10 Must See Vancouver Attractions

Last Updated: May 19, 2026
DV
By Destination Vancouver
4 min read
Cliff Walk at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park over forested canyon, people walking and looking over the edge.

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 and local gems along the way.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Capilano Suspension Bridge with people walking over a deep forested gorge with a river below and mist rising.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, North Vancouver.

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

Man, woman, and child pointing at yellow jellyfish at the Vancouver Aquarium with a blue background.
Vancouver Aquarium

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.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

Three people walking in VanDusen Botanical Garden with yellow flowers and colorful trees under a clear blue sky.
VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver.

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 simulator experiencing a virtual waterfall, with water and sky visible on the screen in front of them.
FlyOver Canada, Vancouver.

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.

Museum of Anthropology at UBC

Spacious museum hall with tall wooden totem poles and large windows letting in natural light, a person walking inside.
Museum of Anthropology at UBC

Metro Vancouver is home to the third-largest urban Indigenous population in Canada and has been home to 10 local First Nations for thousands of years. The Museum of Anthropology at UBC is an excellent place to learn about this history through the 10,000+ Indigenous artifacts and objects, including textiles, carved figures, canoes and more. The MOA also houses the world's largest collection of works by Haida artist Bill Reid. To immerse yourself even further in his art, head to the Bill Reid Gallery, which is conveniently located in the heart of downtown.

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain gondola suspended over a forested mountain slope with distant mountains and a river under a cloudy sky.
Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver.

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 at the Vancouver Lookout taking a photo through large windows at the Vancouver cityscape with water, trees, and mountains in the background.
Vancouver Lookout.

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

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden with a pond, wooden bridge, pavilion, and lush green trees under a clear sky.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, Vancouver.

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

People viewing various landscape paintings at the Vancouver Art Gallery with dark green walls and wooden floors.
Vancouver Art Gallery.

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

Vancouver city skyline with modern buildings, the large geodesic dome of Science World, and boats on calm water under a blue sky.
Science World, Vancouver.

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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