“Do It All Again” in Vancouver: A Lauren Spencer Smith Fan’s Guide to BC’s Unforgettable Experiences

Half-day Vancouver whale-watching adventure

Embark on a thrilling half-day whale-watching excursion directly from downtown Vancouver! This adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness majestic whales and diverse marine life without any logistical fuss. Step aboard a luxurious, comfortable catamaran designed for optimal viewing, featuring both a heated indoor cabin and expansive outdoor decks. As you set sail, our expert naturalist guides will enrich your journey with fascinating insights into the region's local history and geology. While keeping an eye out for incredible wildlife like whales, seals, and eagles, you'll also be treated to breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest scenery that many visitors often miss. To keep you comfortable and cozy on board, complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate will be available. Get ready for an unforgettable encounter with nature!

Whistler, Shannon Falls & Sea to Sky Gondola tour

Discover the stunning beauty of British Columbia on a Whistler, Shannon Falls & Sea to Sky Gondola tour. Travel the legendary Sea to Sky Highway, a route famous for its dramatic landscapes of 7,000-foot mountains, ancient fjords, and massive granite monoliths.

Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup and a scenic drive over the Lions Gate Bridge, showcasing beautiful harbor views.

Witness the powerful cascade of Shannon Falls, British Columbia’s third-highest waterfall, offering incredible photo opportunities.

Next, ascend via the Sea to Sky Gondola for unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the brilliant turquoise waters of Howe Sound. Explore hiking trails or test your courage on the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge.

Then, immerse yourself in Whistler Village, a vibrant mountain resort. With three hours of free time, you can explore shops, enjoy delicious cuisine, and simply embrace the energetic atmosphere of this world-class destination.

There are flexible drop-off options in downtown, Richmond, or at the airport, and tours can accommodate luggage with prior notice, making your departure seamless.

The Granite Falls Tour

This is the best Indian Arm boat tour you can take, offering a 2.5- to three-hour journey through Vancouver Harbour, into Deep Cove, and farther up Indian Arm to witness the beautiful, natural fjord leading to Granite Falls. On this tour, you’ll have a chance to see iconic sites like Stanley Park, English Bay Beach, Lions Gate Bridge, Coal Harbour, Deep Cove, Twin Islands, Raccoon Island, Buntzen Powerhouse, and much more.

Sea to Sky Gondola tour

Ready to explore the majestic landscapes beyond Vancouver without the stress of driving? This guided day trip immerses you in the heart of British Columbia’s natural wonders, showcasing its dramatic fjords, serene inlets, and towering mountains. Your adventure includes convenient round-trip transportation from Vancouver and a guaranteed ticket for the iconic Sea to Sky Gondola, where you'll witness unparalleled aerial views of the coastal rainforest and Howe Sound. Throughout the scenic drive, your guide will share fascinating commentary, and you'll make plenty of stops for unforgettable photos. Plus, you'll have ample free time to discover all that Whistler Village has to offer.

Stanley Park's ancient trees

Step into a hidden world of ancient trees, just a short walk from downtown Vancouver! This guided tour takes you into Stanley Park, home to the city's last old-growth forest. Prepare to be amazed by Canada's largest maple tree, thousand-year-old cedars, towering firs, and many more magnificent specimens. As you explore the park's scenic trails, you'll delve into its rich history, learning about the Coast Salish people who originally inhabited this land and how the forest has evolved over time. Its past will be brought to life with fascinating insights from old maps, photos, and postcards from local archives. With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour offers an intimate and uncrowded experience. Choose from morning or afternoon departures for maximum flexibility.

Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Nestled in the heart of Whistler Village is a culinary institution celebrated for its commitment to farm-to-table dining and exceptional West Coast cuisine. Led by Culinary Director James Walt, Araxi has garnered international acclaim for its innovative, seasonally focused menus that highlight the freshest ingredients from nearby fields, pastures, and pristine waters of British Columbia.

Beyond its renowned oyster bar and exquisite seafood towers, Araxi offers a sophisticated yet inviting ambiance, perfect for a special occasion or simply to indulge in some of Canada's finest culinary artistry. Its reputation extends beyond the culinary world, as Araxi was famously featured as the prize restaurant for the winner of the sixth season of Hell’s Kitchen. The oysters are a must try!

Blue Water Cafe in Vancouver

Blue Water Cafe, located in the heart of Yaletown, is consistently celebrated as one of Vancouver's top seafood restaurants. Renowned for its commitment to sustainable, West Coast–inspired cuisine, the restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience. Guests can savor an array of impeccably fresh seafood, from the vibrant Raw Bar's oysters and sashimi to expertly grilled fish and innovative seafood platters (these platters are a must see). The elegant yet inviting ambiance, coupled with exceptional service and an extensive wine list, makes Blue Water Cafe a perfect choice for a special occasion or a memorable culinary journey.

AnnaLena

AnnaLena is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Vancouver's Kitsilano neighborhood, known for its contemporary Canadian cuisine and innovative tasting menus. Chef Michael Robbins, the owner, named the restaurant after his two grandmothers, infusing the space with a subtle sense of quirkiness and pop culture references, while maintaining a refined and stylish ambiance. Diners can expect a seasonally inspired tasting menu that showcases precise technique, top-flight ingredients, and globally accented flavors, often featuring local seafood. The dishes are artfully plated, offering eye-catching pops of color and delightful combinations (I recommend the Cheeseburger 2050). Beyond the food, AnnaLena is praised for its effortless service, expertly prepared cocktails, and astute wine pairings, creating a polished yet welcoming dining experience.

Coast

Coast is a vibrant and highly-regarded seafood restaurant located in the heart of Vancouver. Known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and contemporary West Coast cuisine, Coast offers a sophisticated yet lively dining experience. Whether you're craving expertly prepared oysters, a perfectly seared piece of fish, or creative seafood towers, Coast delivers with its extensive menu and stylish ambiance. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy some of the best seafood Vancouver has to offer.

JOEY Burrard

Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, offers a vibrant and inviting dining experience. This popular spot blends iconic hospitality with a globally-inspired menu, crafted by a team of award-winning executive chefs. Guests can enjoy a diverse selection of American, Global, International, and Steak dishes, including popular items like Chicken Parmesan, Sirloin Steak Frites, and their famous Lobster Spaghetti (the lobster spaghetti is a must). The atmosphere at JOEY Burrard is described as a warm, modern industrial setting, featuring a spacious lounge, dining room, and an inviting patio. Whether you're looking for a casual meal, a lively spot for celebrations, or a place to enjoy handcrafted cocktails, JOEY Burrard aims to deliver an unparalleled experience with consistently outstanding food and excellent service. They also offer gluten-free and vegetarian options, happy hour specials, and are open for lunch and dinner daily.