36 Best Things to do in Vancouver, Canada In 2024
Vancouver Cruise Port Guide: Terminal, Facilities, What's Nearby
Vancouver Cruise Port, also known as Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal, is a modern and exciting cruise port that is one of the main gateways to the breathtaking natural wonders of Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.
Located directly near the heart of Vancouver, British Columbia, this vibrant port welcomes an ever-growing number of cruise ship passengers each year and serves as an ideal departure point for cruise adventures.
In this comprehensive guide, we will help you prepare for your own visit by diving into everything you need to know about the Vancouver Cruise Port. From port facilities and directions to nearby attractions, dining recommendations, and essential travel tips, we are going to cover it all!
Vancouver Cruise Port Location and DescriptionCruise ships arrive and depart from the Canada Place port complex, which is located in the heart of Vancouver's downtown.
Situated in an ideal location along the coastal city's waterfront near the trendy Gastown neighborhood, visitors can access numerous hotels and restaurants by walking a short distance from the port.
With the picturesque city's skyscrapers acting as a backdrop and the Pacific Ocean as the front-facing view, it is easy why many consider it one of the most beautiful cruise ports in the world.
Beyond the views, the cruise port features truly unique architecture. Characterized by distinctive white sails, it certainly catches the attention of visitors, and it has even grown to become a symbolic landmark of the city.
Not only does the close proximity to the city provide cruise ship passengers with stunning views, but it also means that visitors arrive within close proximity of downtown Vancouver, ensuring straightforward accessibility to the famous city's wide variety of attractions and amenities.
Vancouver Cruise Port Address:In terms of the port's specific location, you can find it can be found at the following address: Canada Place Cruise Terminal, 999 Canada Place, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6C T4
Number of Piers and BerthsWhile the port features a single-pier design, this large pier offers three cruise ship berths. There is also a much smaller fourth berth that can accommodate smaller vessels when required.
Typically, the Port of Vancouver's Canada Place Cruise Terminal services three full-sized cruise ships at any given time, especially during the summer months when Alaska-bound itineraries are at their most popular.
Getting to the Port from the AirportIf your cruise departs from Vancouver and you are arriving by air, you will be relieved to learn that it is roughly 16 miles (25.7 km) from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). While traffic can certainly be a concern in one of Canada's most populous cities, most find that they can reach the port in 45 minutes by car or taxi.
If you have chosen to rent a vehicle and drive from Vancouver Airport, you can arrive at Canada Place Cruise Terminal by following these directions:
Worth Reading: How to Get From Vancouver Airport to Cruise Port
If you plan to reach the port by flying into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which can be cheaper for airfare, you will need to undergo a roughly four-hour, 162-mile drive. Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to arrive before departure. We would recommend getting a hotel the night before.
Canada Place Cruise Terminal Facilities and AmenitiesAs mentioned, Canada Place Cruise Terminal is a very modern cruise port, especially when compared to what you might expect to see in the Caribbean.
The entire port was designed to enhance the passenger experience and showcase everything the city, province, and country has to offer visitors. With beautiful murals and a well-organized and inviting atmosphere, navigating the port is both enjoyable and straightforward.
Port facilities and amenities include:The entire cruise terminal adheres to the highest standards for accessibility, with wheelchairs and mobility scooters available for use before and during each passenger's cruise. The port even features several relief stations for service animals.
Cruise Lines that Operate Out of Vancouver Cruise PortAs Canada's busiest cruise port and a pivotal hub for Alaskan cruises, it is no surprise that Canada Place Cruise Terminal hosts many different cruise lines.
The following are just some of the many prominent cruise lines that operate out of the port:
While Alaska cruises tend to make up most of the cruise ship traffic in Canada Place Cruise Terminal, cruise lines operating out of it offer a wide range of different itineraries, including journeys to Hawaii and various destinations along North America's Pacific Coast.
