From high-profile matches in the soccer World Cup to a reputation as a growing tourist hot spot, Vancouver’s star is rising, appearing on more lists of great wedding destinations. With America losing out through rising prices and transport complications, Canada and cities like Vancouver, just over the border in British Columbia, are winning visitors.
While Vancouver is close and connected to the US, making it a great wedding venue, it is also cheaper than heading to Europe and similar cities like Lisbon, Portugal or Zurich in Switzerland. With a population of around 750,000, you won’t feel crowded out or lost in a big city, making Vancouver a great wedding idea.
With flights from most US cities, Vancouver is easily accessible and fun to get around. It is also one end of the impressive transcontinental rail route to Toronto and the east coast if you want to tick off a major bucket list item, and really love scenery with trees.
The Look of Love in Vancouver
If you’re planning to propose or get married, loving visitors have plenty of options around Vancouver. They can propose up in the mountains under endless skies, in and around the city’s many nature hot spots, during a blazing sunset on the water of English Bay, or while dining at the Top of Vancouver’s Revolving Restaurant with spectacular views across the city.
The city itself has plenty for couples to do, with the historic Gastown area and Museum of Vancouver providing plenty of insight into the birth of the bustling port and growing metropolis. Stanley Park provides many relaxing walks like Lovers Walk, nature trails and the impressive Rose Garden, with amazing views for those who packed their hiking boots or trainers. If not, horse-drawn carriage rides provide a more relaxing way to see the park.
Back in downtown, the harbour is a natural attraction for tourists, and a seaplane ride is the best way to capture all of the sights and get some great photos that will create strong memories of your time in Vancouver.
Romantic Dining Across Vancouver
Food-loving couples should take a tour of Granville Island’s Public Market where there are plenty of deli treats, fresh street food, snacks and sweets. Once fed, there are many art and culture exhibitions and live shows to enjoy, and a great way to pick up some bespoke art or decorative pieces to remember the trip by.
Of course, there are plenty of major art destinations, like the Vancouver Art Gallery, and large clubs and venues to find a show or event, with their own restaurants or nearby recommendations. When you want a romantic meal, across the city there’s a fine mix of Asian, European and American restaurants.
Adding some wow factor for romantic meals is the Five Sails in the harbor, among the best restaurants in Vancouver. Or, try Dovetail in Yaletown for plenty of local produce and fish dishes. With over 2,800 restaurants in Vancouver, there are plenty to choose from to accommodate your guests and budget.
Things to Know Before You Book
Classic wedding locations include Cecil Green Park House or Hycroft Manor, while Stanley Park Pavillion provides perfect access to the park for guests and family to enjoy the space, with the bustling city just a short ride away.
For a more modern wedding feel, consider the Polygon waterfront art gallery with a large modern space, plus all the drama and action the harbour can provide as a backdrop. Do read up on Canadian wedding traditions before you confirm a venue.
July and August are the best months to visit Vancouver for the finest weather, with a greater chance of rain and cold the further out of season you go. Locals are, of course, used to supporting visitors out of season, if you fancy a white wedding in the winter.
Some romantic or wedding magic can come your way if you time your trip well to catch the Northern Lights, generally appearing between September and April. And if you don’t fancy staying in Vancouver, there are plenty of tours you can book to take in the west-coast, The Rockies or wider ruggedness of Canada.
Written by: Sk Sahin
