Discover our locals' 194 hidden gems in Vancouver
Let's explore Vancouver’s hidden spots with Spotted by Locals! From scenic parks and cozy cafes to local breweries and historical buildings, our Spotters share the city’s true character. Experience Vancouver through the eyes of true locals.
City guides by those who know Vancouver best!
Travel Guides by these Vancouver Locals!
Know your way in Vancouver like a local!
Spotted by Locals
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✓ Hidden gems that can’t be found in traditional guidebooks
✓ Our locals share their personal favorite spots in Vancouver
Check out our latest hidden gems in Vancouver
Things to do in Vancouver
S.P.C.A. Thrift Store
Full of soul
BC SPCA Thrift Store offers two floors of vintage treasures, with all proceeds supporting animal welfare. Friendly staff and great finds await!
by
Olena
Ardatova-Hallwood
Artigiano Burnaby
Coffee? Comes with a mural!
Artigiano Burnaby blends Italian charm with local art, serving classy coffee, brunch, pizza, and cocktails in a vibrant, mural-filled space.
by
Olena
Ardatova-Hallwood
La Grotta del Formaggio
A taste of Italy
La Grotta del Formaggio, a Vancouver classic, offers hefty custom sandwiches, unique pastas, and diverse cheeses in Little Italy since the 1970s. Enjoy!
by
Rebecca
Heggs
Grounds for Coffee
Best cinnamon buns in the city
While they are a cafe selling coffee and various baked goods, the main reason people come through the doors is to get one of their delicious cinnamon buns.
by
Rebecca
Heggs
Fraser River Trail
Unique riverside view
The "Fraser River Trail" in Vancouver is a super relaxing walk with a view of boats in the distance and some planes flying in and out of YVR Airport.
by
Daniela
Botelho Perotto
Vancouver Story Slam
2nd longest in the world
"Vancouver Story Slam" runs the second-longest-running story slam in the world! It's very unexpected and underrated treat. Grab a drink, sit back & enjoy!
by
Daniela
Botelho Perotto
Rocky Point Park
Nature, food & beer
A popular but out of the way park, Rocky Point Park and its surroundings are a gathering place for families, friends, and couples alike.
by
Rebecca
Heggs
CRAFT Beer Market
100+ beers on tap!
"CRAFT Beer Market" in Vancouver is my favourite place to sip a beer, relax and hang out with friends with one of the 140 beers on tap and some Maui ribs.
by
Dinesh
Jayabalan
Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie
Handmade dumplings!
"Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie" is one of the finest Chinese restaurants in Vancouver. I have a whole list of favorites there. Come prepared to share!
by
Daniela
Botelho Perotto
Steamworks Brewing Co
Steam-powered brewery!
"Steamworks Brewing Co" Vancouver (est 1995) is Canada's only steam-powered brewery! I don't know if it's the steam but the beers are fresh and tasty here.
by
Dinesh
Jayabalan
Green Leaf Brewing Co.
Waterfront brewery!
"Green Leaf Brewing Co." in Vancouver is a small brewery located in a cozy, waterfront market. It was the perfect cure after I came back from Bavaria...
by
Dinesh
Jayabalan
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What to do in Vancouver?
Heading to Vancouver?
194 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
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Authentic & Unbiased Content
Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!
Go off the Beaten Path Gems
We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.
Responsible Travel
Hi! Nice to meet you.
We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.
Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.
With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.
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