10 Must See Vancouver Attractions

Last Updated: May 19, 2026
DV
By Destination Vancouver
4 min read
Person with backpack standing in a sunlit forest surrounded by tall trees and green foliage.

Any of these must-see Vancouver attractions will kick-start your sightseeing and introduce you to some of the best things to do in Vancouver. From iconic Vancouver landmarks to unforgettable Vancouver sightseeing experiences, you’ll discover top attractions while uncovering local gems along the way.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Suspension bridge with people crossing over a river surrounded by dense forest.

Tucked into the forest on Vancouver's North Shore is one of the area's most famous attractions, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Make your way across the swaying suspension bridge, which stretches 137 metres (450 feet) across a canyon and the Capilano River 70 metres (230 feet) below. Then explore the beautifully lush fir and fern carpeted forests via a series of elevated suspension bridges in the Treetops Adventure and the thrilling Cliffwalk.

Vancouver Aquarium

Three people pointing at yellow jellyfish in a large aquarium with a blue background.

Over 65,000 animals, 120 world-class exhibits and an unforgettable experience await at the Vancouver Aquarium. From the wonders of the Amazon gallery to the fish, jellyfish and octopus in the Canadian waters area, you'll love observing the various animals in action. Plan your Aquarium visit for a magical day, perfect for entertaining the whole family.

Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours

Two white horses pulling a covered carriage with several passengers on a tree-lined road.

Vancouver sightseeing doesn't get any more magical than Stanley Park Horse Drawn Tours. Ride through downtown's rainforest oasis, enjoying Vancouver landmarks like the famous totem poles and waterfront viewpoints along the way. Step aboard one of these old-fashioned horse-drawn vehicles and take a relaxed trip through the natural beauty of Stanley Park, Vancouver's number one attraction.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

Pathway through a garden with trees, yellow hanging flowers, and purple and pink flowers along the sides.

Explore VanDusen Botanical Garden, an inspiring 55 acre outdoor oasis with over 7,500 plant species and varieties. Spot and photograph local wildlife, enjoy the hedge maze with the kids and relax in a serene setting located in the heart of Vancouver. Plan your trip with our Van Dusen Visitor Guide, which offers tips on what to see, where to eat, and more.

Flyover Canada

People seated in a ride or simulator facing a large waterfall scene, with some showing excitement and awe.

Experience Canada like never before at this one-of-a-kind Vancouver attraction. FlyOver Canada is an immersive, all-ages flight simulation that takes you on a breathtaking journey across Canada’s diverse landscapes, from coast to coast. Take off into a huge dome screen with the latest in projection and ride technology, creating a true flying experience, complete with wind, scents, and mist.

Grouse Mountain

Cable car suspended over a dense green forest on a mountain with distant mountain range under a cloudy sky.

Among the city's most beloved Vancouver attractions, Grouse Mountain sits just 20 minutes from downtown and offers an unmissable Pacific Northwest outdoor experience. From hiking to mountain biking to skiing and snowshoeing, this area is the place to go for all your outdoor adventures. Use our Grouse Mountain Guide to plan your trip and discover endless ways to explore.

Vancouver Lookout

A person with short gray hair stands inside a building looking out large windows at a cityscape with water, trees, and mountains in the background.

Vancouver sightseeing reaches its peak at Vancouver Lookout, a fixture of the city skyline since 1977. Take a glass elevator up 168 meters (553 feet) above the city for sweeping 360° views of Stanley Park, historic Gastown, the North Shore mountains, and downtown Vancouver. Buy your tickets online to ensure a visit to the Lookout is part of your Vancouver experience, then explore the observation deck at your own pace. Information panels, complimentary multilingual self-guided audio tours, and free Wi-Fi are all available.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Two people sitting on a bench by a pond in a garden, viewed through a circular stone archway.

A sanctuary in the heart of the city, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a Vancouver landmark, being the first authentic classical Chinese garden ever built outside of China. Walk along the peaceful paths and admire the harmonious elements of rock, water, plants, and architecture.

Vancouver Art Gallery

Seven people in an art gallery viewing paintings on dark green walls, with two people sitting on a bench and others standing.

The Vancouver Art Gallery is the largest art museum in Western Canada, located in the heart of downtown on Robson Street. The museum features a highly acclaimed collection of contemporary art from both national and international artists, as well as rotating exhibitions, ensuring there is always something new to see. Don't miss the collection of work by British Columbia's most famous Group of Seven artist, Emily Carr.

Science World

People walking and cycling near a waterfront with a geodesic dome building and stadium in the background.

Ignite your mind and discover the wonders of science with popular, hands-on interactive displays, inspirational feature exhibitions, and jaw-dropping science demonstrations at Vancouver's Science World. It's one of the top Vancouver attractions for kids, but there's no age limit on learning!

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