The Visitor’s Guide to Downtown Vancouver

The downtown core is home to over 8,000 businesses so there’s no shortage of places to go and see. Here are the top spots for visitors in downtown Vancouver by category.

Restaurants

Nightingale

This popular restaurant serves modern Canadian fare & classic cocktails with fan favourites being their buttermilk fried chicken and large variety of pizzas.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 1017 W Hastings.

Kobe Steakhouse

This spot is known to have a party at every table, transforming dinner into performative arts. Many enjoy their Japanese steak and seafood along with a great selection of cocktails.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 1042 Alberni.

Miku

A Michelin Guide Recommended restaurant with a beautiful view of the Coal Harbour combines traditional Japanese flavours and techniques with local tastes.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 200 Granville (#70).

WA-Bagel

For freshly baked Japanese-style bagels, check out WA-Bagel as they offer a variety of classic and unique flavours, including everything bagels, ume bacon, matcha cheesecake, and more.

Find more information on their website  or visit them at 666 Burrard (Unit No. B09).

Italian Kitchen

Italian Kitchen, part of the Global Restaurant Group, is a stylish and contemporary Italian restaurant in Vancouver, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Serving great happy hour from 2:00 – 5:00 PM daily.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 860 Burrard.

Heritage Asian Eatery

A favourite among both locals and visitors, Heritage Asian Eatery offers a delicious selection of Chinese BBQ, dim sum, and expertly crafted cocktails. This vibrant and casual-dining gem is perfect for satisfying that craving.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 1108 W Pender.

Per Se Social Corner

Celebrate in style for every occasion with their handcrafted cocktails, tapas, and tasty main courses. Your new favourite happy hour spot from 2:00-5:00 PM every weekday.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 891 Homer.

Five Sails

Dine at this breathtaking restaurant along the waterfront for West Coast fare including fresh seafood and seasonal BC ingredients. Enjoy their award winning cuisine curated by the chef and culinary director, Alex Kim in a bright contemporary space.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 999 Canada Place.

 

Coffee Shops

Pallet Coffee Roasters

One of Vancouver’s favourite spots for seriously good coffee. Their selection of roasted beans, crafted espresso, and modern vibes makes it the perfect place to start your day or take a break.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 1115 Melville.

Parallel 49th

This cafe is a must-visit for coffee lovers and foodies alike. From bold espressos to tasty donuts, enjoy chill vibes and friendly baristas that make every visit feel like a treat.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 689 Thurlow.

Paris Baguette

Their seasonal offerings are crafted with care, blending classic flavours with a touch of creativity to create pastries and beverages that are both comforting and exciting like their mochi donuts. 

Find more information on their website or visit them at 1150 Alberni.

Breka Bakery & Café

Indulge any time of day with Breka Bakery & Café —a beloved Vancouver staple since 2006. Open 24/7 all year around, this spot offers freshly baked pastries, treats, and beverages.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 740 W Hastings.

Deville Coffee

This modern community-driven cafe has multiple locations in downtown Vancouver, servicing delicious coffees and baked goods. Great spot to grab a bite—morning, afternoon, or in between.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 325 Seymour.

FUNK. Coffee Bar

A stylish cafe by day and bar or event space by night. This space features high-top counters, cozy lounge seating, window bar stools, plus work alcoves with noise‑cancelling curtains—perfect for both meetings or focus time.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 1025 Dunsmuir.

 

Specialty Shops

Ricardo’s Ice Cream

With over 80 different types of ice cream for you to check out, this vibrant shop also offers rolled gelato, milkshakes, bubble tea, and premium Italian coffee. 

Find more information on their Instagram or visit them at 840 Granville.

Motoretta Gelato

Crafted with passion and the best of BC’s seasonal ingredients, their gelato blends bold, fresh tastes with silky-smooth textures that everyone will love.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 1001 W Cordova.

Mink Chocolates Cafe

Vancouver’s boutique haven for chocolate lovers! This award-winning gem crafts decadent, small-batch ganache bars and serves up dreamy chocolate drinks to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

Find more information on their website or visit them at 863 W Hastings.

Ricardo’s Kandy Korner

Step into candy lover’s paradise—Ricardo’s Kandy Korner is a family favourite that brings joy and creates sweet memories. They are known as BC’s biggest candy store, one worth checking out!

Find more information on their Instagram or visit them at 752 Granville.

 

Retail

Obsessions Gift Shop

Searching for the perfect gift? This unique boutique has design-led personal and home accessories with complementary engraving service for that heartfelt touch.

Find more information on their Instagram or visit them at 595 Howe (#101).

CF Pacific Centre

Check out the best shopping mall in downtown Vancouver with over 100 popular stores, restaurants, and services. With direct SkyTrain access, it’s effortlessly convenient for locals and visitors to enjoy.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 701 W Georgia.

Dipt Kicks (The Vancity Store)

Vancouver’s go-to for sneakers and streetwear—an exclusive blend of culture, community, and style. From fresh sneaker drops to Vancity Original clothing and accessories.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 819 Hornby.

 

Things to Do

Vancouver Mysteries

Vancouver Mysteries offers outdoor mystery games that are 100% unique outdoor adventure experiences, built in Vancouver for Vancouver. Solve a murder, complete a secret mission, or save the planet. They have three outdoor games fun for ages 12 and up plus a superheroes game for families with younger kids.

Find more information or book your mystery adventure on their website.

Vancouver Civic Theatres

Vancouver Civic Theatres is a vibrant network of historic and modern downtown venues. Providing people of all ages with access to an endless array of arts and entertainment productions, including concerts, theatre, classical music, opera and Broadway shows.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 649 Cambie.

Vancouver Lookout

Enjoy the view above downtown, the Vancouver Lookout offers a breathtaking 360° panorama—from Stanley Park and historic Gastown to the glittering North Shore mountains and harbour—via a thrilling glass elevator ride and engaging multimedia experiences.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 555 W Hastings.

FlyOver Canada

Located at Canada Place, FlyOver Canada is a breathtaking 4D flight-simulator adventure that lets you soar across the country—all in just 15-20 minutes. This is ideal for families, tourists, or anyone looking for a fun adventure.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 999 Canada Place (#201).

Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours

Find more information or book a tour on their website. 

The Rec Room

The vibrant 45,000 sq ft entertainment complex on Granville Street offers a multi-level playground of arcade games, augmented reality darts, axe-throwing, mini-golf, pool, and live entertainment—with many game experiences to enjoy.

Find more information on their website or visit them at 855 Granville.

Summer Movie Nights

Summer Movie Nights returns to šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (formerly known as the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza) for another incredible season from July 3 – August 14, 2025. This is a free outdoor movie event where movies are played on a 33-foot inflatable screen. Each night, activities kick off at 5 PM, featuring live music, performances, games, food trucks, and more, followed by the movie screening at sundown (around 9 PM).

Find the full movie line up and more information here.