Spring into Vancouver This March

March in Vancouver offers a variety of exciting events and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, celebrating International Women’s Day, enjoying Spring Break, or observing the Easter festivities, there’s something for everyone. Here are some highlights of things to do in March in our fair city:

Vancouver International Wine Festival

The Vancouver International Wine Festival caps off at the beginning of this month, but there’s still time in March to take advantage of the delicious tastings provided by this world-recognized event. Immerse yourself in the world of wine and indulge in a memorable experience. Discover a wide selection of exquisite wines from around the globe, attend tastings and seminars, and expand your wine knowledge. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and enjoyable experience, the Vancouver International Wine Festival is a must-visit event. Cheers to a fantastic time in Vancouver!

International Women’s Day

Join in the celebration of International Women’s Day, a global day honouring the achievements of women. Attend empowering events, participate in discussions and workshops, and support women-owned businesses and organizations. It’s a chance to recognize and uplift the contributions of women in various fields. Celebrate empowerment and creativity and visit the International Women’s Day Art Fair or take part in the International Women’s Day March.

Spring Break is Upon Us

The final two weeks of March marks the arrival of Spring Break for most school districts in Vancouver, offering a chance for families to unwind and have fun. Vancouver provides numerous options for a memorable break, such as exploring the city’s stunning parks and gardens, trying outdoor activities like hiking or biking, or visiting local attractions like museums and galleries. Make the most of the pleasant Spring weather and create lasting memories.

The Easter Bunny Arrives on March 31st

Embrace the spirit of Easter in Vancouver by taking part in festive activities. Enjoy Easter egg hunts, indulge in delicious brunches, or attend Easter-themed events and performances. You can also take a stroll through the city’s beautiful neighborhoods adorned with colorful spring blooms and decorations. Head to the Roundhouse for the annual Eggs-tacular Easter Egg Hunt. Hunt for easter eggs, take part in arts, crafts, and games, pet real life bunnies, and enjoy a visit from the Easter Bunny! And if you’re feeling especially energetic, you can take part in the Big Easter Run!

When you stay with Stay Vancouver Hotels, you’ll be in the heart of the city, with easy access to these amazing events. Whether you’re a wine lover, celebrating International Women’s Day, enjoying Spring Break, or embracing Easter traditions, Vancouver has something for everyone. Choose from our 44 downtown Vancouver locations and find the ideal accommodation for your travel needs. Book your stay now and take advantage of incredible perks, such as gift cards, event tickets, and more. – Learn more

The Very Best Events Happening in Vancouver This January

Are you planning a visit to Vancouver in January? Or maybe just looking for a winter Staycation? Don’t miss out on these exciting events happening in the city. Stay Vancouver Hotels is here to guide you through the top experiences during your stay. Get ready to indulge in delicious food, warm up with delightful hot chocolate, and immerse yourself in captivating performing arts. Here are the must-visit events happening in Vancouver this January:

Dine Out Vancouver Festival
Dates: January 17th – February 4th, 2024
Location: Various Restaurants in Vancouver

The highly-anticipated Dine Out Vancouver Festival is bringing delectable delights to our fair city. This annual festival allows you to explore a diverse culinary scene like no other. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes from some of Vancouver’s finest restaurants, offering special menus and unique dining experiences. The Dine Out Vancouver Festival has evolved into a comprehensive platform that unites numerous chefs, over 300 restaurants, wineries, craft breweries, suppliers, and more. It offers a month-long celebration of dining, featuring virtual events and experiences that showcase the city’s finest flavors. Culinary enthusiasts are invited to savour the best tastes Vancouver has to offer during this exciting festival. From gourmet delights to international flavours, this festival is a food lover’s paradise.

Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival
Dates: January 13th to February 14th, 2024
Location: Participating Cafes and Chocolatiers across Vancouver

Warm up your winter with the Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a wide range of hot chocolate creations crafted by talented local cafes and chocolatiers. From classic flavours to innovative combinations, there’s a hot chocolate for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in this cozy and delicious festival.

