Category: Things to do

Have a Spooktacular Time in Vancouver

Are you ready for some spine-chilling fun? Vancouver has plenty of eerie attractions and events that will send shivers down your spine throughout October. Whether you’re a fan of haunted houses, ghost tours, or costume parties, this city has something for everyone. Get ready to have a spooktacular time in Vancouver!

CAPILANO SUSPENSION PARK – CANYON FRIGHTS

One of the must-visit attractions for thrill-seekers is the Capilano Suspension Park. Imagine walking on a suspension bridge high above the treetops, surrounded by the misty forest. During the Halloween season, the park transforms into a haunted wonderland called Canyon Frights, with spooky decorations and special events. Don’t miss the chance to experience the thrill of crossing the swaying suspension bridges while enjoying the Halloween-themed ambiance. Great for all ages and when you book your stay with Stay Vancouver Hotels, you can get free tickets to the attraction. Learn More.

FRIGHTS NIGHTS AT THE PNE

As if the rides at Playland and the PNE weren’t scary enough already . . . For an adrenaline-pumping experience, head to Fright Nights at the PNE. This annual event features haunted houses, thrilling rides, and live entertainment that will leave you screaming. This year’s event also features a revamped Carn-Evil experience! Intended only for those 13 and over, prepare to face your fears as you navigate through the terrifying mazes and encounter scary creatures. Fright Nights is not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for a good scare, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

THE VANCOUVER HORROR SHOW FILM FESTIVAL

Calling all horror film enthusiasts! Don’t miss The Vancouver Horror Show Film Festival, from October 13th to 15th—this thrilling event showcases the best and most terrifying horror films from around the world. Immerse yourself in a world of suspense, gore, and supernatural terror as you watch these spine-chilling movies on the big screen. From classic horror flicks to cutting-edge indie films, featuring 6 feature length films and 41 short films from around the world, this is a must-attend event for horror movie enthusiasts!

FLYOVER CANADA HALLOWEEN

Take a thrilling flight experience like no other at Flyover Canada at Halloween. This virtual flight ride takes you on a spooky journey across Canada, filled with ghostly encounters and supernatural surprises. Buckle up and prepare for a breathtaking adventure as you soar through the skies and witness the eerie landscapes of Canada during the Halloween season. Flyover Canada at Halloween is a unique and exhilarating experience that will leave you in awe. As an added bonus, if you’re booking with Stay Vancouver Hotels, you can receive two tickets to the attraction with a two night stay! Learn More.

Whether you’re crossing the swaying suspension bridges at Capilano Suspension Park, braving the terrifying mazes at Fright Nights, or immersing yourself in the world of horror at the Vancouver Horror Show Film Festival, you’re sure to have a spooktacular time. Get ready to be scared and have a hauntingly good time in Vancouver this Halloween! – book your trip to Vancouver today with StayVancouverHotels. We have 42 downtown Vancouver locations to choose from so guests can find the perfect accommodations to suit their travel needs. Book your stay today and experience the best of Vancouver’s events and festivals. Learn more.

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

6 Things to Do in Vancouver During Spring Break 2023

As they say, March roars in like a lion, and you will definitely hear the crowd roar at the annual Canada Sevens Tournament as the month kicks off.  Next, is what to do for spring break?  Thankfully, Vancouver is never short of activities and March 2023 is no exception. One of the glorious advantages of living on the West Coast is the ability to enjoy warm weather, while also hitting the slopes. Add to that incredible deals on downtown Vancouver accommodation and various other activities, there should be numerous answers to the dreaded spring break question!

1) CANADA SEVENS

The Canada Sevens rugby tournament is hosted at BC Place Stadium from March 3rd-5th, 2023. The event features 28 of the world’s top men’s and women’s sevens teams. The event has become well-known for its high-octane sports action, its costumes, colours, and general craziness. Book a 2-night hotel stay with stayvancouverhotels.com and receive 2 free tournament passes!  

