Dreamy vibes in Vancouver

With steel and glass buildings floating above the water, Vancouver is a place for people that enjoy dreamy vibes. This guide shows you places to go in Vancouver to kick back in beautiful spaces, support local shops and enjoy dreamy experiences in Vancouver. Of course, with so many people walking, running and biking everywhere, Vancouver will inspire you to spend most of your time outside (Vibemap tip: “look both ways before you cross a bike lane”).

The most comfortable times of year to be outside in Vancouver are during the late spring and summer months. However, nothing is more delightful than sharing an umbrella and wandering the streets of Vancouver in the rain and ducking into a cozy cafe. That’s why we love to enjoy dreamy vibes in Vancouver in any type of weather.

A morning walk along False Creek leads along an inspired journey through a real life utopian city of the future. False Creek is at the heart of Vancouver’s transition from industrial port town to one of the world’s most livable cities. In addition, the Marinaside Seawall passes by scenic open spaces and shimmering high rise buildings that define Vancouver's skyline. Remember, don’t forget to stop along the way to quench your thirst, grab a bite or simply sit on a park bench and enjoy the vibes.

The industrial history of this city is ever present while wandering through Yaletown. Therefore, Yaletown is one of the perfect places to go in Vancouver for sentimental sightseeing. The Roundhouse Community Centre, which is a beautifully preserved railroad roundhouse, is the center of this historic area. Listen closely, you may be able to hear the sound of ghost trains like famous Engine No. 374 while exploring the surrounding neighborhood. Streets are lined with re-invented warehouses and outdoor patios with restaurants, bars and cafes spilling out onto former elevated loading docks.

Davie Village is a place that is more about psychic geography than physical geography. As a result, the people that call this part of the West End home have literally shaped the identity of this place. The powerful history of this neighborhood is most visible along Davie Street, which is the spiritual center of this iconic Vancouver neighborhood. Dreamy vibes mix with “in solidarity” vibes strongest at the intersection of Davie and Bute. Soak it all in while enjoying some shade at Jim Deva Plaza. From there let gravity lead you down to Sunset Beach (vibemap tip: “pick up some provisions at the world famous Medicinal Cannabis Dispensary before heading to enjoy a dreamy afternoon at Sunset Beach”).

Stanley Park is one of the world’s most fantastical urban oases. Above all, this enchanted rainforest is uplifting and peaceful. Wander Stanley Park’s vast network of trails and the park will envelop you with scenic views of water, mountains, trees and of course the famous boggy wetlands (it’s a vibe). Don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers in the gardens. On your way through the park visit the nine totem poles at Brockton Point that remind us of the long history of this land and the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil Waututh people, who used to call Whoi Whoi their home.

In our humble opinion, the only real way to get to Granville Island is by Aqua Bus. These adorable water taxis ferry you to Granville Island from a number of convenient locations along False Creek. Once on the Island itself it is time to get lost. Wander through the Granville Public Market, visit the cement factory or climb to the top of the rise at Ron Basford Park. However, if you are wandering with a bit more purpose, you can find a swing dance class at Performance Works or sit and listen to the sounds of buskers that fill the air of this magical island. Remember, it always feels safer to get lost knowing that ice cream or whiskey are always right around the corner.

This part of the city might not make it into a typical guide of places to go in Vancouver. However, the Olympic Village is modern day setting for dreamy vibes. Nothing has been left to chance in this totally sustainable neighborhood that was built for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Additionally, there is abundant open space for all to enjoy for free fun. Meander the “pedestrian oriented” streets between Olympic Village Square and Hinge Park. For more fun, explore Habitat Island or delight in paddling a kayak around this end of False Creek.