PUSH International Performing Arts Festival
Dates: January 18th – February 4th, 2024
Location: Various Venues in Vancouver

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of performing arts at the PUSH International Performing Arts Festival. Experience captivating theater, dance, and music performances by talented artists from around the globe. From thought-provoking dramas to mesmerizing dance routines, this festival showcases the best of contemporary performing arts.

When you book your stay with Stay Vancouver Hotels, you’ll be in the heart of the action, with easy access to these incredible events. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a chocolate lover, or an arts aficionado, Vancouver has something to offer for everyone. Book your stay at one of our 44 downtown Vancouver locations and discover the ideal accommodation to meet your travel needs. Book your stay today and take advantage of amazing incentives, including gift cards, event tickets, and more. Learn more

Things to Do in Vancouver in November 2023

Are you planning a trip to Vancouver this November? Looking for things to do while you visit our beautiful city? Look no further! We will guide you through the exciting array of activities and events that await you in this vibrant city this month. Whether you’re a comedy enthusiast, an art lover, or a fan of live performances, Vancouver has it all. Uncover the top things to do in Vancouver, ensuring that your visit is nothing short of unforgettable.

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS FROZEN & ENCANTO

Get ready for a magical evening with Disney on Ice Presents Frozen & Encanto at the PNE Pacific Coliseum. From November 22nd-26th, watch your favorite Disney characters come to life on the ice as they perform enchanting routines and bring beloved stories to the stage. Join Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and the rest of the Frozen gang as they embark on a heartwarming journey filled with ice-skating, music, and captivating performances. And don’t miss the enchantment of Encanto, as the magical world of Mirabel and her extraordinary family unfolds before your eyes. This spectacular show is sure to delight Disney fans of all ages.

VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS MARKET

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Vancouver Christmas Market from November 16th right up until Christmas Eve. This annual holiday event transforms the heart of the city into a magical wonderland. Explore the charming wooden stalls filled with unique gifts, indulge in delicious holiday treats, and enjoy live entertainment in this enchanting winter experience. From handcrafted ornaments to traditional German delicacies, the Vancouver Christmas Market offers a wide array of festive delights. Take a sip of warm mulled wine, listen to carolers singing joyful tunes, and create lasting memories with loved ones in this festive atmosphere.

LUMIERE VANCOUVER 2023

Witness the city come alive with stunning light installations and art at Lumière Vancouver 2023. This mesmerizing event transforms Vancouver’s streets into a dazzling display of colors and creativity. Take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets and experience the magic of this captivating outdoor event. From intricate light sculptures to interactive installations, Lumière Vancouver showcases the work of local and international artists. Marvel at the beauty of the city’s architecture as it is bathed in vibrant lights, and immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of this unique cultural celebration.

DISCOVER THE VANCOUVER ART GALLERY

Art lovers should make their way to the Vancouver Art Gallery. With its extensive collection of contemporary and historical artworks, the gallery offers a captivating experience for visitors. Check out the latest exhibitions and immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of Vancouver.

THE IMPROV CENTRE

Laugh the night away at The Improv Centre, where talented improvisational performers create hilarious and spontaneous comedy on the spot. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a night of laughter and entertainment as the actors craft witty and unexpected scenes based on audience suggestions. With their quick thinking and comedic timing, the performers at The Improv Centre never fail to deliver a side-splitting show. Whether you’re a fan of improv comedy or simply looking for a fun night out, this cozy venue guarantees an evening filled with laughter and memorable moments.

These are just a few of the exciting events and attractions happening in Vancouver in November 2023. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly entertainment, the city has something for everyone to enjoy. Book your trip to Vancouver today with StayVancouverHotels. Select from 43 downtown Vancouver locations for your stay and find the perfect place to suit your travel needs. Book your stay today and experience the best of Vancouver’s events and attractions – Learn more

17+ Pet-Friendly Hotels in Downtown Vancouver

Staycations and family holidays typically need to include just that: the whole family. It’s becoming much easier to travel with our four-legged family across the globe and downtown Vancouver is no exception. There are no less than 16 pet-friendly hotels in the heart of downtown Vancouver working hard to make sure your whole paw-se has a great stay!

