoor Activities in Vancouver BC

Go Whale Watching

steveston whale watching tour boat approaching a pod of orcas

The mother of all top outdoor activities in Vancouver, the best Vancouver whale-watching tours have up to a 90% success rate in spotting whales.

From March to October, the waters around Vancouver are known for hosting killer whales, humpback whales, and grey whales – offering once-in-a-lifetime wildlife right on the city’s doorstep.

Coming to Vancouver? You’ve got a 95% chance of seeing whales

Each tour is led by a knowledgeable naturalist on a modern, sturdy boat. Trust me, there are few better ways to see the city than from the Salish Sea.

This is also one of the best things to do in Vancouver with kids.

Vancouver Whale Watching
Feel the Ocean Breeze Now

Go on an Epic Electric Bike Tour

Ditch the car and hop on electric bikes for an effortless journey tailored to accommodate all fitness levels

In a small group of up to eight riders, you’ll traverse Vancouver’s scenic bike trails, starting with the renowned Stanley Park Seawall

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Discover the perfect blend of history and modernity as you explore charming neighbourhoods like Gastown and Chinatown. 

Like the idea a lot? Check out my post on the top Vancouver bike tours for the full selection.

Epic Vancouver Bike Tours
Peddle your Way Through Van City Now

Go Snowshoeing

snowshoers snowshoeing at seymour mountain vancouver bc canada

Did you know that Vancouver in winter is a haven for snowshoeing?

Our secluded winter wonderland, only a short half-hour drive from downtown Vancouver, is found at Seymour Mountain

A mountain backdrop near Whistler, BC.
Visit Whistler from Vancouver: An Olympic-Level Mountain Adventure

If you’re visiting and don’t have your snowshoes, you can take a small group guided tour and leave the equipment (and the navigation!) to your expert guide.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, snowshoeing through the serene winter landscape is a breeze, allowing you to embrace the peacefulness of nature.

Vancouver Snowshoeing Tours
Explore our Winter Wonderland Today

Go on a Talking Trees Tour

guide explaining nature on the talking trees walking tour of vancouver

This top outdoor activity follows the region’s First Nations peoples through legendary Stanley Park

The interpretive walking tour provides a firsthand perspective on the deep connection and stewardship the Aboriginal people have had with the lands, forests, and oceans for generations.

As you explore the natural beauty of Stanley Park, you’ll gain valuable insights into the rich heritage of the local First Nations.

It’s an enlightening and enriching experience that fosters cultural appreciation and awareness.

Take the Talking Trees
Indigenous Walking Tour Now

Walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge

tourists crossing the capilano suspension bridge in vancouver bc canada

In North Vancouver lies the enchanting Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, offering the unique experience of walking on a stunning bridge floating through an old-growth forest

Unlike typical urban suspension bridges, this outdoor activity showcases the natural beauty of Vancouver’s rainforest surroundings, captivating the hearts of its 800,000 annual visitors.

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of crossing a wobbly bridge amidst breathtaking greenery, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is an unmissable destination that celebrates the essence of Vancouver’s captivating landscape.

Capilano Suspension Bridge
Lowest Price + Free Downtown Shuttle

Go Skiing at the Local Mountains

A skier goes downhill

Vancouver’s natural beauty remains awe-inspiring, even in colder temperatures. 

Skiing the snow-capped mountains surrounding the city and beyond, such as Whistler, Grouse Mountain, or Cypress Mountain, allows visitors to explore the vast urban oasis while enjoying thrilling adventures in the outdoors.

See Vancouver’s top two attractions with one ticket (transport included)

These magnificent peaks not only offer opportunities for skiing but also provide a gateway to thrilling outdoor activities suitable for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

Go on a Sea to Sky Gondola Adventure

riders taking the gondola up the mountain at the sea to sky gondola
Instagram @seatoskygondola

The Sea to Sky Gondola is a must-visit tourist attraction in Squamish, offering the perfect blend of majestic wonder and thrilling adventure. 

As you ascend 885 meters up Mount Habrich in just 10 minutes, the floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning panoramic views of the turquoise waters of Howe Sound Fjord below and the majestic Coast Mountains and Stawamus Chief above. 

With each gondola accommodating only eight people and 20 cars available, the wait is minimal, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Sea to Sky Gondola
Feel the Majesty of the Sea to Sky Corridor

Try a Food Walking Tour of Vancouver

aburi sushi with salmon on the walking tasting tour of vancouver

Embark on a delectable gastronomic adventure in downtown Vancouver with the Walking & Tasting Tour. 

Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this unique walking tour introduces you to the city’s diverse cuisine, treating you to mouthwatering tastings of sushi, poutine, ice cream, and a delightful ‘secret dish.’

Beyond satisfying your taste buds, this tour also immerses you in Vancouver’s rich culture and history as your guide shares fascinating stories along the way. 

Like the idea? Check out the rest of our top Vancouver food tours.

Vancouver Food Tours
Book Your Culinary Crawl Now

Walk Around Granville Island

entrance sign to granville island in vancouver bc canada

Granville Island, once an industrial wasteland, has blossomed into Vancouver’s premier artistic and cultural hub since its transformation in the 1970s. 

This bustling urban waterfront attracts millions of annual visitors, with its renowned Public Market boasting over 50 independent food purveyors, an artisan district featuring top Canadian artists and designers, and diverse cultural venues hosting year-round festivals.

In all, Granville Island thrives as a culinary hotspot with more than 300 businesses.

Explore the City on a Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour

Calling all beer lovers and connoisseurs! Embark on the ultimate Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour, a three-hour adventure that takes you to three of the coolest microbreweries in the city. 

Your expert guide ensures a personalized experience as you go behind the scenes, taste incredible beers, and learn about the brewing process from the experts themselves. 

With deluxe van transportation from downtown Vancouver, you’ll explore the hottest brewery districts like Brewers Row, Brewery Creek, and Yeast Van, visiting past favourites like Andina Brewing, Bomber Brewing, Strathcona Beer Co., and more. 

Get ready for a beer-tasting extravaganza!

Vancouver Brewery Tours
Beat the Heat with Some Summer Suds now

Visit The Bloedel Floral Conservatory

Instagram: @bloedel_conservatory

Located in Vancouver’s stunning Queen Elizabeth Park, the Bloedel Conservatory is a beloved aviary and conservatory featuring over 120 free-flying birds and 500 tropical plant species in a temperature-controlled ecosystem. 

Yes, it’s technically not a Vancouver outdoor activity, but it certainly feels like it is.

You’ll find it in a unique 16,386 square-foot triodesic dome. The conservatory boasts three distinct climactic zones—tropical, sub-tropical, and desert – creating the perfect environment for a diverse range of non-native plants and animals from around the world to thrive. 

Prepare to be enchanted by the lively chatter of parrots, cockatoos, and macaws soaring amidst lush tropical trees and plants.

Have Fun At The Gulf Islands Kayak Outing

Experience the ultimate Vancouver kayak tour with a scenic seaplane flight to Salt Spring Island, where highly trained guides await. 

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking oceanic beauty on a Gulf Islands day trip, encountering diverse wildlife like bald eagles, seals, dolphins, and possibly even orcas! 

Explore fascinating rock formations and relax at secluded beaches in our top-notch seafaring double kayaks while learning about interconnected ecosystems from your knowledgeable guide.

This is one of the best Vancouver BC outdoor activities if you wanna get on the water. If there’s more time, don’t forget to try other Vancouver boat tours, too.

Gulf Islands Kayaking
Experience the Tranquil Beauty Today

Related: Camping Near Vancouver: 11 Wilderness Escapes

Enjoy a Victoria & Butchart Gardens Day Trip

Experience the ultimate Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver, where you’ll be enchanted by the stunning Butchart Gardens, with admission included. 

After a stop at the most beautiful gardens in North America, you’ll be transported to the heart of Victoria, allowing you to explore the city and its outdoor activities for a few hours.

The BC Legislature in Victoria, BC. Vancouver to Victoria Ferry enters Active Pass.
Looking to Visit Victoria? Book your Garden City Day Tour Now!

To top it all off, your transport to and from Vancouver includes a jaw-dropping scenic ferry ride across the Salish Sea, making this tour an unforgettable experience. 

This Vancouver to Victoria day trip is the best way to see the wonders of Vancouver Island for those who are short on time.

Victoria & Butchart Gardens
Visit the Beautiful Garden City Today

Go On A Snowmobile Tour In Whistler

Another top outdoor activity, which is actually outside the city, is the Whistler Wilderness Run Snowmobile Tour, as you glide through the rugged beauty of the Callaghan Valley

Explore the awe-inspiring 2010 Winter Olympics site, surrounded by picturesque forested hills and frozen lakes, while riding alongside your knowledgeable guide.

Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking British Columbia scenery, capture unforgettable memories with photos, and treat yourself to a delightful Yukon breakfast cooked on a cozy wood stove. 

This tour promises an unforgettable snowmobiling experience in the heart of the Canadian wilderness.

