3 days in vancouver help please!!!

[Minoushka]

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3 days prior to our cruise we will be in Vancouver This is what I had in mind Is this feasable does anyone recommend adding something

 

Sunday pm -seabus crossing to Market on Granville island shopping downtown near hotel

Monday -Stanley park /Aquarium /Gardens

Tuesday-Robson street /Chinatown /Capilano Bridge

WEd = CARNIVAL SPIRIT

or HOHO trolley for 2 days

 

What about the Aquarium worth it????

 

When we return to Vancouver Grouse Mountain tour with dropoff at airport with Carnival

 

OPEN TO SUGGESTIONS!!!

 

THANks

 

Michele

[orchid72]

I noticed from your other post that you are staying outside of the downtown core, at the Plaza 500. I am assuming you will be arriving on Sunday afternoon. Therefore, bearing that in mind, I suggest the following:

 

Sunday afternoon to early evening: Check into hotel then explore Granville Island and have dinner in one of the restaurants there. You can walk there from your hotel, or you can take transit or a cab. Note: You may be getting the Seabus confused with the Aquabus because you can't take the Seabus to granville island; it takes you to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver from downtown and back. The Aquabus, on the other hand, takes you from Granville island to downtown and back. Neither the Seabus nor the Aquabus will really serve your purpose because of where your hotel is situated.

 

Monday: Spend the day in the downtown core. If you have no mobility problems, you can skip the HOHO because downtown is very walkable. You can do Robson St, Stanley Park/English Bay/Aquarium/Gardens all in one day. You may really even have time to go to Capilano on this day. So if you want to add Capilano to your itinerary on this day, your best bet is to probably go to Capilano in the morning from your hotel, spend 2 hrs there, then go to downtown to spend the day.

 

Tuesday: I suggest doing a day trip to Whistler, if you want to rent a car. If Whistler is out of the question, then you can do Chinatown, Gastown, and do some more sightseeing/shopping in downtown on this day.

 

Wednesday: your ship probably will not leave until late afternoon, so if you want, you may even spend the morning touring neighbouring Chinatown and Gastown before boarding your ship or go to chinatown before checking in, then after boarding, tour gastown, which is practically next to the cruise ship terminal.

 

The above is a little different from your original plan because I tried to bunch together all the sites that are close to each other so that you are not wasting your time travelling. Of course the itinerary I suggested can totally be tweaked some more depending on how long you want your days to be, how much walking you want to do, what other sites you want to see, etc, etc. I do hope you find it a useful starting point in planning your trip.

 

As for the Aquarium, it is a personal choice. I personally do not think it is one of the "must-sees" so I would probably skip it if it is not at the top of your priority list.

[scottbee]

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3 days prior to our cruise we will be in Vancouver This is what I had in mind Is this feasable does anyone recommend adding something

 

Sunday pm -seabus crossing to Market on Granville island shopping downtown near hotel

Monday -Stanley park /Aquarium /Gardens

Tuesday-Robson street /Chinatown /Capilano Bridge

WEd = CARNIVAL SPIRIT

or HOHO trolley for 2 days

 

What about the Aquarium worth it????

 

When we return to Vancouver Grouse Mountain tour with dropoff at airport with Carnival

 

OPEN TO SUGGESTIONS!!!

 

Seabus goes the other way (to North Vancouver towards Grouse Mt/Capilano bridge). To get to Granville island, there are many buses, and/or the 'aquabus' which are little 20 ft boats that go across false creek. Also, Granville Island is much better in the morning, rather than the afternoon (esp Sunday afternoon), because a large part of it is a farmer's market.

 

Do Grouse Mountain and Capilano bridge at the same time, as they're very close to each other.

 

You seem to know where you want to go, so forget the HoHo and buy a city transit day ticket. it will take you everywhere you've mentioned for $9/day.

[ell52]

You mentioned on another thread that you're staying at the Plaza 500. That being the case, definitely get the transit pass (unless you plan to taxi into downtown every day).

[Minoushka]

Thanks All

 

Just where is this hotel located ???HOw far to anything of interest or terminal?Where could I get a map? Near what big street is it ...I got it on Hotwire at an OK price but I really do not know where it is exactly.....

I will definitely spend time in Stanley Park I hear it is a must

My hubby and son want Olympic Souvenirs ..The BAY???I hear there is a Mall across from our hotel TRUE?????

Whistler unfortunately will not be part of this trip nor Victoria because of proximity

I am quite content to get a feel for Vancouver .I hear it is LOVELY...my brothers loved it

It will be REAL nice to spend CDN $$$ elsewhere then Montreal.and not worry about exchange!!!!!

