Vancouver: Urban Chic and Natural Beauty - Los Angeles Times
Advertisement

Vancouver: Urban Chic and Natural Beauty

Vancouver Mountains and West End Dusk.
(maxdigi - stock.adobe.com)
Share via

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Coast Mountains, Vancouver, Canada effortlessly blends natural beauty with urban sophistication. From lush parks and stunning waterfronts to diverse cultural experiences and culinary delights, visiting Vancouver offers an unforgettable vacation that caters to a wide range of interests. Here’s why this dynamic city should be at the top of your travel list.

Lions Gate Bridge and Seawall of Vancouver at Dusk
(alpegor - stock.adobe.com)

Natural Scenery
Vancouver has been named “Hollywood North” for some time due to the attractive sceneries that have formed a backdrop for numerous films and television series. Surrounded by mountains, it is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

Stanley Park is a 1,000-acre urban oasis with seawall trails that are beautifully surrounded by gardens and Totem Poles. Enjoy relaxing bike rides or leisurely walks that come with beautiful ocean views.

Just a short drive from downtown, Grouse Mountain offers year-round outdoor activities. In winter, you can ski or snowboard, while in summer you can take relaxing hikes and see wildlife. Don’t miss the Skyride aerial tramway for panoramic views of the city.

Sun Yat Set Chinese Garden, Vancouver, BC, Canada
(Sam D’Cruz/Sam D’Cruz - stock.adobe.com)

Chinatown
Explore North America’s third-largest Chinatown, where you can stroll through the bustling streets, visit the tranquil Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classical Chinese Garden, and enjoy dim sum.

Ferry boat docked along in Granville island near Burrard Street Bridge at twilight in Vancouver,Canada
(RAPISAN SWANGPHON JOHN/I Viewfinder - stock.adobe.com)

Granville Island
This artistic enclave is home to a public market, artisan shops, theaters and galleries. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Vancouver’s creative spirit.

World-Class Culinary Scene
Vancouver’s dining scene has earned a stellar reputation, thanks to its commitment to local, sustainable ingredients and a wide range of international influences.

Enjoy fresh seafood, including salmon, Dungeness crab and spot prawns at local restaurants like Blue Water Cafe and The Sandbar. Experience farm-to-table dining at its finest at restaurants like Farmers Apprentice and Burdock & Co., where chefs craft seasonal menus inspired by the region.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, walk over river and through rainforest canopy, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
(J Duquette - stock.adobe.com)

The Great Outdoors
Vancouver’s proximity to nature means that outdoor adventures are never far away. Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking or simply enjoying a scenic drive, Vancouver has it all.

Embark on a thrilling whale-watching excursion from the city’s harbor, where you can spot orcas, humpback whales and other marine wildlife. Walk among the treetops on the Capilano Suspension Bridge, explore rainforest trails, and marvel at the breathtaking Cliffwalk for an exhilarating outdoor experience.

Arts and Culture
Vancouver boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with world-class museums, galleries, and theaters. Explore a vast collection of indigenous and contemporary art, including works by renowned Canadian artist Emily Carr, at the Vancouver Art Gallery. Ideal for families, Science World features interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages in science and technology.

In Vancouver, every day of your vacation can offer something unique. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or relaxation amid stunning scenery, Vancouver delivers an unforgettable vacation experience.

-AJ Moutra

Advertisement