When a Hollywood star who’s travelled the world still can’t get enough of Vancouver, you know this city has something special. How I Met Your Mother actress Cobie Smulders recently shared her must-visit Vancouver attractions with Daily Hive, and her picks remind us why this coastal city continues to wow both locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re a long-time Vancouverite or planning your first visit to the city, sometimes it takes a fresh perspective to remind us of the incredible attractions right on our doorstep. Smulders, who has deep roots in Vancouver, knows exactly which spots deliver that signature West Coast magic.
Stanley Park: The Crown Jewel of Vancouver
At the top of Smulders’ list sits Stanley Park, and for good reason. “I think you have to do Stanley Park,” the actress told Daily Hive. “I think that’s kind of a must.”
She’s not alone in this assessment. Stanley Park consistently ranks as one of the city’s most popular destinations and has earned recognition as one of the world’s most beautiful sights. This 1,000-acre urban oasis offers something for everyone, from families to fitness enthusiasts to nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape from city life.
The best time to cycle the Stanley Park Seawall is early morning or late afternoon. You’ll avoid the midday crowds and catch spectacular light for photos, especially during golden hour when the North Shore mountains glow.
The Iconic Stanley Park Seawall
The Stanley Park Seawall remains one of the most scenic cycling and walking routes anywhere in North America. This 9-kilometre path hugs the coastline, offering uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean, North Shore mountains, and Vancouver’s downtown skyline. Whether you’re on a bike, rollerblades, or exploring on foot, a few hours spent along the Seawall is time well invested.
Along the way, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks including the Vancouver Seawall, Prospect Point, and numerous beaches perfect for a refreshing dip or peaceful picnic.
Grouse Mountain: Vancouver’s Peak Experience
Just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain continues to attract visitors with its combination of natural beauty and exciting attractions. This summer is particularly special, as the mountain celebrates its centennial with style.
Centennial Celebrations and New Attractions
From July 23 to August 3, 2026, the Grouse Mountain Centennial Festival, presented by CIBC, has been marking the attraction’s 100th anniversary with drone shows, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and local food trucks. Even if you’ve missed the main festival dates, the mountain’s newest attraction remains open for thrill-seekers.
The Grouse Gravity Coaster is now open year-round. This thrilling mountain coaster descends 919 metres down Grouse Mountain, weaving through natural terrain between trees before opening up to sweeping panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding region.
The coaster offers riders complete control over their speed, making it perfect for both adrenaline junkies wanting maximum thrills and families preferring a more leisurely descent whilst taking in those spectacular views.
Why Vancouver Keeps Impressing
It’s not just celebrities singing Vancouver’s praises. Newcomers from across Canada continue to be blown away by what this city offers. Recent transplants from Toronto have noted that between the mountains, ocean, and surrounding rainforest, it’s nearly impossible not to be impressed by Vancouver’s natural setting.
The city’s unique geography creates countless photo opportunities and outdoor adventures. From sea level to mountain peaks, Vancouver delivers diverse experiences within minutes of each other – a rarity amongst major metropolitan areas.
Planning Your Vancouver Adventure
Whether you’re following in Cobie Smulders’ footsteps or charting your own course through the city, Vancouver rewards those who take time to explore both its natural wonders and urban attractions.
Getting Around Vancouver’s Top Attractions
Stanley Park is easily accessible via public transit, car, or bike from anywhere in downtown Vancouver. For Grouse Mountain, the journey itself becomes part of the experience. A scenic 30-minute drive from downtown takes you from sea level to the mountain’s base, where the iconic Skyride gondola transports visitors to the peak.
Book Grouse Mountain tickets online in advance during summer months. The mountain is extremely popular with both tourists and locals, and pre-booking ensures you won’t face disappointment or long queues at the ticket office.
Summer Events and Road Closures
If you’re visiting Vancouver this August, be aware that several major street festivals and the T100 Triathlon World Tour (August 15-16, 2026) are causing road closures across Metro Vancouver. Events are planned in Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Langley, New Westminster, and Vancouver itself, with UBC campus experiencing closures for the triathlon.
Give yourself extra time when travelling to Vancouver attractions during festival weekends, and consider using public transit or booking a private tour with hotel pickup to avoid parking and traffic complications.
Experience Vancouver Like a Local
Cobie Smulders’ recommendations highlight what makes Vancouver truly special – world-class attractions that never get old, no matter how many times you visit. Stanley Park and Grouse Mountain represent the perfect combination of natural beauty and accessible adventure that defines the Vancouver experience.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or rediscovering familiar favourites, these iconic Vancouver attractions continue to deliver memorable experiences year after year. As Smulders noted, there’s simply “a lot to do” in this remarkable city by the sea.