Many of the places on my list “12 hidden gems you must have seen in Vancouver” are actually not yet checked off. I only get so much time to explore during each visit, and it’s hard enough just picking what ones will make their way onto this blog post! However–I’m determined for you guys who read these posts (and also myself) because now there is an idea about where some new locations might be worth checking out next trip down south…
Table of Contents
1. Alley Oop
The alley Oop is a result of the local government in creating more community spaces within city walls. It has creatively painted walls which make for interesting scenery when played or taken pictures by tourists alike; there are also regular events like outdoor discos happening here on an ongoing basis! On the following page are the next events listed https://ra.co/clubs/169420.
Image by Simba Sim via Shutterstock
2. Fraser River Park
Personally, I haven’t been to the Fraser River Park yet, but it is definitely on my to-do list. This park has been endorsed to me by many locals. They rave about the beauty and calmness of this place. So you could enjoy your picnic at the beach much more than at the more crowded ones in downtown Vancouver. People on Tripadvisor even highlighted the special atmosphere in this park with interesting marine and aviation traffic from the YVR Airport next by, scenic views, dogs walking off-leash, and numerous places for relaxation.
Image by Sonja Peterson of Peterson Ph♡tography via Flickr
3. UBC Botanical Garden
If you are looking for a place to take the family, UBC Botanical Garden is an excellent choice. I have always wanted explore this garden by myself and never had time yet! From what i’ve heard it’s really beautiful with lots of cool things like tree-top walks that kids will love too (and adults can enjoy too!). One thing we did was go onto Capilano Suspension Bridge which has similar pathways so recommend trying both out if possible – one at least once in your lifetime should be high above ground level…
Image by StoneMonkeyswk via Shutterstock
4. Lighthouse Park Bunker
West Vancouver’s Lighthouse Park is a hidden gem, with its trails and famous lighthouse. But there’s more than that! In fact many sources mention this as an easily accessible spot for nature lovers who want to enjoy the outdoors without having too much difficulty finding it on their map or getting lost in trying times try looking around- because let me tell you…you won’t regret taking time out of your day just so YOU can explore what lies within these 2 square kilometers!!!
Image by Dennis Cheong via Shutterstock
5. Climbing Tree
That is right, I just found out recently that there is a well-known climbing tree in Vancouver. Guess what, I have passed this tree already several times on the way to or from the airport. Nevertheless, the location is a well-kept secret and every visitor is encouraged not to reveal it. Having said that, one hint I can give is that the tree lies near the King Edward Station. Based on the information I have gathered from other pages, there are hammocks, tire swings, and rope climbing nets. What makes this tree so special are the dozens of strong branches which enables also less trained climbers to go up effortlessly.
6. Habitat or Beer Island
Habitat Island is an island in False Creek that has been created to protect local nature. It’s located just steps away from Science World and because it seems inconspicuous, most likely locals are cracking open their favorite beer while there! This beautiful destination attracts many Vancouverites who want a getaway without having too far out of town or towards mountains – but still, have plenty going on around them at all times thanks again its location is right next door (or almost close enough) if you’re looking for some good activities during your stay here as well.
Image by KathrynHatashitaLee via Canva
7. VanDusen Garden’s Elizabethan Hedge Maze
Vancouver offers much more than just Stanley Park. There are other city parks that offer great spots to spend time, like the Queen Elizabeth park with its famous Bloedel Conservatory and nearby VanDusen Garden which has an abounding variety in plant species as well as offering visitors another opportunity for adventure through it’s hedge maze!
For those looking forward adventures outside their everyday life- whether they’re family oriented or not – these gardens provide calming retreats where one can forget everything else but themselves when surrounded by beautiful surroundings such is what we find here at “The People’s Place” located only minutes away from downtown cores yet still removed enough.
Image by HemaGollamudi via Shutterstock
8. Richmond Night Market
The Richmond Night Market has been called “the largest in North America” and it’s not hard to see why. With over 200 food vendors, there will always be something new for you + your family! This place really knows how to make visitors feel welcome–especially when they’re hungry because let’s face it: who doesn’t love samples?! The market takes place on weekends only from the end of April through to mid-October, from 7 pm to 12 am on Friday, from 6 pm to 12 am on Saturday, and on Sunday from 7 pm to 11 pm, so plan accordingly. For further inspiration, and info’s just click on the following links Things to do on the night market and Richmond Night Market.
Image by sen yang via Shutterstock
9. The Foxes Den Splash Park
This is a perfect spot for families. I found this playground while cycling through and around Stanley Park, which has many attractions including the sea just next door! There are water tubes with different levels that will keep your kids engaged as well as hiding spots so you can take care of some time exploring on their own before they’re done playing in these fun areas too fast – because who wants an overstimulated little person? And what’s even better than all these features combined? The drying tunnel nearby means no need to worry about getting wet from head-to toe.
10. Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf
The fisherman’s wharf in Steveston is a beautiful place to visit and has been recommended several times. You can check out all sorts of shops while strolling through this boardwalk, including restaurants that sell seafood right off the boat! If you’re looking for an excellent spot where people go during their lunch break or after work then Pajo’s should be included on your list – not only do they serve up some delicious fish & chips but it gives users opportunities seeing seagulls swans ducks sea lions… And if you are hungry for an additional adventure, you could book a whale watching directly at the wharf.
Image by CDeWeger via Shutterstock
11. Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant is an up-and-coming neighborhood in Vancouver (and it’s oldest one too). It’s located just outside downtown and has everything you need for a great time: historic buildings with stylish boutiques to go alongside it all! There are so many delicious restaurants here too – plus tours through some of your favorite breweries can be found easily on offer around town too! This place has been awarded by Timeout magazine for being one of their top 40 coolest neighborhoods worldwide out of 49!
Bonus: Secret Platform Horseshoe Bay
Near the Horseshoe Bay is a platform that offers an extraordinary view over the whole bay. To make sure, it won’t be overrun with visitors, the location is a well-kept secret. I haven’t figured it out by myself yet too. So even if I would know the location, I couldn’t let you know the exact place.
You could find out more about the location of the platform on Mary’s homepage “Be Right Back” under the following link Horseshoe Bay lookout.
