What to Do in One Day in Vancouver

Doing one day in Vancouver? I want to make it the best visit possible, so here’s my promise:

Even though it’s just a one day trip I’m going to make sure you soak in the city’s epic nature, eat at the best restaurants, and live and breathe our culture and history like a local.

I was born and raised here, and this is what to do in Vancouver BC in one day.

On most Vancouver itineraries I’m going to recommend the Museum of Anthropology for some early education, but if you’ve only got 24 hours we’ve gotta get central fast.

That’s why this 24 hour Vancouver tour starts at the Bill Reid Gallery instead.

Not only is this aboriginal art museum dedicated to one of the most famous artists in British Columbia history, but it’s right in the heart of the downtown Vancouver and it’s the perfect to start.

The intricate jewelry here is a sight to behold, but look up! The massive Mythic Messengers (once seen on our $20.00 bill) frieze is the highlight here, and it tells of a great Haida power struggle.

Once you’re finished the 30 minute visit, head outside and look up at the historic Hotel Vancouver. This Châteauesque-style building is arguably the most iconic in the city.

This character neighbourhood just 10 minutes’ walk from the Bill Reid Gallery was founded by pioneering loggers (lead by “Gassy Jack” Deighton) who decided to build a whiskey bar so they wouldn’t have walk back to town to drink.

Today Gastown is a bustling cultural centre full of bars, restaurants, galleries, and cafes.

The cobblestone streets and heritage architecture are a bit like Europe, and the main attraction is the Gastown Steamclock – make sure you’re standing there at any 1/4 hour for the steam whistle show.

Once you’ve taken Vancouver’s most famous selfie with the clock, head on over to the Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery for another dose of amazing local aboriginal art. It’s free to walk through, almost plays like one of Vancouver’s best museums, and has some of the city’s finest souvenirs.

From here walk down Water Street through the funky furniture and shoe stores, and you’ll get to Maple Tree Square. The flatiron Hotel Europe is another great photo opportunity, and grabbing a coffee and soaking up the square is a great way to feel Vancouver vibes.