48 Hours in Vancouver- The Adventuring Millennial

While I lived in Seattle, I loved taking weekend trips to Vancouver.

Vancouver is filled with history, culture, and incredible cuisine. You can easily spend a weekend exploring this coastal city. This city constantly ranks as one of the most livable cities. So be careful when you visit, you might not want to go home.

So, if you are planning a trip to the ‘Couve, check out my 48 Hours in Vancouver Guide. Here you will find everything you need to know about this beautiful city. Ready? Let’s go…

48 Hours in Vancouver

Getting Here

If you are flying, you will likely fly into the Vancouver International Airport. This is only a short 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.

For anyone traveling from the States, you can drive or take a train. I’ve taken both to the city. If you are driving, be aware that you will cross an international border. And sometimes the traffic gets very backed up at the check-point. So be prepared to add an extra 30 minutes or more to your estimated drive time.

If you want to make more out of your 48 hours in Vancouver, consider taking the train. Ride the Amtrak Cascades Train for scenic views of the Pacific Northwest.

Where to Stay

For a romantic weekend, consider staying in one of Vancouver’s cute Bed and Breakfasts. You can stay on a quiet tree-lined street near the city center.

Or, opt for a more affordable option a little outside the city. I’ve stayed in a few Airbnb apartments in North Vancouver, near Capilano. This is a good option for budget travelers. And, this area is still close to some of the city’s main attractions.

Transportation in the City

Vancouver is a very walkable and drivable city. But, there are also a few different public transportation options.

You can use the Canada Line and Sky Rapid Transit for transportation between the airport and downtown. This also runs west-east from Waterfront Station to Burnaby and Coquitlam. Or, consider taking a bus. You just need to purchase a Compass Card and pay-as-you-go.

For more info on Vancouver’s public transportation, check out this in-depth guide from TripSavvy.

Good to Know

Ok, I know this is obvious but it’s still important. Vancouver is in Canada. So American visitors need to bring their passports to visit this city. You will also need to notify your bank that you are traveling out of the country. And make sure you convert some of your currency to Canadian dollars.

Also, French is spoken in parts of Canada. But, in British Columbia, you will mainly hear English.

Ok, now let’s get to the 48 hours in Vancouver itinerary!

Friday Night

Check out the Tickets Tonight Booth

Let’s start the night at the Tickets Tonight Booth. Here you can find discounted tickets for Broadway-style shows and comedy performances. See if they have anything that interests you. Last time I was in Vancouver, I bought discounted tickets for a Tinder-inspired comedy show at The Improv Centre.

This is located in the Tourism Vancouver building. It is close to Canada Place (where the cruise ships dock). From here, take a short 10-minute walk to Gastown.

Dinner & Drinks in Gastown

After you grab your show tickets, make your way to Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood.

In 1867, John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton opened the first tavern in this area. Today, this trendy area is filled with shopping and dining. The Victorian-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and gaslamps make this a charming area to explore.

Some of the best restaurants in this neighborhood are:

131 Water: This cozy bar features a great happy hour menu, pub fare, and board games. Enjoy a round of Trivial Pursuit while you sip on a Pimm’s Cup.

Tacomio: The place in Gastown for elevated Mexican street food.

Six Acres: Rustic gastropub with a large outdoor patio

Comedy Show

If you purchased tickets, make your way to the comedy show. The Improv Center is located on Granville Island. During the day, this area is very busy with locals and tourists shopping at the popular Granville Market. But at night, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a parking spot.

If you have extra time, grab a drink at the Granville Island Brewery.

Saturday

Breakfast at Jethro’s Fine Grub

Start your day with a Food Network favorite. This popular restaurant was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Jethro’s menu is filled with classic diner food, but you are here for the pancakes.

Go for the Grrrrrreat Cakes. The batter is made with berries and, you guessed it, Frosted Flakes. Or for a pick-me-up, order The Rooster. This batter is made with dark chocolate chips and a shot of espresso.

Late Morning in the Park

After breakfast, head north to Stanley Park. This expansive park is Vancouver’s Central Park. But it is so different from the NYC version.

This 1000-acre park is one of the world’s best urban parks. Here you will find green spaces, gardens, beaches, restaurants, and the seawall.

The seawall is a 5.5-mile paved path that outlines the entire park. Spend the morning enjoying the view of downtown Vancouver and Lions Gate Bridge. Keep an eye out for marine life (especially seals!).

You can enjoy a stroll or bike ride around the seawall. There are a few different bike rental companies close to the park.

Lunch in Richmond

Richmond is a little way out of the city, but it is well worth the drive.

Here you can enjoy a variety of authentic Chinese restaurants. Richmond has a large immigrant population and is known for its delicious Chinese cuisine. Follow the Dumpling Trail for an enjoyable afternoon filled with some of the best Asian food in the Pacific Northwest.

Walk Along the Suspension Bridge

Ok, we are now heading back to North Vancouver. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of the city’s most popular attractions. You can enjoy the beautiful Pacific Northwest scenery from the treetops. And tackle your fears as you cross the 450ft suspension bridge.

If you are visiting during the winter, this is an especially magical experience. The Canyon Lights illuminate the bridge from November-January. This offers great photo ops and extra holiday cheer.

Dinner At Nando’s

Ok, if you are still stuffed from Richmond I totally get it.

But if you are ready for dinner, check out my favorite chain. I know, we all love local food. But Nando’s is one of my favorite restaurants in the world. I first discovered it in London and I visit it in every city I can. Right now the only locations in the States are in Chicago and DC.

There are a few locations in the city (including one 10 minutes from the Suspension Bridge). Order some delicious peri peri chicken and you will soon understand why I am obsessed with this place.

Dessert Time

You really might be done. But if you are like me, you always want dessert on vacation (or anytime if we are being honest).

My recommendation is a waffle milkshake or foot long waffle from Off the Grid Waffles. Yum!

Sunday

Breakfast at 49th Parallel

Alright, I know we had a lot of food on the itinerary yesterday. But honestly, I am all about the eats. So we are starting the day with another cute restaurant.

This is one of my absolute favorite spots in the city. If I lived in Vancouver I would be here all the time.

49th Parallel Coffee Roasters serves delicious coffee in adorable light blue mugs. You can also enjoy some incredible pastries or Lucky’s Doughnuts (which are made on-site).

The line can get long but I promise it is worth the wait!

Afternoon Options

If you are spending the afternoon in Vancouver consider taking a walking tour or visiting Granville Island.

I love self-guided walking tours. These are a great way to explore a city at your own pace. This Frommer’s tour offers an informative walk through Gastown and Chinatown.

Or, spend the afternoon on Granville Island. You can explore the market and boutique shops. Enjoy a drink or late lunch at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Take an Aquabus ride for a unique city view.

Doughnuts to Go

On your way home, make a quick pit stop at Tim Hortons. This Canadian Dunkin’ is a staple on my Canadian itineraries. I always make sure to squeeze in a few chocolate Timbits.