2) HIT THE SLOPES AT GROUSE

1-2 night stays with stayvancouverhotels.com could also net you 1-2 free lift tickets for Grouse Mountain. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse features 4 chair lifts servicing 33 runs, and 3 freestyle terrain parks—truly a winter playground!

3) VANCOUVER AQUARIUM

Featuring over 60,000 aquatic creatures, from sea lions and otters to penguins and jellyfish, and everything under the water and in between, the Vancouver Aquarium is the perfect place to spend a day. A 4D experience theater immerses you in the action, while informative and entertaining exhibits and shows provide lots of great information about conservation and nature. Tickets are available on the aquarium website. 

4) STANLEY PARK

A 405-hectare sprawling landscape of pristine beauty nestled in the heart of the city leaves a lot of ground to explore at Stanley Park. 500,000 cedar, fir, and hemlock trees round out the park along with various other vegetation and wildlife. A pool, waterpark, miniature railway, and much more make Stanley Park a great place to visit for those looking to enjoy a slice of Canadiana on a budget. 

5) SCIENCE WORLD

Built in 1986, Science World in Vancouver is one of the most recognizable structures on the coast. The ‘ball’ is home to an OMNIMAX theater, interactive science displays, and activities for all ages. As Science World is primarily indoors, it’s a great place to visit on a rainy day. Learn more. 

6) VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY

Featured in numerous movies, there’s more to the Vancouver Public Library than just books (although it has those too). The coliseum-shaped building is an architectural marvel, featuring high ceilings and multiple floors. It’s always easy to find a quiet place and nestle down with a good book, or venture skywards and explore the rooftop garden. The library also runs several events and activities during spring break. Check out their website for details.

Hop into spring break with a solid plan and you’ll never be bored! And remember, if you book your stay with stayvancouverhotels.com you’ll receive the best prices on hotels, and have your choice of amazing promotional items including lift passes to Grouse Mountain, free tickets, and a variety of gift cards! Check all offers and promotions here.

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

Valentine’s Day, Laughter, Art, and That Sweet Sweet Powder

February always brings an unusual mix of events and things to do, mainly because we’re still sitting squarely in Winter, so the ski hills are very active, but Spring is starting to show signs of arriving here on the coast. It’s also the month to celebrate love AND also to celebrate laughter. If you’re looking for something to do in Vancouver, as a visitor or as a resident, here’s our handy guide to everything you need to know: 

HIT THE POWDER

Between Whistler, Seymour, Cypress, and Grouse Mountain, you’re never too far away from some of the best skiing in Canada. Slightly increased rainfall at this time of year means there’s more snow on the mountains and you can expect a steady fall of fresh powder to help you shred up those slopes. If you book your stay with stayvancouverhotels.com, you can even receive free lift tickets to Grouse Mountain until the end of March! Learn more.

LAUGH UNTIL IT HURTS

Throughout the month of February, Just for Laughs Vancouver brings some of the top comedians from around the world to our fair city to deliver their hilarious views on life, love, and everything in between. Taking place at various venues around the city, you can see top headliners such as Patton Oswalt, Sarah Silverman, and Margaret Cho. Tickets are available on the Just for Laughs Vancouver website. Learn more.

GET ARTSY WITH VMF

The VMF Winter Arts Festival takes place from February 16th-26th and transforms downtown Vancouver into an open-air gallery full of exhibits and entertainment. Live music, dance, music, food, drink, pop-up parties, and more can be expected from this third annual event that’s sure to light up Vancouver. The festival aims to highlight the culture and art of the diverse communities of our city and province, creating an inclusive event that celebrates the arts. More information can be found on the Winter Arts Festival website. Learn more.

HAPPILY DROWN IN HOT CHOCOLATE

The 13th annual hot chocolate festival comes to Vancouver! While it started back in January, it runs until February 14th and features artisan-created hot chocolate from 66 vendors at 95 different locations throughout Vancouver. Do you believe there’s only one type of hot chocolate? This festival plans to prove you wrong with 143 different flavors and styles of hot chocolate on offer. View the full list of locations. Learn more.

