Longtime residents of Vancouver understand that the city’s true essence extends far beyond the busy streets and glittering high-rises of its downtown core. While the urban center certainly dazzles with its restaurants, shops, and waterfront views, those who wish to experience Vancouver in its full authenticity must venture outward and explore the broader network of neighborhoods and natural beauty that surround it. The most effective and rewarding way to do so is by using the city’s well-designed public transportation system — an interconnected network that is both relatively affordable and remarkably straightforward to navigate, even for newcomers or short-term visitors.
Among the various transit options that define Vancouver’s urban mobility, the SeaBus holds a special place as a unique and scenic mode of travel. This passenger ferry operates between the Vancouver Waterfront and North Vancouver, gliding gracefully across Burrard Inlet. During the brief crossing, travelers are treated to sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline, framed by the snow-capped North Shore Mountains and reflective waters, offering a perspective that perfectly captures the city’s harmony between urban sophistication and natural grandeur.
Complementing the SeaBus is the city’s efficient SkyTrain system, an elevated rapid-transit network that connects Vancouver to a constellation of neighboring suburbs. Each destination along its lines—Richmond, Burnaby, New Westminster, and Port Moody—presents its own character and rhythm. Richmond, for instance, is known for its vibrant Asian culinary scene and bustling markets, while Burnaby offers a diverse mix of commerce and green space. New Westminster, one of British Columbia’s oldest cities, exudes heritage charm, and Port Moody, tucked along the shoreline of the Burrard Inlet, has a relaxed small-town appeal. Despite their individual differences, all these communities collectively contribute to the mosaic that defines greater Vancouver’s metropolitan identity.
In Port Moody, one attraction that embodies the city’s community spirit and creativity is the well-loved stretch known as Brewers Row. Along this single picturesque street, five small-batch breweries invite both locals and visitors to savor craft beers brewed with care and innovation. Among them, Rewind Beer Co. stands out for its inviting retro aesthetic—an homage to nostalgic design and relaxed social gatherings—while Yellow Dog Brewing Co. delights its patrons with a spacious outdoor patio that perfectly captures the easygoing, coastal vibe of the region. These establishments represent not only a passion for quality craftsmanship but also the laid-back camaraderie that characterizes much of Vancouver’s social culture.
Beyond trains and ferries, Vancouver’s public transportation ecosystem also includes options that encourage more active exploration. The Mobi bike share program, for example, is an excellent choice for those who wish to traverse the city at a slower pace, discovering cycling-friendly routes that weave through parks, waterfront promenades, and charming residential streets. It allows riders to appreciate the finer details of the cityscape — from the scent of cedar trees in quiet neighborhoods to the murals decorating alleyways in artistic districts.
Finally, another distinct mode of travel is the charming Aquabus, a compact ferry that cruises through False Creek, connecting visitors to several of Vancouver’s most beloved landmarks. Onboard, passengers can disembark at lively destinations such as Granville Island, known for its artisan markets and performing arts venues, or Science World, where the iconic geodesic dome serves as a beacon of curiosity and discovery. Each stop along the Aquabus route provides a fresh lens through which to experience Vancouver’s interplay between culture, innovation, and natural setting.
Together, these transportation options do more than simply move people from one place to another; they form the connective tissue of a city celebrated for its livability, diversity, and seamless blend of nature and urban design. By stepping beyond downtown and experiencing Vancouver through these many vantage points, travelers gain access to the city’s deeper story — one that reveals the rhythm, creativity, and community spirit that truly define life on Canada’s west coast.
Sourse: https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-to-do-vancouver-activities-skip-from-local-2025-11
