Seeing The Best of Vancouver on a Budget - Top 10 Attractions (Summer 2011 Edition)

Vancouver is known for the its beautiful scenery of ocean and mountains. So it only seems logical to get out and see it. There are, of course, many wonderful attractions that are well worth checking out in the city, but cost money to enter. This guide outlines some of the best spots to see in or around Vancouver for no or low cost.

#1 - Stanley Park

Take a few hours to bike, blade, or walk along the seawall and explore the paths within the park as well. Also be sure to see the totem poles within the park.

#2 - Granville Island

Located in False Creek under the Granville St bridge leading from downtown, explore this little island of boutique and specialty stores, take a brewery tour, and see Vancouver’s epicentre of some of the world’s best street performers.

#3 - Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge

Located in North Vancouver, take a hike through the woods of Lynn Canyon Park and cross the suspension bridge.

#4 - Grouse Mountain (The Grouse Grind)

See the wildlife refuge at the bottom of the mountain, then try for a best time hiking up the Grouse Grind. Once at the top, you can watch the lumberjack show, go zip trekking, or go paragliding, not to mention you get one of the best view of Vancouver from up there.

#5 - The Chief (Squamish)

One of the best (and challenging) hikes near Vancouver. You’ll have to travel to Squamish for this one, but it is well worth it. This is one of the ultimate hiking experiences if you’re up for the challenge. Go early in the day and come prepared with food and water. There are three peaks you can choose to hike up.

#6 - Wreck Beach

Vancouver’s famous nude beach, located on the campus of the University of British Columbia. Don’t worry though, you don’t have to be nude if you don’t want to - many people aren’t. Just be respectful and don’t take pictures! This is truly one of Vancouver’s best beaches and has a very free spirited atmosphere. Along the beach, you’ll find people selling homemade food, art, and jewelry.

#7 - Walking Tour (Tour Guys)

This free walking tour will keep you entertained, familiarize yourself with Vancouver, and give you lots of fun facts about the history of the area.

#8 - Burnaby Village Museum

This outdoor museum is an actual village that you can walk around and explore. This year is their 40th anniversary and so admission is free all summer long. They also have a vintage carousel that you can hop on for a small price.

#9 - Asian Night Market

There are two night markets in Vancouver. The Richmond night market is the one to check out if you can make it out that way. It is much bigger, offering more booths and more food choices, as well as a performance stage. If you can’t make it out to Richmond, there is also one in Chinatown. It is similar, but on a much smaller scale.

#10 - Hastings Race Track

Go watch the horse races in East Vancouver. If you’re feeling lucky, place a bet or two.