Importance of the Port to the Alaskan Cruise IndustryYou can't discuss the Vancouver Cruise Port without mentioning the Alaskan Cruise Industry. Vancouver's port facilities are one of the major linchpins of the industry, allowing numerous cruise ship embarkations and disembarkations throughout the calendar year. It even serves as the homeport for many of the most recognizable Alaska cruise ships.
Thanks to its modern port facilities and strategic location on the Pacific Coast, it is the ideal starting point for voyages to Alaska and the inside passage. Its size and location close to a major population hub and international airport mean it caters to Canadian, American, and international passengers looking to explore Alaska's natural beauty.
The Alaska cruise industry also benefits the port and Vancouver's economy, with Canada Place Cruise Terminal welcoming over 900,000 Alaska-bound cruise passengers each year. According to the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, each cruise ship that docs in Vancouver contributes roughly CAD 2 million to the local economy!
Transportation OptionsIf you are looking to leave the port and explore the city and beyond, you will quickly discover that you have numerous transportation options to choose from.
Shuttle ServicesConvenient shuttle services connect the entrance of the Canada Place Cruise Terminal to key destinations throughout the city, including the airport. While shuttle availability can vary depending on how busy the port is, they are a low-cost way to get around.
Read Also: Seattle to Vancouver Transportation Tips
Some larger cruise lines even offer their own shuttle service between the port and the airport. Just make sure you check ahead of time.
Taxis and Ride-Share AppsThe most popular way to get around is taking a taxi, with several registered taxis offering flat rates between the port and some of Vancouver's most iconic sights and neighborhoods. A cab pickup and drop-off zone is located just outside the port. You do not have to worry about hailing a cab, as there is a line, and they operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The city also hosts major ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft. This provides additional flexibility if you are more comfortable calling your own ride. There is even a dedicated City of Vancouver Ride-share pickup zone outside the port at street level.
Public TransitThe Canada Place Cruise Terminal is also conveniently located directly near the TransLink public transport system. This means you can easily access Vancouver's SkyTrain rapid transit system, buses, and the West Coast Express commuter train if you are hoping to travel further. For those looking to explore North Vancouver, the port is also located near the departure point for the SeaBus passenger ferry.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Vancouver?Most locals will agree that the best time to visit Vancouver is between July and August. This is for one simple reason—these are the driest months of the year. There is no getting around it—Vancouver is a very rainy city. While temperatures tend to be pleasant throughout the year, you will want to ensure you have the right clothing, including a raincoat and quick-dry footwear.
With that said, Vancouver can certainly be classed as a year-round destination, so the 'best' time to visit can vary from person to person according to their unique preferences.
Seasonal Weather ConditionsAs mentioned, Vancouver offers pleasant conditions year-round, even if it can be pretty wet. To help you plan your visit, this is a rough idea of what you can expect during each season:
Spring (March to May)Mild daytime temperatures average between 45 and 60°F. Rainfall is fairly regular, but rain showers tend to be brief. Expect plenty of cloud cover.
Summer (June to August)Anticipate warmer and sunnier weather, with temperatures typically ranging between 65 and 75°F. Remember, even though these are the driest months, rain showers can still be an issue during summer.
Fall (September to November)As the summer winds down, crisp temperatures and more frequent showers are common in Vancouver. Average daytime temperatures of about 45 to 65°F mean that it is still an enjoyable season for outdoor activities and exploring the city on foot.
Winter (December to February)Temperatures drop to between 35 and 45°F, which is still very warm compared to the rest of Canada. A mix of rain and snow is common, so make sure you pack appropriately. If you plan to travel to the mountains for skiing or sledding, you will find colder temperatures and a greater snow buildup.
Nearby AttractionsOne of the best things about visiting Canada Place Cruise Terminal is its close proximity to some of the most interesting attractions and neighborhoods in Vancouver's downtown area. The following are just some of the many options:
GastownGastown is considered Vancouver's historic district. As the city's oldest neighborhood, it is characterized by cobblestone streets, charming stores and art galleries, Victorian buildings, and plenty of exciting bars and cafés. The iconic Steam Clock, which acts as the area's symbol, is also a must-see.
