Vancouver—also affectionately known as Raincouver—is an ideal destination for travelers seeking bustling city vibes. At the same time, Vancouver—and British Columbia in general—is an excellent place for nature enthusiasts eager to hike along the West Coast Trail. Canada may not be the most budget-friendly destination for traveling, and Vancouver is no exception. Still, tourists heading to this west coast Canadian city should check out these free attractions to save some pocket money. When in Vancouver, stop by these free tourist attractions, whether to seek refuge in the city or snap a few Insta-worthy shots during vacation!
9 Kitsilano Beach
Kitsilano Beach is one of Vancouver’s most popular beaches due to its proximity to the city. This expansive beach is not only equipped with smooth sands but gorgeous waters against a mountainous backdrop. Take a dip along the shores of Kitsilano Beach or take a quiet stroll around the park. There’s also a public pool area nearby which offers an unobstructed view of Vancouver’s mighty mountains.
8 The Gastown Steam Clock
The Gastown Steam clock is miniature compared to London’s iconic Big Ben, but it’s still worth visiting! Located in one of Vancouver’s most trendy neighborhoods, the Gastown Steam Clock whistles and steams as the clock is ticking. Tourists crowd around the clock to hear its gentle whistles, which faintly resemble a tune, while admiring the intricate gears that went into building this iconic landmark. This classy clock perfectly fits with the ambiance of Gastown, a neighborhood that’s perfect for catching a meal or a cozy cup of coffee.
7 Burrard Landing
Though Burrard Landing serves as a bustling shopping center (with tons of dining options), the area also has some attractions that appeal to budget-friendly tourists. Walk outside to watch some seaplane landings or cruise ships heading to the port. In addition, the site has several sculptures for admiring, such as The Drop and The Olympic Cauldron. Burrard Landing is also home to the Pixelated Orca, a massive statue of an orca…in the pixelated form!
6 Olympic Village
Want to relive the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics? The Olympic Village is now home to several thousand homes and small businesses. However, visitors can still enjoy a leisurely walk around the neighborhood or a casual meal at nearby restaurants. Those traveling with younger children can head to the Hinge Park to Playground to enjoy the Vancouver sun. Alternatively, visitors can roam and explore the Olympic Village Square, walking along False Creek to admire some art installations and marina views.
5 Queen Elizabeth Park
What more can a tourist ask for from Queen Elizabeth Park, an attraction that offers gorgeous views of mountains, blooming flowers, and outdoor art? If it’s being amongst blooming cherry blossoms during the spring! This gorgeous park is so vast it's home to a wedding venue, an indoor tropical garden (known as the Bloedel Conservatory), several sculptures, beds of flowers, tennis courts, basketball courts, easy trails, and lawn bowling lanes!
4 Marine Building
Located just in front of Burrard Landing, the Marine Building on 355 Burrard Street is adorned with elegant architecture and is a well-known building near Vancouver’s Financial District. Developed in 1930, the Marine Building was the city’s tallest skyscraper. Due to its architecture and design, this building is a popular setting for many films. Step inside the Marine Building and admire its architecture, from its sky-high ceilings to its intricately designed foyer. Tourists visiting this iconic landmark will think they just stepped inside a European train station!
3 Rennie Museum
Vancouver has some fantastic museums worth checking out, despite having paid admission. However, Rennie Museum (which is a stone’s throw away from the city’s famous Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden) is free for visitors at the heart of Chinatown. This museum offers rotating exhibits so that guests can appreciate an array of unique art from different artists. Located on Pender Street, the Rennie Museum is free but requires reservations in advance.
2 UBC Rose Garden
Free for all, this Rose Garden is at the heart of the University of British Columbia (or UBC for short). From June to September, visitors have a chance to see the blooming roses up close against a backdrop of British Columbia’s beautiful mountain ranges and coastal sights. Just a short commute away (by bus or car), the UBC Rose Garden is a peaceful place to enjoy some quiet time in a bustling city.
1 Stanley Park
Perhaps one of Vancouver’s most famous tourist attractions, Stanley Park is also free for all! Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around this massive park while soaking in the sights of the Pacific along The Seawall. For a fee, tourists can even rent a bike and enjoy a relaxing adventure through Vancouver’s Stanley Park, admiring the local vegetation and city life. There are also landmarks to marvel at in the park, including Totem Poles, the Stanley Park Rose Garden, and The Girl in a Wetsuit. The park also has a gorgeous view of the Lions Gate Bridge.