Vancouver is an underrated city! Experience the rich first nations cultures and heritage of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh nations, who's land in which Vancouver lies. Spend time in the forest, by the coast or searching for those first mountain views. Explore this foodie and coffee loving city, there really is something for everyone. Here's a list of suggested things to do in Vancouver.
Suspension Bridges
Vancouver was one of the first major cities in the developed world, where nature was fought for, not against, so its natural that the oldest attraction Capilano Suspension Bridge Park followed suit, and also claims the spot as most popular attraction.
At first glance, it may look like somewhere that has caused a lot of environmental damage to create, yet the owners strives to work in partnership with the environment, rather than battling against it. Yes, it might have been better left natural but the attraction has likely helped in the preservation of the land from greater environmental destruction. In turn, they have made the place more accessible to more people, in the hope more become in awe of its natural beauty and impassioned in wanting to protect it.
There conservation efforts and donation may help you justify the steep price. BC residents can get an annual pass for the price of a day ticket and certain postcodes in Vancouver qualify for free entry.
First up the main Capilano suspension bridge, running for 137m and 70m above the river, giving you a great view of the Capilano river below, see if you can spot any eagles in the trees as you cross. If you're scared of heights brace yourself, but its worth it! The name is derived from the Squamish Nation and is originally spelt Kia'palano and translates to beautiful river.
The park is designed in collaboration of honouring first nations traditions, tranquility and adventure. Its not just the bridge, there's a Kia'palano centre and museum to learn more, a tree top walk way through the douglas fir, red cedar and western hemlock trees, cliff side walk above the canyon, rainforest boardwalk and more suspension bridges. 1000 year old trees stand tall, and unless you've visit places such as Sequaoia National Park, Yosemite or forests in New Zealand you've probably never have seen trees quite as big.
At $55 (2020) per adult it's pretty pricey so if you're on a budget or want to visit another suspension bridge, try Lynn Canyon suspension bridge, it's free, still busy but it's not to far from Capilano.
If you've got a bit more time visit Cascade Falls suspension bridge, we didn't visit here ourselves but the photos look incredible and you get the unique view of the waterfall.
Stanley park
Vancouver's largest urban park, situated on the pacific north west, bordering downtown Vancouver. Find temperate rainforest, views of mountains, beaches, culture and history.
There's many trails through the park and rainforest as well as an the world's longest sea wall which forms an uninterrupted waterfront path with amazing views of the city skyline.
Vancouver is confronting its role in the erasure of First Nations particularly, the erasure of Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh. It is hoped that a reconciliation process will change the way the park is managed and reintroduce traditional First Nations practices to their traditional lands, the first nations people see this as significant step forward.
Visit Brockton Point, enter through an archway of 3 red carved cedars to the visitor centre. Welcoming you to the traditional lands of the Coast Salish first nations, including Squamish, Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh nations. Totem poles are seen as an important part of First nations culture. The 9 Totem poles which stand at Brockton Point. Some of which were brought from elsewhere and do not represent the culture of the local first nations. Totem poles are made up of carved animals and supernatural beings, painted in vibrant colours, they represent family crests and tell stories. They are great pieces of artistry. In order to preserve some of the originals from the 19th century, they were moved to museums and replica's were created by first nations artists. Learn more about Vancouver's first nations at the visitor centre or visit museums in the city.
Deer Lake Park, Burnaby Lake Regional Park and Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area
Head out of the hussle and bussle of downtown Vancouver and to explore a more tranquil park in the city. This place is a hidden gem, with some of the best views in all directions, a place missed by many. Lots of walking trails and wildlife at each of these parks. Visit the open air village museum at Burnaby Lake. Head to Burnaby Mountain conservation area for views of North shore mountains, Burrard Inlet and Downtown Vancouver. It's also a great place to catch sunset over the city. For another panoramic view catch the cable car up Grouse Mountain.
Socks and Sandals