The center of Gastown is just 0.7 miles from the port, so visitors can easily walk there in less than 15 minutes. Plus, the walk there is quite pleasant, especially if you enjoy shopping!
Stanley ParkIf shopping and exploring one of Canada's signature cities isn't your thing, the port is also close to Stanley Park. At just 1.4 miles from the terminal, you can enjoy a 30-minute stroll or take a cab to the park.
This unique island park is the city's most renowned natural oasis. It boasts scenic hiking trails, picturesque beaches, and an array of authentic Totem Poles. We highly recommend taking a stroll or bike ride around the park's perimeter along its signature Seawall Walk.
As if the park didn't offer enough, you can even find the Stanley Park Brewery near the main entrance!
Robson StreetRobson Street is the city's most well-known shopping and dining district. With headquarters for some major fashion brands and a seemingly endless stretch of cafés, bars, and restaurants, this vibrant area of Vancouver attracts people from all over the world.
At 1.8 miles from the Port of Vancouver, it's easy to reach and well worth a visit.
Distance to Popular Vancouver Attractions and Outdoor ActivitiesIf you have more time and are willing to travel a bit further, the cruise port can be your jumping-off point to many outdoor adventures, exciting sights, and unique cultural attractions. Remember, Vancouver is a popular travel destination, so there's no reason not to make the most of your time there if your cruise departs.
Capilano Suspension Bridge ParkRoughly 6 miles from the port, this unique treetop adventure park is one of the city's most iconic tourist attractions. With plenty of family-friendly activities, the legendary Suspension Bridge, and the opportunity to walk along the top of a rainforest canopy, it's definitely worth visiting!
Grouse MountainLocated just 9 miles from the port, visitors can easily find time to one of the many mountains that act as a backdrop to this scenic city. The mountain has been developed as a year-round recreational destination.
Offering skiing, hiking trails, a gondola, wildlife interaction and preservation centers, zip lining, and guided eco-walks, you don't need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy Grouse Mountain.
Granville IslandIf you don't have as much time, Granville Island is a unique cultural hub located just over 2 miles from the port. Characterized by artisanal markets, art galleries, a large food court, waterfront cafés, a distillery, and a brewery that sells its beers Canada-wide, it's a must-see.
As the name suggests, it's on its own island, so you'll have to cross a bridge or take a ferry to get to it, which helps give the shops and restaurants even more character.
Vancouver Trolley ToursAnother exciting attraction in Vancouver is the city's vintage trolley system. The trolley station is just over half a mile from the port, so it's easy to access. Taking a tour will allow you to see some of the city's historic landmarks and scenic viewpoints, all from the comfort of a vintage trolley bus.
Read Also: IDEAL Hotels Near Vancouver Cruise Port
Dining Near Vancouver Cruise PortNot only does Vancouver offer a stunning blend of urban and natural beauty, it has a bustling culinary scene. With the city close to the Pacific Ocean, it's no surprise that it is famed for its fresh seafood, with sushi being a particular highlight thanks to the city's long-standing and significant Japanese population.
We recommend just taking a stroll along Robson Street and stopping in any restaurant that catches your eye, but if you are looking for specific recommendations, you can't go wrong with the following:
MikuThis innovative and iconic Japanese restaurant blends traditional Japanese cuisine with West Coast ingredients and flavors. The flame-seared sashimi is the signature dish. Not only is the food amazing, but the restaurant is just a 5-minute walk from the cruise port!
Fable KitchenThis trendy farm-to-table restaurant might have a casual atmosphere, but it has been recognized by the Michelin Guide as one of the top restaurants in the city. It's 2.5 miles from the cruise port but worth the trip.
