My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
July 1, 2025- Canada Day!
We were docked in Vancouver on June 30 and July 1st, but I was only able to get off the ship on the second day. Stages were set and crowds in red and white gathered for Canada Day. I went for a pedicure and lunch with Michele, one of Villa Vie‘s residents. Steven, Michelle’s husband, joined us and we had maple coffee on our way back to the ship. I was glad I had thoroughly explored this city with Emily in 2019 (before joining the Golden Princess) so I could relax and enjoy the festivities without itching to see the city. I forgot to take photos- except this one of the ship:
Vancouver, Canada
Welcome to Vancouver, Canada’s “City of Glass,” a cosmopolitan gateway between the Pacific Ocean and the Canadian Rockies, where snow-capped peaks meet sparkling ocean, and a cosmopolitan downtown sits minutes from temperate rainforest. Consistently ranked one of the world’s most livable cities, Vancouver offers a striking mix of urban sophistication, natural beauty, and cultural diversity. From First Nations heritage and Gold-Rush grit to Expo 86 modernism and the 2010 Olympic cauldron, Vancouver marries outdoorsy spirit with global flair.
History:
Long before loggers arrived, the lands and waters around Burrard Inlet were—and remain—home to the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) first nations. European settlement began in the 1800s with the logging industry. A sawmill town called Granville incorporated as Vancouver in 1886, burned to the ground the same year, and rebuilt almost overnight. The city grew rapidly after the arrival of the transcontinental railroad in 1887, becoming a major port and multicultural hub. Expo 86 re-imagined its waterfront, and the 2010 Winter Olympics vaulted Vancouver onto the world stage again—leaving behind the gleaming convention centre and Jack Poole Plaza flame. Today, Vancouver reflects its Indigenous roots, colonial past, and dynamic global identity.
Itinerary:
Arrival: Monday June 30 7am
Departure: Tuesday July 1 All aboard: 6pm Sail away: 7pm
Weather
- Average Temps: Highs around 70°F (21°C); lows around 55°F (13°C)
- Dress in Layers: Mornings and evenings can be cool, even in summer.
- What to Wear: A light jacket or windbreaker, comfortable walking shoes, and rain protection—Vancouver is famously green for a reason!
Near the Pier:
Cruise Ship Dock: Canada Place – North Berth
Address: 999 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1
🧭 Nearby Essentials
- Pharmacy: Shoppers Drug Mart (at Waterfront Centre, 200m from pier)
- ATM: Available inside Canada Place and Waterfront Station
- Grocery/Snacks: Urban Fare or Nesters Market (5–10 min walk)
- Nearest Church: Christ Church Cathedral (Anglican), 690 Burrard Street
- Nearest Golf: Stanley Park Pitch & Putt (10 min by car)
Getting Around:
- 🚶 Walking: Vancouver’s downtown is highly walkable with wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
- 🚇 SkyTrain: Waterfront Station is adjacent to Canada Place—easy access to most parts of the city.
- 🚌 Public Transit: Buses, SeaBus, and SkyTrain all use the Compass Card or contactless payments. Translink.ca
- SeaBus: 12-minute harbour ferry every 15 min from Waterfront Station
- 🚖 Rideshare/Taxis: Uber, Lyft, and Yellow Cab are available.
- 🚴 Bike Rentals: Explore Stanley Park on two wheels with rentals near the seawall.
- Hop-On Bus: WestCoast Sightseeing loop stops at Canada Place.
Witnessing:
Vancouver Lookout: For panoramic views of the city, mountains, and waterfront, head up to the Vancouver Lookout, located atop the Harbour Centre. A glass elevator whisks you 553 feet (168 meters) to the observation deck in just 40 seconds. Once at the top, you’ll get a 360-degree view of downtown Vancouver, the North Shore Mountains, Stanley Park, and even out toward Vancouver Island on a clear day.
📍 Location: 555 W Hastings St (about a 10-minute walk from Canada Place)
🕒 Hours: Typically open daily from 10am to 6pm (seasonal hours may vary)
💲 Admission: Around $18 CAD for adults; tickets are valid for all-day access so you can return at sunset!
Harbour Air Floatplanes: Watch—or take—a scenic seaplane flight right next to Canada Place. Founded in 1982, Harbour Air is now North America’s largest all‑seaplane airline, operating 42 floatplanes—including de Havilland Beavers, Otters, Twin Otters, and Cessna Caravans. They serve around 18 destinations, including downtown Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, Tofino, Whistler, and the Gulf Islands. Known for being the first carbon‑neutral airline in North America, offsetting all their flights
Scenic tours
- 30‑minute downtown Panorama and 45‑minute extended Coast/Howe Sound flights (from ~$159 CAD).
