Take a Vancouver Staycation this Holiday Season

It’s time to stay close to home, but that doesn’t mean we can’t take care of ourselves and play tourist in our town. What better way to play tourist than with a staycation in your favourite Downtown Vancouver neighbourhood? It’s time for some self-care as your re-explore our city’s wonder with festive and fresh eyes.

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Until January 8, 2021, in line with the public health order issued on November 20, non-essential travel into and out of BC is not recommended. BC residents, let’s do our part by continuing to stay local and support local, with your immediate household or bubble, in accordance with the latest guidelines.

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Cabin fever is a thing. We’ve all been staying home more than we’re used to, and sometimes you just need to get out of the house. No, we can’t travel right now, but we canstaycation for a change of scenery. My partner and I had a staycation at the Sheraton Hotel Vancouver Wall Centre back in September it was incredibly refreshing.

Here are a few hotels in different Vancouver neighbourhoods and some fun things to do as you play tourist in your town.

Coal Harbour

You know you’ve always wanted to stay at the Westin Bayshore Hotel. Located right on the Coal Harbour stretch of the Seawall, the pet-friendly Bayshore is where you want to be for a weekend of revitalization.

Things to do:

• Reconnect with nature with a walk through or around Stanley Park (worth at least half a day of (re)exploring of its own!)

• Walk or run the Seawall.

• Get pampered at Vida Spa.

• Have a hearty dinner at H2 Rotisserie & Bar, Cardero’s or Lift.

• Enjoy a made to order smoothie at T an Co.

Click here to explore other staycation options in the Cola Harbour area.

West End

The West End is quiet but vibrant, and very coveted area of the city. Make a few restaurant reservations and check-in at the iconic Sylvia Hotel to be by the water. Or settle in at the Rosellen Suites to be a twenty-minute scenic walk from the Teahouse at Stanley Park.

Things to do:

• Bundle up and go to the beach — English Bay and Sunset Beach are just moments away.

• Walk the Seawall to Stanley Park.

• Use this interactive map to take a self-guided walking tour of the area’s heritage buildings.

• Enjoy the Sylvia Restaurant & Lounge, as well as the nearby restaurants.

Click here for additional West End hotel options.

Downtown Core

Take in the city lights and hotel Christmas trees with a night or two at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver or the Sutton Place Hotel.

Things to do:

• Sit with some hot chocolate on the Vancouver Art Gallery steps to admire the Amacon tree.

• Enjoy dinner at Notch 8 Restaurant & Bar or Hawksworth Restaurant.

• Take in the lights outside St. Paul’s Hospital.

• Get some holiday shopping done on Robson Street or at Pacific Centre.

Click here for other downtown core hotels to consider.

Granville Island

A year-round favourite, Granville Island is a unique place with views, shops, restaurants and, of course, the Granville Island Hotel and the also eponymous market. The hotel is your base to explore the nooks and crannies while getting fresh air and supporting local artisinal businesses.

Things to do:

• Explore the Granville Island Public Market.

• Do some Christmas shopping at the artisinal shops.

• Take a water taxi with Aquabus Ferries or False Creek Ferries across to Yaletown or Olympic Village.

• Have dinner or brunch with a view at the Dockside Restaurant.

Yaletown

Trendy Yaletown is an ideal neighbourhood for an urban staycation. The L’Hermitage Hotel and Burrard Hotel bookend the neighbourhood and are within walking distance of the Seawall, restaurants and cafes.

Things to do:

• Get some Christmas shopping done at the local boutiques.

• Take a walk along the Seawall.

• Hop on a water taxi to Olympic Village or Granville Island.

• Enjoy dinner(s) at your favourite restaurant or the ones you’ve had on your list for ages. (We all have that list!)

Gastown

Our historic quarter of Gastown is beautiful day and night. Walk the cobblestone and brick sidewalks to and from your home base of either The Victorian Hotel or the Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suites.

Things to do:

• Go full tourist and watch the steam clock.

• Take the elevator up the Vancouver Lookout for incredible views.

• Do some holiday shopping at unique boutiques.

• Enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner at Gastown’s top-notch restaurants including Ask for Luigi, L’Abbatoir and Pourhouse.

Staycation Top Tips

• Order room service. It’s the best feeling.

• A staycation makes for an excellent holiday season present.

• Did you know that hotels and attractions have almost all always had a special rate for locals looking for a nice staycation? Make sure to look up or ask for a Resident Rate when booking your staycation. (Some restrictions will apply.)

• Many hotels will offer festive season rates that include dining or other perks. Check with the hotel when booking.

[perfectpullquote align=”full” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]Visit the Inside Vancouver 2020 Ultimate Winter Guide for more activity inspiration![/perfectpullquote]

Things to keep in mind

• Check restaurant/attraction websites for hours, reservations/ticketing and other policies, etc.

• Masks are mandatory in public indoor spaces.

• Staff are working hard in a “new normal” — please be kind and patient.

• Respect the policies of establishments you visit.

• Wash or sanitize your hands often and well.

• We’re all in this together!