No matter where you eat, make sure you try some of the city's signature dishes and beverages, such as its fresh oysters, Nanaimo Bars, and Caesar cocktails.
We already mentioned Robson Street as a major shopping hub, so if you're a shopaholic, head there. If you happen to be in Vancouver during one of its many rainy days, you may want more of a mall experience.
If so, head to the Pacific Centre, which features over 150 stores and plenty of restaurants. From luxury brands to more affordable options, you'll find everything at this major shopping destination.
If you're looking for a souvenir of your time in Vancouver, there are plenty of souvenir shops located just outside of the port. Here, you'll find First Nations artworks, smoked salmon, local wines, and plenty of other items unique to Vancouver and Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What port do cruise ships leave from in Vancouver?Cruise ships depart from the Canada Place Cruise Terminal, located along downtown Vancouver's north coast.
How far is the Vancouver cruise terminal from the airport?Vancouver Cruise Terminal is roughly 16 miles from Vancouver International Airport (YVR Airport). It is easy to reach by taxi and the city's Canada Line rapid subway transit system, part of the SkyTrain network.
How much is the Skytrain from Vancouver airport?If you are taking the SkyTrain from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to the Canada Place Cruise Terminal, the cost will vary slightly depending on the time of day and whether or not you purchase a reloadable card. That said, single-use adult fares are very cheap, with the 35—to 40-minute commute running between CAD $3-4.
Over 20 FREE And Cheap Events In Metro Vancouver This Summer
Whistler Summer Concert Series (Justa Jeskova/Submitted)@gvfoodtruckfest/Instagram
Save your money this summer! Check out these 29 free and inexpensive things to do around Metro Vancouver this season.
Honda Celebration of Light, Dished Food Truck Fest, and more. What are you in the mood for?
Be sure to check out our Listed section for more fantastic things happening around town. And to stay up to date on everything happening in Metro Vancouver, BC, and beyond, sign up for our newsletters.
Vancouver Chinatown Festival (Vancouver Chinatown BIA/Submitted)
What: The 22nd Vancouver Chinatown Festival will be held on Saturday, July 13, and Sunday, July 14. It will feature a variety of activities and live entertainment highlighting the historical neighbourhood.
This year's celebration features an artisan market with over 20 local makers and food vendors, a Kid's Zone, and an opportunity to go on a special Historial Chinatown Heritage Walking Tour hosted by Bob Sung from A Wok Around.
When: July 13 and 14, 2024Time: Noon to 6 pmWhere: Columbia Street and Keefer Street, VancouverCost: Free
What: The 39th annual Vancouver International Jazz Festival is returning to stages all over the city from Friday, June 21, to Sunday, June 30. There will be over 150 performances and events over 10 days, including over 50 free shows of diverse programming.
Free Jazz Around Town will showcase talented musicians on stages at the Vancouver Art Gallery in the Å¡xÊ·Æ›̓É™nÉ™q Xwtl'e7énḵ Square, Performance Works, Ocean Artworks, and the Revue Stage. Free shows will also take place in West Vancouver, North Vancouver and East Van.
When: June 21 to 30, 2024Time: Various timesWhere: Various venues across VancouverTickets: Free and ticketed events. More information is available online
What: The third annual Strathcona Blocks Party features music, food trucks, and more throughout the neighbourhood.
Bring the little ones to check out the kid's zone at the 840 East Hastings parking lot. Then visit the beer garden hosted by Strathcona Beer at 895 East Hastings and MakerLabs at 780 East Cordova for tours and maker activities. The Strathcona Blocks Party will also have a vendor market, skateboard ramp, and live art demos.
When: June 22, 2024Time: Noon to 5 pm (Beer garden open until 8 pm)Where: 600 – 900 Blocks of East Hastings plus 840 East Hastings Parking LotCost: Free
@littleooties/Instagram@gvfoodtruckfest/Instagram
What: We've teamed up with the one and only Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival to bring you the must-hit event of the season, set to take place on Sunday, August 11, from 11 am to 7 pm.