- Options include Alpine Lakes & Glaciers, Vancouver Planes & Parks, or flights to Butchart Gardens with combos
Stanley Park Seawall: One of Vancouver’s most iconic outdoor attractions, the Stanley Park Seawall is the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path. Stretching 8.8 kilometers (5.5 miles) around the edge of Stanley Park, this scenic route offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, coastal mountains, and Pacific Ocean.
Whether you walk, jog, or rent a bike, the flat, paved path is a perfect way to explore the natural beauty of the park. Along the way, you’ll pass by landmarks like the Totem Poles at Brockton Point, Lions Gate Bridge, Third Beach, and Siwash Rock.
Learning:
Museum of Anthropology (UBC): Located on the grounds of the University of British Columbia, the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) is one of Vancouver’s most important cultural institutions. The museum is renowned for its exceptional collection of Indigenous art and artifacts, especially from the First Nations peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast.
Highlights include towering Haida totem poles, intricately carved bentwood boxes, and the stunning Great Hall with floor-to-ceiling glass that overlooks the ocean and mountains. MOA also features rotating exhibitions from cultures around the world and contemporary Indigenous artists.
Address: 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver (about 25–30 minutes from downtown)
Hours: 10am to 5pm. Admission: Approx. $18 CAD
Tip: Pair your visit with a walk around the nearby UBC Botanical Garden or a coastal stroll at Wreck Beach.
Bill Reid Gallery: Canada’s only public gallery exclusively dedicated to the art of Bill Reid and contemporary Indigenous artists from the Northwest Coast. It’s housed in a beautifully renovated, cloister‑like downtown space showcasing masterworks in sculpture, jewelry, masks, totem pole, prints, and wire pieces. Hours:10 am–5 pm. Admission: Adults $13; discounts for seniors, students, youth; free for Indigenous people, SFU students, children under 12; family $30.
Location: 639 Hornby St (tucked into a courtyard downtown). Accessible by SkyTrain (City Centre or Burrard) and nearby parking.
Science World is a dynamic science centre housed in Vancouver’s iconic geodesic dome, originally built for Expo 86. Since opening in 1989, it has welcomed over one million visitors annually. Operated by a non-profit society, the centre features a vibrant mix of permanent and rotating interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, and an OMNIMAX-style theatre. Highlights include BodyWorks, which explores the human body from the inside out; the Eureka! Gallery, offering hands-on experiences with light, sound, and motion; the Search: Sara Stern Gallery, filled with fossils and live animals; and the Tinkering Space, where visitors can engage in creative engineering challenges. Younger children love the Wonder Gallery, designed for ages 0–5, while the Environmental Trail offers free outdoor exhibits focused on sustainability along the edge of False Creek. Hours: Usually 10 am–5 pm daily; Tuesdays often extended to 8 pm in summer. Tickets: Adults ~$36.60; kids 3–12 ~$24.80; under-2 free.
Timing: Allocate ~2–3 hours; tickets don’t reserve specific time slots and aren’t transferable.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair-accessible, stroller parking for Wonder Gallery, plus lockers and adjacent public transit .
Transit: Walkable along the Seawall or via SkyTrain to Main Street–Science World station.
Parking: On-site lot with hourly and daily rates, meter or pay-by-phone options .
Discovery:
Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, where historic charm meets urban cool. Cobblestone streets, vintage lampposts, and Victorian brick buildings set the scene, while trendy boutiques, art galleries, and craft cocktail bars give it modern flair. At its heart is the famous Gastown Steam Clock, a quirky crowd favorite that whistles every 15 minutes. Originally a gritty settlement named after “Gassy Jack” Deighton, the area has evolved into a hub for locals and visitors alike. From stylish restaurants and Indigenous art studios to hidden speakeasies and curated souvenir shops, Gastown is the perfect place to wander, shop, and soak up the city’s layered character.
Granville Island is a vibrant cultural and culinary hub tucked beneath the Granville Street Bridge. Its centerpiece is the Public Market, a bustling indoor space filled with artisan food stalls, fresh produce, handmade treats, and local crafts. You’ll find everything from gourmet cheese and smoked salmon to flaky pastries and small-batch coffee. Beyond the market, the island also hosts art galleries, studios, theaters, and waterfront patios perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
Once a gritty rail-yard and warehouse district, Yaletown has been reborn as Vancouver’s sleekest urban playground. Today, polished heritage brick merges effortlessly with glassy high-rises along the False Creek seawall, creating a backdrop of leafy parks like David Lam and Emery Barnes. The heart of the neighborhood—Mainland and Hamilton streets—buzzes with stylish boutiques, art galleries, and chef-driven eateries (don’t miss modern steakhouses like Elisa) . As evening rolls in, Yaletown lights up: chill cocktail lounges, lively beer halls, and upscale nightclubs—including Bar None and Pierre’s—make this a top destination for local nightlife. With its waterfront strolls, cultural flair, and modern urban vibe, Yaletown is one of Vancouver’s most polished and energetic neighborhoods.
