10 wonderful day trips from Vancouver
Vancouver is so full of incredible sights that it can be tempting never to look beyond the city limits. But don’t make that mistake – the wider region of British Columbia has an endless list of amazing things to do and see.
Whether you are a foodie in search of fantastic food and locally brewed beer, an outdoor adventurer longing to explore wild landscapes, or a culture fan who wants to learn more about the area’s heritage and history, there is a perfect day trip from Vancouver for you. Here are 10 exciting excursions from the big city.
Port Moody – The Beer Train
It’s no secret that BC’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years. And while Vancouver is packed with flavorful beer bars, you can also take an unofficial beer train to the suburbs for an afternoon of local tastes. Along the street – like a row of beer taps – you’ll find several exciting breweries, each with their own welcoming tasting rooms and friendly bars.
How to get to Port Moody from Vancouver: Take the SkyTrain from downtown Vancouver to Moody Centre Station (about 45 minutes), then walk over the bridge to Murray St in the heart of historic Port Moody.
Vancouver Harbour – On the water
If the water is calling to you, there are dozens of ways to leave the shore and hit the waves that surround Vancouver on three sides. Harbour Cruises’ one-hour tour winds along the city’s waterfront. And their half-day trip to Indian Arm is a deeper experience: as the city fades into the horizon, you are slowly enveloped by a forested, rocky landscape that feels like a Norwegian fjord.
How to get to Vancouver Harbour: Harbour Cruises is located near Devonian Harbour Park, with several options as you move into Stanley Park.
North Vancouver – Culture and nature
This waterfront city is home to food stalls and artisan shops at Lonsdale Quay Public Market, as well as a former shipyard that has been transformed with promenades, restaurants, and shops. The highlight is the Polygon Gallery, a dramatic modern art center that attracts culture fans from across the region.
How to get to North Vancouver from downtown Vancouver: Take the 12-minute SeaBus ferry from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay.
Bowen Island – Nature’s calm
Take a ferry and sail past towering mountains and forest-clad islands to beautiful Bowen Island. Disembark in Snug Cove to explore wooden boardwalks, colorful shops, and forest trails where you can often spot eagles and the island’s deer.
How to get to Bowen Island from Vancouver: Take BC Ferries from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to Bowen Island. Bus 250 from downtown Vancouver takes you directly to the ferry terminal.
Richmond – Asian food mecca
Richmond’s pan-Asian flavors reflect a community with roots in China, Korea, Vietnam, and more. Start with lunch at Parker Place, a Hong Kong–style shopping center with a food court reminiscent of a hawker market.
How to get to Richmond from Vancouver: Richmond is easy to reach from Vancouver via the Canada Line to Bridgeport Station.
Whistler – Alpine adventure
An hour past Squamish, the Sea to Sky Highway reaches Whistler. This world-famous winter sports destination is also popular in summer, with activities such as hiking, cycling, and ziplining.
How to get to Whistler from Vancouver: Shuttle buses such as Epic Rides and Skylynx can take you there, but a rental car gives maximum freedom.
