One in a series of articles about Canadian destinations.

Vancouver is known as not only one of the most beautiful cities in Canada, but it is also considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. If you are ever given the opportunity to take a vacation to British Columbia, you should certainly plan your trip with Vancouver in mind. With the ample amount of activities perfect for everyone in your family, it will undoubtedly be a vacation that you will remember for many years to come.

1. Wineries: For Mom and Dad

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway from home, having the opportunity to visit a winery can be quite advantageous. With the ability to take a tour of the vineyards and to have your personal wine tasting, you and your loved one will be able to celebrate while on vacation.

LuLu Island Winery creates some of the best quality wines in all of Canada. With that being said, you can sample red wines, white wines, and fruit wines that have won gold medals in a variety of international wine competitions.

Other wineries near Vancouver include the Averill Creek Vineyard and Blue Grouse Estate Winery in Duncan, Island Time Tours in Victoria and the Glenterra Vineyards in Cobble Hill.

2. Vancouver Aquarium

Who doesn’t love spending time with animals, especially marine animals? With over 70,000 different species of aquatic life, the Vancouver Aquarium is the perfect activity for the whole family. Not only will you and your children enjoy the activities in the aquarium and viewing all of their unique animals, but it can also be an educational experience.

With a variety of different creatures from different habitats around the world, there is always something new and exciting to see. The aquarium recently completed a significant expansion and revitalization campaign and now features an outdoor plaza with a public bistro, expanded holding pools and improved outdoor seating.

3. Horse-Drawn Tours

Take in the city in a different way than walking, consider a horse-drawn tour. Take you and your family on an old-fashioned vehicle and view the sights of Vancouver in comfort and style.

The majority of horse-drawn tours are available in Stanley Park which is one of the top attractions in Vancouver. Stanley Park also features gardens, bike and walking paths, and stunning views of the sea and First Nations totem poles.

4. Granville Island

Commonly known as the marketplace of Vancouver, Granville Island has hundreds of different market booths that provide seafood, breads, and fresh produce to customers. If you are looking for a great place to grab your groceries for the entirety of your vacation, then this is it.

Not only can you shop through the unique fruits, veggies, and seafood options but you can also visit quaint antique shops. Stained glass, fine jewelry, art, photography and handmade soaps are among the many items available for sale.

5. Grouse Mountain

For travelers who aren’t afraid of heights, visiting Grouse Mountain will give you an experience in British Columbia that is unlike any other. Located only 15 minutes from the downtown core, Grouse Mountain takes tourists up a beautifully natural landscaped mountain to overlook the entirety of the city.

Grouse Mountain also features numerous activities including zip lines, a sky ride, helicopter tours, a lumberjack show and paragliding. There are a number of dining opportunities right on the grounds including atop the observatory.

Vancouver Considerations

Many Americans combine a visit to Vancouver with a stop in Seattle. Just 2.5 hours separate these important cities with Victoria centrally located between the two.

See Also — 5 Top Calgary Destinations You Must See