Top Vancouver Attraction Reopens

While there are countless Vancouver attractions to spend this $75 Vancouver Attractions Voucher on, we’re thrilled to be adding one more to the list: The Vancouver Aquarium 

The largest marine rescue facility in Western Canada, the Aquarium closed its doors to the public in early 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. While the attractions were shut down, the facility was able to sustain its heroic operations thanks to the help of benefactor Herschend Enterprises, who purchased the aquarium in April 2021. The new owners have helped provide resources and much-needed upgrades to what was Canada’s first official aquarium, returning it to its previous splendor.

If you haven’t had a chance to check out their aquatic residents on the live steam this past year—or even if you have—there is a lot of cuteness in store because the doors might have been closed, but the rescues never stopped!

New attractions at the aquarium include an interactive 4D theatre experience and a marine mammal rescue exhibit. Take a look at what you can expect to see on a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium in 2021:

VANAQUA MOMENTS: RESCUE STORIES

Every year, the aquarium’s Marine Mammal Rescue Centre rescues, rehabilitates, and releases more than 150 marine mammals to the ocean. You can learn more about these stories throughout the aquarium and meet the six rescued sea otters that call Vancouver Aquarium home.

THE 4D THEATRE EXPERIENCE

Enjoy a larger than life multi-sensory immersion that takes you to the depths of the oceans with the 4D Theatre Experience allowing you to see, hear, smell, and feel this cinematic adventure. Now showing Octopus: Blue Planet II 4D Experience®

PENGUIN POINT

Get up close with South African penguins, learn about the threat to their species, and how they’re one of the few species of penguin that live in a warmer climate. Watch as they waddle on the rockwork and swim in their habitat tank.

GRAHAM AMAZON GALLERY

This interactive exhibit features a re-creation of South America’s tropical rainforest. You can truly feel the heat and humidity as you walk through and be sure to keep an eye out for scarlet ibises in the branches, see if you can find the well-camouflaged sloths, and experience an indoor thunderstorm.

STELLER’S BAY

Experience the underwater world of Steller sea lions as they glide through their aquatic home. This exhibit features an active research station, bringing behind-the-scenes research to the forefront, and highlighting the role that sea lions play in the wild.

WET LAB

Welcome to the undersea classroom where you can actually touch the oceanic world. This interactive learning centre gives you the chance to explore and learn about the world of invertebrates including crabs, sea anemones, jellies, sea stars, sea urchins, sea cucumbers and shrimps.

THE TROPICS

The Tropics gallery showcases coral reefs, mangrove forests, rivers, and lakes near the equator. You’ll see pink, blue, and yellow fish, alongside swarms of jellyfish, a tropical green sea turtle, and even sharks.

And this is just a sampling of the attractions on offer at the newly reopened Vancouver Aquarium. Be sure to stop by, take in the sights, and create a connection with oceanic life in a uniquely immersive and interactive way. Don’t forget to take advantage of this $50- $75 Voucher when you visit the Aquarium or any Vancouver Attraction before October 31.

The Restart Plan: What Step 3 Means for BC

After enjoying a month of movie theaters, birthday parties, BBQs, block parties, and any other personal configuration of an outdoor gathering with up to 50 people, it already feels like life is back to normal, however as of July 1, British Columbia is rolling out its most exciting section of the plan yet: Phase 3.

What Does Phase 3 of the BC Restart Plan Mean in Vancouver?

Personal Gatherings

Source: cp24.com

Above all else, it means a full return to usual for indoor and outdoor personal gatherings with merely a strict community request to of course still stay home and get tested if you feel ill, and to wear your mask in public settings. It sounds as though it is not required at this time, however, encouraged where you are able for the sake of the whole community’s progress. 

Organized Gatherings

Source: PNE.ca

Any organized events will run at increased capacity both indoors and outdoors, with COVID-19 Safety Plans in place, and this includes fairs and festivals!

While larger-scale parties and some concert events such as BC’s famed Rockin’ River will remain on hold, Playland has already extended their hours to be open on weekends! With this exciting new increase of traffic, early booking is still recommended. 