Fairmont Pacific Rim

Image courtesy of Hotel Fairmont Pacific Rim

 

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is so pet-friendly they have not one but two hard-working Labrador Canine Ambassadors: Ella and Elly.  These ladies don’t live at the hotel but attend work with their owners 5 days a week.

Your pet will be just as pampered even receiving complimentary FirstMate kibble and more upon arrival to make sure everyone has a perfect visit.

Please remember though, canines must not be left alone in guest rooms… it’s a real faux-paw. Read the Fairmont Hotel Pacific Rim Pet policy here. 

Promotion: Pet-fee is currently waived.

Hotel Belmont

Photo courtesy of rodolfobarreto.com

Two pets maximum, two floors, and a ton of fun. Hotel Belmont proves once again to have something for everyone. Hotel Belmont owns the hashtag #hotelhouseparty for combining the best of every household comfort, with the ultimate hotel house paw-ty experience: bowling, arcade games, and snacks from “the living room” to the “basement” and no home is complete without your pet! Read full Hotel Belmont Pet Policy Here

Contact for pet fees and pricing 

Sandman Hotel Vancouver City Centre

 

Photo courtesy of Ja San Miguel

Pets are allowed in select rooms and according to BringFido.com, rates are great and well-behaved dogs may be left unattended. Unfortunately, it is impawsible to bring a cat along too.

$10 per pet, per night (Bringfido.com)

The Loden Hotel

Photo courtesy of  The Loden

 

The Loden hotel makes sure your pet is just as welcome as their own: plush pet beds, food bowls, and even a Loden leash! There are absolutely no limits on the size or weight of your pet. Learn more about their flat $50 per pet fee and two dog maximum. Learn about the Loden’s Pet Policy

$50 pet fee per pet, per stay (no limit to the size/weight).

Fairmont Waterfront

Photo courtesy of @ScoutGoldenRetriever (Instagram)

Have you met Scout the Golden Retriever? A patron of Fairmont Waterfront, Scout has partnered with the hotel to share his first-class experiences from welcome treats (ingredients provided), designated walking areas, doggie sitting services, emergency vet clinics and more. Read the full Fairmont Waterfront pet policy here

$35 per day deep cleaning charge (maximum 2 pets)

Hyatt Regency Vancouver

Photo courtesy of Hyatt

While the limit may be two 50-lbs dogs, the fees for your furry companion are as low as $35 per night for the first 6 nights and charged at a monthly rate of $100/month. Hyatt Regency asks guests to phone ahead as this service is subject to availability. Learn more at Bringfido.com

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel


Indoor Pool, Photo courtesy of Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

 

 

 

Pets are both welcome and complimentary at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel! The hotel has a limit of one pet per room and urges visitors to call ahead for more details. Learn more about the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel Pet Policy here

Sandman Suites Vancouver – Davie Street

Photo courtesy of Matthew Henry (Instagram)

Crated pets may be left unattended at the Sandman Suites on Davie and there is a dog park 2 short blocks front the hotel. There are 10 dedicated City View Queen Pet Suites. Learn more about the  Sandman Suites on Davie Pet Policy on BringFido.com

 

The fur fees here will run you $20 per, per night, regardless of size or weight. 

 

The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver

Photo courtesy of The Sutton Place Hotel (Instagram)

 

The Sutton Place hotel welcomes any dog weighing 45 lbs or less and requests that your pet is never left unattended. All pets meeting this size criteria are welcome. The Sutton Place Hotel charges a one-time fee of $40. Read the full Sutton Place Pet Policy here

 

$40 Pet Fee per stay

 

Georgian Court Hotel

Photo courtesy of Georgian Court Hotel 

Photo courtesy of Georgian Court Hotel

 

 

Another pooch pampering experience, the Georgian Court provides your pet with a treat on arrival and offers pet beds, bowls, food, and water for both use and purchase during your stay. Staff are happy to assist in arranging pet-sitting or setting up reservations at pet-friendly restaurants

The Georgian Court hotel charges  $20 per day with a $100 per week maximum. Additional pet species such as cats and birds are welcome at the hotel’s discretion. Read the full Georgian Court Hotel pet policy here

 

$20 per night or $100 per month

The Listel Hotel

Courtesy of Roberto Nickson (Instagram)

Enthusiastically welcoming all 4 legged guests, the Listel Hotel provides use of a food dish and pet bed. The hotel asks that pets are not left alone in their room, and to inform staff if they will be left alone. Pets are asked to stay on their leashes when in public spaces. Read the fill Listel Hotel pet policy here

 

$25 per night. Maximum 2 pets per room.