[Molly_May]

You all are giving great advice on what to do in Vancouver. Could you help us out? There are three of us and here is where we are staying...

Pacific Palisades Hotel

1277 Robson Street Vancouver

We have never been in Vancouver and we will arrive aroun 3 on Saturday and then we port out on Sunday afternoon. Any ideas?????

Thanks

[ell52]

Thanks All

 

Just where is this hotel located ???HOw far to anything of interest or terminal?Where could I get a map? Near what big street is it ...

 

Michele:

Here is a map for you. Your hotel is A; and Canada Place (pier) is B. The big green area at the upper left is Stanley Park.

 

 

I mapped the bus route (#15 -Downtown) that will take you near Canada Place. You can also get a transfer that will get you right into Stanley Park, but this will give you an idea of the distance. If you enjoy walking, it's a very nice walk along the water from CP to Stanley Park.

 

Hopefully, this will give you a better idea where everything is relative to your hotel.

 

ell

[Charlot07]

I have to choose City Hall or Downtown.

What is the difference?

Which one is the best for choosing a hotel?

 

Charlot

[cdkempton]

I think downtown area will put you in the proximity of Canada Place, etc.

[ell52]

I have to choose City Hall or Downtown.

What is the difference?

Which one is the best for choosing a hotel?

 

Charlot

Charlot:

 

I think you're talking about bidding on Priceline per your question on the other thread? The link back to that thread is here:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=981159&page=2

 

 

:)

[Minoushka]

THanks

 

Could I walk to certain places from our hotel or do we need a bus ?

What lines would best serve me?

Does Vancouver have a METRO? Pardon my ignorance

[ell52]

THanks

 

Could I walk to certain places from our hotel or do we need a bus ?

What lines would best serve me?

Does Vancouver have a METRO? Pardon my ignorance

 

There aren't too many places you can walk to from your hotel. You will need a bus or taxi to get to the places you want to see. (Although there is the mall that Urban Trekker mentioned that is across the street.)

 

Vancouver has a combination surface (bus) and train (underground Metro and Skytrain) system. Here's the Translink site for more information regarding routes, etc.:

 

http://www.translink.ca/

 

The bus I mentioned (#15-Downtown) stops right across the street from your hotel.

[ell52]

Michele,

 

Here's a link to the mall across from your hotel. It's called City Square:

 

http://www.mycitysquare.com/vw/fs/p001.htm

 

.

[BCHappyGal]

Information on fun things to see & do in Vancouver

 

Info on Vancouver from a local!

 

My favorite must do attractions are

 

1) Grouse Mountain – http://www.grousemountain.com – this is a wonderful scenic mountain only about 15 mins from downtown Vancouver. Ride the airtram to the top for lots of fun activities that include a loggers show, birds of prey show, 2 movies (1 about the Vancouver area and 1 about the 2 Grizzly Bears who make their home on Grouse Mtn) ride a chair lift and visit with 2 live Grizzly Bears. Enjoy a meal in any of the restaurants. Caveat only spend the money to go up on a clear day.

2) Capilano Suspension Bridge – http://www.capbridge.com – this is Vancouver’s oldest tourist attraction and I still enjoy visiting it! Located on Capilano Road just before you reach the Grouse Mountain parking lot. Walk across a suspension Bridge over the Capilano Gorge, wonder the trails thru the rain forest, walk thru the treetops on the new Tree Top Adventure, visit the trading post for a huge selection of souvenirs, watch native weavers and/or carvers at work.

3) Capilano Fish Hatchery is also located on Capilano Road and is a great place to view salmon jumping up the fish ladders to get around the Cleveland Dam. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capilano_River_Regional_Park

4) Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge is also located in North Vancouver and is much less touristy than Capilano but it also is not as spectacular. The bridge is slightly higher above the water but much shorter in span. Located in a Provincial Park this bridge comes with some nice hiking trails and you will find an ecology centre in the park as well as picnic tables and a food concession outlet. Should you choose to enjoy the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge always cross the suspension bridge first and then hike down the trail to the lower (Twin Falls wooden) bridge to cross back over the Lynn Valley River and return to your car – that way you are hiking downhill rather than uphill. http://www.lynncanyonparkguide.bc.ca It is also free to visit this suspension bridge!

5) Stanley Park – http://www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/parks/stanley/ - is the crown jewel of Vancouver's parks. As one of North America's largest urban parks, covering over a 1000 acres and offering an abundance of activities. Enjoy the totem pole collection near the Brockton Point Light House, hiking trails, beaches, water parks for the kids (young & old), rose gardens, miniature train, petting zoo, aquarium –http://www.vanaqua.org – many view points, and several restaurants. During the summer months there is a free shuttle bus that you can ride around the park on.

