Hidden Gems for Vancouver

Find great things to do in Vancouver

Vancouver is a classic Pacific Northwest city: liberal, diverse, cultured, and surrounded by spectacular natural beauty. Its numerous public parks, mountains, and waters in and around the city make it an excellent playground for lovers of the great outdoors. In our travel guide you will find great things to do in Vancouver.

1. Hidden Gem Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge

Appreciate nature from three breathtaking perspectives – the world famous Capilano Suspension Bridge spanning the Capilano River, the seven bridges of Treetops Adventure, and the thrilling Cliff Walk, a cantilevered walkway that clings to the granite cliff high above Capilano Canyon. Be warned, though: This bridge is not stiff. In fact, it’s pretty wobbly in the middle and is absolutely a suspension bridge by any standards. Admission to the park costs about $37 per person.

Capilano Suspension Bridge / © Instagram: hongryalice

2. Hidden Gem Vancouver: Reflections Bar

This elegant rooftop lounge is located in the inner courtyard of the Rosewood Hotel´s fourth floor. The Garden Terrace offers a variety of light tapas-inspired dishes in a sophisticated outdoor bar and lounge setting. This is a real urban oasis! Warm blankets are available on cold evenings, and you can also sit under a heater. In winter they even offer a “winter patio edition”. Drinks are in the mid-price range but the atmosphere is simply great.

Reflections Bar / © Instagram: claudia_teyss

3. Hidden Gem Vancouver: Museum of Anthropology

This museum offers insights into traditional and contemporary art from Northwest Coast First Nations and other cultures, from Polynesian instruments to Cantonese opera costumes. The great hall is a beautiful open space with a multi-storey wall of glass on one side. The museum is about a 20-minute ride from downtown Vancouver on the campus of the University of British Columbia. Admission costs $18.

Museum of Anthropology / © Instagram: connormccarthy89

4. Hidden Gem Vancouver: Birds & the Beets Café

Birds and the Beets is known for its boho chic aesthetic (there’s a floral stand inside the Gastown café), simple menu of salads, sandwiches, avocado toast, pastries and healthy breakfasts, as well as a great coffee and tea selection and kombucha on tap. Be sure to try the ricotta pancakes! They are amazing. This place is a stone’s throw from the Gastown statue and away from the steam clock, so you won’t have to worry about crowds of tourists blocking the street.