Discover our locals' 192 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.

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City guides by those who know Vancouver best!

Travel Guides by these Vancouver Locals!

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Know your way in Vancouver like a local!

Spotted by Locals

✓ Discover Vancouver through the eyes of a local!

✓ 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

Superbaba

Mouth-watering falafel food truck

Food truck "Superbaba" in Vancouver, simply has the best falafel I've ever tasted. I'll often 'forget' my lunch just to go there and indulge...

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Snacks

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

Reflections Garden Terrace

Rooftop patio downtown

The "Reflections Garden Terrace" in Vancouver is on Hotel Georgia. This cozy garden bar is a favourite among locals year round. Remember: ask for a blanket

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Bars

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

MeeT on Main

Vegan comfort food

"MeeT on Main" in Vancouver makes amazing vegan comfort food, no mater whether you're plant-based or not! Pro-tip: just go earlier rather than later...

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Restaurants
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Snacks

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

Sun Sushi

Cheap but delicious sushi

"Sun Sushi" in Vancouver is perfect if you're looking for a fast & delicious meal, plus incredibly quick service and cheap prices! Try the agedashi tofu...

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Restaurants

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

The Orpheum

Historical theatre from 1927

"The Orpheum" in Vancouver is home to the city's symphony orchestra. It's truly a sight to see and a must-visit for an evening show in the city...

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Art & culture
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Music
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Theaters

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

Loafe Cafe

Artsy university cafe

"Loafe Cafe" in University of British Columbia in Vancouver is a favorite among students. It's one of my favorite places to catch up with friends...

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

La Casa Gelato

Locally owned ice cream shop

"La Casa Gelato" is Vancouver's queen of ice cream, with almost as many flavors of ice cream as there are days in the year.

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Snacks

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

Lift Bar & Grill

Happy hour on the water

"Lift Bar & Grill" in Vancouver is on the water at Coal Harbour. I recommend visiting during happy hour; my go-to order is the vegetable sushi roll...

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Restaurants

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden

Oasis in the city

"Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden" is in Vancouver's Chinatown. This garden is home to a tranquil outdoor space and some art exhibits. It's a true oasis!

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Art & culture
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Relaxing

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

49th Parallel Cafe

Coffee and donut heaven

"49th Parallel Cafe" in Kitsilano, Vancouver is great to visit with friends: its infamous, delicious Lucky's Doughnuts have me coming back again & again...

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Coffee & tea

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Samantha

Cheng

Jun 5, 2025

Virtuous Pie

Plant-based pizza for everyone

"Virtuous Pie" in Vancouver is a perfect place for quick dinner. They have vegan pizza, which I love together with sparkling water. Simple but delicious!

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Restaurants

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Gabrielle

Dugré Desrochers

Jun 5, 2025

Aunt Leah's Urban Thrift

Thrift with a cause

"Aunt Leah's Urban Thrift" in Vancouver is a thrift shop that focuses on providing shelter, job training and support to people who need it...

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Art & culture
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Relaxing
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Shopping

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Daniela

Botelho Perotto

Jun 5, 2025

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192 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

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What to expect?

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

By visiting our locals’ favorites and lesser-known places, you contribute to a more sustainable way of traveling. You support the local economy and reduce the pressure on popular tourist spots. And in the end, those are the best places right?

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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