Explore Vancouver: A Local’s Guide from WCU Stays

Discover the best of Vancouver — from a local’s perspective.
At WCU Stays, we believe travel is about more than finding a place to sleep. It’s about feeling at home in a new city, even if you’re here for just a few nights. Whether you’re visiting family, exploring the coast, or here on business, this local guide helps you experience Vancouver the way we do.

Morning: Start Slow and Local

Wake up to mountain views and that unmistakable Pacific Northwest freshness. Step out from your WCU suite and find a café that fits your mood:

• Revolver Coffee (Gastown) – For true coffee lovers. Revolver Online

• 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters (Mount Pleasant) – Famous doughnuts and a family-friendly vibe. 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters

• Nemesis Coffee (Downtown) – Great WiFi and sleek design for catching up on emails between sips.

If you’re near Kitsilano or UBC, grab your coffee to go and take a slow walk along Jericho Beach — a local favorite at sunrise.

Midday: Explore, Eat, and Recharge

No trip to Vancouver is complete without time in Stanley Park. Rent a bike, ride the Seawall, and stop at The Teahouse for lunch with an ocean view. Families love the Vancouver Aquarium, while business travelers can take a quiet walk beneath the cedars to reset.

Prefer something a bit more urban?
[Granville Island Public Market] – Local seafood, handmade crafts, and buskers filling the air with music.

Our Tip: Parking can be tight around Granville Island. The water taxi from Yaletown is an easy (and scenic) alternative.

Afternoon: Culture Meets Coastline

Vancouver is where nature and creativity intertwine. A few local favorites:

• [Museum of Anthropology (UBC)] – Indigenous art & architecture that tell the Pacific Northwest story.

• [Vancouver Art Gallery] – A mix of classic and contemporary exhibitions.

• [Commercial Drive] – A melting pot of food, vintage shops, and character.

Families can dive into [Science World], while remote workers might find their sweet spot at Kitsilano Beach Park with a laptop and latte.

Evening: Eat Well, Unwind Well

When evening hits, Vancouver’s dining scene comes alive. Try:

• Miku (Waterfront) – Known for aburi-style sushi and ocean views. mikurestaurant.com

• Nuba (Gastown) – Fresh Lebanese comfort food. Nuba

• [The Naam] (Kitsilano) – An iconic late-night vegetarian spot that’s pure Vancouver.

Then it’s back to your WCU Stay — where you can kick off your shoes, curl up on the sofa, and feel right at home.

Our Tips for a Great Vancouver Stay

1. Book early in summer – It’s the busiest season and the city fills up fast.

2. Bring layers – Vancouver weather can change three times a day.

3. Walk when you can – Many of the best moments happen between destinations.

4. Try something local – Whether it’s salmon, craft beer, or a Seawall sunset, lean into the local flavour.

5. Stay central – All WCU properties are positioned for quick access to beaches, restaurants, and business hubs.

WCU Stays exists to make travel simple, comfortable, and personal — a true home base for exploring Vancouver your way.