Mount Pleasant / “Brewery Creek”Nestled just south of downtown along the bustling Main Street corridor, Mount Pleasant—or “South Main”—is a vibrant enclave where old‑school roots meet creative energy. Once an industrial hub powered by Brewery Creek steam and streetcar lines, today it’s celebrated for its kaleidoscope of murals, dozens of which were added during the annual Vancouver Mural Festival—bright splashes of community art across brick walls and alleys.
A hotspot for craft beer lovers, you can easily stroll across multiple tasting rooms—hits include Main Street Brewing, R&B, and 33 Acres—paying homage to its brewing heritage. Foodies and thrift-seekers will appreciate the eclectic mix of vintage boutiques, indie cafés, global eateries, and laid-back brunch joints like The Acorn and Chickpea.
Kitsilano: Laid-back beach culture, yoga studios, and sunset at Kits Pool.
Kitsilano is the ultimate seaside neighbourhood where beachfront bliss meets urban charm. Nestled along English Bay with panoramic views of downtown and the North Shore Mountains, Kits is all about laid-back elegance. Kits Beach is a vibrant hotspot—sunbathers, volleyball nets, playgrounds, and Canada’s longest outdoor saltwater pool (137 m!) draw locals and visitors alike from May through September. Beyond the sand, tree-lined West 4th Avenue and Broadway mingle organic markets, trendy boutiques, and cozy cafés with historic homes. Fitness enthusiasts flock to paddleboard, kayak, or join yoga and volleyball meetups against the backdrop of the sparkling bay. Kitsilano pulses with community spirit—from summer festivals at Kits Showboat to the annual Greek Day—and offers easy access to UBC and Vanier Park. Whether you’re in for sun, sports, or a slow afternoon around local shops, Kits perfectly balances beach-town vibes with west coast urbanity.
Commercial Drive (“The Drive”) Known for its bohemian flair and multicultural roots, Commercial Drive—fondly called “The Drive”—is one of Vancouver’s most eclectic and beloved neighborhoods. Once the heart of the city’s Italian community, it still pulses with espresso bars, pizzerias, and corner delis, now joined by Afro-Caribbean spots, vegan diners, craft breweries, and indie bookstores. This 20-block stretch is a haven for artists, musicians, activists, and old-school Vancouverites who keep its gritty charm alive. Expect vibrant street murals, patio cafés, vintage shops, and a constant soundtrack of live music drifting from pubs and performance spaces. Whether you’re browsing a radical bookstore, dancing at a dive bar, or catching a street festival like Car Free Day, The Drive is where Vancouver’s diverse voices and alternative spirit come together.
Exploring:
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: Nestled in the heart of North Vancouver’s temperate rainforest, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a thrilling escape into nature and heritage. The centerpiece is the legendary 137 m (450 ft) long suspension bridge, swaying gently 70 m (230 ft) above the Capilano River since 1889 . Beyond the main span, the park unfolds across 27 acres, featuring the captivating Treetops Adventure—a series of aerial walkways among towering Douglas firs—and the dramatic Cliffwalk, a cantilevered, glass-floored route clinging to granite cliffs. Interpretive exhibits, First Nations totem poles, and mini-guided tours bring the region’s cultural and ecological stories to life. With a mix of heart-pounding views, rich rainforest ambiance, and educational charm, Capilano is a truly immersive Pacific Northwest experience—perfect for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike.
Grouse Mountain Skyride
Just 15 minutes from downtown, the Grouse Mountain Skyride is a must for breathtaking views and alpine adventure. This aerial tramway lifts you 1,100 meters (3,700 feet) above sea level in just eight minutes, offering panoramic vistas of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean, and beyond. At the summit, you’ll find hiking trails, a wildlife refuge with rescued grizzly bears, lumberjack shows, dining with a view, and even ziplining. It’s a quick and scenic escape into nature—ideal for both thrill-seekers and sightseers.
The Grouse Mountain Skyride (also referred to as the Mountain Admission ticket) costs approximately 82 CAD for adults during summer 2025. Seniors (65+) pay around 72 CAD, youth (13–18) 62 CAD, and children (5–12) about 42 CAD, with kids 4 and under admitted free. This general admission includes the round-trip tram ride and access to alpine experiences like the lumberjack show, grizzly bear habitat, chairlift, and Birds in Motion demonstrations.
The Sea to Sky Gondola, located just south of Squamish along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, is a breathtaking 10-minute ride that ascends roughly 885 m (2,900 ft) to an alpine summit above Howe Sound. At the top, the highlight for many is the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge—a thrilling 100 m (328 ft) long timber-and-steel pedestrian bridge that stretches across a mountain ravine, offering awe-inspiring 360° views of the fjord, forests, and towering peaks. Open year-round and accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, it’s an unforgettable experience that complements the gondola ride, summit trails, and lodge amenities—all included with your lift ticket.
