Stunning Vancouver is a bustling seaport in British Columbia, Canada. The metropolis is surrounded by bodies of water and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Moreover, it’s culturally rich and diverse, with over 240 ethnicities and cultures calling it home. Located on the Pacific Ocean, the West Coast gem is an ideal hub for welcoming visitors from all over the world.
This city will host seven games at BC Place Stadium and its own FIFA Fan Festival at the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) Grounds of Hastings Park. The matches and dates are: Australia vs. Kosovo/Romania/Slovakia/or Türkiye (June 13), Canada vs. Qatar (June 18), New Zealand vs. Egypt (June 21), Switzerland vs. Canada (June 24), New Zealand vs. Belgium (June 26), a Round of 32 – Match 85 (July 2), and a Round of 16 – Match 96 (July 7).
Things To Do In Vancouver During The World Cup
You’ll also want to spend lots of time outdoors, soaking up the city’s beauty, whether by walking, biking, or on a ferry.
Something unique to do in the city is learn about and support British Columbia’s British Columbia‘s 204 Indigenous communities and their more than 30 languages. Things to do include visiting the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art, eating at Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro, and taking an educational excursion with Talaysay Tours.
The city’s free-to-attend FIFA Fan Festival will run from June 11 through July 19. Attendees will be enveloped in a hub of multiculturalism that vibrantly reflects Vancouver and the spirit of the World Cup itself. While at the family-friendly function, visitors will watch matches live together, eat various cuisines, and enjoy live entertainment, photo ops, and much more.
Enclaves with notable stops for Black (African and/or Caribbean) culture, history, and community include Commercial Drive, New Westminster, and Surrey. The latter two are both in the Metro Vancouver Regional District area, not in the city center.
Where To Stay In Vancouver For World Cup Matches
BC Place Stadium and the FIFA Fan Festival will be accessible via Metro Vancouver’s public transportation system, as well as by car, bike, scooter, and even walking. To help facilitate additional foot traffic, extra transit service will support locals and tourists getting where they’re going.
If you want to stay near the stadium, pick accommodations in Downtown (the Stadium District), Yaletown, or Coal Harbour.
To be at the pulse of the city’s nightlife, stay somewhere on Granville Street, which runs through several neighborhoods.
Best Neighborhoods For Visiting Fans
Vancouver is generally safe, so tourists will likely be fine if they use common sense and street smarts.
Most visitors for the World Cup will likely stay close to the matches in Downtown and Yaletown.
Free Things To Do In Vancouver Between Matches
There are many places to sit at a seawall, relax, and people-watch. If you bring a snack, just be prepared to fight off seagulls! Cultural hubs worth exploring include the Eastside Arts District, the UBC Arts and Culture District, Chinatown, Gastown, and Commercial Drive. Also, strolling farmer’s markets is a unique way to immerse yourself in the local community, sample yummy treats, and learn about seasonal produce.
High-quality public parks where you can bask in the city’s natural beauty include Queen Elizabeth Park and the iconic Stanley Park. And if you’re looking for sun and sand, choose Spanish Banks Beach or English Bay Beach.
Bringing The Kids? How To Make It Family-Friendly
Vancouverites and tourists alike should really take advantage of the FIFA Fan Festival, as the site offers something for everyone. There will be a “Family Hub,” “The Backyard” (an area designated for picnics), The Campground” (with “camp-style seating and BBQ”), “The Vineyard” (an outdoor wine patio), and more.
Other places to check out include Science World, the Vancouver Aquarium, and Kids Market Granville Island.