 

Coast Coal Harbour Hotel by APA

Courtesy of Roberto Nickson (Instagram)

If a picture says 1000 words, we’ll let this one do most of the barking. Read the Coast Coal Harbour pet policy here.

Contact to learn more about Nominal Nightly Fees 

 

Hotel Blu

Courtesy of Hotel Blu

2 blocks from an off-leash dog park, greeted by resident fish, and complete with amenities such as treats, beds, and bowls, Hotel Blu is another purrfect pet-friendly pick. Read Hotel Blu Pet Policy here

 

Contact for pet fees and pricing 

Pan Pacific Vancouver

Courtesy of Pan Pacific Vancouver

Eager to please their guests, Pan Pacific’s pet package is pawsitively packed with luxury and amenities including a dog bed, walking maps, treats, and a doggy bag. Maximum 2 pets per suite or room   Read the Pan Pacific Vancouver Pet policy here 

 

$40 pet fee per stay + $15 for an additional pet (per stay)

Pinnacle Hotel Vancouver Harbourfront

Courtesy of Pinnacle Hotel Vancouver Harbourfront

What is more luxurious than a luxury hotel doggie bed for your four-legged friend? You pup will receive the use of a plush memory foam pet bed, complete with a deep cleaning treatment before and after use. Pinnacle Hotel Vancouver Harbourfront asks guests to call ahead to ensure the purrfect package is booked. Read more about the Pinnacle HotelHarbourfront Pet Policy here

 

$35 per stay — however for a limited time, four-legged family is free

 

Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown

 

Photo courtesy of Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown

 

Not 1, not 2, but 3 pets are welcome at the Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown with two whole floors being assigned to pet-friendly rooms. 

Cats and dogs are both welcome, however, the hotel asks that they are never left alone. Read the Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Pet Policy here

$55 per room, per stay

 

Opus Hotel

Courtesy of Petfinder

Last but not leashed: “Dogs are always welcome at OPUS Vancouver. In fact, we tend to treat our four-legged guests even better than our two-legged ones! Pampered pooches can expect: Complimentary in-room “pup tents,” bowls, and locally sourced treats.

 

All those options, but where to begin? Tell us about your furbaby-friendly trip experience at any of these 17 hotels (and send us your pictures for a chance to be featured!)

Everything You Need To Know About The Vancouver International Wine Festival

The number of tourists who travel or spend a holiday in Vancouver keeps on increasing every year. It is not a surprise why the city’s tourism industry is flourishing. There are many reasons why people love to keep on coming back to this wonderful destination. 

One of the most anticipated events of 2020, Vancouver International Wine Festival, will again kick off the new year.  More commonly known as the VanWineFest, this event holds the record of being Canada’s premier wine and food show, pouring more than 750 wines from more than 16 countries, in only 8 short days. (Now who said math class wouldn’t be useful!) These wines will, of course, be accompanied by the most welcome of chaperones: their respective winemakers and vineyard owners. 

Rated the “#1 Food, Wine & Hospitality Event in Canada” by New York’s BizBash (for the past 6 years in a row!) this year’s celebration will take place starting from February 22 to March 1, 2020.

We have something special for our valued guests like you. Book your stay with us and enjoy a FREE admission ticket to one of the world’s largest wine and food festivals. More details are available at the end of this post! 

Knowing The History  

The popular Vancouver International Wine Festival was inaugurated in 1979. During that time, the festival was organized to last for only two days. In its first public event, only around 1,000 people attended the festival. What makes this event even more meaningful is the fact that it was created in typical Vancity Style: for fundraising purposes. Since then, the VanWineFest has grown to raise more than $9.2 million and latest reports now boast an average of 25,000 admissions to the festival!