The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish offers round‑trip access to summit trails, Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, Summit Lodge, and viewing platforms. Here are the current ticket prices for 2025:
- Adult (19+): CAD 71.95 (plus 5% GST) Senior (65+): CAD 66.95
- Youth (13–18): CAD 40.95 Child (6–12): CAD 27.95
- Parking: approximately CAD 8 for 4 hours or CAD 10 for a full day
🌿 Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound Where glacial fjords meet coastal temperate rainforest, home to glass sponge reefs, eagles, mountain goats, and marine mammals. It’s a collaboration between Squamish Nation and surrounding communities to preserve both ecosystem and culture.
- Designation: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (2021)
- Location: Fjord stretching from West Vancouver to Squamish (about 45 minutes from Vancouver).
Hidden Gems:
VanDusen Garden’s Elizabethan Hedge Maze- This Elizabethan hedge maze is one of only six in North America.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden – Traditional 15th century Chinese garden in the middle of Vancouver.
Cambie Climbing Tree – Locals transformed this Canadian evergreen into a secret hangout with spectacular views of Vancouver’s skyline.
The Shameful Tiki Room – A high point in Vancouver kitch.
Vancouver Police Museum – Housing a morgue, rare and confiscated weapons, and autopsy remains, the Vancouver police museum displays the dark side of Canada.
Digital Orca – A pixel art killer whale is frozen mid-leap in this Vancouver square.
Dude Chilling Park – A renegade art instillation in a small Vancouver park is now officially sanctioned by the City Parks Department.
The Sam Kee (Jack Chow) Building – At just six feet two inches deep, it is said by Guiness and Ripley to be the world’s narrowest freestanding office building. Woodward Spiral Staircase to Nowhere – A unique spiral staircase that doesn’t quite make it up to the top floor.
Science World Station – The ruins of Vancouver’s abandoned heritage railway. Two Spirits Carving – A mysterious sculpture is hidden in Vancouver’s Stanley Park.
Inukshuk – Made of granite, this is a symbol of the Inuit peoples near water that expresses abundance.
‘The Drop’ – This exaggerated sculpture resembles a well known feature of Vancouver.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – Step aboard the first ship to circumnavigate North America.
Siwash Rock – According to the local First Nations folklore, this rock was once a man.
Tasting:
- Japadog: Japanese-style hot dogs with wild toppings—try one near the waterfront!
- Miku: Renowned for aburi (flame-seared) sushi and ocean views.
- Tacofino: West Coast tacos with cult status.
- Tim Hortons: Don’t leave Canada without trying a double-double and a maple donut!
- Granville Island Public Market: Great for local cheeses, smoked salmon, and artisanal snacks.
- Japanese buttermilk ice cream
- Brunch at Fable (Mount Pleasant)
- Cartem’s Donuts – (Downtown or Mount Pleasant)
- Rain or Shine Ice Cream (Kitsilano, Cambie & UBC)
Events:
• Vancouver International Jazz Festival (June 20 – July 1): One of the city’s top cultural events, featuring free and ticketed performances across Vancouver—from open-air stages to intimate jazz clubs.
- Guilt & Company: Live music lounge in Gastown (Jazz Shows at 7pm and 9pm).
• Mad Jazz Live @ Coquette Brasserie – Monday, June 30 | Free with dinner | A cozy evening of live jazz in a French bistro setting.
• Canada Day Eve Party – Mahjong Bar | June 30, 10:00 PM–late | Dance into July with DJ sets and cocktails in this retro-glam Chinatown lounge.
• Comedy & Improv – Laugh the night away at Yuk Yuk’s (Burrard) or catch quick-witted performances at The Improv Centre on Granville Island.
• Canada Day @ Canada Place – Tuesday, July 1 | 11:00 AM–6:00 PM | A family-friendly celebration with live music, multicultural performances, food trucks, and Canada Day festivities.
Note: Fireworks are no longer held as part of Canada Place’s Canada Day programming.
Nightlife:
The Keefer Bar: Innovative cocktails and DJ sets in Chinatown.
Granville Street Entertainment District comes alive after dark. This neon-lit stretch of downtown is packed with live music venues, cocktail lounges, comedy clubs and late-night eateries, making it Vancouver’s go-to nightlife corridor.
Back on the ship: We continued to celebrate Canada Day with a presentation and a party hosted by our Canadian residents. They brought temporary tattoos, Canadian snacks, Canadian Beer and Canada Dry ginger ale, and they taught the mostly American crowd about Canada in a really fun, engaging way.
