Vancouver 5 MORE THINGS TO DO IN
It doesn’t take long to develop a full-blown crush on Vancouver. A cosmopolitan city studded with sparkling glass towers, it’s blessed with a diverse population, great restaurants, and a thriving arts and entertainment scene. But it’s also surrounded by nature — the Pacific Ocean lapping up against one side and forested mountain ranges rising up along the other. Thus it’s easy for visitors to alternate an urban experience with an outdoor adventure. Here are five more fun things to do in and around Vancouver:
1. Gastown
Past meets present in Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, where cobblestone streets and antiquestyle street lamps coexist with upscale boutiques, one-of-a-kind art galleries and some of Vancouver’s hottest restaurants. Gastown grew from a single saloon founded in 1867 by roguish river pilot John “Gassy Jack” Deighton. Take a selfie with his statue, and/or in front of the Gastown Steam Clock on Water Street, which lures crowds with its melodic toots and whistles. Gastown merchants seem to have a great sense of humor. We recently spotted a sign in front of Peckinpah, a barbecue eatery, that read: “Vegans with loose morals welcome.” www.gastown.org
Granville Island
This former industrial area, once home to factories and sawmills, has been transformed into a lively shopping district teeming with trendy restaurants, galleries, studios and theaters. Arrive with an appetite, because the main draw is the Granville Island Public Market. Open seven days a week, it’s a foodie paradise that features seemingly endless rows of fresh produce, baked goods, gourmet treats and seafood. Inhale deeply and experience the rich aromas. Save time for a stop at the Granville Island Brewery for a tour and tasting. www.granvilleisland.com
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
If you’re eager to get
closer to nature, try trundling across this swaying, wobbly bridge that stretches 450 feet over a canyon, lush woods and the Capilano River 230 feet below. It’s both a breathtaking experience and impressive feat of engineering. But wait, there’s more: The new Cliffwalk follows a granite precipice along the river
via a maze of bridges, glass platforms and narrow walkways. Yes, it’s fun — but definitely not for the faint of heart. www.capbridge.com
Grouse Mountain
Even more adventurous? You’re encouraged to “embrace your wild side” here in this vast alpine playground, just minutes away from Vancouver’s
downtown core. Riders aboard the red Skyride are treated to jaw-dropping views of British Columbia’s natural beauty as they soar their way to the summit. Activities include paragliding, mountain biking, hiking, zip lining and much more. Of course, during the winter, skiers and snowboarders flock to the “Peak of Vancouver.” www.grousemountain.com
Float-plane tours
San Francisco has its cable cars. Vancouver has its float planes. Referred to as Beavers and Otters, they’re small, peppy, propeller-powered aircraft that buzz through the skies and land on lakes and other waterways. Riders can take 30-minute sightseeing trips that offer views of downtown and the surrounding mountains and coastal islands. Or they can make the short trip to visit Victoria and the beautiful Butchart Gardens. www.harbourair. com