There is a theme or feature each year – This year France is the feature country!

Photo Courtesy of Archives – California Agriculture

The “Tasting Room”

One of the popular areas in the festival is, of course, the Tasting Room, where all the magic happens. In this area, you can see several brand owners and wine producers who will showcase their products to everyone. All attendees have a  chance to have a taste of their share of the 750+ wines available for display. 

 

The best part of all, however, is that several of these wine products are sourced from 15 other countries. As such, if you are going to be there, you will also get an opportunity to check out the top brands from the participating wineries abroad. Most of these wineries are award winners and considered senior leaders in the industry. 

Where else can you visit with award-winning wineries and winemakers from across 5 different continents, while trying their finest wines in only 10 consecutive days …without a private jet? (Seriously, we’re interested if you know! You can find us in the tasting room)

 

Photo Courtesy of vanwinefest.ca

Tips To Remember

 If you are traveling to Vancouver for this iconic festival, be sure to arrive at least one day before the scheduled event. Not only will you have more time to prepare for the line up of activities prepared for all attendees, you’ll be in Vancity! This foodie paradise has more to see and do than can possibly be achieved in 10 days’ time — wine fests aside! However that’s not the only reason: as much as possible, try to avoid being late for this event so that you can still catch all the highlights and avoid line-ups.

Whether attending from Kits, Kelowna or out-of-country entirely, another thing to keep in mind is that if you do plan to stay in downtown Vancouver, you’ll want to book your stay ahead of time. Each year this Wine Festival brings in thousands of travelers to the city.

Until February 13th, you can still save on select downtown hotels using promo code VIWF. If you book a hotel with StayVancouverHotels.com, you will receive a FREE International Festival Tastings event ticket for the most anticipated Vancouver International Wine Festival ever: 

  • Thursday, Feb. 27, 7:00 – 10:00 PM ($95 value) 
  • Friday, Feb. 28, 7:00 – 10:00 PM ($105 value) 
  • Saturday, Feb. 29, 2:30 – 5:00 PM ($95 value) 
  • Saturday, Feb. 29, 7:00 – 10:00 PM ($115 value) 

 

Surprising Reasons to Book Early

Photo Courtesy of Sea to Sky Gondola Instagram

 

Can you believe it’s already been a decade!? If you can make it to Vancity a few weeks before the Vancouver International Wine Tasting event don’t think for a minute February isn’t a perfect month for tourism! Celebrating 10 years since the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic games the city has countless events going on – including  Vancouver’s Annual Just for Laughs festival  and the grand re-opening the Sea to Sky Gondola

Image Courtesy of JFL Northwest

Check out the countless other fabulous Vancity events this February 2020 events here.

Remember! If you do plan to attend the Vancouver Festival this year, be sure to use promo code VIWF to receive a free ticket when you book your downtown Vancouver hotel stay. Offer ends February 13, 2020 – Click here to book.

Top 5 Beaches in Vancouver

August is the warmest month in Vancouver, BC and an exciting time to be out enjoying the summer weather! Lucky for us, we have excellent beaches that are easily accessible from the best hotels in downtown.

Here are 5 beaches in Vancouver that we highly recommend and which you will absolutely love  – yet another reason to have yourself a staycation in this beautiful city!

 

Continue reading “Top 5 Beaches in Vancouver”

Vancouver’s Just for Laughs Festival, JFL NorthWest 2019

We are so excited for this year’s JFL NorthWest, Vancouver’s Just For Laughs Comedy Festival, which returns to our city this month from February 14th – 23rd, 2019. Attendees can look forward to 10 days of stand-up, podcast, improv & hilarious sketch performances. In addition to the comedy-packed schedule, JFL NorthWest will also be hosting the 2nd edition of the Vancouver Just for Laughs Film Festival and 3-Day Block Party.

All of the venues will be easily accessible from any of our fantastic downtown hotels – so don’t delay and reserve your room at StayVancouverHotels.com before they sell out!

