A WEEKEND GUIDE TO VANCOUVER

The last time I was in Vancouver was when I was 10 years old. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to visit Vancouver for three days with Fairmont Pacific Rim to share with you the perfect weekend guide to Vancouver. I visited the first week of April and the weather was perfect with cherry blossoms blooming all over the city.

Vancouver hosted the 2010 Olympics and is named one of the best cities to live in the world. It has it all from mountains, outdoor activities, shopping, beaches and some of the best restaurants I’ve experienced. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend with friends, family, and couples.

WHERE TO STAY

Fairmont Pacific Rim is one of the best luxury hotels in Vancouver It’s located in downtown Vancouver, steps away from many local shops and has stunning views of Vancouver harbour. It’s one of the only hotels with amazing restaurants and an outdoor pool so it’s perfect for summer days. I had the opportunity to spend three nights at the property to celebrate the launch of Weddings at Fairmont Pacific Rim. It’s a beautiful property, perfect for your special day!

HOW TO GET AROUND

Skytrain is great since it runs from the Airport to Downtown Vancouver and Olympic Village
Taxi is easy and affordable around Vancouver. The main taxi companies are Yellow Cab, Black Top Cab, Vancouver Taxi
Walk around Vancouver as the city is fairly walkable, especially if visitors are staying at Fairmont Pacific Rim
Car rental

FLYTOGRAPHER EXPERIENCE

If you’re ever traveling alone or in need of a photographer while traveling, Flytographer can help capture your memories! A fun and local photographer will capture your vacation memories and show you around their city in just 7 easy steps. Collecting memories and experiences are the best gift you can give yourself, so say goodbye to selfies and hello to capturing incredible memories of your travel adventures.

THINGS TO DO

CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE

Capilano Suspension Bridge is a must visit when visiting Vancouver. It can get very crowded throughout the day but my tip is to visit right when it opens or visit an hour before closing as I did! The hours vary depending on the season and ticket prices can be found here. If visitors are staying at Fairmont Pacific Rim, the hotel offers shuttles for guests.

LYNN CANYON SUSPENSION BRIDGE

If you don’t like crowds, I recommend visiting Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge for fewer crowds and the park is free. If you’re a hiker, there’s plenty of park trails for a day of hiking.

SEA TO SKY GONDOLA

Sea to Sky Gondola is about 45 minutes drive from Vancouver. There’s plenty of walking/hiking trails, suspension bridge and amazing views from up above.

PRIVATE FLIGHT ABOVE VANCOUVER WITH HARBOUR AIR

Located across from Fairmont Pacific Rim is Harbour Air. The company provides flights on seaplanes between Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, The Gulf Islands, the Sunshine Coast, and Whistler. Visitors are able to hop on a seaplane and arrive at their next destination or fly over Vancouver for a tour which is what I experienced, it was stunning seeing the mountains and city from above.

ENGLISH BAY BEACH

English Bay Beach is a popular beach area in Vancouver’s downtown area. The Stanley Park and Seawall, a popular running and biking route run along the East side of the beach. You’ll find plenty of features and activities at the beach from concessions, beach and umbrella rentals to kayaking, swimming raft with a large slide, and two sand volleyball courts.

PARKS

Stanley Park: Seawall, Totem Poles, Lions Gate Bridge and so much more!
Queen Elizabeth Park
Van Dusen Botanical Garden

BURRARD STATION

If you’re visiting during the cherry blossoms, Burrard Station has the most beautiful cherry blossom display and it’s definitely one of the most Instagrammable spots I found on my trip!

GRANVILLE ISLAND

Granville Island is one of the most beloved public spaces in Vancouver and home to many cultural venues. If you’re a foodie, the famous Public Market is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm and home to 50 independent food curators. The indoor market features an assortment of colorful food and produces stores that are all fresh from the ocean, the oven, or field. With a mix of unique crafts, skilled artisans, and outdoor outfitters, Granville Island is one of the best places in the city to purchase souvenirs for back home.

GASTOWN

Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, Gastown is an area in downtown known for galleries, souvenir shops, restaurants, and the Steam Clock. It’s a gathering place for stylish locals, thriving fashion scene, curated decor boutiques, one-of-a-kind galleries, and some of the best culinary destinations in Vancouver! It is an ideal neighborhood to explore on foot, where you’ll find a picture-perfect collection of old buildings, cobblestones, the Steam Clock, and vintage lampposts.

DAY TRIP TO WHISTLER

Located just 2 hours north of Vancouver, in the spectacular Coast Mountains of British Columbia. Whistler is a favorite year-round destination in Canada. There are two mountains with a lively base Village, amazing skiing and snowboarding, four championship golf courses, unbeatable shopping, restaurant and bars, hiking trails, and spas. There is so much to do, you’ll find yourself in a new adventure every time!

WHERE TO EAT

Botanist – Located at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, the ambiance at the restaurant is amazing! The food is delicious, the presentation is beautiful and the cocktails are to die for!
Phnom Penh – One of the best local favorites for Asian food! I didn’t have time to visit but I’ve heard nothing but great things so definitely visit if you have time!
Miku Restaurant – If you love sushi, definitely make your way to Miku to try their Aburi Oshi which is the technique of flame searing pressed sushi. Apparently, it was created in Vancouver and it just melts in your mouth!
Restaurant Yugo – If you’re looking for a cheaper option for sushi Restaurant Yugo is a great option and their Aburi Oshi is just as good!
L’Abattoir – Loved the ambiance here, great for date night! I recommend ordering the baked Pacific oysters and char-grilled quail
Thierry Cafe – One of the best cafes in Vancouver to satisfy your sweet tooth

Weddings at Fairmont Pacific Rim — Botanist

Vancouver is a great destination to visit year round and I cannot wait to be back either this summer or winter! Vancouver is definitely a winter wonderland during the holidays, which is my favorite time of the year. Comment below if you have any other tips and suggestions on your favorite things to do in Vancouver!