It's like how LA locals aren't hitting The Hollywood Walk of Fame or posing with Michael Jackson impersonators on a Friday night. I don't know a single New Yorker confidently declaring their favourite dessert spot is M&M World.
That said — Vancouver is gorgeous. It's totally fair to want to do and see it all! I'm not here to shut those wishes down. In fact, I fully encourage them — just let me point you in the right direction.
Instead of Whistler ... check out Nelson
I've lived in Vancouver my whole life, and I've never understood the hype around Whistler — or the Australian population of that ski village. Whistler, you're not Aspen despite your best efforts.
Granted, I'm not a huge ski-er. I know "pizza", "french fry", and "drinks at Longhorns", so I can't give you a detailed breakdown about Whistler's Olympic-grade black diamond runs — but I do know this: BC has plenty of ski destinations, and the one I can't stop thinking about, looks straight out of a storybook.
Nelson is what happens when a historic mountain town and a bohemian art collective have a love child. The streets are lined with independent cafés, vintage stores, and locals who genuinely want to be there — not just people in Arc'teryx taking up space.
Whitewater Ski Resort, Nelson's crown jewel, is known for deep powder and short lines. Plus, it's cheaper than Whistler. Winter is prime for skiing, but Nelson is an all-season gem. Fall turns the town into a Wes Anderson fever dream, and summer means lake days at Kootenay Lake without the UBC frat bros cannonballing into your serenity.
Also, unlike Whistler – which feels like it was assembled by a marketing team in a high-rise boardroom — Nelson has an actual community. This means when you're grabbing a pack of Mango-Chutney Naan Chips from local and organic grocer Evergreen Market, you might accidentally end up in a philosophical debate with a local about the ethics of AI or be invited to a backyard sauna party. It’s that kind of place.
I'll give it to Whistler, it has a "small town" feel with "big city perks" — by which I mean, yes they do sell knitted flannels, but those flannels come from a little retailer called "Artizia".
So yeah, I guess it's official. After writing this article and re-watching Twin Peaks, I've decided at some point in my future I will be moving to Nelson, BC.
White Water Ski Resort Website
Instead of The Capilano Suspension Bridge... go to The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
This one is deeply personal. The Capilano Suspension Bridge costs a panic-inducing $71 per person, while Lynn Canyon is completely free just down the road.
They both have "suspension bridge" in the name. They both involve walking across a swaying wooden plank surrounded by towering evergreens. And you will not know the difference until you've already swiped your credit card and muttered, "I just paid how much for a bridge?"
I've made this mistake so you don't have to.
Bonus: Once you've crossed the bridge, you can explore lush forest trails, check out Twin Falls, or even take a dip in the crystal-clear 30 Foot Pool — which, in photos, looks like a little corner of Hawaii.
Pro tip: go early in the morning or in the fall to avoid crowds.
Instead of The Vancouver Aquarium... get on the SeaBus
Yes, a couple's photo in front of the backlit neon jellyfish tank is an elite hard launch of your new relationship (guilty!). But let's be real: if you want a great date or day out that doesn't cost $30, skip the ticket booth and hop on the SeaBus instead.
For just a few bucks ($4.25 one-way to be exact), you get a front-row seat to the Burrard Inlet, panoramic skyline views, and the chance to spot sea life — seals, sea lions, and if the universe is on your side, maybe even an orca whale.
Pro Tip: once you dock in North Van, grab a fresh crab leg at Lonsdale Quay Market (a freebie alternative to Granville Island Public Market). Or, if you're vegan, opt for a seaweed salad.
Instead of Science World... go to the HR MacMillan Space Centre
Science World is fun, but if you're not in the mood to pay $30+ to fight off a swarm of field-tripping third graders for a turn at the spinning chair, consider HR MacMillan Space Centre instead.
For a slightly cheaper price ($24) you get a planetarium, interactive exhibits, and telescope viewings — and the Space Centre's hosts their fair share of 19+ special events. It makes the perfect for switch-up for date night or a low-key hang with friends.
And sure, it's not a big glass ball, but the Space Centre's Mid-Century-meets-Tomorrowland architecture is timeless. It's also smack in the middle of Vanier Park, with the best False Creek views in the city. Grab a bench along the boardwalk and take in nature's light show — AKA the twinkling city skyline.
HR MacMillan Space Centre Website
Instead of Flyover Canada... drive to Cypress Lookout Point
I won't lie — FlyOver Canada is impressive, and I’ve definitely teared up when the wild horses run free on the prairies (if you know, you know). But this list is all about getting the same wow factor without the price tag.
Thankfully, generations of locals have passed down the best secret routes for the most gorgeous views, and here is one of my favourites.
Take a scenic drive up Cypress Mountain, stopping at the viewpoint halfway up. From there, you get a breathtaking panoramic view of Vancouver, the Burrard Inlet, and the endless coastline beyond — no fake wind effects necessary.
Bottom line? Skip the stimulated scenery and experience BC's beauty without a seatbelt or a $35 price tag.
Cypress Lookout Map
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
