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.

Plan a trip to see Vancouver Art Gallery

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Best Lodging Options Near Vancouver Art Gallery

Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront

Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront

4 out of 5
1133 Hastings St W, Vancouver, BC
Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront
The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver

The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver

4.5 out of 5
845 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC
The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

4.5 out of 5
900 West Georgia St, Vancouver, BC
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Hyatt Regency Vancouver

Hyatt Regency Vancouver

4.5 out of 5
655 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC
Hyatt Regency Vancouver
YWCA Hotel

YWCA Hotel

2.5 out of 5
733 Beatty Street, Vancouver, BC
YWCA Hotel
Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown

Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown

4 out of 5
180 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC
Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown
Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA

Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA

4 out of 5
1180 Hastings Street W, Vancouver, BC
Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA
Wedgewood Hotel & Spa

Wedgewood Hotel & Spa

5 out of 5
845 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC
Wedgewood Hotel & Spa
Pan Pacific Vancouver

Pan Pacific Vancouver

4.5 out of 5
999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC
Pan Pacific Vancouver
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Things to do near Vancouver Art Gallery

At the Vancouver Art Gallery, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including guided gallery tours that explore both local and contemporary art. Don't miss the chance to see temporary exhibitions that showcase innovative works from diverse artists. Additionally, the surrounding area offers excellent shopping opportunities, making it a perfect spot for art enthusiasts and shoppers alike to experience the vibrant culture of Vancouver.

Shopping

The Pacific Centre Shopping Mall, only 161m away, offers family-friendly entertainment and city vibes. Granville Island Public Market, a mile from the gallery, features a lively public market atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, visit South Granville, also 1.6km away, known for its family-oriented shops.

Recreation

At BC Place Stadium, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports events, just 966m from the gallery. Enjoy captivating performances at the Commodore Ballroom, only 322m away. For a family-friendly adventure, the Island View Family Golf Centre, 1.1km away, offers fun mini-golf experiences.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Capilano Suspension Bridge, a stunning treeTopWalk located 6.4km from the Vancouver Art Gallery, offering outdoor vibes. For a challenging adventure, tackle the Grouse Grind hikingTrail, 9.7km away, featuring breathtaking scenery. Don’t miss the Raven Ridge Chair Ski Lift, 12.9km distant, perfect for skiing enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Vancouver Art Gallery! Enjoy a romantic evening at the Orpheum Theater, just 322m away, or catch an indie film at the Vancouver International Film Centre, also 0.6.4km away. Don’t miss the cultural performances at Queen Elizabeth Theatre, a short stroll from the gallery.

Find the best attractions near Vancouver Art Gallery

While visiting the Vancouver Art Gallery, you can explore an array of attractions, including urban parks and nearby beaches, perfect for both cultural experiences and family outings. Don't miss the chance to visit the Vancouver Public Library, which adds to the rich cultural landscape of the area. These points of interest ensure a fulfilling experience in this vibrant city.

  • Canada Place: Located 805m from the Vancouver Art Gallery, Canada Place is a vibrant event and conference venue. Its iconic sail-like design and waterfront views create a dynamic atmosphere, ideal for business meetings or simply enjoying the lively surroundings.
  • Rogers Arena: Situated 966m away, Rogers Arena is the heart of family entertainment in Vancouver. Hosting major sports events and concerts, this arena offers an exhilarating experience for all ages, making it a great spot for a fun outing.
  • Vancouver Waterfront: Just 805m from the gallery, Vancouver Waterfront is a stunning tourist precinct perfect for outdoor activities. Stroll along the scenic boardwalk, enjoy family-friendly attractions, or relax while taking in spectacular views of the water and mountains.

Best time to go to Vancouver Art Gallery

Visitor numbers around Vancouver Art Gallery is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. 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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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 Rain (Dry)Mostly 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 and November for lower accommodation prices. Booking a month in advance or checking Expedia’s last-minute deals can also yield savings. For public transport, walking to nearby free attractions like Vancouver Waterfront and Stanley Park is a great option. Additionally, Tuesdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the most costly. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities with an Expedia package for extra savings and look for options with free cancellation.

  • 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: Booking a hotel around Vancouver Art Gallery about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Vancouver Art Gallery is Tuesday. 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 budget, desired location, and type of accommodation you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply 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.