Celebrate love, hot chocolate, and amazing skiing and boarding in Vancouver this month. And while you’re at it, be sure to book your stay with stayvancouverhotels.com. Not only will you receive the best prices on hotels, but you’ll also have your choice of amazing promotional gifts including lift passes to Grouse Mountain, free tickets, and a variety of gift cards! Learn more.

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

The Dine Out Vancouver Festival and Other Culinary Adventures

It’s a new year and so why not try some new food? There’s no better opportunity than the Dine Out Vancouver Festival, taking place at the end of January. On top of that, eight Vancouver local restaurants just received their Michelin Star, and if none of that interests you, we even have a couple of unique dining experiences for you to try. Our recommendation—make sure you’re not hungry before you start reading this handy guide.

Dine Out Vancouver Festival

Dine Out Vancouver Festival has been in operation for over twenty years, and this year runs from January 20th to February 5th. The festival includes over “300 restaurants, wineries, craft breweries, suppliers, and more for a month of dining, food-forward virtual events, and experiences designed to give culinary enthusiasts the opportunity to taste the best flavours of the city.” Now considered to be Canada’s largest food and drink festival, the event offers fixed-price menu deals to encourage community involvement and ushers people to dine out during a season when restaurants are generally quieter. Been thinking of trying a restaurant, but haven’t pulled the trigger yet? Now’s your chance!

New Michelin Star Restaurants

Michelin has long been classed as the gold standard when it comes to gastronomic art, and Vancouver restaurants stand among the best in the world. At a Michelin evening gala event last October, eight restaurants were awarded the coveted Michelin Star, framing them as places for exceptional culinary experiences. The list of restaurants include: 

  • AnnaLena (contemporary)
  • Barbara (contemporary)
  • Burdock & Co (contemporary)
  • iDen & QuanJuDe Beijing Duck House (Chinese)
  • Kissa Tanto (Japanese-Italian fusion)
  • Masayoshi (Japanese)
  • Published on Main (contemporary)
  • St. Lawrence (Quebecois)

Be sure to visit one of these restaurants, and discover just what fine dining is all about!

Dine at the Dark Table

If you’re looking for something completely different in your dining experience, why not try a dinner reservation at the Dark Table? At this restaurant you’ll dine in complete darkness. The concept being that if your sight is removed, your other senses will be much stronger. You’ll choose your menu items when you arrive and then a blind or visually impaired server will guide you into the dining room and ensure you’re comfortable. Following that, you’ll be treated to a multi-course meal in the dark. It doesn’t get much more unique than that. Not recommended for messy eaters.

Eat at the Very Top of Vancouver

Finally, we want to highlight a Vancouver staple that’s still considered to be a unique dining experience despite it being around since 1977. Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant sits 553 feet above the city and completes a full rotation every hour. Diners are treated to beautiful views of Vancouver while enjoying a delicious meal at what’s considered to be one of the best restaurants in Vancouver. 

No matter your gastronomic preferences, be sure to try something different this month and take advantage of Vancouver’s culinary delights. Whether visiting or being a tourist in your own town, be sure to book your stay with stayvancouverhotels.com and receive amazing promotional gifts including free tickets and numerous gift cards to choose from!

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

Getting Cultured in Vancouver

Sometimes the best sort of entertainment comes in the form of education. Vancouver is a wealth of culture and history. From historic landmarks in gastown and beyond, to exhibits and shows that call Vancouver home, either temporarily or permanently. Whether you’re looking to admire beautiful art or get lost in an ancient civilization, Vancouver never fails to deliver, and that’s why it’s one of the best places to visit in Canada! Here are just a few cultural highlights happening in our beautiful city this November …

Beyond King Tut Immersive Experience

If you do absolutely nothing else this November, you should at least treat yourself to an experience that plants you straight in the middle of ancient Egypt—unlocking a story over three thousand years in the making. The Beyond King Tut Immersive Experience features nine distinct multi-sensory galleries that take you through the story of King Tut’s life and his death. Fun and informative for the whole family, the exhibit will be on display at the Vancouver Convention Center from November through to January. Learn more.

