Planning a trip to Vancouver soon? Theres so much to explore in this amazing city that youll want to spend some time preparing what you want to see. You could spend a week here and still not run out of things to do or areas to explore! There are many vibrant neighborhoods that make up Vancouver and its surrounding areas. Weve put together a guide of things to do in the Kitsilano neighborhood in Vancouver.
Kits Beach
Kitsilano is known for its beaches. One of the most popular beaches in Vancouver is Kits Beach, which boasts plenty of activities for you to enjoy. Although you probably wont partake in the outdoor saltwater pool in the fall, you can still enjoy the tennis courts, basketball courts, playground, and grassy park portion of the beach. Think Canadas version of Venice Beach but nicer and more family-friendly. And even though the water may be too cold to get into this time of year, we definitely recommend a late afternoon picnic with blankets to catch the sunset and amazing view of the mountains.
Vanier Park in Kitsilano, Vancouver
Located in Kitsilano is one of Vancouvers most beloved parks – Vanier Park. Its located at the edge of the English Bay. It has a launching ramp for boats as well as a public marina. The park has open fields and tranquil ponds for you to enjoy anytime of year. It also boasts one of the most amazing views of downtown Vancouver. In the park youll also find the H.R. MacMilian Space Center and the Maritime Museum.
And if you happen to be an adrenaline junky? Theres a BMX bike park thats located in Vanier Park near the marina. It was Vancouvers first bike park and has dirt ramps, jumps, and gaps.
H.R. MacMilian Space Center
Located in Vanier Park in Kitsilano, The H.R. MacMillan Space Center is a museum of astronomy. It is a non-profit community attraction that features several interactive exhibits, including a flight simulator. The museum also has a few theatres, including a Planetarium Star Theatre where youll experience planets, meteor showers, black holes, and more. Theres also the GroundStar Theatre, where you can enjoy live science demonstrations. Theres also an observatory with a telescope where you can observe the Vancouver skies with staff nearby to answer your questions.
It is recommended that you book a time slot in advance. Tickets are $18 a person and their hours vary depending on the day.
For more information, check out their website!
Maritime Museum in Kitsilano, Vancouver
Another hidden gem located within Kitsilano in Vancouver is the Maritime Museum. Its been open for over 60 years and tells the histories of Pacific Northwest and the Arctic. While you are there, you wont want to miss the modern A-frame shelter called RCMP Vessel St. Roch, which is now a National Historic Site. The Maritime Museum has a number of permanent and rotating/featured exhibitions. Currently, it has the Wild & West Coast: Rum-Running During Prohibition and the Souls Ignited: Empowering the Voices of Our Ancestors featured exhibitions.
And if you visit before November 27, youll be able to see the We Were So Far Away: the Intuit Experience of Residential Schools, a traveling exhibition that explores the residential and school experience of the Intuit people.
Find out more information about the museum on their website!
Other Kitsilano Attractions
While in Kitsilano, make sure you take a visit to West 4th Avenue, the main street of this area. There youll find stores selling yoga wear, outdoor gear, and fashionable clothes. There are plenty of dining options as well, from vegetarian eateries to nice waterfront seafood spots. And don’t forget the bars where you can post up and enjoy the views! We hope you enjoy your time exploring Kitsilano during your Vancouver trip!