Travel 

Perhaps the most exciting category – or at least for those of us giving away daily deals at 39 downtown Vancouver hotels and attractions- Canada-wide recreational travel is back! And now has never been a better time to explore our one-of-a-kind Pacific Northwestern City.

Great deals on downtown hotel stays, restaurants, Vancouver attractions (such as Science World, the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Wings, and Wizards) can all be found here. 

Sports and Exercise

source: www.Unsplash.com/CarlosBlanco

While we think it is fantastic that our local fitness facilities are once again allowed to host classes at their standard capacity, for those fitness fanatics who would rather enjoy the heat, or are not yet quite ready to take this indoor leap, be sure to keep an eye on the Daily 2021 Stanley Park Events Calendar, as well as specials such as this Cycle Vancouver promotion. For those of you coming from out of town, as noted above, we even have a few great deals on 39 downtown Vancouver hotels that host absolutely incredible, near private fitness facilities. 

What else is happening?

Let’s all not leave our favourite phase 1 past-time in the dust! There are still hundreds of downtown Vancouver patios to hop. Easily support our local Vancouver patios past, present, and future this summer when following this amazing patio map created by @patiovancouver! Featuring over 400 patios, you will not only enjoy an amazing meal but also can vote for your favorites and even win daily and weekly prizes!

9 Downtown Vancouver Hotels with Onsite Restaurants (Open January 2021)

It’s been a tough year to find a change of scenery with a lot of places being closed but there couldn’t be a better time for dinner out with your family (or even just your work laptop) in Downtown Vancouver. 

We’ve put together a list of a few great spots that are open and happy to host your dinner or even staycation.

BONUS if you do decide to stay downtown, we’ll include a promo code for 1-2 days Grouse Mountain winter passes. Details at the end of this post!

On-Site Fine Dining

Hydra Vancouver Restaurant

 

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Hydra Estiatorio Mediterranean is located in the Exchange Hotel Vancouver.

“A beautiful restaurant whose name comes from the culinary hotspot in the Aegean Sea, the chef-driven Hydra Estiatorio Mediterranean & Bar is an up-market dining destination that goes far above and beyond your typical taverna.” (source: The Exchange Hotel)

Bacchus Restaurant

 

Home to one of the most promising young chefs in Canada: Montgomery Lau Bacchus Restaurant is located in the Wedgewood Hotel and is the place to enjoy afternoon tea, a private event in “the Library” or an evening immersed in luxury and Venetian decor.

Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar

Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar at The Sutton Place is home to Iron Chef Champion (2019) Chef Alex Chen and Chef Roger Ma. The Culinary geniuses and their team have been recognized for an unparalleled fine dining experience. 

Claiming the 31st spot in the top 100 most prestigious restaurants in Canada might be impressive enough for some, however with too many awards to list you can read the full list here

Frankie’s Italian Kitchen & Bar

Frankie’s Italian Kitchen & Bar at Georgian Court Hotel provides one of the very best Italian dining experiences in all of Vancouver. “Named after the owner’s grandfather, Francesco Raffaele Aiello, a meal at Frankie’s is a true Italian experience – blending family, food, and friends.” (Source: The Georgian Court Hotel)

Fun and Casual Hotel

The Living Room Restaurant

 

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Located in the Hotel Belmont is this self-styled “delightfully uncommon” spot which features arcade games, and every meal between your morning coffee, to happy hour and late-night snacks. 

Moxies Restaurant

 

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This national favourite is located at both the Sandman Suites Vancouver – Davie Street and Sandman Hotel Vancouver city center locations. Visit any location to enjoy a classy and casual (always allergy-friendly!) Moxies dinner. 

Photo courtesy of Shark Club https://www.sharkclub.com/location/vancouver/

Shark Club Sports Bar

 

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Shark Club Sports bar located at the Sandman Hotel Vancouver City Centre is the perfect spot for sports fans. Sports fans can stay at the Sandman Hotel Vancouver city center to catch a game at the bar while enjoying a bite of their signature cuisine and other exceptional sports classics.

Bar One and Cafe One

 

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After your continental breakfast come to choose from The Sheraton Wall Centre’s Cafe One or return again later for craft beers, single malt scotches, and small plate snacks while enjoying the beautiful atmosphere until midnight. 