Science World

Possibly one of the most recognizable buildings in Vancouver, Science World has been a staple of the city for years. With its shiny golf ball-esque design, the center boasts a number of floors, rooms, and rotating exhibits to explore. You can learn first hand and hands-on about physics and biology while interacting with exhibits and machines that make learning fun for all ages. The current rotating exhibit is T-Rex: The Ultimate Predator and takes a look at the most famous dinosaur in the world. Learn more.

Museum of Vancouver

The Museum of Vancouver made some drastic changes in the past two years and now offers both in-person and virtual exhibits for all to enjoy. Many exhibits remain on permanent rotation, while others are switched out on a regular basis to provide variety and opportunity for visitors to learn about a wide range of cultural highlights and oddities in equal measure. Learn more.

Vancouver Art Gallery

Founded just under a hundred years ago, the Vancouver Art Gallery is a famous downtown landmark that has been featured in numerous documentaries and feature films thanks to its unique architecture. Its galleries and exhibits contribute to the Art Gallery being recognized as one of North America’s most respected and innovative visual arts institutions. If you’re looking for a true sense of creative culture, look no further. Learn more.

Season of Lights

Christmas is just around the corner and from the downtown core to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, you’ll find the season of lights begin to emerge as more and more business and landmarks get into the festive season and light up the nights. Learn more.

Soak up the culture that Vancouver has to offer and don’t forget to book with stayvancouverhotels.com in order to receive some awesome promotional gifts! Not only do we offer high quality accommodations for your stay but from November 4th, we’re also providing tickets to the Beyond King Tut Immersive Experience or gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, iTunes, and more. Learn more!

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

Trick or Treat and Eats

‘Tis the spooky season and there’s no better place to celebrate than Vancouver. Our beautiful city always gets in the festive spirit, no matter what the season. This year, there are numerous events that offer scares, food, drink, and more, all in equal measure. If you’re looking for something to do as a local or visiting the city from out of town, there’s lots to tingle your spine and taste buds this October . . .

HARVEST HAUS 

Before the scary stuff happens, why not embark on a cultural experience full of bier, bratwurst, and lederhosen? Harvest Haus returns to Vancouver this year from Sept 30th to Oct 31st at the PNE Forum. This authentic European harvest tradition with a modern flare hosts several fun events and highlights including local brewers, vintners, chefs, and entertainers galore. Enjoy new tastes plus all the Oktoberfest classics you already know and love. Tickets are limited, so purchasing early is recommended. Learn more.

PNE HALLOWEEN FRIGHT NIGHTS

After taking a covid break, Fright Night at Playland is returning in 2022. This spooky event that boasts you’ll “scream your face off” runs from October 7th to October 31st. Watch Playland turn into a carnival of horrors with night rides, a haunted mansion, Hollywood horrors, creepy clowns, a doll factory, and more! Check the website for admission days and rates and be prepared to scream.  Learn more. 

FORBIDDEN VANCOUVER WALKING TOURS 

If being chased through a carnival by clowns isn’t really your scene, you might want to consider a walking tour by Forbidden Vancouver. While many of the tours are steeped in history, The Lost Souls of Gastown Tour is a popular feature at Halloween. Detailing a gruesome history of Victorian Gastown full of murder and revenge, this unique theatrical performance is both educational and fun and a great way to spend an evening. Learn more.

HOWLOVER (FLYOVER) CANADA <LINK: 

Certainly more of an event for the kids, this magical adventure put on by Flyover Canada has you soaring through the skies on a magical adventure to a spooky music festival alongside some interesting characters. The event runs from September 27th to October 31st so get your tickets and head out for a fun ride! If you book with stayvancouverhotels.com before October 31st, you could also receive 2 free tickets to Flyover Canada! Learn more. 

Whether you’re eating and drinking at Oktoberfest, running from scary clowns at Playland, or enjoying a spooky journey through Vancouver, be sure to book with stayvancouverhotels.com in order to receive some awesome incentives! Not only do we offer high-quality accommodations for your stay, we also provide exclusive offers on bike rentals, tickets to the Egyptian exhibit and Flyover Canada, or gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, and iTunes. Learn more!

