Vancouver, a bustling west coast seaport in British Colombia, and a very upcoming Metropolitan City! With all the skyscrapers, buildings, and tall condos, you would think for a second that you were imported to busy and bustling cities like Shanghai or Tokyo for a minute! But once past all the busy and bustle, you will encounter serene views of the mountains, wooded forests, and bliss of Canada’s outdoor scenery.

Originally on a 5 day trip, the 4th day scheduling called me, took me off my original trip, and rerouted me over to Vancouver, and I’m so glad they did!

With only a little time to explore, my time was utilized to see and do all that I could in 16 hours!

Here is a complete guide on how to spend 16 hours (or a full day)  in Vancouver, Canada.

Start your day with a walk or run along the bay/seaport. Take in the serene costal and mountain views, watch planes take off and land on the water, fisherman go off on their boats, and get the best of both worlds with looking out at into the outdoors, and when turned around, take in the views of the big bustling city.

Stop and enjoy a drink or two at 6 Degrees Eatery. Located on 1590 Coal Harbour Quay, Vancouver, BC V6G 3G1

Offering a mix of West Coast Fusion tapas, coffee & pastries, and local wines and spirits.

Try the B.O.T Dip with Potato Chips! – Bacon, caramelized onion, and sun dried tomatoes all placed over a homemade cream cheese dip…it’s basically chip dip crack!

Happy Hour goes from 3:00pm – 6:00pm, with specials on their tappas and select drinks.

Enjoy a conversation with Iain, one of the owners. Originally from England, a traveler at heart and an amazing host, Iain knowns the in’s and out’s of this city, what to do, what to see, where to eat and what to eat, and overall, knows how to run a great business!

Just a 10 minute drive away, immerse yourself into Canada’s forest at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. ( Inside note for my co-workers, we get in free if we show/bring our work ID!)

To get to the Park, enjoy the views going through the Lions Gate Bridge. Built by the Guinness family, this iconic bridge takes you from Stanley Park to West Vancouver, to the Capilano Bridge, and the Sky Highway to Whistler. A beautiful landmark with amazing views.

The name Capilano comes from the nations Squamish Nation and originally spelled Kia’ palano, meaning “beautiful river.” And that beautiful river you will see when looking down and crossing the bridge!

Once overcoming your fear of heights and crossing the bridge, enjoy hiking and climbing through the Canadian Forest. 

Feel like Tarzan and Jane roaming high up through the trees.

After a fun filled time roaming through the forest, it sure works up your appetite!

Head back into the city and check out one of the local eateries!

My coworker had me try pho for the first time!

On a side note, if you’re looking for a good laugh, take me with you to a place where you eat with/use chopsticks, because I am awful, have no idea still how to use them, and WILL NOT use a fork and spoon, ha!

At the end of the day, enjoy watching the sun set, and the city start to light up and twinkle through out the night.

I definitely can’t wait to go back to Vancouver, and to keep on exploring!

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