BONUS: An amazing on-site restaurant experience is not the only two for one perk in Downtown Vancouver! Book using promo code “GrouseMtn” when booking before March 31, 2021 to make sure the fun continues with 1-2 FREE Winter Snow Lift Tickets 

Northern Lights in Vancouver

In addition to the gorgeous, interactive art tradition: Lumiere, lighting up Downtown Vancouver this November 5 – 30, 2020, our city’s very own BC Place will also be brightening lives this month with the stadium’s Northern Lights Display!

Photo Courtesy of  LumiereYVR/Instagram

In the following article, originally posted on BC Place.com, the stadium is honoured to be able to help bring awareness to events, charities and non-profit causes that are important to communities in British Columbia.

Here are the stadium’s lighting initiatives for November:

November 1st – Green and purple for LGS Awareness Day

November 2nd – Orange for CRPS/RDS Awareness

November 3rd – White for Lung Cancer Awareness Month

November 4th – Green for Show Your 4-H Colours Day

November 5th – Teal for the ‘Light the World in Teal’ campaign

November 6th – Lime green for Adoption Awareness Month

November 7th – Red for Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month

November 8th – Purple for Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month

November 9th – Moustache design for Movember

November 10th – Teal for Cervical Cancer Awareness

November 11th – Poppy design for Remembrance Day

November 12th – Blue for World Pneumonia Day

November 13th – Blue in advance of World Diabetes Day on November 14th

November 14th – Rainbow animation for Diwali

November 15th – Rainbow for Multiculturalism Week in British Columbia

November 16th – Blue and gold for the Covenant House ‘Sleep Out’ event

November 17th – Purple for World Prematurity Day

November 18th – Light blue in advance of National Child Day on November 20th

November 19th – Special animation for the St. Paul’s ‘Lights of Hope’ celebration

November 20th – Blue, pink and white for Transgender Day of Remembrance

November 21st – Purple for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

November 22nd – Blue for National Addictions Awareness Day

November 23rd – Blue and green for Fall Prevention Month

November 24th – Purple for Osteoporosis Awareness Month

November 25th – Orange for the ‘Orange the World’ campaign

November 26th – Purple for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

November 27th – Northern Lights Animation

November 28th – Snowfall Animation

November 29th – Red for The Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign

November 30th – Blue for Stomach Cancer Awareness Day

In addition to these lighting initiatives, the stadium will continue to light up with a heart animation at the top of each hour (between 7pm and 11pm) for 5 minutes every night to show support for health care professionals across the province who are working tirelessly to support our communities through the COVID-19 pandemic.

This article was originally published on BCPlace.com To learn more or to submit a lighting request, visit BC Place’s Northern Lights Display page.

Things To Do October 2020 | Hallowe’en 2020 Vancouver

Hallowe’en 2020 falls on a Blue Moon. That’s right Downtown Vancouver, it’s more than just an expression. A blue moon is the second full moon in a calendar month, and this isn’t the only reason Hallowe’en 2020 is special. This year will occur on a:

  • Blue moon: The next blue moon will be 2023
  • Saturday: The next time Saturday Halloween will be in 2026
  • Full moon: The next full moon on Halloween will be 2039
  • Plus there is that whole pandemic spook factor… (we’ll just hope that will recur approximately never.)

With all those spooktacular factors aligning on the very year, we all could use an extra excuse for some light-hearted and distracting fun this Haunted Season, it begs the question: Is there a safe way to celebrate this tradition in 2020?

Luckily for us, safe Hallowe’en fun in Downtown Vancouver occurs far more frequently than an average blue moon.

Gastown Ghost Tour 

Photo courtesy of Gastown Ghost Walking Tour

Craving some ghoulish fun? From the Great Fire in 1886 and unsolved murders to the chilling tales of George Vancouver and Gaoler’s Mews,  this Gastown walking tour takes you to the heart of Vancouver’s paranormal activity… Do you dare to learn more?

