Vancouver has real main character energy. It has a quiet confidence — maybe even a slight superiority complex, and honestly, it kind of earns it. Mountains. Ocean. Those dramatic “look at us” views. And now, with the FIFA World Cup this summer, Van City is at a new peak of sports fandom. Whether you’re into soccer or just tagging along, we’ve got a few ideas to fill the gaps between matches.
If your family is done with scenic walks and predictable museums, even better. The city has a playful, slightly quirky side that’s perfect for exploring by transit, bike, or on foot.
The Grass is Always Greener at The FIFA World Cup
🐰 Bunny therapy, but cuter
At The Bunny Cafe, you can book time to hang out with adoptable buns— or just chill and enjoy a coffee while they hop around. Small paws. Twitchy noses. Instant joy. Spend an hour here, and enjoy the vegan treats, and the gift shop is a must-shop for bunny lovers and owners.
The Bunny Cafe, 1696 Venables Street, Vancouver, BC
🕹️ Button-mashing, but make it vintage
76 new and nostalgic pinball games await at VanCity Pinball, where flashing lights and old-school pinball machines collide. The flat entry, pay one price to play arcade lets kids and adults loose. There’s no tokens or coins, just flipper-fun, which also makes it kinda phone-free, too.
VanCity Pinball, 1739 Venables Street, Vancouver, BC
🌿 Spa day… but for your senses
Lush Spa Vancouver is not your average “sit quietly in a robe” situation. The effervescence of this quirky soap company extends to its salon-style setting at its Robson Street location. It’s a sensory oasis, with a patchwork of colours, sounds and of course, scents, to set the tone on discovering a new means of downtime. Like stepping inside one its bath bombs, Lush Spa is a reset like no other.
Lush Spa, 1020 Robson Street, Vancouver, BC
🌉 A bridge to nowhere? But make it dramatic
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is an engineering feat. Construction began back in 1889, connecting 140 metres long and 70 metres high over the Capilano River. It’s bouncy, and a little wobbly in spots, in all the right ways. Connect with nature, in tandem with views that rival the city’s Grouse Mountain.
Capilano Suspension Bridge, 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC
🐟 The Gulf of Georgia Cannery
A designated National Historic Site in picturesque Steveston Village, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery was built in 1894. Nowadays, it stands as a monument to fishing and canning salmon, a key institution for all commerce on the West Coast. Fishy fun for the whole family.
The Gulf of Georgia Cannery, 12138 Fourth Ave, Richmond, BC
🛏️ Where to Stay in Vancouver for the FIFA World Cup
With the FIFA World Cup at your doorstep, you won’t want to miss a minute of the action stuffed into a SkyTrain. Instead, invest in your happiness and embrace the epicness of it all at The DOUGLAS, Autograph Collection by Marriott. This impressive LEED Gold-Certified hotel is situated near BC Place, where all the matches take place. All the rooms are spacious, and some suites also feature sporty touches that keep the momentum flowing.
With views of the buzzing BC Place and an on-site casino, The DOUGLAS is built for more than just sports enthusiasts.
🍩 Where to Eat & Party for The FIFA World Cup
Lunch Lady- From Bourdain fame in ’08 to a string of Michelin stars this century, Lunch Lady has expanded to Toronto, so of course, make your own comparisons by visiting this long-standing spot first. 1046 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC.
Lee’s Donuts- A favourite amongst the many Granville Island Market stalls, this iconic bakery has been doling out the donuts for decades. 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC.
Key Party- Tucked behind a faux accounting firm, this lively retro rec room sets the tone for raucous nights out. Just maybe leave the car at home. 2305 Main St, Vancouver, BC.
Mount Pleasant Vintage & Provisions- Drinking, dancing, good vibes and killer cocktails. 67 W 6th Ave, Vancouver, BC.
The Narrow- Mexican snacks, a lovely outdoor patio and more fun await at this novel bar. 1898 Main St, Vancouver, BC.
All images by Libby Roach.