25 Best Free Things to Do in Vancouver

We love this city, and we love free stuff, so it seemed logical to combine the two and compile this list of 25 free things to do in Vancouver. Think of it as the ultimate checklist for year-round activities - all free of charge. Some are indoor, some outdoor. Some are exciting, others relaxing. Take your pick. We know you have plenty to choose from, and at $0, you can do them over and over again.

Don’t forget to explore our full list of things to do in Vancouver for even more ideas and inspiration.

1. Visit Granville Island

Once home to some serious industry (hence its former name, Industrial Island), Granville Island is now anchored in the arts and crafts community, and is one of the best places for families to experience Vancouver.

2. Hangout in Stanley Park

Walk or bike the famous Seawall, explore the forest trails, check out the totem poles, or relax on one of the park’s many beaches — all without spending a dime. Whether you’re here for the views, the history, or a peaceful picnic, Stanley Park is one of the most beloved free things to do in Vancouver.

3. People watch in Vancouver

Want to get a feel for the real Vancouver? Grab a coffee and wander through Gastown, Commercial Drive, or Kitsilano. These neighbourhoods are full of character and perfect for soaking in local vibes.

4. Hike the Grouse Grind

The famous Grouse Grind hike is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts. Your legs might hate you afterward, but the views at the top are incredible. Hiking up is free, though you’ll need to pay the $10 for the gondola ride down. Get more info about Grouse Mountain.

5. Go celeb-spotting

Where, oh where do the stars hang out? Playing celeb-spotting is totally free and surprisingly easy. Hint: get the inside scoop by reading our "Filmed in Vancouver" section.

6. Visit the Christ Church Cathedral

Designed in the Gothic Revival style, the Christ Church Cathedral features ceiling beams of Douglas fir, intricately designed interior arches and a number of stained glass windows - no wonder it's declared a Class A Heritage site.

7. Mountain Biking on the North Shore

For an adrenaline fix, bring your bike and hit the North Shore trails. It’s one of the best ways to experience Vancouver’s rugged side without spending a thing.

8. Walk Around Canada Place

Downtown’s Canada Place is simply a great place to relax and watch the cruise ships glide into the city, the floatplanes take off, or walk the Canadian Trail. Plus, the photo-ops starring Stanley Park and the North Shore mountains are fantastic. No ticket required.

9. Tour Vancouver's Art

Vancouver's art galleries never cease showcasing some of the most cutting-edge art in the country, many of them are free to browse. Try the Contemporary Art Gallery, or stroll down South Granville Street, aka “gallery row.” And of course don't forget the Vancouver Art Gallery, entrance is by-donation on Tuesdays.

10. Visit The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Staying at The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver might cost a pretty penny, but it doesn't cost a cent to check out "the Grand Lady," which has become a verifiable tourist destination for its distinctive history and architecture.

11. Window Shop in Vancouver's Best Shopping Districts

Roam through lively shopping districts like Robson Street, Yaletown, Commercial Drive. Even without a purchase, the energy and street scenes make it worth the stroll.

12. Hang Out at UBC

The University of British Columbia boasts stunning ocean views, leafy walkways, and beautiful architecture. A campus stroll feels like its own attraction.

13. Gaze at the Stars at GMS Observatory

Right next to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, the GMS Observatory offers public evening viewings on Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm, weather permitting. During the summer, additional Saturday nights are often scheduled. Admission is by donation, making it a stellar (pun intended) way to experience Vancouver’s night sky without breaking the bank.

14. Take a Scenic Drive

There's no cost for admission to enjoy gorgeous Vancouver scenery. Take the legendary Sea-to-Sky Highway to get to Whistler and experience glimmering turquoise inlets, old-growth rainforests and craggy cliffs.

15. Explore Olympic Village

Vancouver's newest neighbourhood was home to athletes from around the world during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. It’s located at the southeast corner of False Creek, just steps from Science World. Grab a snack, explore the nearby habitat island, and check out some interesting public art installations.

16. Richmond Night Market

During the summer, this Chinese night market located in Richmond is free for those under 13 or over 60 ($2.75 for the rest of us) and definitely worth the trip to scope out (and dig into) fried squid, fish balls and Chinese knick-knacks.

17. Play Disc Golf at Queen Elizabeth Park

Get some friends together and play a round of disc golf, free at Queen Elizabeth Park, one of Vancouver's most popular recreation areas. The course is located near the pitch & putt golf course. If Frisbees aren’t your thing, pick up a tennis racquet and smack the ball around at any of the 18 free courts.

18. Visit Capilano Salmon Hatchery

It may sound strange, but viewing the salmon runs at the free Capilano Salmon Hatchery taps you into the majesty of nature and pulls you into the wonderful life cycle of the salmon that come through here.

19. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park

Not to be confused with the adjacent Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Gardens, which charges $10 admission, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park provides the public with an opportunity to experience elements of a Chinese garden — all free of charge.

20. Visit Vancouver's Free Museums

The city's handful of free museums and learning centres offer a great way to spend the day without spending money. The Observatory (beside the Space Centre in Vanier Park) is by-donation; and the Burnaby Village Museum offers complimentary admission year-round.

21. Watch the Water at Lonsdale Quay

Perfect for those who want a relaxing afternoon, the quay offers seaside breezes that make this a perfect picnic spot, with an unbeatable view of Vancouver’s downtown.

22. Wander Around Lynn Canyon

This is one of Vancouver's most popular free activities. Visit North Vancouver to hit the hiking trails and check out the waterfalls.

23. Visit the Beach (and possibly go skinny-dipping!)

Vancouver's quintessential beach experiences present views of the mountain, water, downtown skyline and forest - all absolutely free of charge. If you're up for it, strip down to your birthday suit and lounge at Wreck Beach, the city's official nude beach.

24. Watch the Cruise Ships Go By at Dundarave Pier

Located in West Vancouver, Dundarave Pier is at the western end of the Centenniel Seawalk, and is a prime spot to take in iconic views back to downtown Vancouver, including the Lions Gate Bridge and Stanley Park.

25. Tour Vancouver's Olympic Sites

For future Olympians and Olympic fans alike, a look at Vancouver's sites from the 2010 Winter Games is a fun way to commemorate these incredible events. Start with the Olympic Cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza in Coal Harbour, beside the Vancouver Convention Centre, then check out some of the sporting venues.

Vancouver Doesn't Have To Break The Bank

While luxury experiences are available, you can find plenty of free or cheap things to do in Vancouver if you look! Check out a few more cheap or free activities here.