 

The Forbidden Downtown & Chinatown

Photo courtesy of Prohibition City Walking Tour

Few may remember how far north prohibition spread, but the gangstersspeakeasies and bootleggers from Vancouver’s rum-running past have yet to be forgotten – if you know where to look that is…learn more

Dark Secrets of Stanley Park

 

October Halloween 2020 vancouver
Photo Courtesy of Forbidden Vancouver

Think you know Stanley Park? Are you familiar with the Hidden Cemeteries, Historic Totem Poles, Notorious Crime Scenes, Legends of Ancient Wars, Deadman’s Island, and something strange beneath the seawall? 

Learn when you can tour all the dark secrets of Stanley Park here.

 

Slayland by Playland

Photo courtesy of PNE.ca

While the haunted houses won’t be open, complimentary masks will be limited, rides will be open and Playland will make sure all your screams come true…learn more.

 

 

Trick-or-Treating is Approved Province Wide

Photo Courtesy of Hocus Pocus

For most of the province, our worst fears were settled when Dr. Bonnie Henry declared that, provided certain guidelines are followed, trick or treating will still be safe to proceed this year.

Early instructions include: 

? Pre-packaging treats

? Keeping groups smaller than 5-6

? Encouraging masks (a happy coincidence) 

?Handing out candy in single file lines (perhaps from a cauldron spoon for good measure?)

 

Do you have a Vancouver event or attraction to share? Let us know for a chance to be featured.

Let’s Get Digital! Vancouver Virtual Events

Welcome to our Virtual Vancouver

Remember when you would rather stay in or play host rather than go out? In this age of social distancing, many are finding Skype and Netflix parties are keeping us more social than ever — however with that same old twist: the venue (and for some of us — the wardrobe) never changes; however in ever-innovative Downtown Vancouver Style  that hasn’t stopped these Vancouver based virtual social events from helping us stay connected!

Know of a virtual event you’d like to share? We want to hear from you! We’re all in this together, and we look forward to sharing your local events, or sending a shout out to businesses who have taken steps to innovate entirely and support their customers virtually. — so reach out to us in the form below, on any of our social channels, or simply #StayVancouverHotels to get our attention.

What’s Happening in our Virtual Vancouver?

Courtesy of Downtown Vancouver BIA (Facebook)

Missing the hustle and bustle of Downtown? Downtown Vancouver BIA is proud to present Part 1 of “Downtown Sounds”, easy listening to virtually showcase the buskers and musicians we work with in our placemaking & public space programs. Listen, support, and follow the new playlists, launching every Thursday. Learn More at  www.dtvan.ca

The Workout for Fitness Haters . Local actor and Instagram sensation Jason Sakaki is known for recently livestreaming his one-man production of Les Miserables. Advertised as a “workout/dance class for people who do not like to workout/dance”, make space for big moves and expect a lot of lighthearted fun! Learn more via Instagram

To be or not to be quarantined? Brought to you by the cheeky students of SFU’s School for Contemporary Arts, watch the online recreation of the iconic Shakespeare play.Learn more at sfu.ca

Dancing should be fun. Keep your feet moving and heart pumping in an energizing follow-the-leader style fitness class. You will dance to some of today’s hottest music and leave sweaty and energized. Follow the leader (Jared Byrne) style cardio dance in a sweaty dance party that you can have at home. Expect big queen energy pop hits from Beyonce and Lady Gaga. Learn more at popqueencardio.com 

Courtesy of @popqueencardio Instagram

Capture Photo Fest. Held every April, Capture is a photography and lens-based art exhibition in galleries and public spaces. Based in Metro Vancouver, you can browse the digital catalog from submissions all around the world and observe public art pieces (online!).Learn more at facebook.com/CapturePhotoFest

 

The Best Aquatic Screensaver Ever. You know who else is #stayinghome? Our aquatic pals at the Vancouver Aquarium!…That doesn’t mean they’ve stopped being ADORABLE though! If you want an uplifting backdrop, catch their virtual show for free and from the comfort of your home. See what our city’s Jellyfish, Penguins and Otters are up to right now

 #MuseumsAndChill Vancouver has joined the countless  International Council of Museums (ICOM) establishments around the globe offering virtual tours. Locally this includes the Vancouver Art Gallery and MOV Learn More 

The Best New Video Party App

 

Courtesy of VentureBeat.com

The new all-ages isolation app we hope is here to stay. You may have already heard of it but passed it up based on the assumption it was just another video call platform — we did at first! The House Party free app allows anyone with a smartphone to:

  • Jump in and out of a group video call
  • Play Heads Up  and Pictionary style games
  • Group or two-player trivia and more

Start the party at houseparty.com

Until next time, thank you to all who are doing their parts in healthcare, essential services and by staying home to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We’re in this together Vancouver and as we dream of travelling later, we look forward to discovering which clever indoor innovations our beautiful city will come up with next. #stayhomestaysafe

Looking for more? Check out Tourism Vancouver’s latest #VirtuallyVancouver post.

