With its incredibly diverse population, Vancouver feels extraordinarily global, yet surprisingly accessible and homey at the same time. Some of the most picturesque landscapes are available right in the city, with even more exciting nature to explore just a short drive away. The largest city in western Canada was the ideal backdrop for a recent mother-daughter getaway.
EXPLORE
Lynn Canyon Park and Suspension Bridge offers gorgeous waterfall-filled hiking, only minutes away from downtown Vancouver. The park and all its sights are free and open to the public. Head out early if you want a solo shot on the suspension bridge.
Granville Island has everything from bustling food markets to improv comedy shows. For unparalleled views, take an aquabus to/from the island. You can drop over for happy hour, but Granville also has enough to occupy nearly a full day of shopping, grazing, and entertainment.
Stanley Park is best experienced by renting bikes and riding along the seawall, which wraps around the entire park. The interior holds interesting trails and sights, but be prepared for more hills and bumpier rides. Stop off to watch seaplanes, spy some bald eagles, and dip your toes in at one of several beaches.
The Richmond Night Market is an experience you'll never forget. Quirky doesn't quite seem to cover this summer-only market located south of Vancouver (reachable by a short ride on the SkyTrain). Don't let the long line to get in deter you. You'll be rewarded with strangely delicious foods, mechanical dinosaurs, tents full of gifts, and eccentric performances. Unlike any other place I've been.
Deep Cove is a quaint town in north Vancouver, tucked right into a beautiful bay. Walk through the small downtown (making sure to stop at Honey's Doughnuts) or climb to Quarry Rock for a bit more challenging hike but a well-deserved view.
SHOP
Maiwa Supply and Make are just two of the myriad of shopping options on Granville Island. Maiwa Supply specializes in natural fabrics, dyes, and other specialty materials. Make is a gift shop that offers custom printing and embroidery, right on sight. The island has a sizable market, an artisan alley (with a sake-maker!), and boutiques galore.
A'hoy and Room6 are located on Deep Cove's main strip, Gallant Ave. A'hoy is part owned by the founders of Herschel, a hip bag company based in Vancouver but popular all over the world. They offer Herschel (obviously) apparel and bags as well as shoes and other apparel with Pacific coast vibes. Room6 carries charming jewelry, gifts, and delicate paper-wares.
Kimprints and The Latest Scoop are on Water Street in the neighborhood of Gastown. An area of transition, Gastown was once the city's skid row (you'll still see evidence of this, just a street or two south), but is now home to upscale shops and unique restaurants and bars. Kimprints is a framing shop with oddball gifts and cards. The Latest Scoop has chic clothing and fun home-wares and accessories.
EAT
La Mezcaleria is modern Mexican at its best. Sip an inventive cocktail (try the Despacho or the Paloma) and do not miss out on an order of the queso fundido (I can't recommend the salsa verde one enough). Gooey. Bubbly. Life changing.
Honey's Doughnuts alone warrants a trip to Deep Cove. Friendly staff, simple sandwiches, and hot coffee are among the reasons this place is packed with locals and visitors alike. Of course, leave room for a doughnut (the maple one is particularly sticky and delicious).
A 'Rotato' at Richmond Night Market is a fan-favorite stall and is totally worth the wait. A spiralized potato, fried, and covered with your choice of spice/favor. Somewhere between a chip and a french fry, this is a must eat at the market.
Bella Gelateria has a location in Yaletown and is a prime post-dinner treat. Try an unusual flavor like black sesame.
STAY
Rosedale on Robson is right in the thick of things, between downtown and Yaletown. The upper floors have fantastic views of the city and mountains beyond.