Top 5 Things to do in Vancouver

Vancouver knows the key to my heart—seaside running trails, fresh berries and craft beer. The city is one of my favorite in the world. It’s right up there with Buenos Aires, Charleston and Luang Prabang in Laos.

For more on my Vancouver trip, check out my new travel column in The Denver Post today: http://dpo.st/1UaZtK9

Here’s my Vancouver Top 5:

Stanley Park
If you only visit one place in Vancouver, make it Stanley Park. It’s simply amazing. Even though I’m a runner, I loved biking along the stunning seawall and trails that lined the park. I found a shaded bench near the beach to update my travel journal, people watch and contemplate whether or not I should make Vancouver my new home.

 

 

Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge

Lynn Canyon is a great place to spend a morning. The highlight is a 50-meter high suspension bridge, which connects to the park’s scenic hiking trails. The best part is that it’s FREE. (Don’t confuse it with the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which is $ 37.95 CAD.) Go early to avoid the tour buses that arrive at midday.

 

 

Brewery Biking Tour
I am proud to say I survived a 20-mile brewery biking tour unscathed! (The tour was organized by friends of friends.) Rent a bike and design your own tour! It is a great way to explore the city, exercise and support local breweries. Powell Street’s Old Jalopy Pale Ale, Parallel 49’s Gypsy Tears and Red Truck’s Ale were a few of my favorite brews and venues. Strange Fellows is also a nice, new brewery with a sleek tap room.

Tip: Red Truck serves food so it’s a great place to end your trip! The guys at Powell Street can tell you how to get to a great Chinese bakery (New Town Bakery) where you can get the BEST steamed pork buns.

 

Granville Island Market
My two favorite times of year are summer and berry season. My first stop in Vancouver was the Granville Island Market. The aisles of the covered market were filled with fresh local apples, fish and veggies. And, every kind of berry you can imagine. I ate my weight in berries. 

 

Beaches
There’s no better place to be at sunset than a beach. Luckily, there’s plenty of options including Kitsilano and Jericho . Each one is filled with giant logs to sit on. Get there early to snag your own log seat!