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

Celebrate the last days of summer with these 5 craft breweries in Vancouver

As summer begins to wind down and we enjoy the last days of the season, there’s a lot of opportunity to take advantage of some of Vancouver’s brewmasters. The craft beer scene in Vancouver has been growing steadily over the last several years, with more and more options available for those wanting to sample unique offerings and explore the length and breadth of IPAs, sours, dark beers, and more. 

We’ve compiled a list of some of the best craft brewery experiences in or close to downtown Vancouver. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor in this amazing city and you’re a lover of excellent beer, you’ll want to visit every location on this list. 

GRANVILLE ISLAND BREWING

Opened in 1984, Granville Island Brewing is Canada’s first microbrewery. Their innovation in the field of craft beer has been recognized nationally and internationally and they specialize in providing premium beer alongside limited-release small batches. You can find their beer in most liquor stores, but if you’re looking for a special treat, they offer special one-off brews available only in their taproom. 

STANLEY PARK BREWING

Inspired by the park itself, Stanley Park Brewing’s beers are all inspired by the experience of being in the park. Whether it’s a wind storm, a sunset, or spending time in the forest, the beers are meant to be “explored and savored.” 

YALETOWN BREWING COMPANY

Located in the trendy Yaletown district of Vancouver, Yaletown Brewing was originally founded in 1994. Initially framed as a friendly neighborhood pub, the brand has evolved into one that’s well known for its superb beer offerings and an inspired menu that’s both innovative and delicious. It has been voted Best Brew Pub in Canada on several occasions and boasts as “a welcoming gathering place whether you arrived dressed in a suit or flip-flops.”

STRATHCONA BEER COMPANY

One of the newer breweries in Vancouver, Strathcona is quickly making a name for themselves on the craft beer scene. They specialize in a modern traditional beer and supplement it by serving fresh made in-house Neapolitan-style pizza. Started by a group of friends with a serious appreciation for beer, Strathcona embraces a funky modern vibe centered around interests such as art, music, and skateboarding.

STEAMWORKS BREWING

The first to use a traditional steam-powered brewing method in Canada, Steamworks Brewing featured 20 rotating taps throughout the year, including specially brewed seasonal flavors. Located in Burnaby, their brew pub also offers delectable food offerings that pair perfectly with their craft beer options. 

Remember to drink responsibly when visiting these breweries. There’s a number of brewery tours you can also hop on so everyone can enjoy the experience and not worry about driving.  If you’re a visitor to Vancouver, be sure to book with stayvancouverhotels.com in order to receive some amazing deals! We offer high quality accommodations for your stay and in addition provide exclusive offers on bike rentals, tickets to the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Egyptian exhibit, or gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, iTunes, and shopping. Learn more!

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

Vancouver Exhibitions, Markets, and More!

Vancouver is home to all sorts of attractions and delights, from world-class restaurants to internationally acclaimed concerts, to festivals, exhibitions, markets, and more—Vancouver is eternally a hotbed of activity for all to enjoy. Throughout the summer and, in particular, coming up in August, there’s lots to feast your appetite when it comes to outdoor events. Here’s our recommendations for some of the best things to do in August in Vancouver . . .

THE PACIFIC NATIONAL EXHIBITION (PNE)

Since 1910, the PNE has entertained millions of guests providing exhibits, shows, concerts, the annual summer fair, cultural experiences, and more. The PNE will arrive on August 20th this year and run through until September 5th. As always, the fair will take place at their location on Hastings, next to Playland so visitors can enjoy all the thrilling rides and take in the fair in one glorious location.

Hailed as the longest running and best attended annual ticketed event in BC, the PNE has hosted historic acts, including the Beatles, and continues to entertain every single year and this year is no exception. This year’s concert series includes The Barenaked Ladies, Blue Rodeo, Cake, and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Visit the PNE for some of the best entertainment in Vancouver—fun for the entire family.

