Why Choose Experience Gifts?
There’s something truly magical about giving an experience. Unlike material items, experiences turn into cherished stories, unforgettable memories, and opportunities for connection. Sharing these moments with loved ones strengthens bonds and creates shared memories that last a lifetime.
Vancouver: A City of Diverse Experiences
With its rich cultural and natural landscapes, Vancouver offers a playground for exploration and enjoyment. From hidden gems to iconic attractions, there’s something here for everyone. Even if you’re not gift-shopping, consider this your ultimate guide to discovering new and exciting sides of Vancouver.
Our Top Picks for Unique Vancouver Experience Gifts
Here’s our carefully curated list of 18 unique experiences that make perfect gifts for anyone looking to discover or rediscover Vancouver.
1. Granville Island Market Tour
The Granville Island Public Market can be overwhelming, even for locals. The Granville Island Market Tour provides VIP insider access to Vancouver’s top food artisans while uncovering Granville Island’s history and culture. This progressive meal is led by a fun and knowledgeable local foodie expert, and is an experience you won’t get on your own.
- Why It’s Awesome: VIP access to skip the busy lineups at popular market vendors
2. Spring Foraging Trip by Swallow Tail Canada
Step into nature and explore BC’s coastal areas on a guided foraging trip. Learn to identify edible wild foods in their natural habitat—a perfect gift for those who love the outdoors and culinary adventure.
- Why It’s Awesome: Combines culinary curiosity with hands-on learning in a stunning natural setting.
3. Seaplane Tours by Harbour Air Seaplanes
Imagine soaring above Vancouver’s skyline, taking in sweeping views of Stanley Park, English Bay, and the Lions Gate Bridge. Harbour Air’s seaplane tours offer a breathtaking perspective that even locals can appreciate. This unforgettable flight is perfect for those looking to experience Vancouver from above.
- Why It’s Awesome: A unique and thrilling way to see Vancouver’s landmarks from the sky.
4. Bowen Island Dinner Tour
Hop on a boat from Granville Island and cruise to scenic Bowen Island. This 3-hour round-trip Bowen Island Dinner tour offers stunning coastal views, stops at the Seal Colony and Lighthouse Park, and a delicious dinner at a top Bowen Island restaurant.
- Why It’s Awesome: Combines a scenic boat ride with fine dining, making it ideal for food and nature lovers alike.
5. Mountain Zipline Adventure
Experience the thrill of zipping through the trees at Grouse Mountain. This exhilarating tour includes three dual ziplines, allowing participants to soar side-by-side with friends or family. It’s a 45-minute adrenaline-filled adventure with panoramic mountain and city views.
- Why It’s Awesome: Perfect for thrill-seekers who want a unique perspective of the mountains.
6. Immersive Asian Food & Culture Experience
Dive into the rich flavors of Asian cuisine with the Authentic Asian Eats Tour, a culinary journey through Vancouver’s best Asian food establishments. This tour is perfect for food enthusiasts eager to explore authentic dishes and learn about the cultural heritage behind them.
- Why It’s Awesome: A guided journey through the city’s most flavorful Asian eateries, curated for culinary adventurers.
7. Aquarium Membership
Gift an annual membership to the Vancouver Aquarium, home to thousands of ocean species and dedicated to marine conservation. Membership includes unlimited entry, invitations to special events, and discounts, making it the perfect gift for animal lovers and families.
- Why It’s Awesome: Offers unlimited access to one of Vancouver’s top attractions, with perks that last all year.
8. The Ultimate Vancouver Bike Tour
Discover Vancouver’s highlights on The Grand Bike Tour, a 5-hour tour through Stanley Park, Granville Island, Chinatown, and Gastown. With scenic, flat trails and plenty of stops for photos and stories, it’s perfect for all fitness levels and a great way to explore the city’s beauty.
- Why It’s Awesome: Combines iconic sights, rich history, and easy cycling on Vancouver’s famous bike paths.
9. Craft Cocktail Workshop
Learn the art of crafting exquisite cocktails at Long Table Distillery, one of Vancouver’s most iconic distilleries. This hands-on workshop includes expert instruction, sampling, and take-home recipes.
- Why It’s Awesome: A sophisticated, fun, and interactive experience for cocktail enthusiasts.
10. Holiday History Tour
This holiday season, explore downtown’s most iconic heritage buildings and uncover their captivating tales of intrigue and drama, on the Holiday History & Hot Chocolate Tour. Sip rich cocoa as you take in festive displays at Vancouver’s grandest hotels. End the journey with a magical private viewing inside the stunning Marine Building.
- Why It’s Awesome: A unique blend of holiday spirit, history, and Vancouver’s architectural gems.
11. Artisanal Cheese & Wine Tasting Experience
Discover local BC cheeses with a guided cheese and wine tasting on the Granville Island Uncorked Tour. Taste the best of BC cheese with freshly sourced charcuterie, and accompaniments. You will also learn the history and surprising stories behind BC’s prized artisans.
- Why It’s Awesome: A delicious and educational journey through Vancouver’s artisanal cheese scene, and so much more.
12. Glass Blowing Workshop
Create your own hand-blown glass art at Vancouver Studio Glass. From ornaments to small sculptures, this hands-on experience is both creative and rewarding.
- Why It’s Awesome: A unique, artistic adventure resulting in a personalized keepsake.
13. Gastronomic Gastown Dinner Party
Gift an unforgettable Gastown food tour featuring a progressive dining experience through Vancouver’s historic neighborhood. Enjoy eight premium tastings, from seafood tostadas to tiramisu, paired with local wines or creative cocktails. Led by engaging local foodie guides, this tour blends fine dining, fascinating history, and community impact into one exceptional experience.
- Why It’s Awesome: Combines gourmet cuisine, captivating stories, and exclusive access to Gastown’s best dining spots while supporting local non-profits.
14. Escape Room Adventure at SmartyPantz
Gift a thrilling, immersive escape room experience set in Vancouver’s historic Gastown. Themes range from spy missions to haunted mysteries.
- Why It’s Awesome: A fun and interactive gift that’s perfect for families, friends, or corporate groups.
15. VanDusen Botanical Garden Membership
The 55-acre VanDusen Botanical Garden is a year-round wonderland of plant displays, water features, and art installations.
- Why It’s Awesome: The gift of nature, with access to one of Vancouver’s most beautiful and serene spaces.
16. Craft Chocolate Making Workshop
Learn the art of bean-to-bar chocolate making in this hands-on class at a local chocolatier. Participants create their own chocolate creations to take home.
- Why It’s Awesome: A rich and indulgent gift perfect for chocolate lovers.
17. Ethical Fashion Design Workshop
Gift a session at a local sustainable fashion studio where participants can design and craft their own upcycled garments or accessories.
- Why It’s Awesome: Perfect for eco-conscious creatives looking to learn a new skill.
18. Sunset Kayak Tour at Deep Cove
Explore Vancouver’s stunning coastline on a guided sunset kayak tour. Paddle through calm waters as the sun dips below the horizon.
- Why It’s Awesome: A tranquil, breathtaking experience showcasing the natural beauty of Vancouver.
These Vancouver experience gifts are perfect for creating lasting memories and supporting local businesses this holiday season. Which of these experiences would bring joy to your loved ones? Consider pairing your gift with a Vancouver Foodie Tours gift card to complete the ultimate gift package!
