Where To Eat, Stay And Play In Vancouver, Canada

Let me come clean—I’m not a hockey fan. I painfully discovered that truth as a kid when I tried to fit in with friends obsessed with the sport. One day, one of them caught me off guard by asking, “What does the ‘A’ on a jersey stand for?” In true clueless fashion, I confidently replied, “The first letter of the alphabet.” (Yes, feel free to cringe.) Fast forward a few decades, and while hockey still isn’t my forte, I’ve learned a thing or two—like what “hat trick” means. For the uninitiated, it’s when a player scores three goals in a single game. Why does this matter to me? Because when I visit a new city, I aim to accomplish my own version of a hat trick: mastering the three essentials of hospitality—where to eat, where to stay, and where to play. In this guide, I’m sharing my favorite Things to Do in Vancouver, to help you hit your own travel hat trick.

P.S. I wanted to include a nod to the “Gordie Howe Hat Trick” (a goal, an assist, and a fight), but it didn’t quite fit. My apologies, Canada.

First Goal: Where to EAT in Vancouver

Vancouver’s culinary scene is a dream for food lovers. With global influences from Asia, Europe, and North America all coming together with the freshest Pacific ingredients, this city is a veritable paradise for your taste buds. Here are three standout picks where you’ll score big on flavor:

This Michelin-starred omakase experience is as much a performance as it is a meal. Each dish tells a story, showcasing the freshest seafood with stunning precision and artistry. A must for lovers of Japanese cuisine.

A cozy Québécois-inspired bistro where refined French techniques meet hearty Canadian comfort food. This Michelin-starred gem offers dishes full of warmth and nostalgia. Don’t miss the pâté—it’s as delightful as the ambiance.

For a laid-back yet polished dining experience, JOEY Bentall One delivers. From their renowned truffle fries to globally inspired mains, this downtown favorite is perfect for a casual yet satisfying meal.

Second Goal: Where to STAY in Vancouver

From luxurious escapes to practical stays, Vancouver’s accommodations cater to every traveler. Whether you’re treating yourself or traveling on a budget, these options deliver comfort and convenience:

This luxury boutique hotel (formerly the Shangri-La Vancouver) is an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. Its Zen-like ambiance and impeccable hospitality make it a standout. With 15 floors of rooms, suites, and top-notch facilities, it’s a stone’s throw from art galleries, Michelin-starred restaurants, and Stanley Park. The property is my personal slice of paradise in Vancouver.

If you’d rather save your budget for experiences rather than accommodations, the Hilton Downtown is a smart choice. This 4-star hotel offers all the essentials while leaving room to splurge on better concert seats, fine dining, or a few extra drinks in Gastown. Plus, it’s just a 10-minute walk from the city’s best nightlife.

Vancouver’s trio of downtown Fairmont properties (plus one near the airport) are iconic. Here’s how to choose between them:

• Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Airport: Perfect for early flights, this 5-star hotel boasts soundproof rooms and Fairmont Gold perks without compromising on luxury.
• Fairmont Hotel Vancouver: A historic landmark recently renovated with modern touches. Centrally located and ideal for exploring downtown, it’s home to my favorite lobby bar, Notch8.
• Fairmont Waterfront: Think laid-back luxury—a mix of understated elegance and comfort. It’s modern and chic without being pretentious.
• Fairmont Pacific Rim: Sleek, upscale, and trendy, this is the city’s pinnacle of luxury. Its award-winning Botanist restaurant and cocktail program are worth every penny.

Third Goal: Where to PLAY in Vancouver

From exciting nightlife to unique local experiences, Vancouver has no shortage of entertainment options. Here are my top picks:

North Vancouver’s Copperpenny Distilling Co. is an award-winning BC craft distillery creating exceptional grain-to-glass spirits. Pro tip: Try their “Make Your Own Gin” experience for a fun, hands-on afternoon.

Located inside the Paradox Hotel, Karma Lounge is a sleek spot for craft cocktails. Whether you’re catching the game or enjoying an intimate evening, it’s the go-to for Vancouver’s social elite. Open into the late hours, it’s the perfect place to cap off your night.

This Chinatown hotspot is known for its apothecary-themed cocktails infused with ingredients like salted pomelo, tofu coconut milk, and star anise bitters. The Keefer Bar’s seasonal menu is always changing, but my all-time favorite is the Antidote—a perfect mix of Canadian whisky, yuzu sake, and lemon.

Power Play: Where to Spend Extra Time

If you find yourself with some downtime during your journey, consider trying out these activities to make the most of your experience and add a little extra excitement to your trip:

Take a 30-minute seaplane tour over Vancouver for under $200. It’s a breathtaking way to see the city from above—and the pilots often share their favorite local spots. Harbour Air also offers flights around Greater Victoria, perfect for a day trip.

Located in Kamloops, this sacred space celebrates the cultural legacy of the Secwépemc people. Through dynamic exhibits, art, and a tribute garden, visitors can connect with the rich history and spirituality of the region. Each visit supports the revitalization of Secwépemc heritage.

One of North America’s most diverse wine events, this festival features over 100 wineries from 15+ countries. Mostly winemakers and vintners, not distributors, pour the wines, making it a unique experience. It’s also the best showcase of Canadian wine I’ve experienced—especially the incredible offerings from Vancouver Island and Cowichan Valley. Held annually in late February or March, the event supports the Bard on the Beach Theatre Society.

If you’re dining on Michelin-starred cuisine, staying in world-class luxury properties, or discovering Vancouver’s inviting culture, this guide of “things to do in Vancouver” can help you achieve the ultimate travel hat trick. Get ready to eat, stay, and play your way through one of Canada’s most exciting cities!