6) Gas Town – the location where Vancouver originated. The name is derived from a very colorful character named Gassy Jack who was one of the first settlers in the area and a salon keeper – while in Gas Town don’t miss your photo op with the statue of Gassy Jack and by the Steam Clock.

7) At the start of Gas Town is the Harbor Centre Tower http://www.vancouverlookout.com a great spot to start your tour of Vancouver with a birds eye view of the city. Either take the elevator up to the lookout level or go to the top and enjoy a meal in the revolving restaurant.

8) China Town is only about 6 blocks over from Gas Town and is the largest China Town north of San Francisco. While in China Town enjoy a visit to the Dr Sun Yat Sen Classical Gardens http://www.classicalchinesegarden.com and also make sure you visit the world’s thinnest building it is only 6’ wide!

9) Granville Island – http://www.granvilleisland.com – is a huge public market area which not only sells fruit & veggies but you can also buy frozen fish to be shipped to your home. May artists make this their home and you can watch them at work in their studios – making this a great place to buy unique souvenirs. The Granville Island Brewery is also located here and you can stop in for a free tour & tastes. There are theatres for live performances and many fine restaurants. A fun way to get to Granville Island is via the Aquabus – http://www.theaquabus.com

10) Burnaby Village Museum – http://www.city.burnaby.bc.ca – is an open air museum with over 30 restored homes, shops, school, church and a 1912 carousel situated on 10 acres

11) Gulf of Georgia Cannery – http://www.gulfofgeorgiacannery.com – is a restored fishing cannery located in the historic fishing village of Steveston (part of Richmond). Here you see exhibits that showcase the history of the fishing industry in British Columbia. Once finished in the museum it is great fun to walk along the fishing docks and see the fishing boats which are selling their catch. There are also some excellent restaurants located here.

12) The Vancouver Maritime Museum located on the shore of English Bay is fun for the whole family with lots of hands on exhibits for the kid in all of us. Here to you will find the ship St Roch which the RCMP sailed from Vancouver to Halifax via the Northwest Passage and then completed the return journey in 1944. You actually get to tour this ship. http://www.vancouvermaritimemuseum.com

13) Queen Elizabeth Park – http://www.greatervancouverparks.com/QEPark01.htm -The 130 acre (52 hectare) park is one of the most beautifully maintained public parks in the world. Second only to Stanley Park in annual visitations, it receives nearly 6 million people a year who marvel at its superior standard of garden plantings.

The park was originally quarried for its rock which served to build Vancouver's first roadways. In 1929 the Board proceeded to acquire the property which had become an abandoned eyesore but still served as the site for two holding reservoirs for the City's drinking water. Dedicated as a park by King George VI and his consort, Queen Elizabeth (the present Queen's mother) on their much lauded visit to Vancouver in 1939.

14) Fort Langley is the restored wooden fort built by the Hudson’s Bay Company as a trading post. It is the origin of British Columbia and was the first capital. This Fort is operated by the Federal Parks Board. http://www.pc,qc.ca/fortlangley

15) If you are a wine lover you might want to rent a car and spend a day visiting a few of the many excellent wineries located in the Fraser Valley only about a 1 hour drive from your hotel. Almost all of the wineries offer free tastes & tours.

16) If you are a real animal lover than don’t miss “Mountain View Conservation & Breeding Centre” It is located in Fort Langley about an hour drive from downtown Vancouver. Mountain View Conservation and Breeding Centre is a leading non-profit Canadian facility that breeds endangered species in family groups for re-introduction back into their natural habitat in Canada and around the world. This facility is not a zoo their goal is to breed rare and endangered wildlife and re-introduce these animals back into their natural habitats. Presently Mountainview hosts over 50 species of the world’s most threatened animals and birds. See animals such as the spotted dog from India, Giraffes, and much much more. Here you do not wonder around as in a zoo rather you are given a guided tour with commentary on each animal group. Check it out at http://www.mtnviewconservation.org

17) VanDusen Botanical Garden is a scenic 55- acre garden of international renown – a living museum of plants collected from around the world and artistically displayed amidst rolling lawns, woodlands and five tranquil lakes, all in the heart of Vancouver and just 15 minutes from downtown.

Due to Vancouver’s mild climate, plants bloom at the Garden year-round. This same climate creates a unique environment where plants from varying climate regions thrive and grow – at VanDusen you will see plants from the southern hemisphere, tropical areas and the high Arctic tundra along side native species. The Elizabethan Maze (one of only six in North America) provides year-round fun.