Spring Break 2020 Activities in Vancouver

Spring Break: March 16th – 27th, 2020

 

It’s no secret a lot of people in Vancouver are already enjoying early bird summer fun by this time each year because of the beautiful attractions available in the area. So when it comes to the school holidays, there are tons of exciting activities that are designed to entertain both residents and tourists — of all ages. 

 

Leave it to Vancity to line up almost too many fun activities to keep us all busy this Spring Break 2020. Whether you are a parent looking to join in on the fun or you’re simply looking for an entertaining week for your children while you’re at work, Vancouver is the ideal place to be for the spring break holiday. You have to check these out:

Kids-Zone Fun

Vancouver Art Gallery

Photo courtesy of Dóra Varga-Lencsés and vanartgallery.bc.ca

There are both drop art activities (every Sunday!) and advance booking workshops available for kids at the Vancouver Art Gallery this coming spring break holiday 2020. Learn more: vanartgallery.bc.ca

Admission: Free for children under 12 years old 

 

Spring Break Movies

Photo courtesy of familyfuncanada.com

Entertain your kids (and let’s be honest, Frozen II kept us all entertained) with these must-watch child-friendly matinee movies! Take note that some of these shows are available only during the morning time slot of the school holiday break.

Admission: Varies, please visit familyfuncanada.com  to learn more.

 

YMCA Day Camps

Photo courtesy of Greater Vancouver YMCA

YMCA Vancouver offers spring break camps for children of all ages. It is crucial to book ahead of time as these camps are typically fully-booked. There are tons of activities designed to keep kids active and laughing during these, typically 4-day long, day camps.

Admission: Varies. Please visit ymca.ca to learn more

 

Adults & Adolescence

 

Celtic Fest Vancouver

Photo courtesy of wildernesscommittee.org

This event is ideal for anyone skipping town to Vancity this March — but not willing to skip St. Patrick’s Day: Celticfest has you covered! There are themed activities designed for adults in line with the celebration.

Note: Due to recent health concerns, events for 2020 may be smaller compared to the previous years. Please visit www.celticfestvancouver.com for details and updates.

 

Shen Yun

Video courtesy of Shen Yun (Youtube)

This is the perfect show for just about anyone – whether or not you’re into the arts. Tickets are available for show dates running March 13 to 22, 2020. The event is scheduled to take place at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Expect a world-class performance from these elite theatre actors. Learn more at Shenyun.com 

Admission: $95 – 239

 

All Ages Family Fun 

 

Playdome 2020

Photo courtesy of BC Place

The best place for children (and adults who are kids-at-heart!) is the Playdome 2020. This Indoor carnival is well-known for providing endless fun and excitement to its guests of all ages. It will take place at BC Place and the same is only available during the spring break holiday. 

Admission: Guest Passes start at $11.00. Learn more at bcplace.com 

 

Flyover Canada

Video courtesy of Flyover Canada

Flyover Canada hosts a spectacular feature show during the spring break holiday. The theme changes every year to ensure that there is always something new and exciting that attendees can look forward to. 

Admission: Visit flyovercanada.com for pricing and promo codes 

 

Indeed, Vancouver has a lot in store for us this coming spring break 2020. If you are traveling to the city for the upcoming holiday, be sure to book your stay with us to receive exclusive discounts.

Take note that the list mentioned above is not exclusive. There are still other entertaining activities designed to keep both residents or tourists busy this spring break! 

 

Spring Sneak Preview

Planning your April 2020? This April 14th the Canada WNT will be playing Australia at BC Place! Tickets on sale now Visit canadasoccer.com  for details.

Photo courtesy of Canadasoccer.com