Quick Trips: What to do in Vancouver for a Day

When it comes to taking small or quick trips, it is ideal to try and fit everything in that is your priority. As a flight attendant, we typically have up to 2 days to tour our destinations, making us pros at taking quick trips. So, maybe you are just passing through the city, have limited time to travel, or are on a cruise visiting the city. Either way, getting the most out of your trip is what's important.

Welcome to Canada! It's the country that seems to just stay out of trouble somehow. Well, if you're visiting this beautiful country, specifically on its west side in Vancouver, British Columbia, I'll tell you how to have an unforgettable day there.

To start, Vancouver surprised me with how welcoming, beautiful, and clean it is! Now, every city has its problems, and I am sure Vancouver does too, but compared to most major cities in the USA, Vancouver far exceeded my expectations. In addition, with about 2 million people living there, there is a variety of cultures and sceneries to experience.

When To Go

Vancouver can be freezing, but sometimes, the cold is what you want! So, I recommend going from February to December. There are plenty of winter and summer activities to do throughout the seasons, making it an incredible vacation spot year-round.

Lodging

Staying in the city center is always recommended when you have limited time. There are dozens of hotels and Airbnb's to choose from. If you’re staying longer, you can look into other options outside the downtown area.

Transportation

When I visited, I relied on Uber and TransLink, their transportation system. Ubers can be expensive but are always reliable and fast. I also took the bus to Grouse Mountain and back to my hotel. It is super easy to take, and don't worry about buying any passes, you can just tap your card or phone to pay for a ticket.

What To Do

Vancouver's downtown area has loads to do, including plenty of bars, restaurants, and attractions. Knowing I'd be there for just a day, I planned to go to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and then, on a whim, I visited Grouse Mountain.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is about an 18-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. There is a fee of $53 USD for entering, but trust me, it is worth it. This is one of the most incredible experiences I've ever had. It's an excellent opportunity to soak up the ambiance, walk on all the bridges, and relish in nature. I must note that you are suspended pretty high up, so if you are scared of heights, this place probably isn't the best place for you!

Getting to Grouse Mountain from the Capilano Suspension Bridge wasn't complicated either. I took a bus from the bridge entrance to a gondola ride, which took me up the mountain. I went in February, so there was still snow at the top of the mountain, but it was breathtaking. The gondola costs about $57 USD, and up the top of the mountain, you can do loads of things like skiing, snowboarding, or hiking. They also have a fire pit, a cafe, and a delicious restaurant where you can enjoy some good views. Overall, these two attractions made for an unforgettable experience, and I highly recommend you do both if you visit Vancouver.

Other attractions to visit

Visit Stanly Park or Queen Elizabeth Park - These parks are great for nature enthusiasts or for a pleasant stroll.

Do a Flyover experience - For only $22 USD, Enjoy this immersive experience in front of a 20-metre spherical screen, which will take you throughout Canada.

Seaplane tour - For adventurous travelers, you can take a 30-minute seaplane ride through Vancouver for about $170 CAD.

Granville Island Public Market - This indoor market, filled with restaurants, bars, and cafes, is a great place to stop for food.