A cosmopolitan city right on the edge of nature, Vancouver makes it easy to combine an urban getaway with outdoor adventure. From family-friendly fun to thrill-seeking exploits; from marine exploring to mountaintop luxury, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Vancouver.
Geography:
Located on the Burrard Peninsula, Vancouver lies between Burrard Inlet to the north and the Fraser River to the south. The Strait of Georgia, to the west, is shielded from the Pacific Ocean by Vancouver Island. The city has an area of 114 km2 (44 sq mi), including both flat and hilly ground, and is in the Pacific Time Zone (UTC−8) and the Pacific Maritime Ecozone.Until the city’s naming in 1885, “Vancouver” referred to Vancouver Island, and it remains a common misconception that the city is located on the island. The island and the city are both named after Royal Navy Captain George Vancouver (as is the city of Vancouver, Washington in the United States).
Vancouver has one of the largest urban parks in North America, Stanley Park, which covers 404.9 hectares (1,001 acres). The North Shore Mountains dominate the cityscape, and on a clear day, scenic vistas include the snow-capped volcano Mount Baker in thestate of Washington to the southeast, Vancouver Island across the Strait of Georgia to the west and southwest, and Bowen Island to the northwest
Top 12 Points of interest:
1.Stanley Park
Sprawling urban park with scenic seawall
2.Capilano Suspension Bridge
Landmark bridge perched in the treetops
3.Granville Island
Island destination for dining & culture
4.Science World
Geodesic dome with interactive exhibits
5.Museum of Anthropology at UBC
Cultural artworks from around the world
6.Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Tranquil green space with Taoist design
7.Vancouver Aquarium
Educational aquatic exhibits & shows
8.English Bay
Beaches, whales, sculpture, cycling
9.Queen Elizabeth Park, British Columbia
Seasonal gardens overlooking the city
10.VanDusen Botanical Garden
Showcase for seasonal flowers & greenery
11.H. R. MacMillan Space Centre
Interactive displays for astronomy buffs
12.Canada Place
Iconic convention centre/ferry terminal