The ultimate guide to spending a day in downtown Vancouver like a local

Vancouver is a beautiful city that’s full of endless adventure and possibilities. That’s especially true in the downtown area — it’s here where Vancouver comes alive, and the inspiration is near endless.

If you want to take in that energy like a true local, there are a couple of spots you should visit for an authentic experience.

Here’s your ultimate guide to a day in downtown Vancouver.

Brunch it up

What’s the perfect day without a little brunch? Vancouver is known for its impressive range of popular spots. From neighbourhood diners to upscale restaurants, you’re never too far from an Eggs Benedict.

Cafe Medina is the go-to for Mediterranean-inspired comfort dishes like cassoulet, paella, and fricassee. A visit is never complete without a rich golden Belgian waffle!

For a taste of French cuisine, check out the Sunday brunch from Notch8 at The Hotel Vancouver. Menu favourites include duck confit, chicken and waffles, and lobster Benedict.

Explore the true beauty of Vancouver

Now is the time to explore some of the city’s best sights, starting with a walk through Canada Place. Situated along the waterfront, you’ll take in the Salish Sea and beautiful views of the city. Try out the West Promenade trail to explore local art or snap a photo with the Olympic Cauldron from the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Keep the Vancouver discovery going with a trip to the Gastown neighbourhood, one of the city’s oldest. Known for its Victorian-era design, acclaimed restaurants, and quaint charm, it’s the perfect stop for an afternoon of exploration along the cobblestone streets.

Arts and culture time 

For a dose of local culture, a trip to the Vancouver Art Gallery is a must. Founded in 1931, the huge space features over 13,000 works, including paintings by Emily Carr and photo prints from Cindy Sherman. The Vancouver Art Gallery also hosts a collection of contemporary art from Asia and historical First Nations work from the region.

The Museum of Anthropology at UBC is another must-visit for Indigenous arts and culture. World-renowned for its exhibits and architecture, you’ll be in company with thousands of Northwest Coast Indigenous art pieces and artifacts.

Shop like a local

When it comes to downtown shopping, there’s only one place you need to check out: CF Pacific Centre. Right in the middle of the city’s flow, it’s basically the centre of it all in Vancouver.

Its unique mix of premium everyday brands like Holt Renfrew, Harry Rosen, and Lacoste, meaning shoppers have tons of options. Expect world-class style at the intersection of Vancouver’s fashion and urban energy.

Whether you’re looking for speciality stores like Diptyque and Dyson, designer retailers like Weekend Max Mara, or beauty and fragrance at Jo Malone, CF Pacific Centre hosts an impressive range of shops for whatever inspires you the most.

Besides its premium offerings, CF Pacific Centre is so much more than a place to shop. It’s also grown into a reliable social hub, where thousands pass through the doors each day. It’s a place to meet friends, grab a bite for lunch, or just to go for a stroll.

Experience the true essence of Vancouver with a trip to the CF Pacific Centre.