The celebration of all things delicious will feature a whopping 18 food trucks and live music. This will be a family-friendly shindig, and there will also be ample seating.
Entry is completely free, which means you can expect to roll up to Å¡xÊ·Æ›̓É™nÉ™q Xwtl'e7énk Square (the north side of Vancouver Art Gallery) on the day of the event and enjoy all the epic eats you can handle.
When: August 11, 2024Time: 11 am to 7 pmWhere: Å¡xÊ·Æ›̓É™nÉ™q Xwtl'e7énk Square (north side of Vancouver Art Gallery, between Hornby and Howe Streets)Cost: FREE entry
What: Support local and shop one-of-a-kind gifts from over 45 small businesses, artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives at the Summer Pop-Up Market. Made in the 604 has curated a lineup of unique vendors offering jewellery, candles, giftware, home décor, clothing, artisanal chocolates, and more for you this summer.
Admission is free, and the first 25 people to enter the Heritage Hall on Sunday, June 23, will receive market money to spend at any vendor booth. Pets are also welcome at all Made in the 604 markets.
When: June 23, 2024Time: 11 am to 5 pmWhere: Heritage Hall – 3102 Main Street, VancouverAdmission: Free; register online
What: SummerCamp Rib & Music Fest is inviting some of the country's top rib and food trucks to set up shop and serve their mouthwatering eats to guests. There will also be live music, DJs, and a local artisan vendor market to check out during the inaugural event.
When: June 21 to 23, 2024Time: 12 to 10 pm (Friday), 11 am to 10 pm (Saturday), 11 am to 8 pm (Sunday)Where: Jonathan Rogers Park — 110 West 7th VancouverAdmission: Free; register online
Surrey Canada Day/Submitted
What: The City of Surrey's annual Canada Day event features a huge concert lineup, family-friendly activities, food trucks, and, of course, fireworks. Everyone will also have the opportunity to learn about the land they live on and the true history of Canada.
Then, when 10:15 pm rolls around, find a spot on the grass to take in the spectacular fireworks show as it illuminates the sky above.
When: July 1, 2024Time: 10 am to 10:30 pmWhere: Bill Reid Millenium Amphitheatre – 17728 64th Avenue, SurreyAdmission: Free
What: Concord Pacific's Free Family Bike Festival and Tour de Concord Cycling Race return on Sunday, July 7. The event will feature high-speed races, children's activities, food trucks, a beer garden, and more.
When: July 7, 2024Time: 10 am to 3 pmWhere: Concord Pacific Place (False Creek next to Science World) — 88 Pacific Boulevard, VancouverCost: Free; register online
What: One of Vancouver's most popular summer festivals returns with some Drag Race royalty.
Attendees will want to head to Concord Pacific Place on August 3 and 4 for VanPrideFest, a free two-day extravaganza with epic entertainment on two stages, food trucks, vendors, and activities. The TD Main Stage features performances from various Canada's Drag Race winners, including Venus (season 4), Giséle Lullaby (season 3), and Icesis Couture (season 2).
Pride Weekend's signature parade will take place on Sunday, August 4, beginning at the intersection of Davie and Denman Streets and ending at the festival site at Concord Pacific Place.
When: August 3 and 4, 2024Time: Various timesWhere: Concord Pacific Place, VancouverCost: Free
Downtown New Westminster/Submitted
What: One of the city's best food street parties, Fridays on Front highlights artisan vendors, musical performances, and, of course, a lot of great food.
Returning this year are the weekly themed celebrations ranging from a Latin Night to a Retro '80s and '90s night and a Pride party.
When: Every Friday from July 12 to 26 and August 9 to 23, 2024Time: 5 to 9 pmWhere: Front Street Mews in Downtown New WestminsterAdmission: Free
What: Look up to the sky over English Bay in Vancouver, and enjoy three different types of shows for each of the three nights of the 2024 Honda Celebration of Light.
