Romantic date ideas in Vancouver

by Megan Jones

With scenic city parks and beaches, and dozens of quaint neighbourhoods for exploring, dining, drinking and art hopping, Vancouver is an ideal city in which to spend a day with your special someone, no matter their tastes or age. Here’s how to enjoy an amorous, Hollywood-worthy day in the city of glass. [Image credit: iStock.com/PamelaJoeMcFarlane]

Vancouver’s coffee culture is exploding, and what’s more romantic than sharing a buttery croissant with your sweetie? These charming East Van cafés are ideal for couples looking to cozy up over a cup of coffee:

• Nelson the Seagull: The nostalgic smell of bread baking will make your heart flutter as you munch on avocado toast in this shabby-chic Gastown hangout, which takes its name from a beautiful South African anthem.
• Marche St. George: The French have mastered the art of romantic dining, and this petite French Canadian neighbourhood haunt is no different. Located off the beaten track in a picturesque residential area, the bohemian café offers crepes and croissants that are both pretty and authentic.
• 49th Parallel: This cozy coffee shop on Main Street lends itself to lovey-dovey Instagram photos, with a gorgeous fireplace, plush armchairs and dark corners for stealing kisses in.

Don’t let the rain put a damper on your day. No matter what the weather, Vancouver is an incredibly walkable and scenic city for couples to discover together. Stroll hand-in-hand (or rent a tandem bicycle) and spend some time in one of Vancouver’s idyllic, sprawling parks.

• Stanley Park: North America’s largest natural city park offers winding trails for exploring, plus kiss-worthy rest areas such as the Rose Garden, Third Beach and the breathtaking Brockton Point Lighthouse.
• Pacific Spirit Regional Park: You’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale while exploring this network of tree-lined trails, which extend from West 16th Avenue to Spanish Banks Beach.
• Queen Elizabeth Park: With stunning views of the city, this hilltop park is home to groomed lawns, botanical gardens and - most recently - a whimsical public art installation depicting couples intertwined, their whirling forms specially designed for love locks. Pack your padlock and attach it to the Love in the Rain sculpture as a symbol of your love.

One of the city’s most enchanting urban settings, Granville Island offers stunning waterfront views, local artisans, quaint shops and prime picnic locations for couples looking for an al-fresco bite to eat.

• Granville Island Public Market­­: Visit this bustling market for picnic ingredients: we suggest baguettes and sweets from Terra Breads, cheese from Benton Bros Fine Cheese, and fresh fruit from a colourful produce stall.
• Sutcliffe Park: If it’s a sunny day, spread out a blanket at this grassy seaside park, which offers gorgeous views of False Creek.
• Granville Island Picnic Pavilion: On rainy days, take shelter at a table under this covered pavilion. Feeling social? Invite ducks from the adjacent pond to join you with a few breadcrumbs.

You’ll feel like a Mad Men era couple (without all the scandal) at one of these fashionable boutique hotel bars, which are perfect for Hollywood movie moments.

• Rosewood Hotel Georgia: Recently restored to its former glory, Hawksworth Restaurant is arguably one of Vancouver’s swankiest, most acclaimed hotel restaurants, and a stylish spot to grab drinks or dinner.
• Sylvia Hotel: Covered in romantic ivy, this historic building in Vancouver’s West End is home to a charming boutique hotel. The venue offers stunning views of the Burrard Inlet and is the proud founder of Vancouver’s first cocktail lounge. Meals here are as affordable as they are delicious and the dining room is an ideal spot from which to watch the sunset over English Bay.
• Wedgewood Hotel & Spa: Nestled in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Bacchus Restaurant & Lounge is known for its luxurious fixtures (mahogany armchairs, fireplaces, silver trays) and gourmet food. Sharing an elegant meal together at this iconic restaurant will make you feel like a royal couple.

From outdoor adventures to chic restaurants and cozy cafés, Vancouver has much to offer when it comes to romantic experiences. So grab your sweetie, don some stylish-yet-comfortable shoes, and take a walk in the other city of love.