6 Things to Do During a Staycation in Vancouver
Vancouver is one of those city’s that you can visit over and over again and easily miss amazing experiences and restaurants, because you always stick to the places you know. I find this is especially true if you don’t visit the city often and only go in for a particular purpose like work meetings, or a concert. You see the same things a lot and don’t often stretch out too far from where you need to be.
So the last time I stayed in Vancouver, I made a point to ask for recommendations whenever I could. I wanted to experience the city a little more like a tourist would, and vowed to venture outside of my comfort zone for some new experiences. I’m so glad I did – and I’m going to try and do a little more of that each time that I head into the city.
For now though, I’m sharing a few of my highlights for locals and tourists alike. Let me know if you try any of these, or if you have any great spots to share with the rest of us!
- Order the $60 Caesar at Score on Davie | Website
I owe this incredible discovery to the amazing suggestions list that was left in our room when we stayed at The Burrard. Prior to this, I had never heard of Score on Davie, and really hadn’t spent much time exploring Davie St. at all. We walked the few blocks from the Burrard to Score and I basically didn’t ever want to leave. It was like walking into a bar in the early 90’s … in all of the best ways. If you go, 100% order the mega caesar. It’s basically a meal for two and it was delicious.
- Bike the Stanley Park Seawall | Website
These bikes are from The Burrard Hotel from the last time we stayed in Vancouver (they are complimentary for all hotel guests) and were perfect for the day we spent cycling around Stanley Park. I can’t believe I have lived close to Vancouver for nearly 15 years, and had never experienced this before. Whether you live close to the city or are just visiting for a few days, definitely try to fit this in, I can promise you that you won’t regret it! The best place to start is at Waterfront, near the Vancouver Convention Centre/Cruise Ship Terminal. If you get down the area and are confused, there is an outdoor tourist kiosk right there – they will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.
- Go To Happy Hour at Joe Fortes | Website
Joe Fortes has long been a happy hour favourite of mine. I first discovered it while searching for the best happy hour restaurants in Vancouver, and my sister and I took a chance on it. The very first time we went there, we were seated at the world’s tiniest table, but we didn’t mind. It was so busy that we were lucky enough to get a seat in the first place! Their happy hour runs 4:00 – 6:00pm, but you’ll want to be there as close to 4:00pm as you can to get a seat. High balls are $5.00, glasses of wine are $7.00 and appetizers like their infamous lobster and shrimp rolls (below), jumbo prawn cocktails and oyster rockefeller are marked down to an incredible price. - Have Brunch at Twisted Fork Bistro | Website
I must have walked by this adorable bistro a million times for walking inside (thank’s to a recommendation from a local hotel) – and now I dream of getting back there. Check in early, as there’s normally a line up on the weekends. The good news is, they’ll text you when your table is ready so you can wander the street and window shop while you wait. - Experience Fly Over Canada | Website
I always thought this was 100% a cheesy tourist thing to do. Turns out, it totally is (lol) but it’s also pretty amazing and everyone should do it at least once! I had a friend visiting from Seattle, and thought it would be a fun way to give her a view of the difference landscapes of Canada. We both ended up loving it, and I would totally do it again with other visitors. We’re lucky to have something so cool in our backyard!
- Try an Authentic Irish Coffee at the Lennox | Website
You guys – I’ve been to Ireland, and on days when I dream of the magic that is true Irish Coffee… this is where I go. I consider myself on a constant quest to find delicious Irish Coffees here in Canada, and the Lennox is hands down the best (and worth the drive from Chilliwack). And if you haven’t been to Ireland, an Irish Coffee this good just might put it on your bucket list.
After all that, I’m really looking forward to my next Vancity staycation so I can do all of these things all over again! If you’re looking for a few fun things to do in Vancouver that are off the main tourist path, give one of these suggestions a try and let me know how you like them!
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