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Whether you are visiting Vancouver for the first time or heading back again because you couldn’t get enough of the city’s  beauty and culture, be sure to check out these budget-friendly options so your trip doesn’t break the bank.

Visit Granville Island

No visit to Vancouver is complete without a stop at Granville Island. Cross over False Creek and experience a community buzzing with history, culture and diversity. Spend the day at the public market or stop by any red information hut for a map to guide yourself around.

Have a picnic in Stanley Park

Need a break from the big city? Find your oasis at Stanley Park, Vancouver’s first and largest urban park. Discover kilometres of trails, beaches, local wildlife, landmarks and monuments all for free!

Hike the Grouse Grind

This challenging 2.9-kilometre hike, also known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster”, is a must do for the energetic and fit. Climb up 2,830 steps and reward yourself with spectacular views at the top of Grouse Mountain. The hike up is free but you are required to take the Skyride down which is a $10 fee.

Guided tour of the city

Tour Guys provides FREE weekly walking tours of Vancouver. Learn about the culture and history and discover places you didn’t even know existed with your own personal tour guide. Check out their website and choose from six different tours. Although the tours are free, tips for your guides are greatly appreciated.

MacMillan Observatory

Get access to a half-metre Cassegrain telescope, all for a simple donation. Explore the skies around Vancouver and learn more about astronomy from knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff. If you’re eager to discover more, go next door to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre where they have multiple exhibits and shows. Admission into H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is $13-$18.

Drive the Sea to Sky Highway

Enjoy a piece of the 409-kilometre-long Sea to Sky Highway. Discover scenic ocean vistas, endless mountain ranges, waterfalls and bustling outdoor parks and activities.

Play disc golf at Queen Elizabeth Park

Enjoy a little disc golf with friends while admiring the views from the highest point in Vancouver. You can also do some lawn bowling, take a scenic walk around the garden and visit the Painters’ Corner to admire artists creating their masterpieces.

Walk across Lynn Canyon Suspension bridge

Suspended 50 metres high, the Lynn Canyon Suspension bridge stretches across a beautiful canyon where you can witness raging waters and waterfalls. Feel free to take pictures, as long as you can keep a steady head — this bridge is known to bounce, sway and shake with every step.

Go to the beach

Enjoy public access to 18 kilometres of beaches that surround Vancouver. Observe the beautiful landscape, play in the sand, enjoy the water or just sit back and relax.

Celebrity watch

Known to many as “Hollywood North”, Vancouver has the largest film industry in Canada. The city welcomes many actors and actresses so next time you are there, keep an eye out for some famous faces!

 

Featured image: heydrienne

About the author

Brittany DietzBrittany has travelled to London, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Mexico, The Caribbean, Canada and all over the U.S. She's passionate about travel and has big plans for future trips! Brittany is a Content and Social Media Executive at Cheapflights.

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