Kicking off the 2024 competition will be the team representing Portugal on Saturday, July 20, followed by Malaysia on Wednesday, July 24 and the United Kingdom on Saturday, July 27.
This year's festival will include not only a nightly fireworks show and the nightly Red Bull Air Show, but also a supplemental nightly drone show.
What: On Saturday, July 6, the Khatsahlano Street Party, a free annual celebration, will take over 10 blocks along Kitsilano's fourth avenue between Burrard Street and Macdonald Street.
Attendees to the city's largest free music and arts festival can #ShineYourLight with live musical performances, local artisans, an Indigenous Pavillion and cultural sharing, and beer gardens. Not to mention 50 food trucks to satisfy all of your culinary cravings!
When: July 6, 2024Time: 11 am to 9 pmWhere: West 4th Avenue from Burrard Street to MacDonald StreetCost: Free
The Patio at BC Place
What: The largest licensed outdoor patio in Vancouver will be at Terry Fox Plaza on select dates this summer. The patio will offer sunseekers an array of tunes from local musical talents like Marie Hui, DJ Christina Sing, and Antonio Larosa, along with drinks and bites.
Think of a build-your-own Caesar Bar and stations inspired by Indigenous cuisine, the night market, and more. Drool-worthy menu items such as the "Oh Canada" Smoked Brisket Sandwich, Tempura Maple Gelato, and a Salmon Bannock Burger in collaboration with Chef Andrew George will be on offer here.
When:
Where: Terry Fox Plaza — The best entrance point is by Gates A and HEntry: FREE and on a first-come, first-served basis
What: The largest free multicultural festival in British Columbia is returning to Metro Vancouver this summer, and you better bring an appetite.
Surrey Fusion Festival at Holland Park is a massive two-day event that showcases music, heritage, and live entertainment. Festival goers will also discover dozens of unique cultural pavilions.
When: July 20 and 21, 2024Time: 11 am to 10 pmWhere: Holland Park – 13428 Old Yale Road, SurreyAdmission: Free
What: The continent's flagship dragon boat festival is returning to Vancouver next month for its 36th anniversary, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever.
Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival also features the return of TD Main Stage's 100% local lineup. Attendees will enjoy a special reunion set by Hey Ocean! And Juno-nominated Manila Grey, as well as exciting, diverse performers throughout the weekend.
You'll want to stick around as the skies above False Creek on Saturday night will be lit up with a dazzling aerial drone performance synchronized to a local music soundtrack.
When: June 22 to 24, 2024Time: Various timesWhere: Concord Pacific Place, Creekside Park, and False Creek, VancouverAdmission: Free
Whistler Summer Concert Series (Justa Jeskova/Submitted)
What: Summertime was made for outdoor concerts, and Whistler is offering a stunning backdrop for both artists and music lovers.
The Whistler Summer Concert Series returns to Whistler Olympic Plaza from July to September with 13 nights of free live music, 10 outdoor movie screenings, and more. Headlining acts include Juno winners Walk off the Earth, The Sheepdogs, and Colin James. A new Sunday Sessions will spotlight great touring performers and local talents.
When: Various dates in July and August 2024Time: 6:30 pm (live DJ sets) and 7:30 pm (headlining sets)Where: Whistler Olympic Plaza – 4365 Blackcomb Way, WhistlerCost: Free
Outdoor Movies
Fresh Air Cinema (Outdoor Movies BC/Facebook)
What: Hundreds of people will gather every Tuesday from July 9 to August 27 for Canada's largest outdoor movies series. You can watch a curated lineup of Hollywood hits and family favourites on the giant 40-foot inflatable movie screen.
When: Every Tuesday from July 9 to August 27, 2024Time: 8 to 11 pm; screenings begin a little after sunsetWhere: Ceperley Meadows beside the Second Beach pool – 8501 Stanley Park Drive, VancouverCost: Free
What: The Polygon Gallery has announced the return of Deckchair Cinema starting on Thursday, June 27, on Lower Lonsdale's waterfront deck.
