Vancouver Art Gallery Tours and Activities

Vancouver Art Gallery showing heritage architecture
Vancouver Art Gallery showing art and interior views as well as an individual female
Vancouver Art Gallery which includes art and interior views as well as an individual female
Vancouver Art Gallery featuring heritage architecture and signage
Vancouver Art Gallery which includes interior views


Join a guided tour of Vancouver’s major art institution to see modernist landscapes and photo exhibits. Learn about the region’s important art movements along the way.

Vancouver Art Gallery is among the largest and most eclectic museums of its kind in British Columbia. Its vast collection contains more than 10,000 works and is forever expanding and evolving, with a primary focus on regional and national talent.

Admire 19th- and 20th-century landscapes, including work by the Canadian modernists Emily Carr and Lawren Harris. The museum contains the largest array of paintings by Carr in the world.

Note the shift to photo-based works in the 21st century. Learn about the Vancouver school of photoconceptualism, a movement which is highlighted at the gallery.

Take a guided tour of the museum to learn about the societal implications of the works. Ask the experienced docents about the gallery and its displays. The museum offers several types of guided visits, including school groups, a private breakfast and the Before Hours Exhibition Tours.

Learn about the gallery itself, which was founded in 1931. It is based in the neoclassical building of the city’s former courthouse. Admire the ornate features of its façade, which has ionic columns, a central dome and a pediment. Follow the underground passage of Robson Square to reach a pleasant plaza with restaurants.

Many temporary exhibitions visit the gallery and complement the permanent collection. Purchase art books, posters, jewellery and other items from the gallery store. Take a break from the art with lunch at the on-site café, which has a picturesque patio, vibrant floral arrangements and a range of culinary treats on the menu.

The gallery is closed on Christmas and New Year’s. There is an entry fee, with discounts for children, students, seniors and families. Gallery members and toddlers enter for free.

The Vancouver Art Gallery is situated right in the heart of the city. Ride the SkyTrain to Vancouver City Centre Station, which is opposite the gallery. Plenty of bus stops line the surrounding roads and street parking is available for a fee in the area. Visit nearby attractions, such as the Christ Church Cathedral and the Commodore Ballroom.

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Best Lodging Options Near Vancouver Art Gallery

Things to do near Vancouver Art Gallery

The Vancouver Art Gallery offers a vibrant cultural experience with its special exhibitions showcasing both local and international artists. Visitors can immerse themselves in the art scene while enjoying nearby shopping opportunities. This blend of artistic exploration and retail therapy makes for a memorable visit, perfect for those seeking a unique taste of Vancouver's cultural landscape.

Shopping

Discover vibrant shopping at Granville Island Public Market, only 1.6km from the Vancouver Art Gallery, offering a local flair. The Pacific Centre Shopping Mall, a mere 161m away, boasts family-friendly entertainment. South Granville, 1.6km away, features charming boutiques and businesses. If you're up for a drive, visit other shopping gems around the city.

Recreation

At BC Place Stadium, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports events, just 966m from the gallery. Enjoy music at the Commodore Ballroom, located 322m away, for an entertaining night out. For family fun, visit Island View Family Golf Centre, 1.1km away, offering mini-golf adventures.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Capilano Suspension Bridge, a breathtaking treeTopWalk located 6.4km from the Vancouver Art Gallery, surrounded by nature. Challenge yourself on the Grouse Grind hikingTrail, 9.7km away, and enjoy stunning scenery. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Raven Ridge Chair Ski Lift, 12.9km away, offers exhilarating skiing adventures.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Vancouver Art Gallery. Catch a show at the Orpheum Theater, only 322m away, or enjoy a film at the Vancouver International Film Centre, also 644m away. For a cultural touch, visit the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, just 644m away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Vancouver Art Gallery

Vancouver Art Gallery is surrounded by a variety of attractions that cater to those seeking cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore urban parks, local beaches, and event venues nearby. Notable points of interest include additional art galleries, art museums, and the Vancouver Lookout, offering diverse opportunities to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant art scene and stunning landscapes.

  • Canada Place: A striking architectural landmark, Canada Place hosts various events and conferences. Just 805m from Vancouver Art Gallery, it offers a vibrant business atmosphere along with stunning views of the harbour and mountains, making it a hub for both work and leisure.
  • Vancouver Waterfront: Also located 805m away, the Vancouver Waterfront is a lively tourist precinct perfect for families. Stroll along the scenic pathways, enjoy street performances, and indulge in delicious dining options while soaking in the fresh ocean breeze.
  • Stanley Park: A little further at 1.6km away, Stanley Park is a sprawling urban oasis. Ideal for families, this park features beautiful trails, beaches, and the famous Seawall, offering a perfect blend of nature and city vibes.

Best time to go to Vancouver Art Gallery

The best time to visit Vancouver Art Gallery can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Vancouver Art Gallery falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Vancouver Art Gallery falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January38.3°F (3.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February37.8°F (3.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March41.5°F (5.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August65.3°F (18.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October50.9°F (10.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November42.6°F (5.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December37.2°F (2.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Vancouver Art Gallery

To save money on your visit to the Vancouver Art Gallery, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February or November, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield better rates, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Mondays are typically the cheapest nights to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Explore public transport options, and don't forget to take advantage of free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Vancouver Art Gallery are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Vancouver Art Gallery is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Vancouver Art Gallery is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Vancouver Art Gallery is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Vancouver Art Gallery with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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