Epic experiences in Vancouver to put on your bucket list beyond World Cup matches and events

The countdown is on. From June 11th to July 19th, Canada is one of the three countries hosting the 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup, with games taking place in Vancouver and Toronto.

The city will be in complete soccer mode over the full five and a half weeks of the tournament, featuring an extensive events programme that will keep soccer fans entertained beyond the seven matches played in BC Place Stadium Vancouver. Many of the events, including large fan screenings and live concerts, will be free to attend.

Besides the World Cup, Vancouver is hands down one of the most exciting cities globally to visit. From the beautiful backdrop of the ocean and surrounding mountains to a rich cultural heritage, vibrant atmosphere and the reputation as one of the most intriguing foodie cities in the world, Vancouver is without exaggeration the perfect destination.

Free World Cup events for soccer fans

For those coming for the event, Vancouver will not disappoint. Throughout the city, there will be several fan zones featuring big screens, live entertainment, and food, bringing together people from around to world celebrating.  

The main place for soccer fans will be the free FIFA Fan Festival at PNE Fairgrounds in Hastings Park where the new build Freedom Mobile Arch amphitheatre offers space for around 10,000 visitors distributed between the covered area and the open space behind. There will be massive screens airing not only the matches played in the city, but every match played during the tournament. In addition, there will be a series of life concerts and other entertainment, and off course food.

On match days, ticket holders will be welcomed with the The Last Mile event. Starting at ScienceWorld SkyTrain station, it will lead fans along False Creek Waterfront to BC Place. More about the event will be known closer to the World Cup.

Watch parties will be thrawn all over the city, staged in venues around downtown, including several of the city’s local craft breweries, and many restaurants and bars.

What to do in Vancouver beyond the World Cup

Your reason to visit might be the World Cup. But a trip to Vancouver should not stop at event-related activities. This fantastic city offers far too much to miss out on so many exciting opportunities. Below, in no particular order, are some of the main sights and activities to add to your itinerary while there.

Explore Vancouver’s historic and emerging neighbourhoods

Vancouver’s central downtown areas will be without doubt busy during the World Cup. Despite large crowds, exploring locations like Gastown, Yaletown or Mount Pleasant should be high on your to-do-list.

Take a stroll through Gastown, the city’s oldest neighbourhood. Cobbled streets lined by stately Victorian houses, the famous steam clock along with many shops, and trendy cafés, bars and restaurants will fill more than one morning or afternoon.

Just a short stroll from Gastown, Canada Place built for Expo 1986 offers amazing views over the harbour, Burrand Inlet, and the surrounding mountains.

Trendy Yaletown features historic warehouses turned into independent shops and galleries, trendy cafes, bars and restaurants, many with beautiful outdoor patios.

If you do not want to call it quits after dinner, Mount Pleasant is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, including life music events and more. While still largely residential, the neighbourhood features quality eateries, along with independent fashion shops and art galleries. In addition, the area is home to an interesting mix of breweries. So, come here for a tasting tour, than stay for dinner and a night out.

Visit Stanley Park & cycle the Seawall Promenade

The park, comprising of around 400 hectares, is the beating heart of the city. From towering trees, scenic viewpoints, beaches, forest trails and such highlights like the Totem, Poles, Vancouver Aquarium and the Miniature Railway it features many attractions.

Surrounded by water on three sides, the parks highlight is the scenic, 9-kilometre-long Seawall Promenade. It is the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront promenade, offering some of the most awesome views of the Vancouver downtown skyline, Burrard Inlet, the North Shore Mountains and Lions Gate Bridge. It is particularly popular for cycling around the park (there is a bike rental at the park entrance).

Explore Vancouver’s fantastic museums

If you only have time visiting one museum, make it the Museum of Anthropology. The display of northwest coast aboriginal artefacts is absolutely mind blowing, offering intriguing insights into the First Nation’s history.

Other museums worth a visit include Museum of Vancouver, Vancouver Maritime Museum, Vancouver Art Gallery and the MacMillan Space Centre.

Visit Granville Island Public Market

The perfect destination for foodies, or when you are hungry. This vibrant seaside food market has something for everyone. Fresh British Columbia seasonal produce, fish and seafood, meat and cheeses, along with a wide range of bread and pastries are reason for a large number of locals and visitors alike to come here.

For visitors that do not have the possibility to prepare their own meals during their stay (and why should you anyway in a foodie city like Vancouver full of exciting places to eat out), Granville Public Market features amazing dining options. Eat your way through the delicious breakfast options, snacks, food trucks, and desserts and sweets, washed down with a freshly brewed coffee, local wine or sampling local craft beers.