Continue reading “Vancouver’s Just for Laughs Festival, JFL NorthWest 2019”

Autumn In Vancouver

The city of Vancouver boasts beautiful autumns, and is well-known by tourists as an ideal shoulder season destination due to its mild temperature and tranquil atmosphere.

As an environmental gem surrounded by lush forests, towering mountains and the Pacific Ocean, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to participate in this fall.

Photo courtesy of Greg Shields

Walk the Seawall

One of the best ways to take in the changing fall foliage is to walk Vancouver’s tree-lined seawall. Head out on an afternoon stroll through Stanley Park and admire the bright auburn hues that adorn the local tree species of the region.

Photo courtesy of Greg Shields

Run the Trails

Work up a sweat while basking in all of fall’s glory sprinting through Vancouver’s ethereal rainforests. Visit Lighthouse Park for winding trails that feature mossy old-growth forests, or run alongside towering Cedars and Douglas Firs in Pacific Spirit Regional Park.

Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver/ Destination Canada

Bike the Mountains

If you’re an adrenaline-seeker, downhill mountain biking makes the perfect autumn past-time. Just a short drive or bus ride over the Lion’s Gate Bridge, Vancouver’s North Shore area is home to vast mountainous terrain with world-class trails.

Photo courtesy of Fredy Chavez

Hike the Grouse Grind

Challenge yourself with “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster”, also known as the legendary Grouse Grind. Although the hike takes a whopping 2,830 steps to complete, the striking fall colours along the way and sweeping views of downtown are reward enough.

Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver/ Rishad Daroowala

Paddle the Waters

Vancouver’s pleasant climate makes watersports accessible year-round. Sport some cozy attire and rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board at the city’s famous English Bay Beach, where you can leisurely cruise along the stunning shoreline.

Want to take advantage on some of these local destinations? Our VanPass voucher allows you to choose from up to 20 Top Vancouver Attractions (worth up to $75 in value)! Click here Click here to learn more and see below for some of our favourite recommendations.

 

Top Annual Sporting Events in Vancouver

Vancouver is known as one of the premier sporting cities in North America. As the celebrated Host City of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, the metropolis’s awe-inspiring natural environment and strong community pride combine for big crowds and electrifying atmospheres at many athletic events. Read on for our round-up of the best annual sporting entertainment that the city has to offer:

 

Photo courtesy of World Rugby

HSBC Canada Rugby Sevens Series

Since Vancouver was awarded hosting rights to the HSBC Canada Rugby Sevens Series in 2015, the city comes alive every March with a raucous weekend-long festival complete with outrageous costumes, fan activities and world-class rugby. As one of the most dynamic global sporting events on the market, the yearly series includes ten tournaments held internationally in various host cities, and features 16 of the world’s top men’s rugby sevens teams. In Vancouver, the event takes place at 54,000-seat BC Place, distinguished as one of the league’s largest stadiums.

Want in on some of the action? For a limited time only, Stay Vancouver Hotels is offering Rugby fans select Sideline & Reserved tournament passes, plus a free $25 e-card bonus gift from Amazon. Learn more here before passes sell out.

 

Photo courtesy of Maia Rubin / RUNVAN®

Bank of Montreal (BMO) Vancouver Marathon

Internationally recognized as one of the top destination marathons in the world, the BMO Marathon is lauded for its unique route that features 70 percent shoreline views – including sweeping ocean vistas, snow-capped mountain ranges and blooming cherry blossom trees. The marathon embraces all fitness levels with Vancouver’s only marathon, a fast half marathon, 8KM race, relay and kids run. Since its inauguration in 1972, which hosted just 32 finishers, the event now sells out annually with over 17,000 participants hailing from 65-plus countries.

Let Stay Vancouver Hotels help you partake in next year’s excitement, with a chance to win free entry to the marathon from now until January 2019. For contest details, click here.

Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver/ Nelson Mouellic

Vancouver Sun Run

The Vancouver Sun Run has been Canada’s largest 10K road race since its inception in 1985, and now holds the title as the third largest timed 10K in the world. Founded by former Canadian Olympians, the purpose behind the Sun Run is to promote the benefits of running to improve health and wellness, as well as support aspiring athletes. Today, over 40,000 runners take part in the race along with 2,500 loyal volunteers who work together to continually bring a healthy, family-friendly event to the city every spring.

