Things To Do
in North Vancouver
North Vancouver sits on the north shore of Burrard Inlet, framed by ocean, forests and mountains. It blends easy access to downtown Vancouver with a rugged outdoor playground, from sea kayaking to alpine hikes. The waterfront communities along Lonsdale and the Shipyards offer shops, cafes and sweeping views of the city skyline.
With a mild, marine climate and year‑round outdoor options, it appeals to both urban explorers and nature lovers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic gondola ride up Grouse Mountain, where you can marvel at the breathtaking views of Vancouver. Once at the top, embark on a hike through the picturesque trails surrounded by lush forests. Don’t forget to visit the wildlife refuge to see grizzly bears in their natural habitat.
After a refreshing lunch at the mountaintop restaurant, enjoy some outdoor activities like zip-lining or the lumberjack show. Spend time taking in the panoramic vistas or relaxing on the patio with a hot beverage. Should you prefer a more leisurely afternoon, consider visiting the Grouse Mountain Skyride’s interpretation center to learn about the local ecosystem.
As the sun begins to set, wander through the twilight trails and soak up the vibrant colors of the sky. Dine at one of the nearby restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines while overlooking the city lights below. End the evening with a cozy chat next to the fire pit or a brief stargazing session.
Kick off your day with a visit to Lynn Canyon Park, starting with a peaceful walk along the trails surrounded by towering trees. Explore the suspension bridge that sways gently over the canyon, offering stunning views of the river below. Take some time to capture the beauty of the natural surroundings with your camera.
After exploring, enjoy a picnic lunch by the picturesque river or head to the café onsite for some local eats. Spend your afternoon discovering the serene waterfalls and pools that are perfect for a refreshing swim. Engage in some wildlife spotting as squirrels and various birds may be sharing the trails with you.
As evening falls, take a leisurely drive to Deep Cove, famous for its stunning waterfront scenery. Savor dinner at a local restaurant specializing in freshly caught seafood, while overlooking the serene waters of Indian Arm. Wrap up your day with a peaceful walk along the dock, reflecting on the beautiful sights you’ve experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏡One-bedroom apartment (North Vancouver) | $1,700-2,500/mo |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌Transit pass (monthly, TransLink) | $110-160 |
| 🛒Grocery basket for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and quick access to mountains and water
- Strong outdoor recreation options year-round
- Walkable waterfront districts with easy access to Vancouver
- Higher than average costs for housing and dining in the North Vancouver area
- Limited nightlife compared to downtown Vancouver
Places to Visit in North Vancouver
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic bridge set among towering evergreens; dramatic rainforests and canyon views provide standout photo opportunities year-round.
A quieter alternative to Capilano with a turquoise canyon, mossy rocks and lush forest framing photos.
Panoramic city and sea views from the summit; great for golden hour and winter snowscapes.
Sunset silhouettes over Burrard Inlet with the North Shore mountains in the background.
Industrial-chic waterfront shots with piers, boats, and mountain backdrops.
Broad vistas across the inlet and city lights, especially stunning in the winter and at sunrise.
Food in North Vancouver
North Vancouver Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salmon fillet cooked on a cedar plank with lemon butter and seasonal vegetables; a staple at many North Shore restaurants.
Must-Try!
Pasta tossed with sweet local spot prawns, garlic, olive oil and chili flakes for a light, coastal dish.
Crispy crab cakes with remoulade and a fresh greens side, often featuring locally caught crab.
Creamy risotto with forest mushrooms and parmesan, highlighting BC-grown fungi.
Pan-seared halibut served with locally sourced vegetables and a light beurre blanc.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A waterfront market offering fresh seafood, prepared foods, local produce and on-site eateries with ocean views.
Waterfront market area with casual dining options, breweries and food stalls; great for a relaxed meal after a stroll by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Canadians are typically polite and orderly; wait your turn in lines and speak with a friendly tone.
Do not feed bears or wildlife; store food securely and keep a safe distance on trails.
Keep voices down on public transit and in quiet spaces; leave no trash and respect posted rules.
Safety
Tipping in North Vancouver
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tipping 15-20% at restaurants is standard if service is good; tips are typically given in cash or added to the credit card bill; for coffee shops or quick-service, rounding up or small tips are appreciated for exceptional service.
Credit cards and debit are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; cash is still accepted at most places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, mild days with daytime highs typically in the low to mid-20s C; ocean breezes keep it comfortable. Expect outdoor events, hiking, and water activities; occasional showers can occur but sunny spells are common.
Pleasant hiking weather with cooler temperatures and turning foliage. Rain becomes more frequent; layers are key for changing conditions.
Mild by inland standards but wet and cool; higher elevations (Grouse Mountain, Cypress) receive snow for skiing. Bring waterproof gear and warm layers; daylight hours are shorter.
Milder temperatures with fresh greens and flowering plants. Rain remains common, so pack a compact rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
North Vancouver at Night
Hiking in North Vancouver
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular forest hike with waterfalls and a suspension bridge, suitable for families.
A range of alpine and ridge trails with sweeping views of the inlet and city.
A moderate 3.5 km round trip with rewarding inlet views.
Airports
How to reach North Vancouver by plane.
Major international gateway located in Richmond; easy connections to North Vancouver via public transit or car.
Seaplane base with short hops to nearby coastal destinations and downtown Vancouver; not a conventional passenger airport but convenient for certain trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong family presence with abundant parks, schools and safe residential neighborhoods.
Proximity to Vancouver supports a growing number of professionals in tech, arts and services.
Diverse communities with notable Asian and European backgrounds contributing to a multicultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extensive trail networks on the North Shore; Lynn Canyon, Grouse Mountain and surrounding areas attract hikers of all levels.
Grouse Mountain and Cypress Mountain offer winter slopes with panoramic views.
Calm waters around Deep Cove and Burrard Inlet are ideal for paddling.
Road and mountain biking routes showcase coastal and mountain scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting North Vancouver.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetables, mushroom dishes and plant-based bowls. Markets provide abundant fresh produce, and many kitchens can adapt classics to meat-free versions.