During a recent trip to Seattle, Washington with my girlfriends, we planned for a day trip to Vancouver, BC, Canada since it was less than a 3 hour drive.
Last time I visited, I was a little girl and being that we would be there only a day, I wanted to make sure we made the best use of our time. Originally, I would’ve loved to have made it to Victoria Island like I did last time, but this time around, we wouldn’t have time. Because of that, I knew I needed to make a list of the places we needed to visit in order to maximize our day there.
Below are the places I recommend you visit if you only have one day to visit Vancouver.
Granville Island
Granville Island is a small peninsula and shopping district in Vancouver. This was our first destination when we arrived in Vancouver. We arrived before noon which was a great time since we didn’t encounter any crowds. Later that day, when we left is when the crowds started arriving so try and make this your first spot. Besides it being a shopping district, a marina, and a public farmer’s market there where you can buy souvenirs, treats, as well as food. This is where we took advantage and grabbed something to eat.
Gastown
Gastown is a national historic site and a neighborhood close to downtown Vancouver which is more commonly known for its steam clock. It’s a great place to do some shopping as well as a place to wine and dine. There are many picturesque places. Take advantage and walk along the few streets it encompasses and check out the boutique stores and restaurants. Some of the best restaurants in the city are located here so make sure to check some of them out. Don’t forget to take a pic by the steam clock!
Downtown
We didn’t get to spend too much time here as we went in the Winter which means it gets dark super early and we didn’t want to head back to Seattle too late at night. So, we drove and walked around a little and then headed to the Vancouver Christmas Market. Downtown is the financial district of Vancouver but it also has a bustling night scene, which this time around, and because of what I previously mentioned, we didn’t get to check out.
Bonus: Christmas Market
Since we visited during the holidays, the Vancouver Christmas Market was in full effect and we wanted to take advantage and visit it as well. So definitely make sure to check it out should you visit Vancouver around the same time of the year.
Vancouver is a beautiful city and one I hope to visit again as there are a few places I didn’t get to see this time around. Hope this helps build your itinerary for your next trip to Vancouver!
Great post