GRANVILLE ISLAND MARKET

In operation since 1979, the Granville Island indoor market is home to around fifty merchants and is a massive draw for tourists and locals alike. The mix of vendors changes every week, offering a wide range of diverse selections when it comes to boutique shopping and tantalizing food offerings. The market is open seven days a week from 9am to 6pm and the indoor venue means it’s a great place to visit no matter the weather. The waterfront area outside the market has picnic tables and the surrounding area boasts art galleries and unique shopping experiences aplenty. 

DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET

Formerly known as the Yaletown Farmers Market, the Downtown Farmers Market takes place on Wednesday afternoons from 2pm-6pm in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery on Hornby Street and runs until October 5th. Here you’ll discover fresh fruits and vegetables, plus vendors selling art, toys, clothing, gifts, crafts, and more, all accompanied by live music. 

RICHMOND NIGHT MARKET

Modeled after Asian night markets, the Richmond Night Market is the largest of its kind in North America. The food vendors alone are enough to warrant a visit, but you’d better bring an appetite. Food is cooked fresh in front of you and the air is filled with delectable smells of crab meat noodles, brazilian pastries, sausage, ice cream, ramen, and more. There are over 70 food stalls and over 100 retails stalls, plus live music and entertainment at the main stage and carnival stalls for everyone to enjoy.

NORTH VANCOUVER SHIPYARDS

The shipyard district in North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale is a functioning shipyard, but also plays host to boutique shopping, specialty food, galleries, restaurants, antique stores, and more. Steeped in history and full of shopping excursion possibilities, The Shipyard truly captures the spirit of Vancouver’s North Shore.

With the markets providing so many shopping and dining options, there’s simply no shortage of possibilities when you visit Vancouver. When you do visit, make sure you book with stayvancouverhotels.com for all the best deals in the city! We offer amazing accommodations for your stay and provide exclusive offers including bike rentals, tickets to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, iTunes, and shopping. Learn more!

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Vancouver Takes Entertainment Outdoors

July in Vancouver is crammed full of amazing outdoor activities and events that are fun for all ages! If you’re a Vancouver resident or traveling to our magnificent city this month, you’ll find there’s more than enough to occupy your time. The arts and entertainment scene comes alive in the early summer on the west coast and visitors can revel in everything from outdoor cinematic experiences to world-class fireworks displays. Here’s a look at several different entertaining ways to spend your time throughout the month of July: 

Feature Movies in the Park Stanley Park

The annual Summer Cinema event at Stanley park is returning in 2022 with movie screenings taking place every Tuesday (weather permitting) after sunset. As in past years, the public gets to vote on what movies they’d like to see. This annual series invites visitors to bring their own chair or blanket and enjoy a free outdoor movie experience. No tickets or reservations required. Those wishing to attend are asked to show up at the Grand Lawn at Ceperley Meadow in the park (near Second Beach). The space can accommodate up to 5,000 people. Anyone wanting to make it an extra special experience can purchase a general admission ticket to the VIP seating area at the front of the lawn. The movies for July include The Lion King, Zoolander, Jurassic Park, and Top Gun. 

Downtown Vancouver BIA Summer Movie Nights and Activations

If an outdoor movie in the park isn’t your scene, then you could always stay closer to the city and take in the Summer Movie Night series outside the šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square

(formerly known as the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza) located on Hornby Street. From July 7th to August 18th, you can check out amazing activations from 4pm followed by an outdoor movie screening at 9pm. The activations this year include hula-hooping, drum circles, choirs, music, and more. On Thursday July 28th, there will be a special Pride takeover with drag performances and music by DJ Black Cat. Food trucks are also on-site and attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating. The movies for July include Mean Girls, Jumanji, Spiderman: No Way Home, and Moulin Rouge.

