Neon Sign Hunting to Exploring Secret Islands - The Most Unique Things to Do in Vancouver

Vancouver is one of those (very) rare places where you can ski in the morning, hit the beach in the afternoon, and spend the evening sipping craft cocktails in a speakeasy—all without leaving the city. While most visitors make a beeline for Stanley Park and the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Vancouver’s real charm lies in its lesser-known corners.

So, if you’re heading to the West Coast of Canada and want to experience Vancouver beyond the usual tourist checklist, here’s your ultimate guide.  

Explore a Secret Island Right in the City  

Granville Island is well-known for its public market, shops, and waterfront restaurants. But few visitors know that there’s another island hidden in plain sight—Deadman’s Island, just off the shores of Stanley Park. This mysterious, inaccessible island has a dark history as a First Nations burial ground and later, a quarantine station for smallpox victims. You can’t set foot on it, but you can paddle around it by kayak or paddleboard while hearing some pretty creepy stories about it from local guides.  

Go on a Midnight Dim Sum Run  

Vancouver’s food scene is legendary, and its Chinese cuisine is among the best in the world—arguably even rivaling Hong Kong. But instead of going to the usual hotspots in Richmond, do as the locals do and hit up Sun Sui Wah or Kirin late at night for a dim sum feast that tastes even better after dark. Forget breakfast dumplings; order the Peking duck and geoduck sashimi, a West Coast treat you won’t find anywhere else.  

Take the Most Beautiful Commute of Your Life  

Most people visit Grouse Mountain by taking a tour bus to the gondola. But here’s a better idea: hop on a public seaplane from Vancouver Harbour and fly to Nanaimo or Victoria for a day trip. These tiny planes skim the water before taking off, with aerial views of the city, ocean, and snow-capped peaks that are far more exciting than any regular sightseeing tour. It’s a commute that feels straight out of a movie.  

Drink Craft Cocktails in a Hidden Library  

Vancouver has no shortage of great bars, but the best ones require a bit of effort to find. Key Party is a hidden speakeasy disguised as an old-school accounting office (yes, really). Push past the "office" door, and you’ll find yourself in a cozy, dimly lit cocktail bar with retro decor and a drinks menu that leans into the fun side of mixology. If you prefer something a little more classic, head to The Narrow Lounge, a candlelit, red-walled hideaway tucked down an alleyway, marked only by a single red light.  

Experience the Darker Side of the Pacific Ocean  

The beauty of Vancouver’s coast is often shown through sunset sails and seafood dinners, but for a truly wild ocean experience, head out on a storm-watching trip to Tofino. In the winter months, giant waves crash against the shores of Vancouver Island. Even if you don’t make it to Tofino, you can get a taste of the Pacific’s power by visiting Wreck Beach, Vancouver’s famous clothing-optional beach that requires a descent down 500 wooden steps—well worth it for the views (and the people-watching).  

Hunt for Neon Signs in the Rain  

Vancouver’s old neon district may be long gone, but if you know where to look, you can still find vintage neon signs glowing! The best collection is inside the Museum of Vancouver, which houses dozens of restored neon signs from the city's 1950s and ‘60s heyday. For a more atmospheric experience, wander through Chinatown and East Hastings after dark.

See a Movie in the Last Art Deco Cinema  

Before Netflix, Vancouverites went to the movies in Art Deco theatres, and one of the last remaining gems is the Rio Theatre on Broadway. This independent cinema shows everything from cult classics and horror marathons to live comedy and burlesque shows. Grab some popcorn, settle into the vintage red seats, and experience cinema the way it was meant to be!

So go ahead, skip the usual tourist trails, and let Vancouver show you its most unexpected side!