Buy a Compass Card at YVR or Waterfront Station and register it online in case you misplace it. SkyTrain runs driverless, so the front seats offer panoramic views of the Fraser River when heading downtown.
Stanley Park and Seawall
Rent a bike on Denman Street, ride the seawall clockwise (one-way for cyclists) and budget two hours with photo stops. Beaver Lake is a quiet detour if you want forest immersion; pack a light rain shell regardless of forecast.
North Shore
Take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay, then bus 236 to Grouse Mountain. The Grouse Grind trail opens at 7:00 a.m.; hikers must download via gondola (CAD 20). For something gentler, head to Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge—free and less crowded than Capilano.
Food + Coffee
- Granville Island Public Market for seafood chowder—arrive before noon for seating.
- TurF in Kitsilano serves solid brunch with lots of outlets if you need to charge gear.
- Main Street breweries around 6th–8th Avenue (Brassneck, Main Street Brewing) are walkable between tastings.
If heavy rain hits, duck into the Museum of Anthropology (book timed tickets) or the Bloedel Conservatory. Keep bear spray or bells for deep hikes, and store scented items inside bear-proof lockers at trailheads.