Hosted in partnership with the City of North Vancouver and presenting sponsor Rogers Communication, the open-air film series will feature music and entertainment, an artisan market, and drinks from local wineries and breweries.
When: Every Thursday from June 27 to August 29, 2024Time: Music and concession open at 7 pm, screenings begin at sundownWhere: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North VancouverCost: By donation
What: Every Thursday evening from July 4 to August 15, Downtown Van will inflate a large 16-foot screen at the north plaza of the Vancouver Art Gallery for the family-friendly Summer Movie Nights.
This summertime tradition will see a massive crowd of moviegoers watch their favourite flicks under the stars, and there will be plenty of fun before the screening starts.
When: Every Thursday from July 4 to August 15, 2024Time: Activations start at 5 pm; movies start at duskWhere: Å¡xÊ·Æ›̓É™nÉ™q Xwtl'e7énḵ Square – 850 W Georgia Street, VancouverCost: Free
Recurring Events and Activities
Burnaby Central Railway. (Kenneth Chan/Daily Hive)
What: Burnaby Central Railway is welcoming passengers to climb aboard its 3 km track near Confederation Park every weekend until this fall. Your ride will take you across tunnels, bridges, and viaducts. And while you're there, stop by the ever-growing Garden Railway.
British Columbia Society of Model Engineers (BCSME) built and operates the mini railway, with three different types of locomotives pulling the ridable trains.
When: Weekends and stat holidays until Thanksgiving Monday, October 14, 2024Time: 11 am to 5 pmWhere: 120 N Willingdon Avenue, BurnabyCost: $4.50 for a single ride, all passengers three years old and up. $40 for a 10-ride pass
What: The Bill Reid Gallery is named after the renowned Haida artist and is the only public gallery dedicated to contemporary Indigenous Art of the Northwest Coast in the country. The gallery is home to the Simon Fraser University Bill Reid Collection and also hosts a variety of special exhibitions, workshops, panel discussions, and more.
Guests can visit the Bill Reid Gallery for free from 2 to 5 pm on the first Friday of each month.
When: The first Friday of every monthTime: 2 to 5 pmWhere: 639 Hornby Street, VancouverCost: By donation
Vancouver Art Gallery/Facebook
What: The Vancouver Art Gallery was founded in 1931 and is renowned as one of North America's leading visual arts institutions. There are a variety of exhibitions currently on display at the largest public art museum in Western Canada, and you can check them out for free during the Free First Friday Nights events.
When: The first Friday of every monthTime: 4 to 8 pmWhere: 750 Hornby Street, VancouverCost: Free
What: Learn about Chinatown's heritage and culture through hands-on activities during Family Saturdays at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre. The event happens on the third Saturday of each month from 11 am to 1 pm and includes guided tours, prizes, special offers from neighbouring restaurants, and free admission for youth 17 years and under.
When: The third Saturday of each month.Time: 11 am to 1 pm (Centre is open daily from 10 am to 5 pmWhere: 168 East Pender Street, VancouverCost: Free for youth 17 and under; an adult must accompany guests under 12. Admission is $10-$12; purchase online
What: The Improv Centre welcomes performers of all levels to get up onstage with professionally trained improvisers at its free monthly community jam. The 18+ event features theatre exercises, improv games, and more during the fun, interactive jam.
When: The last Saturday of every monthTime: 3:30 to 5:30 pmWhere: The Improv Centre — 1502 Duranleau Street, VancouverCost: Free
This farmers' market began in 1995 and became the cornerstone of the Vancouver Farmers' Market collective. One of the most popular markets, Trout Lake has food trucks on-site and a variety of vendors selling fresh local produce, locally made goods, and all things food.