Bard on the Beach at Vanier Park 

What light through yonder window breaks? If you’re into live performance and passionate about Shakespeare, you have to take in a performance of Bard on the Beach at Sen̓ákw/Vanier Park. Performances run through until September and take place in two modern performance tents against a spectacular backdrop of mountains, sea and sky. Get whisked away into the magical worlds of the bard with this year’s theatrical performances of Romeo & Juliet and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Tickets are available from the Bard on the Beach website and the site also offers additional activities and educational opportunities offered throughout the season. 

Celebration of Lights

On July 27th, the Honda Celebration of Light returns to Vancouver. You think you may have seen a fireworks display, but you’ve seen nothing until you’ve seen the Celebration of Light. Taking place at English Bay, this fireworks show accompanied by music that’s streamed across the bay and numerous outdoor seating lounges are sure to delight as the sky is lit up in spectacular fashion. You can either view the program from various locations around Vancouver (it’s highly visible) or purchase tickets and enjoy a seating in one of the lounges. Learn more.

Patio Vancouver

In 2021, the City of Vancouver approved special permits to expand patios throughout the city of Vancouver making it easier to be social outdoors and come together with friends and family to enjoy all the eats and treats Vancouver has to offer. This year, Patio Vancouver has launched a fun and interactive campaign to get residents and visitors alike to experience more than 400 patios in and around the city. Simply check out the Patio Map and start exploring!

No matter whether you’re heading into town for business, pleasure, or both, be sure to book with stayvancouverhotels.com for the absolute best deals in town! Not only do we offer great places to stay, but we provide exclusive offers including bike rentals, event tickets, and gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, iTunes, and shopping. Until the end of July, you can even pick up a $75 GC to spend on shopping at the CF Pacific Centre. Learn more.

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It’s Wine O’Clock in Vancouver This May

May 2022 events in Vancouver cater to a number of different types of people: those that love to run, those that love to cruise, and those that appreciate a fine glass of chardonnay. No matter which category you fall into, there’s always something for everyone happening in Western Canada’s most popular travel destination. 

THE VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL WINE FESTIVAL

Happening May 16th-22nd, Canada’s premier food and wine event aims to provide an informative, educational, and entertaining experience for all. The festival has a long rich history having run for 43 years, it’s one of the biggest and oldest wine events in the entire world. There are numerous events tied to the festival including seminars, vintage tastings, winery dinners, lunches, wine minglers, beach parties, brunches, and more. 

The central component of the festival is the Tasting Room located at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Here the public can tantalize their taste buds choosing from over 750 wines at four individual International Festival Tastings. An additional 45 special events in and around Vancouver that include everything from social minglers to gala dinners feature another combined 550 different wines. If you love wine, then the Vancouver International Wine Festival should be your own slice of heaven. Receive a free festival ticket when you book your accommodations through Stay Vancouver Hotels. Learn more. 

THE BMO VANCOUVER MARATHON  

If running long distances alongside other adventurous athletes is your idea of a good time, then the BMO Vancouver Marathon is the place to be. Recognized by Forbes, CNN, and USA Today as one of the top destination running events in the world, the Vancouver Marathon is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year!

Taking place on Sunday May 1st, the marathon offers 8km, half-marathon, and full marathon options. Runners can experience the sites of Vancouver as they run across parks, beaches, and the picturesque Vancouver Seawall. Registration is now open with in-person and virtual racing options available.  Learn more.

CRUISE SEASON LAUNCH

The 2022 cruise season has officially launched! After a long two years of prohibiting cruise ships in Canadian waters as a direct response to COVID-19, the prohibition was officially lifted in November 2021. As per tradition, the cruise season officially launched last month when the Holland America Line ship, Koningsdam docked at the Canada Place cruise terminal at the Port of Vancouver. This year, approximately 300 cruise ships are expected to call at the Port of Vancouver. If you are taking a cruise from Vancouver there are special discounts available to you by simply showing your boarding pass with various retailers, restaurants and attractions see offers here.

Whether it’s your final destination, or you’re departing from Vancouver, be sure to stop a while and see the sites and events that make up this amazing city. Receive gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, or iTunes, receive a flight voucher, or grab an exclusive ticket to this year’s wine festival. Learn more. 

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann