Vancouver, also known as Raincouver, is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a vibrant city. At the same time, Vancouver – and British Columbia in general – is a great place for nature lovers looking to hike the West Coast Trail. Canada may not be the most economical destination to travel to, and Vancouver is no exception. Still, tourists visiting this Canadian west coast city should visit these free attractions to save some pocket money. In Vancouver, stop at these free tourist attractions, whether it’s to take refuge in the city or take some Insta-worthy photos during the holidays!
9 Kitsilano Beach
Kitsilano Beach is one of Vancouver’s most popular beaches due to its proximity to the city. This vast beach is not only equipped with smooth sand, but also with magnificent waters against a mountainous background. Swim along the shores of Kitsilano Beach or take a leisurely stroll through the park. There is also a nearby public swimming pool which offers breathtaking views of the majestic Vancouver mountains.
8 The Gastown Steam Clock
The Gastown Steam Clock is miniature compared to London’s iconic Big Ben, but still worth the trip! Located in one of Vancouver’s trendiest neighborhoods, the Gastown Steam Clock whistles and smokes as the clock ticks. Tourists flock around the clock to hear its soft whistles, which sound slightly like a melody, while admiring the intricate gears that went into building this iconic landmark. This stylish clock fits in perfectly with the ambiance of Gastown, an ideal neighborhood for enjoying a meal or a cozy cup of coffee.
7 Burrard Landing
Although Burrard Landing is a bustling mall (with tons of dining options), the area also has attractions that appeal to budget tourists. Step outside to watch seaplane landings or cruise ships heading into port. Additionally, the site has several sculptures to admire, such as The Drop and The Olympic Cauldron. Burrard Landing is also home to the Pixelated Orca, a massive orca statue…in pixelated form!
6 Olympic Village
Want to relive the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics? The Olympic Village is now home to several thousand homes and small businesses. However, visitors can still enjoy a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood or a casual meal at nearby restaurants. Those traveling with young children can head to Hinge Park to Playground to soak up the Vancouver sun. Alternatively, visitors can stroll and explore the Olympic Village Square, walk along False Creek to admire art installations and marina views.
5 Queen Elizabeth Park
What more could a tourist ask for at Queen Elizabeth Park, an attraction that offers beautiful mountain views, blooming flowers and outdoor art? If it’s among the cherry blossoms in the spring! This beautiful park is so vast that it houses a wedding hall, an indoor tropical garden (known as the Bloedel Conservatory), several sculptures, flower beds, tennis courts, basketball courts, easy trails and lawn bowls!
4 marine building
Located directly across from Burrard Landing, the Marine Building at 355 Burrard Street is adorned with elegant architecture and is a well-known building close to Vancouver’s financial district. Developed in 1930, the Marine Building was the tallest skyscraper in the city. Due to its architecture and design, this building is a popular setting for many films. Enter the Marine Building and marvel at its architecture, from its soaring ceilings to its intricately designed foyer. Tourists visiting this iconic landmark will think they have just entered a European train station!
3 Rennie Museum
Vancouver has some fantastic museums that are worth a visit, even if there is an entrance fee. However, the Rennie Museum (which is a stone’s throw from the city’s famous Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden) is free to visitors in the heart of Chinatown. This museum offers rotating exhibits so that patrons can enjoy an array of unique artworks from different artists. Located on Pender Street, the Rennie Museum is free but requires advance reservations.
2 UBC Rose Garden
Free to all, this rose garden is the heart of the University of British Columbia (or UBC for short). From June to September, visitors have the chance to see blooming roses up close against the backdrop of BC’s beautiful mountain ranges and coastal sites. A short ride (by bus or car), the UBC Rose Garden is a peaceful place to enjoy some quiet time in a busy city.
1 stanley park
Perhaps one of Vancouver’s most famous tourist attractions, Stanley Park is also free for everyone! Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through this huge park while soaking up the views of the Pacific along the seawall. For an additional fee, tourists can even rent a bicycle and have a relaxing adventure in Vancouver’s Stanley Park, admiring the local vegetation and city life. There are also landmarks to admire in the park, including the totem poles, the Stanley Park Rose Garden, and The Girl in a Wetsuit. The park also offers a great view of the Lions Gate Bridge.
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