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Vancouver is one of Canada’s most popular cities, as well as one of the most beautiful. With breathtaking natural beauty as well as memorable manmade achievements of architecture and culture, Vancouver has something for everyone. If you have the privilege of visiting this wonderful city, you can’t go wrong with any of these ten locations.

Stanley Park

If you’re a park person you can’t skip Stanley Park. Few places offer a better opportunity to experience the beauty Vancouver has to offer. Boasting 500,000 trees and some incredible views, Stanley Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. However, it’s more than just a nice view—there are plenty of ways to pass the time. You can check out the totem poles at Brockton Point, play a few rounds of golf, spend a day at the beach, or even catch an evening musical. Whatever your interests, Stanley Park likely offers something you enjoy.

Granville Island

Granville Island is both an arts-and-culture hotspot and a hub for artisan and locally-made products and foods. Visitors could spend hours wandering the island, checking out scores of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Then, having wandered to their satisfaction, visitors can rent a kayak or paddle board for some fun in the water.

Grouse Mountain

One of Vancouver’s premier attractions, Grouse Mountain is a mountain resort with dozens of activities for both winter and summer visitors. Home of the world’s first double chairlift, Grouse Mountain took it a step further with the 100-passenger Red SkyRide, the largest aerial tramway system in North America. With everything from ziplines to lumberjack shows, Grouse Mountain offers an incredible variety of activities.

Vancouver Aquarium

Vancouver Aquarium is one of those rare aquariums that is also a marine research, conservation, and marine animal rehabilitation center. Home to two beluga whales as well as dolphins, sea lions and penguins, this aquarium is a great educational experience for the whole family. Don’t miss the 4D movies, which feature 3D visuals as well as smells and sprays.

FlyOver Canada

There are only three attractions like this in the entire world, so you know you need to visit! You’ll hang suspended before a 20-metre (about 65 foot) screen that takes you on a breathtaking journey across Canada. With the addition of wind, mist, and various scents, you’ll experience Canada like never before.

Gastown

Gastown is the oldest part of the city, a collection of restaurants, shops, and galleries set in painstakingly-restored Victorian architecture. Walk along cobblestone streets and soak up the unique atmosphere, which includes the Steam Clock, a steam-power clock that chimes every fifteen minutes. If you’re in town, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival and Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix bicycle race are also worth a visit.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge was Vancouver’s first tourist attraction, opening in 1889. At 450 feet, this bridge is the longest in the area. There are also the new Cliffwalk (a suspended, transparent platform) and Treetops Adventure attractions, both of which offer unique experiences.

Queen Elizabeth Park

The highest point in Vancouver, Little Mountain, lies right in the center of Queen Elizabeth Park. This elevated position offers an incredible view of the nearby mountains as well as the city center. The park offers a lovely outdoor arboretum, the sunken Quarry Garden, and the Bloedel Conservatory.

Kitsilano Beach

For a classic swimming outing, look no further than Kitsilano Beach. With a beautiful mountain backdrop as well as a great view of the city center, the beach is a great place to relax. There are also a number of cafes and walking trails in the area—not to mention an outdoor heated seawater swimming pool!

Science World at Telus World of Science

Formerly known as Science World, this science center has marked postcards for years. An unmistakable waterfront landmark since its creation in 1977, this building contains all kinds of memorable exhibits and workshops. Featuring unique touring exhibits and an IMAX screen, this museum is a great stop for anyone looking for hands-on science exhibits and demonstrations.

Need help planning a meeting or incentive travel reward to Vancouver?  Contact Gavel International for more information.

Jim Bozzelli