Vancouver’s captivating blend of chic elegance, urban sophistication, and extraordinary natural beauty makes it one heck of a place to spend a romantic Valentine’s getaway. While some couples might prefer the traditional joys of candlelit dinners and boxes of chocolates, Vancouver serves up bucket list-worthy experiences that will make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable.
So whether you are visiting the city for a few days or planning to sail on an Alaskan adventure from Vancouver and want to explore first, here are some of the best things to see and do in Vancouver on Valentine’s Day.
Seaplane Adventure Over the City
Soaring through the sky, above the clouds, with the city laid out in front of you, is a pretty darn romantic experience…and that’s before you add in the idea of taking off and landing from the sea! A Vancouver seaplane adventure departing from Coal Harbour serves up breathtaking views of the city skyline alongside extraordinary panoramas of the landscape beyond, including snow-capped mountains and the rugged Pacific coastline, all the way to Vancouver Island. This unforgettable experience is one of the best things you can do in Vancouver and an ideal way to treat your loved one on Valentine’s Day.
Private Gondola Ride at Grouse Mountain
There aren’t all that many cities in the world where you can hit up a mountain peak for lunch and be back in time for dinner, but Vancouver is one. The spectacular slopes of Grouse Mountain are just a stone’s throw away from the city center, and a private gondola ride will take you right up to the summit, where you can enjoy a first-class meal with truly stunning vistas. You can even choose to go up in the afternoon before experiencing the joys of a mountain peak by candlelight!
Sunset Kayaking in False Creek
Sailing off into the sunset with your partner on a tandem kayak ride is a truly special way to begin the most romantic night of the year. Paddling through the water as the last rays of the sun reflect off the surface sets the tone for a truly splendid experience, which you can elevate further with a romantic picnic on a secluded beach halfway through!
Valentine’s Day Food Tour on Granville Island
Granville Island is one of the main hubs of Vancouver’s culinary scene, with some amazing farm-to-table offerings and an incredible array of fresh, local produce and seasonal treats. Treat your loved one to a guided tour through the best food in town, from artisan cheeses to exceptional seafood. The island itself is a picturesque location, making it an ideal destination for a gastronomic Valentine’s adventure.
Private Yacht Cruise in English Bay
There are few more romantic ways to get out on the water than on a private yacht cruise, and English Bay makes the perfect background for an intimate Valentine’s Day experience. If luxury and opulence are your vibe, then setting sail with the sun setting over the city skyline, with full catering and waiting service, and nothing but the soothing sounds of the ocean to distract you, is hard to beat.
Valentine’s Day Art Walk in Vancouver Art Gallery
Vancouver has a great and well-earned reputation as a center for arts and culture, so exploring your artistic side together for Valentine’s Day is a nice way to engage with the city’s cultural offerings. A tour of the Vancouver Art Gallery is the perfect spot for a laid-back and relaxed morning, particularly if you are lucky enough to coincide with one of the many programmed live music events or curated displays.
Helicopter Tour to Bowen Island
Vancouver does two things better than almost anywhere else in the world – sea and sky. A helicopter tour to Bowen Island lets you explore both of Vancouver’s greatest assets, with a private trip to one of its most charming districts. Soar over Burrard Inlet, touch down on this peaceful retreat, and enjoy a day of hiking, craft shopping, and warm, cozy cafes.
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Fraser Valley
A hot air balloon ride is an amazing combination of wonder and excitement and is the perfect way to spend a thrilling few hours with your loved one. The picturesque Fraser Valley is a great place to soar above, offering 360-degree views of the remarkable countryside that surrounds the city, and makes for a unique and enchanting Valentine’s experience.
Vancouver is an immensely diverse city with a truly remarkable array of things to see and do, and is one of the most perfect destinations for a Valentine’s getaway you are likely to find. Whether soaring through the sky on a seaplane, helicopter, or hot air balloon or exploring the cultural and culinary delights of the city, these wonderful experiences guarantee a delicious combination of romance and adventure and will deliver a Valentine’s Day you’ll remember forever.