When: Every Saturday until October 26, 2024Time: 9 am to 2 pmWhere: Lakewood Drive and East 13th Avenue, Vancouver
What: Find fresh groceries, locally sourced produce, as well as artisanal food offerings at the Mount Pleasant Farmers' Market, held weekly at Dude Chilling Park in Mount Pleasant
When: Every Sunday until October 27, 2024Time: 10 am to 2 pmWhere: Dude Chilling Park — 2300 Guelph Street, Vancouver
What: The Kitsilano Farmers' Market takes place on Sundays in the parking lot of the Community Centre. It offers a good selection of fresh local produce and gourmet treats to stock up on for the week. There are also a number of artisan vendors and food trucks to check out at the market.
When: Every Sunday until October 27, 2024Time: 10 am to 2 pmWhere: Kitsilano Community Centre — 2690 Larch Street, Vancouver
Athenia Acres Farm Markets (Nina LaFlamme Photography/Submitted)
Athiana Acres is a 30-acre regenerative farm that offers a variety of freshly harvested products from June through November each year. Pick up fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers throughout the seasons, and come back each month for its Community Markets with a variety of local businesses and restaurants.
When: Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from June 15 to November 17, 2024Time: 2 to 7 pm (Wednesdays), 9 am to 4 pm (Saturdays and Sundays)Where: 12800 No. 2 Road, Richmond BC
What: New West Farmers' Market showcases dozens of vendors and food trucks each week. Shop for farm-fresh produce, local artisan items, gourmet prepared foods, and more while enjoying live entertainment.
When: Every Thursday until November 7, 2024Time: 3 to 7 pmWhere: Tipperary Park next to New West City Hall – 315 Queens Avenue, New Westminster
Things To Do This Canada Day Long Weekend In Vancouver
While the forecast seems a bit touch-and-go (Juneuary, ya know?), that doesn't mean we can't make the most of our Canada Day, eh? Here are a few events worth checking out.
The Sum of All at Bill Reid GalleryPart of celebrating what Canada has to offer means taking the time to reflect on the profound impact Indigenous people have made and continue to make in our country. The Sum of All is Bill Reid Gallery's latest show, exploring Indigeneity and Blackness through various mediums. Ongoing until September 8.
Vancouver Highlanders vs Canada Selects and BarbadosAs part of the inaugural Rugby Player's Challenge Summer Series, the Vancouver Highlanders are playing a double-header this weekend at Burnaby Lake Rugby Club. Expect the sounds of bagpipes, a licensed bar zone, food, and fun. Best of all? The games are free. June 28, 3:30pm.
Awaken Canada by Flyover Canada
Explore the beauty of Canada from the comfort of your seat with Flyover Canada's newest attraction, Awaken Canada. In partnership with Parks Canada, the latest flight simulation takes you through the most scenic parts of the country, including Baffin Island, Mount Logan, and even the Athabasca Sand Dunes. Launches June 28; $33 per ticket, available online.
Ignite Music FestivalIgnite Music Festival is a one-day event featuring heavy hitters like Rick Ross, Waka Flocka Flame, and Sickick alongside local talent Amiccella and Merkules. Accessibility-minded, the festival is priced at less than $100 for general admission. June 30, 3pm to 10pm at the Plaza of Nations; $79.99+, available online.
Canada TogetherPresented by the Port of Vancouver, Canada Together is the largest Canada Day celebration outside of Ottawa, and it's pulling out all the stops. The full day of attractions features food trucks, Stanley Park beers, musical performances, and even citizenship ceremonies. Local Juno-winning band Said the Whale closes the festivities with a live show. July 1, 11am to 6pm at Jack Poole Plaza; free.
Get classic Canadian breakfast fare this weekend at Dockside Restaurant along Granville Island's waterfront. This Canada Day, the restaurant will offer a classic poutine with beef gravy and authentic Canadian cheese curds that can be dressed up with bacon or onions and peppers. Looking to get boozy? There will also be $6 beers and Caesars. July 1, all day; reservations recommended.
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