18) UBC Botanical Garden located at the University of British Columbia covers 110 acres and includes an Alpine, Asian, Native, Food, and Japanese Gardens. http://www.ubcbotanicalgarden.org

19) Dazzle your senses when you visit Minter Gardens nestled against 7000 foot Mt. Cheam in beautiful 'Super Natural' British Columbia. One of the most spectacular show gardens in the world! Eleven themed gardens are designed to dazzle the senses with massive displays of artistic floral designs.

Minter Gardens is located 90 minutes east of downtown Vancouver just off the Trans-Canada Hwy. #1 at exit #135. http://www.gardeningbc.com

[NCCruzQueen]

WOW, BCHappyGal, Thanks for taking the time to make this comprehensive list.

[Minoushka]

What with Jet lag and everything ...one more question

We are arriving midday .I hope we will be able to dump our stuff ....oh how I wish I knew how to travel light !!!and then go exploring

What would be feasable on Sunday pm I figure by 1pm we should be good to go

Some place not too tiring..... LUnch ?Good not expensive ....Bus? Seabus ?

I really have little clues so I may be asking stupid questions....

Remember we still have 2 full days after that

I will copy paste all advice and print it for ref

What places or areas should we AVOID ?

Is Vancouver safe at night ...Montreal is

 

I see Mall really has few shops

 

Is the Bay the Olympic store ?I really want that from Vancouver

How far is closest one to our hotel

 

Thanks again

 

You are GREAT help

 

 

Michele from Montreal

[ell52]

Michele:

 

You should use Google Maps to help orient yourself to the city. If you've never used it before, you type in the address of your hotel (i.e. 500 West 12th Avenue,Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M2) as starting point then location of where you want to go.

 

Basically, everything you have on your list to see is going to be north of your hotel - Stanley Park, downtown, etc.

 

My suggestions for day of arrival:

If you arrive around mid-day, your room may not be ready but you can drop off your bags at the hotel. Then go for lunch.

 

For lunch:There is a good, moderately priced restaurant called White Spot directly across the street from the hotel on Cambie Street. There are also restaurants and fast food places at City Square.

 

After lunch: Instead of heading downtown, take the bus south on Cambie to Queen Elizabeth Park. It's a lovely park with a conservatory, sunken garden and a fabulous view of the city. (There's also a restaurant there (a bit pricey), but very nice that also has a view of the city. So it's another option for lunch.)

 

By then, it will be late afternoon and you can take the bus back to your hotel to check in, freshen up and decide what to do for the evening.

[Minoushka]

Merci

 

Michele

[orchid72]

What with Jet lag and everything ...one more question

We are arriving midday .I hope we will be able to dump our stuff ....oh how I wish I knew how to travel light !!!and then go exploring

What would be feasable on Sunday pm I figure by 1pm we should be good to go

Some place not too tiring..... LUnch ?Good not expensive ....Bus? Seabus ?

 

Considering you may be a bit tired, and may not get to your hotel until 1 PM at the earliest, and considering you are staying at the Plaza 500, I would suggest going to Granville Island for food (lunch), and to just take in the atmosphere. You can then, if you want, take the aquabus from there and head downtown and just go to English bay to relax on the beach then have dinner in the west end area (along denman). After dinner, you can either take a cab or bus back to your hotel for an early night.

 

What places or areas should we AVOID ?

Is Vancouver safe at night ...Montreal is

Vancouver is safe at night. I live in the downtown area, and I feel safe walking at night alone (but of course, I exercise a lot of vigilance by walking in well-lit and high traffic areas). I would just avoid the downtown east side at night (come to think of it, I suggest staying out of the downtown east side period). In the downtown core, you WILL see panhandlers, but just do not make eye contact, and walk past them. DO NOT give them any money, and if someone approaches you and tells you they need money because they are trying to get on a ferry to the island, or are trying to get their car out of a tow yard, just say sorry you can't help them. They will leave you alone.

 

Is the Bay the Olympic store ?I really want that from Vancouver

How far is closest one to our hotel

The Bay carries a huge range of Olympic -related products. The closest Bay to your hotel is the one in downtown on Granville.

[Minoushka]

Merci again

 

 

Michele

 

Hey next week Vancouver YEAH!!!!

 

:) :) :) :) :) :) -lots of smiles

[ell52]

Je vous en prie!

[scottbee]

What places or areas should we AVOID ?

Is Vancouver safe at night ...Montreal is

 

There is only one section, called the downtown east side, roughly north of Union and East of Cambie. It also is the area where Vancouver's old Chinatown is, it's OK during the day, but I wouldn't wander there at night.

 

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&ll=49.278557,-123.097773&spn=0.016966,0.045447&z=15&msid=100934763039761071004.00046d5bc9456583b77e8