Cheap Things to Do in Every Neighbourhood

Budget-minded travelers will find no shortage of cultural attractions, fun activities and sightseeing destinations in Vancouver. Just reference our guide for cheap things to do throughout Vancouver’s diverse neighbourhoods.

Chinatown

• Wander the colourful aisles of Chinatown’s traditional markets.
• Sip a piping hot cup of oolong tea in one of the many teashops.
• Eat traditional dim sum dishes, such as shu mai and har gau.

Gastown

• Take a picture next to the famous steam-powered clock.
• Get a glimpse of aboriginal art at one of the many First Nations galleries.
• Enjoy a pint of locally brewed beer at a nearby public house.

Granville Island

• Taste locally made pastries, artisan breads, specialty cheeses and more at the Granville Island Public Market.
• Sample premium sake at the country’s first boutique sake winery.
• Throw back a pint of Alder Bay Honey Lager or Pelican Bay Brown Ale at Dockside Brewing Company.

West End

• Watch the sunset at English Bay Beach.
• Explore Davie Village, where you’ll find Vancouver’s thriving GLBT community.
• Browse unique boutiques, pet shops and jewelry stores.

Oakridge/Shaughnessy

• Spread out a picnic blanket in the beautiful Quarry Gardens at Queen Elizabeth Park.
• Explore a tropical oasis inside the glass-domed Bloedel Floral Conservatory.

Robson Street/Robson Square

• Window shop high-end designer boutiques like Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Chanel.
• Enjoy a cocktail (and a spectacular view) at Cloud 9 Revolving Restaurant & Lounge.
• During winter months, do some laps around the Robson Square Ice Rink.
• Order a JapaDog, Vancouver’s signature Asian-style hotdog.

Commercial Drive

• Browse eclectic record stores, vintage clothing boutiques, used bookstores, skate shops and more.
• Eat a scoop of authentic Italian gelato.
• Attend a Saturday morning Farmers’ Market at Trout Lake.

Kitsilano

• Join a game of volleyball on Kitsilano Beach.
• Relax at a sidewalk café with a specialty latte or cappuccino in hand.
• Take a dip in Kitsilano Pool, the city’s only heated saltwater pool.

Punjabi Market

• Fill up on Indian specialties at an inexpensive buffet.
• Shop for sparkly bangles and vibrantly coloured pashminas.
• Peek inside the Ross Street Sikh Temple, designed by renowned architect Arthur Erickson.
• Take home an exotic spice or new ingredient from an Indian grocery store.