Surrounding the food hall are many small, independent art galleries and a couple of restaurants.

Spend time at Kitsilano Beach

More views over the city and mountains, this time from the Kitsilano Beach. It’s the perfect spot for a few relaxed hours in the afternoon, stunning sunset walks or to enjoy the excellent waterfront seafood spots.

Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Originally built in 1889, which makes it one of the oldest suspension bridges in the world, this popular location is a must for every visitor. The 140 metres long bridge suspended about 70 metres above Capilano River leads onto treetop walkways and seaside trails offering a stunning scenery of rainforest, canyon and river views. A free shuttle service departing from from Canada Place assures easy access. It departs every half hour from 9.30am to 7pm, with returns from 11am to 9pm.

Visit Grouse Mountain for an amazing view over the wider Vancouver area

Take the gondola to Grouse Mountain to get the most scenic views over Vancouver and the surrounding ocean, along with wildlife spotting and extensive hiking trails. During the summer months, special events like the lumberjack show with Blue Mountain versus. Green River Sawmill teams showcasing their impressive skills and the birds of prey demonstration showcasing birds of prey in free flight.

Go on a whale watching tour

The waters in front of Vancouver are home to a great number of whales, so make sure to catch a boat for a close encounter with these giants of the ocean. Tours start from various places near Vancouver, including Granville Island.

There are different type of tours and boats, including partly and fully enclosed options. If you are more adventurous, you might opt for a zodiac tour. That would mean being exposed to the water, so you need to wear a wetsuit and be prepared for a rougher ride. If adventure is your thing, and you want to get a little closer to the whales, you have found the right option.

Explore the local craft beer scene

Vancouver has gained a great reputation among craft beer enthusiasts.

With many excellent craft breweries located in the city, there is a lot to discover. From those producing classic ales to the new kids on the bloc offering bold experimental brews, there is a lot to discover, and most importantly, to taste!

While you can simply pick just a few spots on the whim, with more than 40 breweries, you might wonder where to start. So, why not join a guided craft beer tour. 

Go on a distillery or cider tour

If beer is not your cup of coffee, or you are a highly versatile drinker, you might want to try some of the locally distilled gins or vodkas, or the excellent small-batch ciders made from British Columbia apples. So, instead of signing up to a brewery tour, do the same for local distilleries and cider houses.

Take a day trip to Fraser Valley

Fraser Valley is the perfect destination to learn more about British Columbia’s wine country without having to go far from Vancouver. This is the largest agricultural region in British Columbia and while still overshadowed by the better-known Okanagan Valley, the area has seen many boutique wineries and craft breweries popping up in recent years.

A bit further away form the city, Fraser Canyon stretches for just over one hundred kilometres between Hope and Lytton. In recent years, it has become a popular place for hiking, biking, rafting and more outdoor activities. 

Catch a ferry or water taxi to Bowen Island

Easily connected by ferry from Horseshoe Bay or water taxi from Granville Island and Coal Harbour, you are in for a stunning wilderness scenery. From hiking to biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, scuba diving, golfing or simply a relaxed picnic taking in the breathtaking scenery, if you are looking for a few hours or a full day getting away from the city bustling with World Cup events, this is your place.

In the unlikely event you get enough from the stunning nature surrounding you, there are even several indoor options from independent shops and art galleries to cafés and restaurants.

Visit Vancouver Island

This beautiful spot a 2-hour ferry ride from Vancouver certainly deserves more time than a day trip. So, if you have time, set aside at least two days. If you don’t, plan at lease a day trip. The rugged coastline, rainforest, wildlife spotting (including bears) and cities like Victoria, Tofino and Ucluelet are more than worth a visit.

Foodies and wine geeks will love the Cowichan Valley, known for vineyards and farm-to-table food.

Take a day trip to Whistler

Famous for its winter activities, the picturesque village and surrounding mountain area are equally perfect for a summer visit.

In addition to the many hiking trails, a stop at Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre to learn about First Nations. Meanwhile, the Peak to Peak Gondola ride complete with glass bottom is a must.

While less than two hours from Vancouver, you need to set aside a full day for your visit. Though if you have time enough, the area clearly deserves an overnight stay.

Indulge in the local food scene

Vancouver is regularly named as one of the most exciting food cities globally. The city is famous for its hugely diverse culinary scene and leading in farm-to-table food, fresh sustainable seafood, innovative fusion cuisine and a vibrant food truck culture.

Whether you are looking for award-winning fine dining, farm-to-table, or comfort street food, expect a mouth-watering visit. 

Are you planning a trip to Vancouver during the FIFA World Cup, or another time this year? Include these suggestions on your itinerary and experience the best of the city and its surroundings.