Whistler Snowmobile Tours
Plow Through the Powder Today

Go on a Small Group Day Trip To Whistler

whistler village in summer on a whistler day tour

Experience Vancouver BC outdoor activities on a Whistler small-group day trip from Vancouver. 

With pickup from Vancouver or Richmond, embark on an epic journey through mountainous terrain and past rushing waterfalls, arriving at the world-famous ski destination of Whistler. 

Delight in ample time to explore the charming village and opt for additional tours, including visits to Squamish, Shannon Falls, and the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center.

Whistler Day Tours
Visit Canada’s Premier Ski Resort Now

Related: Best Day Trips from Vancouver

Discover the Fraser Valley Winery Tour

A group samples wine on a Fraser Valley wine tour

Discover Langley, the Fraser Valley’s prime winemaking destination, on a delightful half-day guided tour

Sample the region’s finest wines, learn about the unique history and specialty products of each winery, and savour a delectable lunch at the tour’s conclusion.

Indulge in a personalized experience with a limited group of 11 people, enjoying attentive service and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van

How is this an outdoor activity, you ask? Well, you’ll get to walk through the vineyards – a unique experience.

Fraser Valley Winery Tour
Lock In Your Spot Now

Join a Seaplane Tour

a vancouver seaplane tour flying above the vancouver skyline with coast mountains in background

Whether you’re a visiting tourist or a local seeking unique fun, a Vancouver seaplane tour is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s defining mountain and sea scenery.

The Classic Vancouver Panorama Tour by Seaplane, the most popular and highly-rated option, offers a 20-minute sightseeing ride departing from downtown Vancouver. 

Marvel at the breathtaking views of the North Shore Mountains, harbour, Stanley Park, city skyline, surrounding parks, and beaches, all while riding with the world’s largest all-seaplane fleet and North America’s first carbon-neutral airline.

Vancouver Seaplane Tours
Feel the Excitement Now

Outdoor Activities Vancouver Runners Up

OK, so I’ve gone through all the Vancouver indoor activities that I’ve personally done, but maybe you’re built differently – and maybe you’ve got rain boots and don’t mind getting out there!

Here’s a quick list of secondary options in case you’re still on the fence:

  • Jericho Beach: Enjoy unobstructed mountain views and family picnics or BBQs
  • Pacific National Exhibition: a 15-day extravaganza featuring a diverse array of attractions, including food stalls, midway games, rides, concerts and more
  • English Bay: known for hosting the Celebration of Light fireworks festival, English Bay is also the place where the annual polar bear swim takes place
  • Steveston: a fishing village that’s got a number of charming souvenir shops and seafood restaurants

Looking to head off the beaten track? Check out our guide to the best Vancouver Hidden Gems.

Outdoor Activities for Kids in Vancouver

You may want to keep the following outdoor things to do in Vancouver well in mind:

  • Locarno Beach: a quiet and quaint beach that’s perfect for a truly peaceful family gathering
  • Kids Only Market: From bumper cars to arcades, the Kids Only Market offers a fun experience for children
  • Kitsilano Beach: one of Vancouver’s best beaches that includes volleyball, basketball and tennis courts and a playground
  • Aquabus Ferries: Serving as water taxis, these charming vessels offer easy access to must-visit attractions like Granville Island, the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, and Science World

Seeing rain in the forecast? Check my top Vancouver indoor activities.

Best Outdoor Activities in Vancouver FAQ

What are the best free outdoor activities in Vancouver?

The best free outdoor activity in Vancouver is taking a walk through Stanley Park. Other free outdoor activities include the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, the Vancouver Seawall, Jericho Beach, and playing disc golf at Little Mountain.

What are the best outdoor activities in summer in Vancouver?

The top outdoor activities in Vancouver in summer include whale watching, crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge, going to the city’s top beaches, and visiting Grouse Mountain.

What are the top outdoor activities in Vancouver in winter?

The best activities in Vancouver in winter include skiing at one of the local mountains, visiting the Canyon Lights exhibition at Capilano Suspension Bridge, snowshoeing at Seymour Mountain, visiting Stanley park, and going for a walk along the city’s famous Seawall.

Ready for Some Outdoor Activities in Vancouver BC?

In all, there are a ton of fun outdoor activities in Vancouver.

From scenic walks and thrilling sports to leisurely bike rides and more, the city offers something for everyone to enjoy amidst its stunning natural landscapes.

Whether you’re a local looking for outdoor activities in Vancouver or a traveler seeking unforgettable experiences, I wish you the best of luck!

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