While Vancouver proper is a large metropolitan city (British Columbia’s largest, in fact), it’s smack dab in the middle of incredible wilderness and amazing natural sights, including some of the world’s most pristine national parks. Needless to say, there’s no shortage of epic things to do in Vancouver, Canada! That’s exactly why it’s the perfect Canada trip for RV travelers. 

Whether you have just a single day or you’ll be in Vancouver for a week of your Canada trip, we’ve highlighted several of the best things to do. Don’t worry, we also included a few of Vancouver’s best RV campsites!

8 Things To Do in Vancouver Canada on an RV Trip

There’s no shortage of things to do in Vancouver for families and solo travelers alike. 

1. Harbour Centre Tower Lookout

Before doing anything else on your Vancouver, Canada trip, head up to the Harbour Centre Tower Lookout. The 550-foot-tall glass tower overlooks English Bay and offers 360-degree views of the entire Vancouver area, including downtown, the ocean, and the mountains. It’s a great place to very literally get the lay of the land and is spectacular day or night.

2. Stanley Park

Also set on English Bay, Stanley Park is one of the best things to do in Vancouver, Canada. It’s the city’s largest park, open year-round, and home to everything from sandy beaches to historic landmarks and the Vancouver Aquarium. The Seawall is one of Stanley Park’s most popular sites, a 17-mile pedestrian and cycling path between the convention center and Spanish Banks Park.

3. Get on the Water

Being that the city is almost completely surrounded by water, one of the best things to do in Vancouver, Canada is to explore it from there. You’ll find several companies along the waterfront offering watercraft rentals such as kayaks, paddleboards, or jet skis, as well as guided tours, so this is a wonderful choose-your-own-adventure addition to your Canada trip!

4. Go Whale-watching

Another great way to enjoy Vancouver’s natural beauty from the water is by going on a whale-watching tour. The waters in this area are home to multiple pods of Orcas (“killer” whales), both some that live near Vancouver year-round and some that linger during their annual migrations. There are many tour companies to choose from, and excursions are available both from Vancouver proper and Vancouver Island.

5. Capilano Suspension Bridge

Just a short drive from downtown, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is a must-see in Vancouver. The bridge sits 450 feet over the Capilano River, swaying slightly with the breeze. Crossing it gets your heart-pounding, but that’s just the beginning! The park is also home to a treetops adventure course and the labyrinth-like Cliffwalk through the rainforest, with numerous bridges and stairs.

6. Take the Scenic Route

There are so many jaw-dropping sights throughout B.C. and amazingly, many of them are viewable right from the road. Pick any of the scenic road trips that depart right from Vancouver and simply drive for as long as you’d like. You can turn back whenever you want, but make sure to allow plenty of time for roadside photo ops!

7. Gastown

Vibrant, bustling Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood and it’s been remarkably well-preserved with historic brick buildings and picturesque cobblestone streets. There’s no question that exploring its many restaurants, bars, shops, cafes, nightclubs, and live music venues is one of the best things to do in Vancouver, Canada! Don’t miss the famous whistling-steam clock, which releases its signature steam on the hour.

8. Take a Ferry to Vancouver Island

British Columbia’s capital city, historic and uber-charming Victoria on Vancouver Island, is just a scenic ferry ride from downtown Vancouver (you can even take your RV on the ferry!). There’s a ton to do in the highly walkable and bike-able city, so you could take a day trip or easily spend a weekend as a nice addition to your Canada trip. At the top of our list is strolling through Fisherman’s Wharf, watching all the action at the Inner Harbour, experiencing traditional high tea at the renowned Fairmont Empress Hotel, and checking out the B.C. Parliament buildings.

Best RV Campsites in Vancouver

• Langdale Heights RV Park - Near the ferry terminal and has a 9-hole golf course
• Eagle Wind RV Park - Gated park open year-round
• Fort Camping - Family-friendly park situated right on the Fraser River

“Cruise” Your Way Through Vancouver

With so many wonderfully varied things to do in Vancouver, Canada, one of the best ways to experience it all is from the comfort of a Cruise America RV rental. We have nearly 130 convenient rental locations in North America, including one near Vancouver, as well as several RV models to choose from to perfectly accommodate your group size. Whether you choose to stay within Vancouver itself or explore some of the nearby national parks or other attractions as part of a bigger Canada road trip, it’s never been more convenient to hit the road and explore!