 

Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver / Albert Normandin

Vancouver Canucks, Vancouver Whitecaps FC and BC Lions

Vancouver is also home to three professional sports teams that draw fans in from all over the Lower Mainland and beyond. The Vancouver Canucks are the city’s beloved ice hockey team that regularly plays out of Rogers Arena as members of the National Hockey League. Vancouver Whitecaps FC compete in the Western Conference of Major League Soccer to a boisterous crowd in BC Place, while the stadium also hosts the city’s celebrated football team, the BC Lions.

Experience Vancouver: A Business Traveller’s Guide to the City

Young, innovative and situated amongst the world’s most spectacular scenery, it comes as no surprise that Vancouver is recognized as one of the top meetings and conventions destinations in the world. Whether you’re hosting a global conference, intimate incentive getaway or one-on-one meeting, read on and begin planning your next business stay in Vancouver.

Image of bathroom overlooking ocean
Fairmont Hotel by James KM Cheng Architects; Westbank

Sweet Stays: Vancouver boasts more than 13,000 hotel rooms in the heart of downtown Vancouver alone, many of which are located within walking distance to the Vancouver Convention Centre. From luxe hotels like the Fairmont Pacific Rim, Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver and Trump International Hotel & Tower to eclectic stays at boutique properties such as OPUS Vancouver, Listel Hotel and The Loden, guests are sure to find an option appealing to their traveller type. View a full list of Stay Vancouver Hotels’ properties here.

Exterior of Parq Vancouver
Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver

Unique Venues: The list of venues continues to grow, with the newest addition including the highly anticipated Parq Vancouver, which opened in late 2017. The destination resort features two luxury hotels (JW Marriott and the DOUGLAS); eight delectable restaurants and lounges; a 30,000-square-foot park (perfect for hosting outdoor minglers and post-conference parties); a spa and casino. Parq also features the city’s largest hotel ballroom, with more than 60,000 square-feet of flexible event space. Vancouver’s diverse mix of venue options includes cultural spaces like the Bill Reid Gallery and Museum of Anthropology, as well as ultra-savvy spaces such as the internationally award-winning, double LEED Platinum Vancouver Convention Centre.

Group of zipliners at Grouse Mountain
Photo courtesy of Grouse Mountain | Tourism Vancouver

Attractions and Tours Galore: From landmark attractions to interactive walking tours, Vancouver boasts a wide selection of year-round offerings. Increase team morale by making your way to Grouse Mountain, the Peak of Vancouver, where your team can soak up fresh mountain air and epic city views while ziplining between mountain tops. Or opt for an evening of intrigue, and explore Vancouver’s back streets and alleyways on a walking-tour-meets-theatre-piece with the Lost Souls of Gastown.

 

Image of aburi sushi in Vancouver
Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver | Miku Restaurant

A True Foodie’s City: Of course, no visit to Vancouver is complete without experiencing the city’s thriving culinary scene. Try Ancora, where diners indulge in Peruvian and Japanese cuisine with a West Coast flair. Celebrity Chef David Hawksworth’s Nightingale and aptly named Hawksworth restaurants are a favourite amongst business travellers, who come for the award-winning, ingredient-led, contemporary Canadian cuisine. Get a taste for yourself and check out why Vancouver is recognized as the top sushi destination outside of Japan, and sample local favourites like Miku Restaurant – the pioneer of Aburi (flame seared) sushi in Canada – and the city staple Tojo’s Restaurant, named one top 1000 places to visit before you die. Looking to cater? From dinner parties to working lunches, Railtown Cafe is a go-to option for many, providing the freshest that Vancouver has to offer featuring seasonal ingredients from local farms and vendors.

Ready to book your next meeting in Vancouver? Take advantage of our Business Traveller package and receive a $50 Visa gift card and $25 Starbucks gift with a one-night booking. www.stayvancouverhotels.com