Staycation: How to Vacation in and around Vancouver

For many of your employees, the thought of taking a vacation right now seems like a fantasy. With the US borders closed and Europe requiring a 7-day quarantine period upon arrival, there doesn’t appear to be many places to go. 

However, Vancouver is home to lush forests, beautiful mountains, and iconic landmarks. There is so much to do and see in this city and its surrounding area, that your employees could happily fill a weeks worth of time exploring their own backyard. 

For that reason, we have compiled a list of things to do and places to see in and around this wonderful city of ours. 

Staycation Ideas Within Vancouver 

Cruise along the seawall - One great way to spend a summer afternoon is to travel along the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path by bike. The 28-kilometre journey typically takes between one and two hours to finish, but features many extraordinary views (and even a bar) along the way.

Play volleyball at the beach - Most of Vancouver's outdoor volleyball courts are free to use and operate on a first come, first serve basis. Kitsilano beach and English Bay frequently have nets available.

Visit Granville Island - This little neighbourhood sits just south of the downtown peninsula, under the Granville Bridge. It is one of the city’s most lively cultural districts and consists of boating attractions, artisan workshops, craft studios, and fantastic places to grab a bite to eat.

Hike the Grouse Grind - The Grouse Grind is a 2.9-kilometre trail up the face of Grouse Mountain and is sometimes referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster.” Once you’ve grinded your way to the top, take a moment to enjoy the views (and catch your breath!) before taking the tram down.

Bike the North Shore - Enjoy the outdoors and the great trails on the North Shore mountains through some exhilarating mountain biking. These trails really do offer some of the best biking experiences in British Columbia. 

Vancouver seaplane tour - see the iconic city of Vancouver by air. Enjoy a stunning window seat providing amazing aerial views around Vancouver. Without a doubt a must do in the city!

Stroll through scenic gardens - Vancouver is home to some incredible gardens. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and VanDusen Botanical Garden are two places worth getting started. VanDusen alone is 22 hectares of gorgeous wildlife and fauna, and includes attractions such as a maze, a stone garden, and a Scottish shelter. 

Kayak through False Creek - The False Creek route passes beneath all three bridges and through both Kitsilano and Granville Island. If you’re lucky, you might spot a seal playing in the water or cormorants flying overhead looking to catch fish.

Around/Outside Vancouver City  

Ride the Sea to Sky gondola - Located in Squamish, the Sea to Sky gondola offers breathtaking access to suspension bridges, hiking trails, and incredible lookouts. 

Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge - The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in British Columbia. Hanging 230 feet about the river, the 470 footbridge provides access to a number of attractions, including cliff walks and tree top adventures.  

Relax at Victoria’s Butchart Gardens - Arguably Victoria's most beautiful attraction on the island, the Butchart Gardens has over a million visitors yearly. This collection of colourful and blossoming floral display gardens is truly a sight to behold. 

Tour Kelowna’s finest Wineries - Kelowna is home to some of the finest wineries in Canada Sip wine and relax in the sun, and take in the great views the area has to offer.

Have a Picnic (and a drink) in North Vancouver - Recently, the City of North Vancouver voted to approve a bylaw allowing drinking in parks. Currently there are nine parks in the area where you can gather with friends and family to share a meal and drink alcohol while keeping a safe social distance outdoors. 

Wind or Kitesurf at Squamish Spit - Squamish spit is a unique place. It is the perfect environment to wind or kite surf. Whether you're an expert or a beginner, surfers of all levels will find waves to ride here. 

Tour the BC Wildlife Park - The British Columbia Wildlife Park is a 106-acre zoo located in Kamloops. You can see over 200 animals and 65 animal species in expansive habitats. It is a great place to spend your day as the park offers many engaging activities along with the incredible range of animals at the facility.

River Raft in Chilliwack - Rafting the Chilliwack river is the perfect day adventure to get the adrenaline going. This outdoor adventure is an unforgettable experience that will stick in your memory for a long time. 

Surf in Tofino - Tofino is one of the ultimate places to surf in Canada. With over 35 km of beaches on an exposed coast, there is near-unlimited access to surfing all year round. From Long Beach to Chesterman Beach, you won't be short of choices. 

Final Thoughts

Of all the cities one could be forced to staycation in, Vancouver has to rank among the best. With mountains, beaches, and parks to explore and a myriad of games and activities to participate in, your employees will be able to enjoy all the benefits of a vacation, without the long flight.