FIFA World Cup 2026: Top 5 things to do in Vancouver

VANCOUVER — The FIFA World Cup has arrived in Vancouver, bringing thousands of visitors from around the globe to Canada's west coast.

While the matches at BC Place may be the main attraction, there is no shortage of things to see and do between kickoffs. Whether you're visiting for a few days or staying for the duration of the tournament, here are five experiences that should be on your Vancouver bucket list.

1. Experience the FIFA Fan Festival

No match ticket? No problem.

The official FIFA Fan Festival at Hastings Park has become one of the city's biggest gathering places during the tournament, featuring live match broadcasts, concerts, cultural programming, food vendors, interactive activities, and family-friendly entertainment. More than 70 World Cup matches are scheduled to be shown throughout the festival.

The festival runs through July 19 and offers fans a chance to soak in the World Cup atmosphere regardless of which teams are playing.

2. Walk or Bike the Stanley Park Seawall

No trip to Vancouver is complete without a visit to Stanley Park.

The city's iconic waterfront park offers more than 400 hectares of forest, beaches, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can rent a bike and ride the seawall, take in views of the North Shore mountains, or explore the park's famous totem poles.

It's one of the best ways to experience Vancouver's unique combination of urban life and natural beauty.

3. Explore Granville Island

Located just minutes from downtown, Granville Island remains one of Vancouver's most popular attractions.

Visitors can browse the famous public market, sample local food and seafood, visit artisan shops, watch street performers, and explore local galleries and studios.

For soccer fans looking for a break from the crowds, it's an ideal place to spend an afternoon. Take the Aquabus from one of several False Creek stops, including Yaletown, Olympic Village, or Science World, and enjoy a scenic ride through False Creek before exploring everything Granville Island has to offer — it's a quintessential Vancouver experience.

4. Check Out the World Cup Pedestrian Zone on Granville Street

For the duration of the tournament, five blocks of Granville Street have been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly celebration zone.

The area features expanded patios, public art, live entertainment, local vendors, and special World Cup activations designed to bring fans together. The pedestrian zone has quickly become one of the city's busiest gathering places during the tournament.

Expect plenty of jerseys, flags, and international soccer chants.

5. Take in Vancouver's Waterfront Views

One of Vancouver's biggest advantages as a host city is its location.

Whether it's a walk along Coal Harbour, a visit to English Bay, or a sunset overlooking the mountains and ocean, the city's waterfront offers some of the most picturesque views of any World Cup host destination. Visitors have repeatedly cited Vancouver's scenery and outdoor lifestyle as a major part of the tournament experience.

Sometimes the best thing to do between matches is simply take in the view.

The Bottom Line

The FIFA World Cup may have brought the world to Vancouver, but the city offers much more than soccer. From fan festivals and waterfront walks to markets, patios, and mountain views, there's plenty to explore once the final whistle blows.