Whether you live in Vancouver or are just visiting, you may be looking for some things to do around the city. Vancouver can be a little on the pricey side – but there are plenty of things that you can do without spending any money at all. There are many places to see and things to do, whether you are spending time with your family, significant other, a group of friends, or even solo. Vancouver is a great place to see the sights, you just have to know where to go. Here are 10 suggestions of what to do in Vancouver for free this summer:
1) Visit A Bread Affair
A truly artisan bakery serving up non-gmo and organic breads and baked goods, did we mention they are also the only certified organic bakery in Canada? Drop by for mouth-watering smells and scrumptious bites because you won’t find these anywhere else, that’s a guarantee!
2) Walk Through Stanley Park
You can walk of bike along the sea wall, pack a picnic and eat it by the water, walk through the trees, or see the totem poles. If the weather is nice, Stanley Park is the place to be. It’s great for outdoorsy types or those who just love to stop and smell the flowers. Bird watch, sit by the water, and watch the boats in the nearby harbor come and go. Don’t forget to bring a camera
3) Check Out Vancouver’s Art Scene
With plenty of art galleries and festivals (including Emily Carr University of Art + Design), Vancouver’s art scene is lively, exciting, and a ton of fun. Experience modern art, historical pieces, and up-and-coming artists all across the city. Keep a look out for free exhibits at the University or the Contemporary Art Gallery. Or walk down “gallery row” on South Granville Street.
4) Do the Grouse Grind Hike
Challenging and fun, the Grouse Grind hike is a must for anyone who loves a good workout with breath-taking scenery. The view from the top is truly one of a kind. You’ll get a good workout as well as see all that Grouse Mountain has to offer. (The hike is free but if you want to take the gondola back down it will cost you $10.)
5) Spend Some Time at Canada Place
Right downtown, Canada Place provides a great opportunity to people watch, take some pictures, watch the boats on the water, and take photos. You’ll have a great view of North Shore Mountain and Stanley Park from here, too.
6) North Shore Mountain Bike Trails
Rent a bike or bring your own and enjoy the mountain biking trails on the North Shore. A great workout and a lot of fun. Definitely a must-see for any fresh air fanatic.
7) Checkout the Neighbourhoods
Coal Harbor, Chinatown, Davie Village, West End, Granville Street, Gastown, and Robson Street are just a few places to check out. Do some window shopping and people watching and watch the hours fly by in bliss.
8) Celebrity Bingo
Plenty of television and movies are filmed in Vancouver, so why not try and catch a glimpse of your favourite stars? Plenty of websites will let you know what is filming, where, and when – and then you can set off to try and spot a few A-listers.
9) Visit Granville Island
Check out the industrial areas, the art and culture districts, the markets, and the buskers. This is where you will be able to visit Emily Carr University, too, so be sure to check and see if they have any student exhibits going on. There is plenty of open-air art to check out, too, or you can browse the markets and take in the bustling sights.
10) Take a Scenic Drive
There’s a ton to see – and all for free! Drive down the Sea-to-Sky highway on your way to Whistler and enjoy the old-growth rainforests, including fantastic greenery and unique wildlife. Make a serene playlist and enjoy the ride.
These are just a few free things to do in Vancouver to prove that you can have fun even on a budget. You can tour the city without spending a dime. Just remember to enjoy the day and have fun!